Library drops 20% author-donation requirement in updated programming policy

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Library updated its programming policy to remove a previously required 20% donation from authors who sell books during library events, Director Ball told the Library and Literacy Commission on June 11.

The change implements a recommendation the commission made at its prior meeting; the previous meeting record shows the commissioners had unanimously recommended suspending the 20% requirement for authors’ presentations. Director Ball read the relevant policy language at the June 11 meeting: "authors of written works are permitted to sell book and audiobook versions of their published works during author readings and signings." She added, "So, that 20% has been eliminated from there."

The commission’s role is advisory; Chair Buckley said the commission appreciates that its recommendation was taken by administration. "We appreciate that you took our recommendation," Chair Buckley said during the discussion.

Commissioners had not placed additional changes to the programming policy on the record at the June 11 meeting. Director Ball presented the finalized programming policy packet and said the updated language clarifies when and how authors may sell materials during library programs. No formal commission vote to adopt the policy changes was recorded at the June 11 meeting; the director presented the finalized language as staff action taken following the commission’s prior recommendation.

The programming policy is distinct from the library’s meeting-room policy, the director noted; programming policy governs library-led or library-partnered events and the meeting-room policy addresses independent room reservations. Commissioners requested no further changes in the session and indicated they would offer specific edits later if desired.

The commission also discussed related items on the agenda (see separate article on the review of the distribution of non-library literature policy).