Summary and Purpose
The duty of fulfilling the Library’s mission is the first priority of Lancaster Public Library and the filming and photography described below is allowed only to the extent that it does not interfere with the provision of library services and is consistent with the Library’s mission. Filming on Library property does not connote Library endorsement of the film or its message.
Note that any persons filming or photographing on Library premises have sole responsibility for gaining all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed. The Library undertakes no responsibility for obtaining these releases.
Also note that Library staff may terminate any photo session that appears to compromise public safety or security, reflect badly on the Library, or interfere with Library operations.
News Media Photography
The Library has an open door policy for news media photographers and reporters who are doing stories or projects that directly involve the Library and its programs. Advance authorization for such photography must be obtained from the Library’s Community Relations Department at 394-2651 x2270.
The Library may grant permission for news media to use its facilities for stories or projects that do not relate to the Library itself but requires the submittal of the Filming and Photography Form and approval of the Library’s Community Relations Department.
Documentary-Type Photography for Publication or Broadcast
The Library permits photography of its premises and activities when the use of the photographs involves the Library directly, e.g., books, articles, or videos about the Library itself, or the Library’s position in the city of Lancaster as a cultural or learning destination. Advance authorization must be obtained from the Library’s Community Relations Department.
Commercial Photography
The Library permits commercial photography on or in its facilities if a Filming and Photography Form is submitted and approved by the Library’s Community Relations Department. This includes, but is not limited to, using Library buildings, grounds, or interiors as a stage set for portraiture, model photography, and product photography. It includes photography or filming used to advertise goods or services unrelated to the Library for commercial sale or promotion. If commercial filming, an appropriate donation is suggested per shoot.
Research Photography
The Library permits research photography of its materials and resources within certain limitations. Researchers and journalists are responsible for obtaining their own permissions when photographing copyrighted or restricted material in the Library. Additional permissions must be obtained to photograph materials or items in special collections because of complex copyright issues in these areas. Because of these issues, permission to reproduce materials from these divisions may in some cases be denied or involve a fee. Please discuss your needs with the Library’s Community Relations Department before planning your project to obtain advance authorization.
Amateur Photography
Casual amateur photography and videotaping is permitted in Library facilities for patrons and visitors wanting a remembrance of their visit. The use of additional equipment such as lighting is not permitted without advance authorization.
Movie Industry
The Library will permit use of its facilities by the movie or music industry for filming major entertainment projects where a library setting is called for, if the project does not interfere with the Library mission, is in accordance with the rest of this policy, and does not advertise or promote commercial products. Filming may not be related to political campaigns, religious, ethnic, or partisan issues because Lancaster Public Library wishes to avoid any appearance, no matter how slight, of impropriety or impression of political, ethnic, or religious preference. These projects must be approved in advance with the Library’s Community Relations Department. Such filming may take place only during hours when the Library is closed, and all equipment must be removed during the Library’s operating hours. Library personnel such as are necessary to open, secure, and remain on the premises during a shoot must be paid at overtime rates by the production company.
Photography for Groups and Non-library Events in the Meeting Facilities
Groups arranging meetings in the Library meeting facilities may arrange for photographers and news media during their event. Photography for such events is restricted to the space reserved by the group and may not take place in other areas of the Library. Authorized filming of Library activities by the Community Relations Department is permitted.
Approved: 08/05/11