February 6, 2024

We want to follow up with a message to our community after the scheduled controversial meeting, and subsequent peaceful protest of that meeting, which occurred at the Library last week.

First, whether or not the Library may choose which groups may meet in the building is not merely subject to the Library’s policies. To clarify, publicly funded libraries which offer meeting space to the public are considered designated public forums and are subject to First Amendment rights. Legal precedent holds that libraries may not exclude any group based on the subject matter to be discussed or the ideas for which the group advocates. While the Library is open to all, it is in no way an endorsement by the Library of any group or organization’s ideas expressed. 

Please note, all meetings held in the Simsbury Public Library are considered by policy to be public meetings and all are welcome to attend. Similarly, all Town Meetings are listed online, are open to the public and have a time dedicated to public comment. Strong communities depend on informed and involved citizens and all are encouraged to participate in these open forums. 

We take our mission and our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion very seriously. The Library has been, and will continue to uphold the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion as outlined in our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion statement and will serve as a welcoming place for all.  

Sincerely,