Meeting Room Policy

rules for reserving and using library meeting rooms
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Primary Purpose

Meeting Room Policy

The primary purpose of the Pulaski County Public Library Meeting Rooms is to provide space for library-sponsored activities and programs that support the library’s mission to expand access to information. A secondary purpose is to support Pulaski County community activities by offering meeting spaces when available.

Appropriate Community Room Use

When not in use for library activities, Meeting Rooms are available on an equitable basis to Pulaski County businesses and nonprofit organizations for civic, cultural, informational, or educational purposes.

  • Children’s groups must be supervised by someone age 18 or older.

  • Programs and meetings must be free of charge, with exceptions for meals or nonprofit dues.

  • Tuition for classes from accredited institutions should be collected in advance.

  • Solicitation, sales, or promotions are not permitted unless sponsored by the library.

  • Attendance must not exceed room capacity.

  • No literature or promotional materials may be distributed to library patrons.

  • Smoking and alcohol are prohibited on library property.

Inappropriate Meeting Room Use

Meeting Rooms may not be used for private social events (e.g., showers, birthdays, recitals) unless sponsored by the library.

Meetings must not interfere with regular library operations due to noise or other disruptions. The person signing the meeting room application is responsible for group conduct and compliance with library rules.

Available Times

Meetings must conclude at least 15 minutes before library closing time.

Rooms are not available on days the library is closed (e.g., holidays).
Branch meeting room reservations must occur within branch operating hours (see Branch Meeting Room Policy).

Equipment

Audio-visual equipment must be requested at the time of reservation.

  • The AV cabinet remains locked unless arrangements are made.

  • The library does not provide staff to operate equipment.

  • Users are responsible for properly powering off any technology used.

  • Any misuse of equipment is the responsibility of the signer.

Storage Space

The library does not provide storage space. All personal belongings must be removed after use. Unclaimed items will be discarded.

Room Setup and Take Down

Groups may rearrange tables and chairs but are asked to return the room to its original layout.

  • Library staff do not assist with setup or breakdown.

  • The room divider must be operated by library staff.

  • Thumbtacks and large post-it charts may be used on the moveable wall only.

  • Do not attach items to walls, windows, or furniture.

Food and Drink

Refreshments may be served, but:

  • The library does not accept advance deliveries or catering.

  • Dishes, utensils, and other kitchen items may be used but must be washed, dried, and returned.

  • Popcorn machine use is prohibited.

  • Table linens will be laundered by the library; please leave them in the kitchen.

  • The kitchen must be left clean, and trash properly disposed of.

  • Alcohol, gambling, and tobacco are strictly prohibited on library property.

Exit Checklist

An exit checklist will be provided. The applicant is responsible for ensuring all closing procedures are completed before leaving.

Janitorial Fee

Groups must leave the room clean and undamaged.

  • A $25/hour minimum cleaning fee will be charged if the room is not properly returned to its original condition.

  • Damage or misuse may result in legal action and denial of future use.

Liability

The library is not liable for injury, damage, or loss of personal property resulting from Meeting Room use.

Application

Applications must be submitted in advance.

  • The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

  • That person is responsible for the group’s behavior and any damage incurred.

  • The library may deny use to any group not in compliance with policy.

Computer Lab Use

Groups wanting to use the Computer Lab must also complete the Computer Lab Group Use Policy – Meeting Room Addendum along with this application.

Schedule and Calendar

All Meeting Room use requires an approved application.

  • Reservations must be made through the library’s executive offices, in person or by phone.

  • Requests are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and should be submitted at least one week in advance.

  • The library may cancel a reservation for its own programming needs or unforeseen closures (e.g., weather).

Publicity

All publicity must list the sponsoring organization.

  • The library’s name may be used only to designate the location.

  • Use of the library’s name as a sponsor requires written consent from the Director or Board.

Fundraising

Fundraising events are only allowed if they are sponsored by the library.

Use of library rooms does not imply endorsement of any group’s beliefs or policies.

Policy Disclaimer

The Library Board of Trustees may amend this policy at any time. Final decisions regarding room use rest with the Library Director, who may waive policies or deny reservations as necessary.

Updated: August 14, 2023
To schedule a meeting room, call 606-679-8401.