Wheaton Public Library (WPL) sponsored programs, which include presentations, lectures, discussion groups, clubs, story times, demonstrations, arts and craft projects, performances, and more, are offered to the community to support the Library’s mission, which is to be a welcoming destination that connects the community to literacy, information, ideas, and experiences.
Library staff strategically select and plan programming presenters and topics based on several factors, including relevance and timeliness to community needs (including content that is supported by WPL’s Strategic Plan), popular appeal, suitability for the intended audience, educational and entertainment value, budget allowance, availability of physical and virtual library space (which includes Library staff and technology), and more. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or of the views expressed by the presenters or participants. Program suggestions and proposals from presenters and members of the community are welcome, however WPL staff retains the right to determine which programs and events are scheduled.
WPL’s programming aligns with its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) message which states: WPL is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of DEI within our services, spaces, programming, and collections as stated in our 2021-2023 Strategic Plan. The goals of these strategic initiatives include maintaining, creating, and highlighting collections and programs that feature viewpoints from a wide array of perspectives, cultures, and experiences. WPL continues to offer resources that educate and encourage respectful and open dialogue.
Programs are open to the general public, subject to age restrictions, but some programs may be designed with specific audiences in mind. WPL reserves the right to limit the number of participants in a program. All programs, with rare exception, are free to the participants. Library staff will strive to select presenters who do not have a vested interest in selling their products or services to attendees. Presenters may leave business cards for attendees. Special circumstances approved by Library staff would allow for products to be sold.
While Library staff, including Department Heads, professional, and paraprofessional staff, are responsible for selecting, planning, and coordinating programs, the Library Director ultimately will have final approval over whether or not a program will be sponsored by WPL.
Programming practices adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights. It is recommended that 5 days of notice be given for those who need ADA accommodations.
Wheaton Public Library Official Policy: 11/15/2021
