Programming at Vancouver Public Library Policy
Objective:
To outline the Library's protocols and standards regarding its programming services.
Scope
This policy applies to all VPL staff.
Background
In keeping with the overall VPL goals and mission statement, programming is considered an integral part of the library service offered to the public. The Library initiates programs and exhibits to stimulate the use of the Library and its material and to provide for the general enjoyment and enlightenment of the community. Programs are developed to support the strategic goals of the Library, respond to emerging community interests and sustain demonstrated interests and demands. Programs are regularly evaluated to determine community response and program effectiveness. Programs provide another format for the dissemination of information and an opportunity for discussion of ideas. Statements made or positions taken during programs, events and meetings do not necessarily reflect the opinions or values of the Vancouver Public Library.
Approved by the Library Board: October 1, 1986
Revised: July 2, 1997; May 25, 2004; February 27, 2008; November 26, 2008; November 27, 2013; June 20, 2018
Policy Statements
Library programs should promote the communication of stories, ideas and information; extend library services to new audiences and to bring library collections and services to life. Library programs are often a first contact with books and reading for children, as well as a lively and accessible way to gain information for adults.
Library programs will:
- Stimulate interest in and use of the Library
- Promote interest in reading, culture, information literacy and research skills.
- Promote an awareness of contemporary issues and information required to engage in society.
- Attract new library users and provide an introduction to the wealth of library services including print and digital collections, computing and digital creation facilities, and other programs and learning opportunities.
- Provide entertaining, enjoyable, educational experiences.
- Be offered without charge to attendees except in exceptional circumstances where admission may be charged to recoup the library's costs of presenting the program.
- Create and promote community partnerships
- Speakers will agree not to contravene the Criminal Code of Canada and the Human Rights Act of British Columbia during the course of their program.
- Public Meeting Rooms and Facilities Use Policy will apply to all co-sponsored programs
The Library may partner with not-for-profit or for profit organizations for programming content. The Library may provide content and present programs in other venues or other organizations may provide content and present programs at the Library. The Library will consider content that meets the criteria above and supports VPL’s vision, mission and goals. The Library is not able to accept all proposed partnerships and will consider strategic relevance and operational capacity when responding to partnerships requests.
Content based partnerships do not mean that the Library endorses particular points of view promoted at programs and this will be noted on publicity where appropriate. No business solicitation is permitted during programs. Partners will be acknowledged as appropriate.