[Michlib-l] Library Grounds and non-library programs

[aestelle otsegolibrary.org]

Hi Tracy,

I would call it a No Solicitation policy. You don’t necessarily need to make a whole new policy for it, you could just include it as a line in your Patron Code of Conduct.
You are exactly right if you let one do it, you need to let them all.

The way they could go about this so that you could offer as an alternative, is through library programming channels. Like if the library is having a program to have the council on aging at the library, then fine to have them come to the property during the program. You could refer them to whoever manages programming to consider whether it fits within the scope of what the library wants to offer as a program.

Here is what we have in the Otsego District Library Patron Code of Conduct includes to address this:

Solicitation and collecting signatures is prohibited on the library property.

No patron may set up a table, stand, or sign on the library property. This rule does not apply to library-sponsored events or room rentals or signs for non-profits on the community board.


Andrea Estelle, MLIS
Brighten the Corner Where You Are!

Library Director  ·
Otsego District Public Library
INNOVATE  ·  INTERACT  ·  INSPIRE
401 Dix Street, Otsego MI 49078
(269) 694-9690
https://otsegolibrary.org/



From: Michlib-l <michlib-l-bounces at mcls.org> On Behalf Of Tracy Logan via Michlib-l
Sent: Friday, August 22, 2025 10:14 AM
To: michlib-l <michlib-l at mcls.org>
Subject: [Michlib-l] Library Grounds and non-library programs

Hello Lovely Library People!

I am experiencing a new phenomenon for us this summer. Outside organizations have approached the library (or just shown up) to provide or promote some kind of service to the public and want to set up in the library parking lot. They are not businesses but rather things like the local mobile health clinic or council on aging. I can recognize that these are positive acts that we want to encourage but I don't have any kind of policy that addresses this beyond "Random people can't set up tables on library grounds" etc. When it was just one organization, I got wind of it in time to run it past my library board. But now we're up to four organizations, all of whom have asked at the last minute without giving me time to approach my board. I think I need a policy. Do you have something that addresses this, you would be willing to share? I don't even know what to call it. Parking Lot Policy?

Thanks!


--
Tracy Logan
Library Director
Cadillac Wexford Public Library
411 S. Lake Street
Cadillac, MI 49601
231-775-6541
logant at cadillaclibrary.org<mailto:logant at cadillaclibrary.org>
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