Mount Laurel Library

Purpose
The Mount Laurel Library offers a wide range of programming as part of its mission to inform, enrich, and connect the community of Mount Laurel. The library strives to present a wide variety of viewpoints and opinions within its programming, acknowledging that some of these views may offend some individuals. However, the library is firm in its commitment to intellectual freedom and providing a sanctuary for challenged and challenging ideas. The library does not endorse the content of the programs it sponsors, or the views presented therein, just as it does not endorse the content of the materials and resources in its collection.

Development
Criteria and considerations used by staff when planning programs include:

• Community interest and need
• Presenter qualifications
• Responsiveness to contemporary interests
• Promoting literacy
• Fostering community
• Budget
• Availability of program space
• Availability of staff

Availability
Library programs will be free and open to the community, but attendance may be limited. Criteria for attendance limits include available space, advanced registration lists, and library membership. Some programs may have age-based limits, particularly when such limits promote an atmosphere conducive to the needs of the target age group for the program. In no case will attendance be limited by age because the topic has been deemed controversial or inappropriate.

Non-Solicitation
Library programs are not for the purpose of solicitation. Programs may not be used for recruiting customers and clients, partisan propaganda, or religious proselytization. Presenters will receive acknowledgement in library promotion of the event. They may make brochures or similar materials available to interested attendees but may not attempt to recruit individual attendees as customers or clients.

Programs may not be used for soliciting support for a particular political candidate or party. If a presentation does touch upon a political subject, then the library will aim to provide a balance of speakers.

The library does not offer programs that support or oppose a specific religious conviction. This is not to imply that a program may not teach about or discuss religion as a topic. Examples of programming that are about religion but do not support or oppose a specific religious conviction may include holiday celebrations, interfaith dialogues, or presentations about religious history.

Nothing may be sold at library events, with the exceptions that The Friends of the Library may sell things at their events, and that authors and performers may sell their own work at programs they present.

Photography

Staff may use photography and videography during programs to use on the Library’s social media or promotional materials. Anyone who does not wish to be included in such pictures should notify library staff at the event.

Patron Concerns
Mount Laurel Library cardholders may request that a library program be reconsidered. To submit a request, please complete the Request for Reconsideration form provided below. Staff will respond to the request within two weeks.

If the patron does not accept the decision, then they may appeal the decision to the Library Board of Trustees.

Approved May 20, 2026