The staff of the Wayland Free Public Library offers programs intended to further the Library’s mission. The Library functions as an information, recreational, and cultural resource for the community. Programs are a means through which the public can share experiences, explore ideas, appreciate special interests, exchange information, connect with each other and with the WFPL.
Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants, and program topics, speakers and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy. Library programming will reflect a wide range of diverse perspectives and opinions. The Library will not act in the role of censor for any age level, program type, or subject matter. Program selection will not be restricted by the possibility that they may be viewed by an unintended audience. Parents and guardians are responsible for their own minor children’s use of the Library at all times.
In developing and delivering programs, the Library staff utilizes staff expertise, collections, equipment, and facilities. The following criteria are used in making decisions about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:
Performers, speakers, community members, etc. may use our Suggest a Program Form to let the Library know of programs that may be of interest to the Wayland community. Priority is placed on local relationships and partnerships. Final decisions on what programs are offered are made by the Adult Programming Librarian or Head of Youth Services, in consultation with the Library Director and Assistant Director.
Even in the case of registration required programs, the Library does not guarantee seating once a program has begun. If the event does not have a waitlist, walk-ins may be allowed to fill unclaimed spots.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Library will make sure there is seating available for anyone who needs accommodation. Reasonable accommodations will be made for those requiring services at Library-initiated programs when needed or requested by patrons. Any individual requiring an accommodation to participate in a Library program should contact the Library Director two weeks prior to the program.
All patrons attending programs must adhere to the Library’s Acceptable Patron Behavior Policy and the Child Safety Policy. Patrons causing a disruption of an in-person program may be asked to leave the event by the supervising staff or Library Director. Patrons causing a disruption during a virtual program may be muted or removed from the Zoom. Caregivers are responsible for their children’s conduct.
All Library programs are open to the public, but some meetings and programs may be designed with specific audiences in mind, such as programs intended for children and teens that are geared to their interests and developmental needs. Adults who wish to attend a program specifically designed for minors must be accompanied by a child. Tween and teen programs are limited to tweens and teens only, except when they require an adult assistant or companion. Programs targeted toward specific audiences are to be publicized as such.
The Library defines program partnerships as a collaboration between two or more organizations involved in the planning, marketing, and follow-through of a specific program or series of programs. Program partnerships are determined by Library staff in consultation with the Library Director and Assistant Director.
Programs are not used for commercial purposes or for the solicitation of business. However, the presenter may leave business cards for participants to pick up after the program for anyone interested in purchasing items or services from the presenter.
Sale of creative works and/or other products at Library programs is not permitted, with the following exceptions, or unless authorized by the Library Director or designee: Authors or booksellers may sell books as part of a Library program. Programs sponsored by the Friends of the Library may include the sale of merchandise as a fundraiser to benefit the Library. Performers or presenters may receive permission to sell their creative works as part of a Library program.
Programs may be canceled for a number of reasons, including severe weather, absence of the presenter, or low registration. Canceled programs are not automatically rescheduled. When possible, advanced notification of program cancellations will be made on the Library’s online calendar of events and by other appropriate communication channels.
Wayland residents with concerns about programming should first direct their concerns to staff in charge of the program. If the resident still wishes to pursue the issue they can submit a Request for Reconsideration Form. Such requests are reviewed only when made by a Wayland resident and must be submitted in writing to the Director at least 2 weeks prior to a program. Library administration will review all submissions and consider them alongside the Library’s mission and other factors contributing to program development. The Director will inform the requester of their decision at least 2 days prior to the program.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees on October 21, 2026.