Purpose
The Display Policy of the Guilford Free Library outlines the foundation for how library staff select and present display materials. It serves to inform the public about the values and standards guiding these choices and supports the library’s overall mission, which states:
“The mission of the Guilford Free Library is to provide the greatest possible diversity of books, media, information and programs to meet the recreational, cultural and educational aspirations of all members of the Guilford community.”
Policy
The Guilford Free Library values displays and programs as a resource for voluntary inquiry and the dissemination of information and ideas and to promote free expression and free access to ideas by residents. Displays are vital tools for encouraging independent exploration and sharing information and ideas, supporting the principles of free expression and open access to knowledge for all residents. With a strong commitment to fostering a love of reading, lifelong learning, and creativity, we strive to connect our community’s diverse needs with our collections, digital resources, and engaging programs. Thoughtfully curated displays are central to this effort, serving to inform and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. They reflect our dedication to the community and our belief that a dynamic library strengthens the fabric of a community. Our displays provide access to content that is relevant to the research, independent interests and educational needs of residents. They are designed to inform, enlighten, and engage, presenting a wide range of varied and diverging viewpoints, and providing content relevant to the research, personal interests, and educational goals of our community.
Principles and Criteria
While the Library Director holds final responsibility for the selection and presentation of library displays, the day-to-day planning and execution are carried out by staff who are professionally trained to curate and develop displays. These staff members curate and develop displays using the following criteria to guide their decisions on topics, materials, and supporting resources:
- Displays are provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all residents
- Relevance to community needs and interests
- Availability of appropriate display space
- Historical, cultural, or educational value
- Alignment with community or national programs, exhibitions, or events
- Connection to the library’s collections, resources, exhibits, and programs
In all library-initiated displays, the Library is committed to representing a broad range of opinions and perspectives and aims to offer content that appeals to diverse ages, interests, and informational needs. Topics, books, media, or other resources will not be excluded solely because they may be considered controversial.
Displays and exhibits may be developed by librarians or library staff, as well as by members of the public or community groups, with space provided within the public library. However, acceptance of a display or exhibit does not imply the Guilford Free Library’’s endorsement of its content or the viewpoints expressed. For more information on public/community displays and exhibits, see the Art Exhibit Space informational page on the Guilford Free Library website.
All materials presented in the Library are evaluated and made accessible in accordance with the anti-discrimination protections outlined in Section 46a-64 of the General Statutes.
Intellectual Freedom and Censorship
The selection of library materials by patrons is a personal choice. The library acknowledges that certain items may be considered controversial or offensive by some individuals; however, it affirms that personal values may be applied only to oneself. The selection of materials is grounded in the fundamental right of patrons to access information freely and without censorship. Materials are chosen based on their intrinsic merit, not on the potential for approval or disapproval
Guilford Free Library’s Display Policy
The potential for materials to be unintentionally accessed or viewed by minors will not restrict their selection. The authority to limit access to library materials rests with individuals, not through imposed censorship on others. Determining what is suitable for children is the sole responsibility of parents or guardians. The Guilford Free Library is firmly committed to intellectual freedom and fully supports the American Library Association’s (ALA) Freedom to Read Statement, Freedom to View Statement, the Library Bill of Rights, and all associated Interpretations.
Procedures for the Questioning of Library Displays by Patrons
The Library will only consider requests for the reconsideration of materials, displays, or programs from individuals who reside in Guilford, Connecticut. For more details on this procedure, please refer to our Material Review policy and the accompanying reconsideration form.