(excluding the Flinn Gallery which is the subject of a separate policy)
Approved October 14, 2025

For definitions and other information relevant to understanding Library Policies, please see Introduction to Library Policies.

Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to set forth the requirements for Library displays. This policy refers to displays which are created or curated by librarians and not those created by members of the public or community. For information regarding the community use of bulletin boards and other display facilities, see the Community Use of Display Facilities and Community Bulletin Boards Policy.

Statutory Requirements
This policy is in accordance with SB1271 “An Act Concerning School and Public Libraries” which states:
•No Library material, display or program shall be removed, or programs be cancelled, because of the origin, background or viewpoints expressed in such material, display or program or because of the origin, background or viewpoints of the creator of such material, display or program.
•All Library displays are evaluated and made accessible in accordance with the protections against discrimination set forth in section 46a-64 of the general statutes.
•Library materials, displays and programs shall only be excluded for legitimate pedagogical purposes or for professionally accepted standards of collection maintenance practices as adopted in the collection development and maintenance policy or in the display and program policies.

Intellectual Freedom and Censorship
The Library supports intellectual freedom and endorses the American Library Association (ALA) Freedom to Read Statement, Freedom to View Statement, the Library Bill of Rights and all relevant interpretations.
Any user who wishes for the Library to reconsider the content of a Library display, must follow the steps laid out in the Material Review and Reconsideration Policy. The Library limits
consideration of requests to reconsider displays to individual residents of the Town of Greenwich.

Principles and Criteria
Library displays are physical or digital exhibits of materials curated by librarians and staff for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all residents. Furthermore, Library displays provide access to content that is relevant to the research, independent interests, and educational needs of residents. Librarians are professionally trained to curate and develop displays.

The Library recognizes the importance of displays as freely accessible resources for voluntary inquiry and dissemination of information and ideas and to promote free expression and free access to ideas by residents. Displays, therefore, are intended to promote the community’s education, knowledge, and culture. As such, Library displays are assembled by professional librarians and staff to include:
•A wide range of varied and diverging viewpoints
•Content of local interest and appeal
•Items which mark historical anniversaries, events, and commemorations
•Materials which promote the use of Library resources
•Materials to promote the love of literacy and lifelong learning
•Materials that highlight timely topics

Materials publicizing Library events, including but not limited to signage, exhibits, or banners, may be displayed on Library Premises or disseminated electronically.

The Library may partner with other organizations to create co-sponsored displays.

The Library may, at its discretion, remove or modify any display it has established.