Introduction
The purpose of this policy is to establish the terms and conditions under which Library space may be used for still photography, filming and/or video production. Traverse Area District Library (TADL) may accommodate requests for photography or filming provided such photography or filming does not interfere with ordinary Library operations or patrons’ rights to privacy. In order to reduce distractions and protect the rights of Library patrons and staff, and to promote safety, photographing and filming in the Library are restricted as set forth in this policy.
TADL’s express permission, unless noted below, is required for any filming or photography in the Library building, on the Library grounds or at Library sponsored events. The Library reserves the right to prohibit any filming or photography for any reason, including, but not limited to, if the filming or photography creates the potential for:
- disruption of business;
- damage to or alteration of Library property;
- inappropriate use of TADL’s name, logo or image;
- disruption of pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
- other safety hazards;
- violations of the Library’s behavior and/or privacy policies; or
- individual or corporate financial gain.
Patron (Non-Commercial) Filming or Photography
Under no circumstances may the public or members of the media take photographs, video recordings, or live stream without the express permission of any Library patrons or staff who would be prominently included within the composition. Capturing identifiable likeness of individuals or their computer screens, books, documents, or other materials and registration and circulation records is not permitted without their consent. If any person to be photographed or filmed is under 18 years of age, permission must be obtained by the photographer or videographer from a parent or legal guardian on behalf of said minor child. Individuals who photograph or film inside the Library must honor requests from patrons and staff who do not want to be included in photos or recordings. If the photography or filming requires a significant amount of time and/or equipment setup, the Library Director must be contacted at least 7 (seven) days prior to photographing or filming so that proper accommodations can be made. All photography and recording must be carried out so as not to disturb Library users or staff and not block aisles, walkways, stairwells, doors or exits.
Photography and filming is never allowed in restrooms and is not permitted in non-public (staff only) areas unless written consent is given by the Library Director to do so. Library access by photographers may be limited either by time constraints or to specific areas depending upon such impact or effect such sessions could have on other Library users. In all instances, the Library reserves the right to cease photography or filming if it results in disruption of the ordinary Library environment or operations. The Library accepts no liability for the use of photos or film resulting from this activity.
Commercial Filming or Photography
The Library does not permit commercial photography on or in its facilities. 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.
News-related Filming & Photography
The Library will consider reasonable requests for journalistic, non-commercial filming and photography. Notification is not required but is appreciated for news-related photography.
Library Photography and Filming
The staff of TADL regularly takes photographs or videos of patrons and staff at Library programs, workshops, classes and in other Library spaces. Many of these photos/videos will be used in print and electronic marketing materials. Others will be posted on the Library’s website and on the Library’s various social media accounts. Attendance at Library programs, events or Library spaces constitutes consent to be photographed or filmed for use in print and/or electronic publicity of the Library. Photos, images and videos submitted by users for galleries or contests may also be used by the Library for promotional purposes.
To ensure the privacy of individuals and children, images will not be identified using full name without written approval from the parent or legal guardian. If a patron does not want the Library to use a photo or video of them or of their child, they must inform the Library staff member who is coordinating the event prior to the conclusion of the event. This policy extends to photographing and filming by Library staff at Friends of the Library events and at any of the Library’s outreach efforts in the community, including at public events.
Failure to Comply
Those not following this policy or violating other behavior policies may be asked to put away their equipment or leave the Library.
Damages and Liability
Any individual using the Library shall be held responsible for willful or accidental damage to the Library building, grounds, collections or furniture caused by the individual or group.
Requests for Permission to Film or Take Photographs
Non-news related requests must be made in writing at least 5 (five) business days in advance by emailing the Marketing Manager, ask@tadl.org. All requests for filming or photography must include the following information:
- Name and description of the organization or individual making the request.
- Project description, including the context and way in which the Library is to be portrayed and the intended use of the resulting material.
- Date(s) requested.
- Time and duration of proposed shoot.
- Number of people and amount and type of equipment involved, including vehicles.
- Potential disruption (sound, light, physical, etc.) of Library activities.
- Location releases, if necessary, must be submitted for review by the Library in advance.
- Proof of adequate insurance coverage and a signed indemnification agreement (student photographers/student filmmakers are exempt.)
Additional Guidelines
- Use of TADL’s name, logos, trademarks or images in connection with any photograph or film is prohibited without written permission by the Library.
- Photos of minors are prohibited at all times without the written permission of the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
- No set construction or alteration of buildings/grounds is permitted.
- All areas occupied in connection with the filming/photographing must be returned to their normal conditions.
- Applicants must not make any connections to the electrical system other than through plugging into standard duplex receptacles. Covers from electrical panels or boxes must not be removed.
Open Meetings Act
In compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act, MCL 15.263(3), all TADL public meetings are open to the public and a patron has “the right to tape-record, to videotape, to broadcast live on radio, and to telecast live on television the proceedings of a public body at a public meeting.” The taping shall not interfere with the overall decorum and proceedings of the meeting (i.e., the machine and/or operator must be quiet and unobtrusive). The Library will make reasonable accommodations for those wishing to record the meeting and request they stay in the area designated for the public.
New on 12-15-2022