MISSION STATEMENT: We open doors for curious minds.
PURPOSE OF POLICY
Anythink provides free and open access to classes, programs, events and experiences (“programs”) that represent a variety of viewpoints and foster a love of reading, spark curiosity, invite cultural appreciation, inspire personal transformation and build community connections. The program topics and formats represent Anythink’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and free speech principles. This policy, approved by the Anythink Board of Trustees, outlines the library’s philosophy and guidelines as it pertains to programming.
PROGRAMS ARE LIBRARY-INITIATED ACTIVITIES
An Anythink program is defined as a library-initiated activity open to the public that provides opportunities to interact and connect with ideas, resources, people, partners and stories that support the library’s mission to “open doors for curious minds.” Anythink programming is typically hands-on and interactive, helping to facilitate a deeper connection with the ideas shared and celebrate different learning styles.
Programs include, but are not limited to, lectures, concerts, community forums, performing and visual arts, participatory workshops, technology programming, creative learning programming, wellness programs, story times, continuing education, fairs and conventions, book clubs, discussion groups, demonstrations, and presentations for social, cultural, educational, or entertainment purposes. They may take place onsite at the library, offsite at other locations, or online, and may be designed by Anythink staff or in collaboration with local artists and experts, volunteers and partner organizations.
The views and opinions of program presenters and/or participants do not constitute endorsement by Anythink. Only classes, programs, events and experiences that are designed under the guidelines of this policy are considered Anythink programs. The design of these programs is informed by the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Library-Initiated Programs and Displays as a Resource: An interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights, and the Freedom to View policies.
Community members are encouraged to participate in the programming process through attendance, customer surveys, and talking with Anythink staff. Periodically, Anythink invites members of the public to participate in library-initiated programs as experts or artists in residence. Community members may host their own programming by renting library meeting rooms. Community-initiated programs held in the meeting rooms must follow the Anythink Meeting Room Policy.
PROGRAMMING CRITERIA
Anythink’s programming criteria inform the design and selection of library-initiated programs. The criteria focus on alignment with strategic, district, and branch initiatives; creating participatory experiences designed for personal transformation; highlighting expert, partner and community voices; and providing timely experiences responsive to community interest and need.
Anythink programs are also designed with consideration to the following:
- Hosted in welcoming and accessible spaces
- Include authentic voices and expertise with contemporary factual accuracy
- Meet Anythink’s quality standards in content and presentation
- Connect to and support other community programs, exhibits or events
- Have historical, educational or local significance
- Offer participants opportunities for personal transformation, creativity and well-being
- Inspire deeper connection with library resources
There may be times when a library program is cancelled due to weather, low registration or absence of the presenter. Cancelled programs are not guaranteed to be rescheduled.
REQUESTS FOR RECONSIDERATION
Anythink provides programs and services to Adams County residents, as well as informational and recreational resources that represent a variety of viewpoints. The programs, services and resources provided represent Anythink’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and free speech principles, and are chosen in accordance with library policies and procedures. Anythink upholds the right of individuals to access these resources, although the content may be controversial, unorthodox, or unacceptable to some. While Anythink’s varied programs are available to all, it is not expected that every program offered will appeal to everyone.
Any resident or property owner within the boundaries of Rangeview Library District may submit a Request for Reconsideration in accordance with Anythink’s Request for Reconsideration Policy. Formal requests for reconsideration, either written or in person, are a matter of public record.
A resident or property owner in the Rangeview Library District may submit up to five requests for reconsideration in a calendar year.
Formal requests for reconsideration, either written or in person, are subject to the Colorado Open Records Act and are not protected by library user privacy laws.
Approved by the Board of Trustees, 7/17/24