Book Display Policy

 

Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for creating age-appropriate and inclusive book displays in the library to promote reading, learning, and community engagement. It ensures that all content displayed is suitable for its intended audience and aligns with the library’s values of intellectual freedom, diversity, and accessibility.

 

Policy Details

 

Display Areas and Age Groups

Display Name	Display Location	Intended Audience
L	Table in lobby by stairs	General Public
C	Behind circulation desk	General Public
D	Table near elevators	General Public
J	Children’s	Ages 0-12
YA	Young Adult	Ages 13-18
MA	Main display near AFIC	Adult
O	Old section (old circulation desk or fireplace room)	Adult

General Guidelines for All Displays

• All materials must be in good physical condition.
• Displays should reflect diversity in authors, subjects, cultures, identities, and experiences.
• Themes should be timely, seasonal, educational, or interest driven.
• Each display must include a title and brief description that we can share on social media.
• Displays should be updated regularly – monthly or seasonally.

Prohibited Content in All Displays

• Overtly political or religious promotion (unless part of an inclusive or educational theme).
• Material with hate speech, discriminatory language, or harmful stereotypes.
• Any item not cataloged by the library.
• Feedback from patrons or concerns regarding content should be directed to the supervising Librarian.

Specific Guidelines by Display Type

1.) General Public Displays (All Ages)

• Content must be suitable for a wide audience, including children.
• No violent, sexual, or graphically disturbing content.
• Themes should be broadly accessible (e.g., “Books That Make You Laugh,” “Read Around the World”).
• Books may include a mix of picture books, middle grade, young adult, and adult titles, but must be age-appropriate and respectful of public sensibilities.

2.) Children’s Display (Ages 0–12)

• Only include books designated for children’s reading levels (e.g., board books, picture books, early readers, middle grade).
• Avoid any themes or illustrations that include violence, death, or mature content.
• Focus on themes like seasonal relevance, imagination, friendship, discovery, family, and kindness.
• Ensure representation in characters and stories (e.g., diverse cultures, abilities, and family structures).

3.) Young Adult Display (Ages 13–18)

• Include fiction and nonfiction suitable for teens; may address complex topics relevant to adolescent development (e.g., identity, relationships, social justice).
• Mild language or thematic elements are acceptable, but books with explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or horror must be avoided.
• Avoid picture books or early readers.
• Emphasize authors and stories that resonate with teen interests and identities.

4.) Adult Displays (Ages 18+)

• Can include more mature and complex themes appropriate for adult readers.
• Fiction and nonfiction welcome; genres can range from literary fiction to mystery, biography, or health.
• Books with adult language, violence, or sexual content may be included, provided they are displayed respectfully.
• Must not promote hate speech, misinformation, or discriminatory content.

 

Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed at least once every three years, or sooner if necessary, to ensure that it remains consistent with the library’s mission, addresses community needs, and aligns with current operational standards.

Policy Approval

This Circulation Use Policy has been reviewed and approved by the Library Director and the Board of Trustees of Spies Public Library. Approval ensures that the policy aligns with the library’s mission, operational standards, and community needs.

Effective Date: This policy is effective as of August 25, 2025

Next Review: August 2028