Purpose
Darien Library, in keeping with our mission to provide education, entertainment, enrichment, and community building for all, offers displays of Library materials by Library staff on a variety of topics and in a variety of ways. This Policy defines and outlines the principles and criteria upon which decisions about Library displays are made.
The Library recognizes the importance of displays as resources for voluntary inquiry, the dissemination of information and ideas, and the promotion of free expression and free access to ideas by the residents of Darien. With a strong focus on encouraging reading, curiosity, and creativity, our displays encourage connections among our vast collections, in-person and digital services, and an array of engaging programming. The Library’s thoughtfully curated displays play an essential role in informing and inspiring individuals of all ages and backgrounds. These displays serve as a tangible expression of our dedication to the community and exemplify our belief that a vibrant library contributes to a strong community.
Displays are provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all residents, represent a wide range of varied and diverging viewpoints, and provide access to content that is relevant to the research, independent interests, and educational needs of residents.
Roles & Responsibilities
The Board of Trustees delegates the final responsibility for the display of library materials to the Library Director and staff.
Day-to-day responsibility is shared by librarians who are professionally trained to curate and develop displays. Library staff use the criteria listed below in making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources.
Displays are generally created or curated by librarians. Occasionally, with the prior approval and at the sole discretion of the Library, displays may be created by members of the public or community.
Ultimate responsibility for all Library displays rests with the Library Director, who operates within the framework of this policy.
Principles & Criteria
Darien Library strives to include a wide spectrum of topics and viewpoints in Library-curated displays and exhibits, as well as offer displays that appeal to a range of ages, interests, and information needs.
Criteria used to select topics and materials for displays include, but are not limited to:
- Community interest and need
- Historical, cultural, or educational significance
- Connection to other community or national programs, exhibitions, or events
- Relation to Library collections, resources, exhibits, and programs
- Availability of display space
Library displays and exhibits should not exclude topics, books, or other resources solely because they may be considered controversial. Creation of a display or exhibit topic by the Library does not constitute an endorsement by the Library of the content or views expressed in the materials on display.
Generally, all Library displays are created and curated by Library staff. Only under special circumstances will members of the public or outside organizations be permitted to create or co-sponsor displays, which must be with the prior written approval of the Library Director.
All library materials are evaluated and made accessible in accordance with the protections against discrimination set forth in section 46a-64 of the general statutes.
Intellectual Freedom & Censorship
The selection of library materials by patrons is an individual matter. The Library recognizes that some materials in the collections and on display may be considered controversial or offensive to some people.
The Library maintains that individuals can apply their values only to themselves and their children. The selection and display of library materials is predicated on the patron’s right of access to information and freedom from censorship. Displays of library materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disproval, but on the merits of the materials itself and connection to the Library’s mission.
Additionally, the selection and display of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may inadvertently come into the possession of or be seen by minors. It is only the parent or guardian who can determine which materials are appropriate for their child.
Darien Library supports intellectual freedom and endorses the ALA Freedom to Read Statement, the Freedom to View Statements, the Library Bill of Rights, and all relevant interpretations.
Procedures for the Questioning of Library Displays
The Library limits consideration of requests to reconsider materials, displays, or programs to residents of Darien. Please see our Library Materials Review and Reconsideration Policy for further information on this process.
This policy was approved and adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 27, 2025.
The Board of Trustees shall review and update this policy, at minimum, every five years.