People have a constitutional right to protest on the public sidewalk and other public spaces not controlled by the Library. While the library grounds are considered Northland property, the Library does allow people to protest peacefully as long as protestors do not interfere with patrons entering the library. The library building is not a public square, and therefore does not allow any protest inside the library that interferes with patrons’ quiet use and enjoyment of the library.
Library administrators will make every effort to communicate with leaders of the protest group(s) and maintain an open line of communication with them. Group leader(s) will be asked to establish a tone of respect and civil discourse during the protest. Group leader(s) will also be reminded to consult with local government regarding the permitting process for any organized protest/demonstration.
Northland Library staff will notify local law enforcement if a protest becomes violent, if there is the chance that a protest will become violent, or if protestors interfere with patrons entering the library. When there is an early indication of multiple protest groups attending, library administrators will consult local law enforcement about proper procedure. If there is any question of safety or sign that groups will clash, library administrators will request local law enforcement support.
For more information about the American Library Association’s (ALA) guidance regarding protests and demonstrations, visit https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/controversialprogramsqa.
Approved 10/26/2021
