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Larkspur board begins drafting programming policy to guide new library programs and room use
Summary
Trustees asked staff to draft a programming policy that will keep library-sponsored programs free and welcoming, outline exclusions (no partisan or recruitment events), set priority rules for shared city rooms, and provide program proposal and room-reservation procedures for the new library.
At its Nov. 3 meeting, the Larkspur City Library Board opened a detailed discussion on a proposed programming policy that staff will draft into a formal document for board review. Trustees emphasized several core principles they want reflected in the policy: library programs should be free and open to all, promote literacy and community, maintain a welcoming tone, and avoid becoming commercial or partisan platforms when the library is the program sponsor.
Board members discussed typical exclusions and safeguards: library-hosted programs would not charge admission as library programming, partisan campaigning or advocacy would not be authorized as a library program (informational forums such as League of Women Voters events remain acceptable), religious services and exclusive events that limit attendance by protected classes would be excluded, and programs involving fundraising or sales would generally be Friends/Foundation-sponsored exceptions rather than library programs.
A substantial portion of the discussion focused on the interaction between library programming and three city-managed community rooms inside the new building. The city will control booking for those community rooms, staff said, but board members asked that library-sponsored programs have scheduling priority and that the rules, priorities, and room-availability calendar be transparent to patrons. The board urged use of a software reservation system to manage competing requests and to publish room capabilities (occupancy, AV) and booking procedures.
On audience and program design, trustees favored using "guidelines" rather than strict age limits for children’s and teen programs to preserve inclusivity for children with differing needs; individual programs can include suggested age ranges but should remain welcoming. Implementation details discussed included a staff liaison for library-sponsored programs, a program proposal submission form to capture purpose and outreach needs, and clearer promotion and partnership procedures for Friends/Foundation or outside-group events.
Next steps: staff will convert the discussion into a written draft policy and circulate it in advance of the next meeting; the board expects to revisit and aim to finalize the programming policy in coming months as part of readiness for the new library opening.
