From time to time there are requests by residents to petition on Library property. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution allows certain types of speech on public sidewalks. The Tarpon Springs Public Library (the “Library”) upholds this principle, and also upholds the rights of its patrons and employees to enter and leave the Library safely, without being impeded or unduly hindered.
Petitioning
NO PETITIONING IS PERMITTED INSIDE THE LIBRARY OR ANYWHERE ON LIBRARY PROPERTY AT ANY TIME.
The Tarpon Springs Public Library will not interfere with, or otherwise restrict petitioners along the concrete sidewalk immediately adjacent to E. Lemon Street (the “City Sidewalk”), with the limited exception of the area of red brick pavers that facilitates pedestrian access to the Library upon crossing E. Lemon Street.
Persons using the City Sidewalk may not block walking paths, stand in the way of people approaching the building or harass Library patrons. Persons using the City Sidewalk may not call out to patrons or passersby and may not create a disturbance in front of the Library.
Persons using the City Sidewalk may carry signs, so long as those signs do not unreasonably interfere with the use of the walkway or access to the Library. No signs shall be affixed to the Library, its fixtures or plants.
The Library does not endorse the aims, policies, or activities of any group, organization, or individual using the City Sidewalk, or other property adjacent to the Library.
Solicitation
NO COMMERCIAL SOLICITATION IS PERMITTED IN THE LIBRARY OR ANYWHERE ON LIBRARY PROPERTY AT ANY TIME.
Only the Friends of the Tarpon Springs Public Library, a 501(c)(3) organization formed to support the Tarpon Springs Public Library, is allowed to engage in fundraising activities in the Library or on Library grounds. No other fundraising for civic, political, welfare, youth or other groups, charities or causes, including raising money through the sale of goods or food, is permitted in the Library or anywhere on Library property at any time.