The purpose of the Library's community room is to provide space for library programs and events, to fulfill the Library's role as a community center, where the public can attend informational, educational, cultural events and to champion the principal of intellectual freedom by providing a forum for the free exchange of ideas.

The community room is available to any group or individual on a first come, first served basis with Library sponsored events taking priority. Minors (under 18) are to be under adult supervision (18 or over) at all times during the use of the room. Organizations that may use the room include non-profit corporations (defined as those entities granted tax-exempt status by the IRS under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), a candidate's campaign committee (as defined in Iowa Code §68A.102(5)), a political committee (as defined by Iowa Code §68A.102(18), a non-profit group that provides appropriate contact information, a governmental subdivision, or a department/division/bureau of a governmental subdivision. All individuals or groups must request the room at least 24 hours in advance of use or at the discretion of library staff.

There is no fee for the use of community room, but a deposit may be required at the discretion of the Library Director. Groups will be charged for labor and materials to cover the cost of resetting the room, damage or extraordinary room clean up that result from use.

Admission may not be charged for any events in the library’s community room.

The Library neither approves nor disapproves of content, ideas or subject matter presented in meeting rooms and does not accept responsibility for ensuring accuracy or that all points of view are represented.

The community room is available for use during the hours the library is open. If a group requests to use the room outside regular business hours, a key must be checked out on a valid library card. Refreshments may be served in the meeting rooms provided the room is left in the condition it was found and users bring their own utensils and supplies. Meeting room users must follow all applicable City codes.

Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the Library, including the community room, lobby and vestibules. No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the premises. No lit candles or open flames are allowed.

The Library Board of Trustees and the City of West Branch are not responsible for accidents, injury, or loss of individual property while using the community room. Storage of materials is not allowed without prior approval from the Library Director. This policy shall be administered by the Library Director, or her/his designee, who is authorized to adopt rules to implement it. Exceptions may be granted for programs deemed to be in the public interest.

Revised 03/11
Revised 09/08
Revised 03/06