Distribution of Community Information and Materials Policy
Westerly Library & Wilcox Park (WLWP), owned and operated by the Memorial & Library Association, provides limited space for the passive distribution of free printed materials by nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government agencies, and community groups serving Westerly and surrounding communities. This service supports the community’s recreational, cultural, civic, and educational needs by increasing awareness of local programs, services, resources and events.
General Use of Distribution Spaces
- WLWP reserves the right to limit the number of copies displayed and the duration of display based on space availability.
- Library and park users are entitled to use WLWP facilities free from disruption, interference, or unauthorized activities.
- Distribution spaces are limited-use community information areas and are not intended to serve as public forums. WLWP reserves the right to determine whether submitted materials meet the criteria established in this policy.
- Solicitation is not permitted on WLWP property. Please refer to our Solicitation Policy for more information.
- The posting or distribution of materials does not imply WLWP endorsement or responsibility for the accuracy or content of the materials.
Approval and Removal Procedures
- All materials intended for display or distribution must be submitted to Administration or their designee for approval.
- Materials must be clean, legible, appropriately sized, and suitable for display in public areas.
- Multiple copies of ongoing cultural, recreational, or educational publications will be placed on designated shelf space.
- Active distribution of materials requires prior approval from the Executive Director.
- Materials promoting a specific event may be posted no more than four weeks before the event date.
- All dated materials are removed after the event date. Undated materials will be marked by staff and removed after four weeks or sooner if space is needed.
- Only WLWP staff may remove posted materials. Unapproved items may be removed and discarded.
- WLWP is not responsible for loss, damage, or disposal of submitted materials.
- WLWP reserves the right to temporarily suspend distribution areas or remove materials when necessary to support operations, safety, maintenance, or special events.
Materials Not Accepted
WLWP will not accept or distribute:
- Materials intended for active distribution, except as approved for WLWP co-hosted / co-sponsored event or local interest/events in Westerly and surrounding communities.
- Active distribution includes handing materials directly to visitors, staffing an information table, or soliciting participation from library or park users.
- Personal requests, commercial advertising, political party or candidate materials, or advocacy on public issues.
- Materials that threaten safety or disrupt library or park use.
Posting Priorities
Materials are accepted and posted in the following order of priority:
- WLWP programs
- WLWP co-hosted programs
- WLWP co-sponsored programs
- Nonprofit cultural, recreational, educational, or community service programs
- Programs sponsored by tax supported agencies
Reserved Spaces
- The library slat wall and park kiosk are reserved exclusively for WLWP use.
- Tabling is permitted only with prior approval; indoor tabling is limited to The Pop Up @ Coy.
Digital Materials
- WLWP retains exclusive use of its website, newsletter, and social media platforms.
- WLWP will not post or distribute digital information on behalf of other organizations unless the service, resource, program, or event is co-hosted or co-sponsored by WLWP.
Right of Refusal
WLWP reserves the right to decline, remove, or limit materials that do not comply with this policy, exceed available space, are outdated, or interfere with the safe and orderly use of library and park facilities.
Protection of WLWP Property
Removal of WLWP informational materials, programs, or service notices is prohibited and considered larceny under Rhode Island State Law §11 41 14.1.
The Executive Director, or their designee, has the final authority concerning the acceptance or rejection of materials.
For information regarding co-hosted and co-sponsored programs and events see the WLWP Public Programs and Displays Policy.
Policy for Posting, Display, and Distribution of Materials Approved by the Board of Trustees March 17, 2015.
Revised and Approved as the Distribution of Community Information and Materials Policy by the Board of Trustees on July 21, 2026
