BPC Bulletin: Vancouver Public Library Revises Room-Booking Policy

News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee

The board of the Vancouver Public Library (VPL) has approved a revised policy for people who wish to book library rooms and equipment.

The VPL affirms its support for intellectual freedom. It will not block speakers, even those deemed “offensive or harmful,” as long as they do not violate the Criminal Code or B.C.’s human rights code.

However, the VPL will screen people who apply to use library rooms and equipment. Staff members will assess speakers and their affiliations. Speakers must now book at least six weeks in advance.

The VPL began reconsidering its room-booking policy after an appearance last January by Meghan Murphy, a feminist author and speaker. Some trans-gender activists had called upon the library to cancel the event.

REPORTAGE

Alyse Kotyk and Regan Hasegawa of CTV News report:
https://bc.ctvnews.ca/vancouver-public-library-changes-booking-policies-for-events-1.4617675

Simon Little of Global News reports:
https://globalnews.ca/news/5961345/vpl-revises-room-booking-policy-meghan-murphy-protests/

In The Georgia Straight, Carlito Pablo reports:
https://www.straight.com/news/1305711/proposed-vancouver-public-library-rental-policy-affirms-commitment-intellectual-freedom

The Book and Periodical Council was formed in 1975 as the Book and Periodical Development Council to provide a venue for members to discuss industry issues, address mutual concerns and undertake projects for the benefit of Canadian writing and publishing.