Knox County Public Library has meeting rooms available for community groups and civic organizations. Meeting rooms are available on a first come, first served basis. Library programs take priority.
Meeting rooms are available to Federal, State, or local government agencies and elected officials.
Multi-candidate or town hall style meetings are acceptable. Contact the Assistant Director for Public Services regarding these requests.
Meeting rooms shall be used for meetings of not fewer than six people.
Reservations must be submitted at least two business days (Monday–Friday) prior to the date requested.
Reservations must be made by an adult (18 years of age or older) with a full access library card that is not restricted.
Meeting rooms may be reserved twelve times per calendar year and up to 15 months in advance.
The applicant must be present during the meeting and is responsible for any damages to library property.
People attending meetings are subject to all Library regulations and policies, including the posted Library Rules of Conduct.
No after-hours meetings.
Notice of cancellation is expected. Two “no shows” or a pattern of cancellations result in the forfeiture of other bookings for the calendar year.
The library reserves the right to revoke permission to use meeting room upon failure to comply with meeting room policy.
Use of the meeting room by an organization in no way reflects endorsement by the library.
Prohibited uses
The meeting room will not be used for:
- Groups charging admission, fundraising, collecting fees, soliciting contributions or donations, or taking money in any way.
- Activities likely to disturb library functions.
- Classes, performances, rehearsals or events not presented by the Library.
- Social gatherings.
- Any unlawful purposes.
Commercial use of meeting rooms by business entities is specifically prohibited, including for free educational programs.
Candidates for office, or political groups, may not use meeting rooms to campaign or raise funds. Campaign activities are those activities directly related to the campaign of individual political candidates or ballot issues.
Publicity
- The Library may not be used as the official address or headquarters of an individual or organization.
- Groups are not permitted to post signs or materials on library property.
- The Library does not advertise or promote meetings.
- Use of the Library’s logo by organizations is prohibited.
Decorations and refreshments
- Decorations may be used but may not be tacked or taped to walls. Confetti, metallic glitter, and/or open flames of any kind are not allowed.
- Light refreshments and drinks may be served.
- No food may be left or stored in the meeting room.
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Clean up and check out
- The room must be left in the same arrangement as found.
- Room set up is the group’s responsibility.
- The room must be tidied, trash removed, and vacated 30 minutes prior to the Library’s closing.
- Groups must notify Library staff that the meeting is over before leaving the Library.
Equipment
- Moving special equipment into and out of the building is the responsibility of those using the meeting room. All gear and special equipment must be removed from the building by the end of the meeting.
- Chairs, tables, and a podium are provided in meeting rooms.
- Furniture in other parts of the Library may not be moved into the meeting room.