Letterhead HeaderThe Wilmington Memorial Library supports its mission by developing and presenting programs that provide opportunities for lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, literacy support and community connection.
Ultimate responsibility for programming rests with the Library Director, who in turn, delegates program management responsibility to the Assistant Library Director, the Adult Services Librarian, the Youth Services Librarian, and other designated staff.

In developing and delivering programs, the library staff utilizes staff expertise, collections, equipment, and facilities. The following criteria are used in making decisions about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources.

  • Community needs and interests
  • Relevance/appropriateness of program to library’s mission and strategic plan
  • Budget and cost of program
  • Space required for program
  • Presenter background/qualifications in content area
  • Staff time

Anyone interested in presenting a library program may submit a proposal that will be reviewed according to the above criteria. The library’s philosophy of open access to information and ideas extends to library programming. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants, and program topics, speakers and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy. In keeping with the American Library Association Bill of Rights – Access to Resources and Services to Minors, parents/guardians, not the library, are responsible for monitoring attendance of their children at library programs.
Sources for funding for library programs comes from the library’s operating budget, the Friends of the Library and various grants. Library staff who present programs do so as a part of their job. In addition, the library draws upon community resources in developing programs and attempts to partner with other libraries, community organizations, educational and cultural institutions or individuals to present and/or co-sponsor programs.
All programs at the library are open to the public and normally offered free of charge. A fee may be charged for certain types of library programs, such as where there is a cost for materials to participate in the program. Tickets may be sold for special library events.

Performers or authors may sell books as part of a library program. Sale of any other products or business promotional materials at library programs is not permitted

Due to space limitations or due to the nature of the program, attendance at programs may be limited. Registration for programs may be done on the library’s web site calendar of events, or by calling or visiting the library. In keeping with Massachusetts General Lawas (Chapter78, Section 7) names of registrants is confidential. Program presenters may ask attendees to voluntarily provide their names at the time of the program.

In some cases, the nature and success of a program may require a limited attendance based on age, for example, programs intended for children and teens that are geared to their interests and developmental needs.

Approved by Board of Library Trustees 5/18/10
Updated and approved by Board of Library Trustees 9/20/16
Updated and approved by Board of Library Trustees 8/15/23

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