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Exhibit & Community Information Board Policy
 
Exhibit Spaces and Bulletin Boards
An Interpretation of the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS.
 
Adopted: 10/21/97
 
BACKGROUND
The Downey City Library recognizes that an important part of the Library's mission is to provide community information within the Library for patrons and/or any member of the community. In addition, the Downey City Library offers individuals and groups an opportunity to display personal collections for the education and enjoyment of its patrons. The Library has a Community Information Board, wall space in the Magazine Room and display cases in the lobby and foyer.
 
PURPOSE
The Downey City Library seeks to establish guidelines for groups and individuals who want to display personal collections, pamphlets, handouts or flyers regarding community events, services or other non-commercial materials of an informative or aesthetic nature. The Library policy is in compliance with the American Library Association guidelines which state "exhibit spaces available to the public should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use". The Library does not necessarily endorse the beliefs or viewpoints of topics which may be the subject of an exhibit. A disclaimer to this effect will be placed in each display case.
 
POLICY

The Library serves a public of many ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. Exhibits in the Library aid Library patrons in the pursuit of education, research and recreation, and support the cultural and civic activities of the larger community. This is done by presenting books and other media which promote interest in Library resources and/or community services and by sharing information about community affairs, organizations and activities. The exhibit spaces are open to individuals or organizations engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, or charitable activities. The Library has established rules regarding the time, place, and manner of use of the exhibit space. The Library will give preference to groups within Downey. The Downey City Library adheres to the American Library Association's policy statement on Exhibit Spaces and Bulletin Boards which states "Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval. Exhibit space should be made available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use". Exhibits may not include defaming or obscene material as defined by the United States Supreme Court, or material which could lead to a breach of peace or which advocate the violation of state criminal laws. The space may not be used as advertising space for commercial enterprises, political candidates or for the personal gain of individuals or groups. Those who object to the content of any exhibit held at the Library may submit their complaint on a Reconsideration of Library Exhibit or Community Information Board Display form which will be judged according to the policies established by the Library. The Library will regulate the size and length of time materials may remain on the bulletin board as well as the frequency with which material may be posted for the same group, and the geographic area from which flyers will be accepted. Arrangements for exhibit space and time or approval of flyers, handouts, and announcements to be posted on the bulletin board or distributed in the Library are the responsibility of the Access Services Supervisor with final authority resting with the City Librarian. Appeal of decisions made by the City Librarian can be made to the Library Advisory Board.


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Exhibit Guidelines: Display Cases
 
There are three choices of exhibit space, the dimensions are:
  • A - One 8' X 19' case.
  • B - Two 8' X 8' 8" cases. (We prefer that you use both cases)

Criteria Exhibits shall be for the purpose of: furthering the educational interests of the community; providing information about community groups, activities, and services; providing residents a showcase for leisure time activities and interests; and promoting library usage.

These exhibit cases are not to be used for commercial or promotional purposes or for the personal gain of individuals or groups. Application For Use A fully completed and signed, Application To Use Downey City Library Exhibit Space must be submitted by all exhibitors no later than 30 days in advance to the Access Services Supervisor. Application packets, will be available at the front desk and must include, but are not limited to, the following information:

  1. Name of group or individual, contact person, address, telephone number.
  2. Written description of the purpose and nature of the exhibit and types of material to be exhibited with titles of books.
  3. Monetary value of the work to be exhibited.
  4. The dates requested and cases or space requested for the exhibit.
  5. A description of any publicity or media contacts that will be initiated by the exhibitor.

Reservations

1. Reservations for exhibit space may be made up to six (6) months in advance by filing out the Application To Use Downey City Library Exhibit Space form. Exhibit space is in heavy demand so please let us know of a cancellation as soon as possible. The form may be mailed to the Downey City Library, P.O. Box 7015, Downey, CA., 90241-7015 or hand delivered to the Downey City Library, Access Services Supervisor Office, 11121 Brookshire Ave., Downey, CA. The phone number is (562) 904-7362.

2. Applications shall be completed in detail on the form provided by the Library and signed by a responsible officer or member of the sponsoring organization or, in the case of individual exhibitors, by the individual presenting the exhibit. It is the responsibility of the person who submits the application for use of the exhibit cases to be aware of these policies and communicate these policies to those individuals using the Library exhibit cases.

3. A separate application must be completed for each exhibit scheduled.

Stipulations for Use of Library Exhibit Space

1. The scheduling of exhibits is at the discretion of the Access Services Supervisor. Applications will be processed on a first-come/first-served basis. Scheduling priority will be given to Downey-based exhibitors, exhibitors who have not previously presented an exhibit and exhibits that further the Library's mission.

2. A display shall be scheduled for one month.

3. The Library reserves the right to preempt any exhibit for a Library or City-sponsored event or exhibit. The Library will put forth reasonable effort to give advance notice of such preemption and to assist the exhibitor in reserving another date or exhibit case.

4. Use of Library exhibit space will be limited to the type of exhibit stated on the approved application. Any change in the information included on the submitted application form or the written description of the exhibit must be made in writing to the Access Services Supervisor at least three weeks prior to the installation date.

5. The Access Services Supervisor will review all exhibit applications to ensure compliance with the Library policies. Exhibits will be reviewed following installation to verify compliance.

6. Applicants whose applications for use are not approved will receive a letter stating the reasons for the denial. An applicant may appeal to the City Librarian for reconsideration.

7. The Library reserves the right to remove any item from a display if it is determined that the item is a possible safety hazard, is too large or heavy for the case, creates a maintenance problem, exceeds acceptable noise levels, interferes with other activities in the adjacent Library areas, or is not in compliance with provisions of this policy or with the mission and goals of the City.

8. The Library reserves the right to cancel any exhibit that does not comply with the Exhibit Policy and Guidelines.

Exhibit Guidelines

1. Exhibitors are responsible for setting up their exhibits on the first day of the month when the Library is open unless other arrangements have been made. Failure to observe the scheduled setup date may result in cancellation of the exhibit.

2. Exhibitors are encouraged to visit the Library prior to installation to determine how they would like the exhibit arranged. Exhibitors must bring their own supplies. Permanent modifications to a display space are not allowed.

3. The Library strives to present attractive, interesting exhibits of high quality at all times. The Access Services Supervisor may advise exhibitors on layout and signage for exhibits.

4. Labels for exhibits must be furnished by the exhibitor. In all exhibit situations lettering for signage or textual information should be of high quality: neat, clear and articulately stated. Labels must not be taped or nailed to walls, back, or glass of a display case. Prices may not be included on labels or anywhere in the exhibit.

5. The exhibitor's name must be posted in the exhibit.

6. Commercial logos, brand names or commercial items may be displayed if they enhance the aesthetic or historical purposes of the display. Commercial logos are not to be displayed for commercial purposes.

7. Printed publicity initiated by the exhibitor must be approved by the Access Services Supervisor or delegate. The Library may produce flyers and contact media to promote the display.

8. The exhibitor assumes complete responsibility for the transportation of all work to and from the Library.

9. The exhibitor is responsible for the installation and dismantling of the exhibit as scheduled. If the Library must dismantle an exhibit because it is not removed as scheduled, the Library is not responsible for any damages and the exhibitor will be billed at a rate of $2.00 per day for storage. Exhibitors are responsible for removing all items in their display on the last day of the month when the Library is open.

10. Exhibitors will arrange with the Access Services Supervisor or delegate to have the cases unlocked or locked.

Liability

1. The exhibit cases must be left in satisfactory condition. Exhibitors using exhibit cases or exhibit space assume liability and shall be held liable for any damage resulting from said usage, as assessed by the City.

2. Neither the Library nor the City assumes responsibility for materials, equipment or any other article left by any organization, group or individual in the Library and will not be liable for loss, theft or damage thereto.

3. The Library will dispose of abandoned exhibit materials after reasonable effort has been made to contact the exhibitor.

4. Although exhibit cases are locked, the Library is a public building serving over 1,500 people per day. The Library does not assume responsibility or liability for the loss of or damage to any part of an exhibit.


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Exhibit Guidelines: Community Information Board
 

The public bulletin board provides a means to inform Library patrons of announcements of local events, programs, or educational opportunities. The Community Information Board is located near the entrance to the Magazine Room. Materials displayed shall meet the criteria listed below and receive individual approval from the Access Services Supervisor. Types of materials which may be displayed

1. Current announcements of Downey or Southern California cultural events, programs or educational opportunities sponsored by non-profit organizations or groups.

2. Materials must be neat and attractive in appearance. Dimensions may not exceed 11" by 17". Exceptions for posters may be made by the Access Services Supervisor.

Types of materials which may NOT be displayed

1. Notices or announcements of a personal or private nature.

2. Materials advertising property or services for commercial gain.

3. Announcements sponsored by For Profit organizations or groups.

Submitting Items

1. Submit the item to the Downey City Library Front desk, located at 11121 Brookshire St., Downey, CA., Attention - Access Services Supervisor or mail to Access Services Supervisor, Downey City Library, P.O. Box 7015, Downey, CA., 90241-7015.

2. All signs, posters, handouts and flyers must be approved by the Library. Preference for posting or distribution will be given to materials issued by the Library and the Friends of the Library, the City of Downey, the County of Los Angeles, Downey Unified School District, Downey K - 12 schools and other Downey area cultural, educational and civic agencies which inform the public of free or low-cost programs and services.

3. Items will be processed on a first-come/first served basis and are subject to the space available. The item(s) shall not be returned.

4. Any item mailed to the Library and not approved will be discarded. If an item is left at the Library for approval, the applicant may request that they be notified by phone if the item is not approved. Upon notification, the applicant has until the close of operating hours the next day to pick up the item from the checkout desk. If the item is not approved for display on the Library Information Board, the applicant may appeal to the City Librarian.


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Exhibit Guidelines: Art Work
 

1. The Library provides space in the Magazine Room for the Downey Art League to display art work.

2. Applicants with paintings to display may contact the Downey Art League at (562) 925-3390 or the Access Services Supervisor for the Downey City Library at (562) 904-7362.

3. A representative of the Downey Art League will arrange with the Access Services Supervisor for the installation of art work.

4. Each applicant must submit a completed Application to Use Downey City Library Exhibit Space form to the Downey Art League. The Downey Art League representative will forward the completed forms to the Access Services Supervisor.

5. Labels for exhibits must be furnished by the exhibitor. In all exhibit situations lettering for signage or textual information should be neat, clear and articulately stated, striving for a high quality look. Labels must not be taped or nailed to walls, back or glass of a display case. Prices may not be included on labels or anywhere in the exhibit. 6. Prices are available by contacting the Downey Art League.


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Exhibit Application
 
General Information  
   
Exhibitor or Group Name: Group Officer (if group):
Address of Person Responsible:
City: Telephone (Day): Telephone (Night):
Month/Year Last Exhibited at the Downey City Library (if applicable):

Description of Exhibit
 
Please describe below the purpose and nature of the exhibit and types of art and/or media to be exhibited. Please attach a list of titles of books to be exhibited.

Request Date (Exhibit Cases Only) Indicate below the Month/Year requested.
First Choice: Second Choice: Third Choice:

Exhibitors are responsible for setting up their exhibits on the first day of the month or the next day the Library is open.
First Choice: Second Choice:  
 

Statement of Responsibility
 
Signature Monetary Value of Work in Exhibit:

I am aware that the Downey City Library serves a public of all ages and backgrounds who may view this exhibit. I have read the Exhibit Policy and Guidelines and will be personally responsible for compliance with all rules regarding the use of the space. I understand that the Library and the City are not responsible for damage or loss to any items in the exhibit. I will be responsible for setting up my display after the Library opens on the first day of the exhibit and for removing all of the display before the Library closes on the last day of the exhibit. If the Library must dismantle an exhibit because it is not removed as scheduled, the Library is not responsible for any damages and the exhibitor will be billed for staff time.

Full Name: Date:


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