Purpose 

The Wilson County Public Library (hereafter “WCPL” or “the Library”) Display policy provides a framework for the presentation of collections and materials in support of the mission of the Wilson County Public Library. It is the Library’s goal to provide a diverse community with Library materials that reflect a wide range of views, expressions, opinions, and interests.

Library users make their own choices as to what they will use based on individual interests and concerns. WCPL supports the right of each family to decide which items are appropriate for use by their children. WCPL adheres to the principles of intellectual freedom, adopted by the American Library Association, as expressed in the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read and Freedom to View statements.   

Selection Criteria 

The Library will strive to include a wide spectrum of opinions and viewpoints in Library-initiated displays, as well as offer displays that appeal to a range of ages, interests, and information needs. Library-initiated displays should not exclude topics, books, media, and other resources solely because such topics may be controversial.

Library displays are planned, organized, and/or implemented by library staff. Library staff use the following criteria in making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources:

In addition, the Library draws upon other community resources in developing displays, and may partner with other community agencies, organizations, educational institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored displays.

Requests for Reconsideration 

Library staff accept suggestions for display topics, but topics and materials selection for displays are at the discretion of the library staff, and ultimately, the Library Director.

WCPL recognizes that full information about issues of public concern requires access to resources that represent those concerns.  WCPL also recognizes the right of individuals to question both materials included and not included in displays.  Requests for review of library displays will be considered in the same manner as requests for reconsideration of materials by submitting a completed Request for Reconsideration of Display form.  Requests for review of specific displayed materials may be submitted using the Request for Reconsideration of Materials form.  Materials and displays under review will remain in place until a determination can be made.

Applicable Personnel/Departments

• All Library Personnel

Approval(s)

• Reviewed and approved by the Wilson County Public Library Management Team (01/12/2023)
• Reviewed and approved by the Wilson County Public Library Board of Trustees (04/18/2023)