Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL) provides public programming to fulfill its mission to meet the changing needs of the community and to preserve and promote universal access to a broad range of knowledge, experience, information, and ideas in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure TBPL's partners, and external facilitators are aware of the objectives and expectations of TBPL programming. Additionally, this policy provides TBPL staff with the necessary framework to assist them in the development and delivery of high quality programming.

Staff, partners, and external facilitators providing programming in Library branches and staff representing the Library at outreach/external events.

TBPL provides programs that:

• focus on multiple literacies, lifelong learning, reading and diverse cultures
• reinforce TBPL's essential role in the community
• supplement and extend the information found in TBPL services, collections, and staff expertise
• offer access to professional or subject matter expertise
• provide collaborative, experiential and mentorship learning opportunities
• promote TBPL and encourage the use of its resources
• reflect and respond to diverse communities and their interests, needs and goals enable and encourage participation in Canadian society and contribute to a Canadian creative culture.

TBPL programs are open to everyone regardless of race, ethnic origin, place of origin, citizenship, colour, ancestry, language, creed (religion), age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, membership in a union or staff association, receipt of public assistance, level of literacy or any other similar factor.

However, TBPL reserves the right to limit attendance based on considerations of the program-for example, programs based on age, or space limitations. Program attendance requires compliance with TBPL policies, including the Patron Code of Conduct.

TBPL does not charge for programs under most circumstances. Exceptions may be made to cover direct costs when the program could not otherwise be offered.

1.   Program Development and Delivery

1.1 Programs developed and delivered by TBPL will meet its strategic priorities and service delivery standards, and will have clearly defined goals, target audiences, descriptions, outcomes and objectives.

1.2 Data collected for all programs will be reviewed annually. A regular cycle of program evaluation will occur within TBPL's evaluation framework. Evaluation will include feedback from staff, participants, and collaborators.

1.3 Generally, external presenters delivering programs will not solicit business, customers or volunteers, or market their commercial products or services. Exceptions made in service of strategic objectives must be approved by the CEO or designate.

1.4 Programs will be developed and delivered in compliance with all TBPL policies, including the Patron Code of Conduct and Employee Code of Conduct

1.5 Programs will be delivered by qualified staff or subject matter experts, as appropriate. Programs will contribute to TBPL's safe, supportive and welcoming environment.

1.6 Programs will be developed with consideration for the principles of accessibility, equity and inclusiveness. These include, but are not limited to, access for persons with disabilities, and delivery at times and locations and through channels that maximize convenience and encourage attendance by the target audience.

1.7 TBPL programs may cover a range of topics and ideas which are of current interest and possible future significance, including topics and ideas which reflect current conditions, trends and controversies. As with other TBPL services, children's access to programming is the responsibility of parents and guardians.

1.8 Programs may be developed in response to requests from the City of Thunder Bay in support of specific City service goals. Programs may also be developed and delivered through collaboration between TBPL and other external organizations.

1.9 Program presenters/facilitators must always ensure the dignity and safety of the public and staff in accordance with TBPL policies and standards. Misrepresentation of a program, a likelihood of physical hazard to participants or audiences, a likelihood of misuse of premises or equipment, non-compliance with TBPL policies, including the Patron Code of Conduct, may all constitute reasons to terminate a program.

2.   Reconsideration of a Program

2.1 The Library believes that a vital society encourages members of its community to actively participate in an open exchange of ideas and opinions. The Library offers a wide selection of programs inspired by the informational, educational, cultural and recreational needs and interests of the diverse communities it serves.

2.2 The content or manner of expressing ideas in programs that is purposely selected to fill the needs of some Library customers, may, on occasion, be considered to be offensive by other Library customers. The Library recognizes the right of any individual or group to reject library programs for personal use, but does not accord to any individual or group the right to restrict the freedom of others to attend that same program.

2.3 TBPL welcomes suggestions, compliments or feedback about library services in accordance with the Community Feedback Procedure.

2.4 Library customers who object to specific programs may submit a written request for reconsideration, if they feel that the content of the program is not consistent with the criteria outlined in this policy or other Board policies.

2.5 Requests for reconsideration will be considered by staff and a response communicated to the customer who submitted the request following completion of a staff review. Programs may proceed while the request is being reviewed.