Worcester County Library supports its mission — as well as the Library’s Strategic Plan—by developing and presenting programs that provide opportunities for knowledge-building, artistic exploration, and community connection. Library programming creates innovative educational and cultural experiences for people of all ages. Programming is an essential service that:
- Offers library programs that are free to the public
- Expands the Library’s role as a community resource
- Introduces library resources to both users and non-users
- Provides opportunities for lifelong learning
- Offers cultural enrichment and entertainment
- Enhances the visibility and relevance of the Library
01.1: Library Programming Development Criteria
Library staff use the following criteria in making decisions about library program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:
- Community needs and interests
- Availability of program space
- Suitability of content for intended audience
- Presentation quality
- Presenter qualifications and background
- Budget considerations
- Relevance to community issues and interests
- Historical or educational value
- Connection to other community programs or events
- Relation to Library collections, resources, or exhibits
All programming aligns with the Library Bill of Rights and Library-Initiated Programs as a Resource: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights. The Library also draws on community partnerships and collaborates with organizations, institutions, and individuals to co-host public programs.
01.2: Accessibility and Participation
All Library programs are open to the public. Efforts are made to accommodate participants while adhering to occupancy and safety standards. When necessary, attendance may be limited. Programs are designed with the interests, information and enlightenment of all people of the community the Library serves creating a welcoming environment. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.
01.3: Presenter Standards
Professional performers and presenters with unique expertise may be hired to lead programs. Presenters will not be excluded due to background, views, or potential controversy. Library staff who present programs do so as part of their job responsibilities and are not separately contracted.
The Library’s selection of a program does not imply endorsement of the content or viewpoints expressed. Programming decisions are made on the merits of the event and how it serves Library patrons—not based on anticipated approval or disapproval.
All youth library programs are supervised by a library staff member at all times. The director or designated staff member will approve all program presented and may require a presenter to have a current background check.
01.4: Program Locations and Formats
Programs may be held at any library branch, off-site in the community, or virtually. All programs are subject to the same selection criteria and may be delivered through the Library’s digital platforms (e.g., Zoom or social media). The Library is not responsible for technical difficulties experienced by participants.
01.5: Marketing and Promotion
The Library reserves the right to use photos or video from programs for internal, promotional, and evaluation purposes. Parents are asked for permission to photograph children attending programs.)
External partners must coordinate all marketing efforts through the Library Director or their designee.
01.6: Program Concerns and Requests for Reconsideration
The Library welcomes expressions of opinion from all patrons concerning programming. Patrons concerns about a Library program should be shared with the Library staff member in charge of the event. Patrons who wish to continue their requests for review of a program or the denial of a request to present a program may submit a Request for Reconsideration form. Requests will be evaluated using the same procedures as reconsideration requests for Library materials. Patrons who disagree with the findings of the Review Committee may appeal to the Library Director, and then to the Library Board of Trustees.
Approved by the Library Board of Trustees, October 14, 2025
