Events and Programs Policy
Purpose
The Laramie County Library System (LCLS) Events and Programs Policy is a framework for the development and operation of events and programs by the library and its community partners. Additionally, the policy informs the public of the standards and principles LCLS applies in the selection and management of events and programs at the library.
Overview
LCLS is committed to providing inclusive and welcoming programs and bases its events and programs policy on the principles of intellectual freedom and equal access to all as found in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. LCLS maintains that only parents and guardians have the right and responsibility to determine their minor children’s access to library resources, including events and programs.
Event and Program Development
LCLS develops and presents events and programs to provide opportunities for information, lifelong learning, and entertainment as an integral component of library service. The main objective of events and programs is to support the mission and strategic goals of LCLS. Library events and programs are also intended to expand the role of LCLS as a community resource, introduce patrons and non-users to LCLS services, and provide equal opportunities for engagement, education, and inspiration for all community members.
Responsibility for developing library programs is assigned to a variety of staff under the direction of the Executive Director and the Director of Public Services. Staff are guided by this policy and use professional skills and expertise in planning and delivering library programs and events. LCLS’s agreement to host an event or program is not an endorsement of the views expressed by presenters.
The following criteria are used to make decisions about event and program topics and presenters:
- Relevance to LCLS’s mission, strategic plan, and service goals
- Community needs and interests
- Potential to promote use of library collections and resources
- Presentation quality and presenter’s qualifications
- Cultural and educational significance
- Connection to other community programs and events
- Space, budget, and staff requirements
Funding
LCLS events and programs are funded through the Laramie County Library Foundation. In addition, the library draws on community resources and attempts to partner with other organizations, institutions, and individuals to offset costs.
Attendance and Access
LCLS events and programs are open to the public and offered free of charge. Some events may be designed with specific audiences in mind, such as those geared toward the interests and developmental needs of children and teens. Programs specially designed for children and teens are intended for those audiences, except in the instance of an attendee requiring the assistance of a caregiver.
LCLS makes every attempt to accommodate all who wish to attend an event or program. However, when safety, cost, or the success of an event or program requires it, attendance may be limited. Admittance will be determined on a first come, first served basis, either through advance registration or at the door. LCLS reserves the right to deny attendance to anyone found to be in violation of the Library Rules.
LCLS makes every effort to comply with applicable laws, including the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodations will be made for those requiring services at library events and programs. Any individual requiring accommodation to participate in an LCLS event or program should contact the County Librarian two weeks prior to the event.
Cancellations
LCLS events and programs may be canceled for a number of reasons, including severe weather, absence of the presenter, or low registration. Canceled programs are not automatically rescheduled. When possible, advanced notification of cancellations will be made on the library’s online events calendar and by other appropriate communication channels.
Request for Reconsideration
In alignment with the Request for Reconsideration Policy, an eligible individual has the right to request reconsideration of library materials or resources, library events, library exhibits, and library displays by completing and submitting a Request for Reconsideration Form.
Approved by the Laramie County Library System Board of Directors on May 26, 2026.
