Photography and Filming in the Library
The most significant priority for the Maine State Library is to provide library services to our constituency, as fully described in the Library’s Mission Statement. In order to protect the rights and safety of Library patrons, volunteers, and staff, photographing and filming in the library 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 Statement and Rules of Conduct.
- Photographing and/or filming and/or audio recording is allowed in the public spaces of thelibrary. Photography and filming in non-public areas of the library building, and in areas where privacy is expected (bathrooms) is prohibited.
- The recording of a library program provides the opportunity to widely promote a program and engage broad public awareness and interest. Library-initiated programming permissions have priority over other requests.
- News media photographers and reporters who are doing stories or projects that directly involve the library and its programs must obtain advance authorization for such photography.
- Casual amateur photography may be permitted (by Library management) in library facilities for patrons and visitors wanting a remembrance of their visit. Photography must not interfere or disturb other patron use.
- The Library may grant permission for school-age students to use its facilities for stories or projects that do not relate to the library itself upon written request and after review by Library management.
- Groups arranging meetings in meeting room spaces may arrange for photographers and news media during their event.
- We ask that you refrain from the use of flash equipment in reading rooms and other areas in which it might disturb Library users.
- Equipment such as tripods may not obstruct passageways or cause disturbances to Library users.
Please note that the Maine State Library frequently engages in photographing and recording programs and events for its own publicity and promotional purposes. Library staff will make every effort to notify members of the public when filming and audiorecording is taking place. Please notify a Library staff member if you do not want to be photographed or recorded.
Reviewed / revised by the Maine Library Commission: July 22, 2024
