Purpose
The mission of Darien Library is to provide education, entertainment, enrichment, and community building through compassionate service to all. To advance Darien Library’s mission and protect its longstanding commitment to diversity of thought and freedom of expression, Darien Library will maintain a position of institutional neutrality, meaning we will generally refrain from taking a stance on matters of public, social, or political significance.
Moreover, Darien Library will generally not take positions on, or engage in speech or commentary regarding political or religious matters as defined by Connecticut law.
Notwithstanding, Darien Library recognizes that there may be circumstances in which it is appropriate to take a position on public matters, specifically when they directly implicate or affect the Library’s core mission, values, functions, or interests. Any decision to take a position in these instances will be made at the sole discretion of Darien Library.
Darien Library’s core values are:
- Kindness. We lead with empathy and compassion, caring for each other and our community. We prioritize people over policy whenever possible and cultivate spaces that are inviting and inclusive.
- Community. We bring people together through the power of words, ideas, and meaningful connection. We are a haven where book lovers, knowledge seekers, and creative minds come to thrive.
- Intellectual Freedom. We acknowledge and honor the wide diversity of viewpoints, values, and experiences that make up our community and facilitate access to that broad spectrum of ideas and interests through our collections, services, and programs.
We understand that Darien Library patrons may have viewpoints related to these matters, and we hope you understand our commitment to neutrality, such that we provide a space for all.
Adopted and approved by the Board of Trustees on June 23, 2025.