Approved 05-16-2026
USE – 8 Programming Policy
Programming is planned and implemented to support the mission of the Lake Bluff Public Library (“Library”) with an emphasis on lifelong learning, personal growth, and cultural enrichment. Focusing on the interests and informational needs of the Lake Bluff community.
The Library strives to provide a diverse and equitable selection of programs that support varied viewpoints, represent a wide array of cultures and experiences, and allow for all members of the community to feel included and represented. Library presentation of a program does not constitute an endorsement by the Library of the content of the program or of the views expressed by the attendees.
Library staff may use, but not are limited to, the following criteria in selecting Library programs:
- Relation to the Library’s mission and vision
- Interests and needs of the community, as well as topics of local, state and national interest
- Presenter background, qualifications and reputation in content area, including proven or unique expertise and/or public performance experience
- Representation of diverse interests and viewpoints
- Availability of library staffing, budget, and space
The selection, planning, and implementation of library programs is ultimately the responsibility of the Library’s professional staff. Program topics, speakers, and resources will not be excluded from consideration because of their origin, background, or views. Individuals may choose what programs they and their family attend but not infringe upon the rights of others to attend. Individuals with concerns about a particular program may fill out a request for reconsideration form, which is available at the Library. The Library upholds the democratic principles expressed in the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights.
Library programs are mostly free of charge and not commercial in nature. The program itself cannot be used to promote any private business, product, or service, including but not limited to, free programming with the intent of soliciting or advertising to future customers. At the discretion of the Library, authors, artists, and other professional performers or presenters booked by the Library may be permitted to offer books or other merchandise for sale after a library program. For certain programs, a fee may be charged to attendees to recoup supply costs.
Registration may be required for certain programs, to ensure adequate resources for all attendees, or based on other limitations, such as room size. For certain high interest programs, registration may be limited to Lake Bluff Library cardholders. Many Library programs are open to all members of the public; however, some programs are developed for specific age or developmental levels.
Outside parties booking the meeting room does not constitute a library-sponsored program. Such bookings will not be listed in library marketing. Please refer to the Meeting Room Policy for additional information.
The Library complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The Library strives to make events welcoming for people of all abilities. Patrons who require accommodations to participate in a Library program should contact the library as soon as possible.
Attendees in programs are subject to all Library policies including the Library User Conduct Policy, Safe Child Policy, and the Photo Policy. Limitations to photography, videography, or recording may apply at library programs and events based upon contract and copyright restrictions with the presenters.
Library programs may be cancelled for a number of reasons, including but not limited to, severe weather, absence of the presenter, or low registration. In the event a program is cancelled, efforts will be made to notify registered attendees and the public. Cancelled programs are not automatically rescheduled. The Library reserves the right to cancel a program at any time for any reason at the discretion of the Library Director or their designee.