Purpose: Hartford Public Library (HPL) encourages public use of meeting rooms as gathering places to exchange ideas, share information and participate in programs created for public enjoyment, public education and civic engagement.
The Downtown Library has several rooms/event spaces available for public use.
Meeting rooms:
Event Spaces:
Government and non-profits, are eligible for special rates not to exceed 50% of the posted rated in Exhibit A – Fee Schedules. Rates shall be determined on a case by case basis. Non-profits must show evidence of 501(c) 3 status.
Other Charges
Based on whether the Library is open for all or part of the program, additional charges apply for all users for facilities, security, and AV staff providing services. For programs that end after the regular closing of the Library, a minimum charge of one hour will apply. For programs or events held when the Library is closed to the public, a minimum charge of 4 hours will apply. Rate charges subject to change. The Library reserves the right to determine the appropriate staffing level required for the event based on the size and/or type of event. There is an Equipment User Fee charged for use of one or combination of multiple pieces of audio visual equipment and/or stage set up. See: Exhibit B Other Charges and Equipment User Fee.
Room Rentals require a 50% deposit two weeks in advance of the event; balance due on or before the day of the event. Additional charges may apply if the event exceeds reserved time.
Room set-up, if required, is the responsibility of the event host. The Program department will assist with the room setup to accommodate reasonable meeting needs. Special room setups are limited to certain spaces. Library staff can set up the space for an additional charge.
If needed, the Library can provide audiovisual equipment and technical support service for an additional fee. Only authorized Library staff can operate the equipment. Please see available Audiovisual Equipment listed below. Use of audiovisual equipment other than that owned by the Library is not permitted.
A number of safety issues connected with holding events at the library are listed below.
Exit Doors
Egress routes may not be obstructed in any way and exit signs must remain clearly visible.
Room Capacity
The maximum capacity set by law is posted in each meeting room. Exceeding the maximum capacity of a room is prohibited by law.
Candles, Smoke and Open Flames
Candles, incense or any other smoke or flame-producing device are not permitted in the Library. Such devices could easily set off the fire alarm system which would cause the evacuation of the building and summon the fire department.
Decorations
Decorations used at events cannot obscure exit signs or doors. Nothing may be taped or affixed to any part of the rooms. Glitter and confetti are strictly prohibited.
Electrical Cords
Use of electrical cords must be approved by the Program department prior to use. All electrical cords and cords on any equipment must be taped down.
Moving Equipment and Furniture
Fixed equipment or furniture must not be moved without the consent of the Program department. Only the Program department can arrange any modifications to fixed equipment and/or furniture. Should any equipment or furniture be moved without permission, the group will be held financially responsible for any damage caused.
Alcoholic beverages may not be served in the library during hours that the library is open to the public. Alcoholic beverages are restricted to wine, beer and champagne and may only be served at events scheduled for after the library closes to the public. Any exceptions must be approved, in advance, by the Chief Executive Officer or his/her designee.
At events held after library hours, alcoholic beverages may not be served if there are minors present. An organization wishing to serve alcohol as a part of an after-hours event is required to use HPL approved caterer, secure a temporary permit or license, and submit it to the Program department two (2) weeks in advance of the event. Any required permits, special insurance or licenses will be the responsibility of the organization hosting the event. Alcohol must be contained within the area where the event is taking place.
Groups or organizations must procure and have in force a comprehensive general liability insurance policy to submit to the library two (2) weeks in advance of the event. The limit for bodily injury and property damage shall not be less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence. A certificate of insurance naming Hartford Public Library officers and Board of Directors as additional insured must be submitted to the Program department two (2) weeks in advance of the event. Alcohol must be contained within the building, and within the area where the event is taking place.
Large events such as civic or conference receptions may also require additional insurance. A determination will be made before confirmation is approved.
There is metered parking in Arch Street garage and on Main, Sheldon and Arch Streets surrounding the Library. After 6:00 p.m., customers may park in the Arch Street garage for free. The Program department can arrange use of the Sheldon Street parking lots if necessary. Click here for complete parking information
At the conclusion of your meeting, put litter in the trash container and report any problems that may remain.
We ask your cooperation at the conclusion of your meeting:
• Leave the meeting room as clean and as orderly as possible.
• Place all trash in receptacles provided by the Library.
• Report any spills immediately to the Program department or manager-in-charge.
• Remove all personal effects, equipment and decorations.
• Library staff will remove any equipment provided.
• Special cleaning requirements or damage caused during use of a meeting room or event space will result in an additional charge to the user.
The Library reserves first priority for use of any audio/visual equipment at all times; Scheduled use of audio/visual equipment is on a first-come, first-served basis. For each event, an audio visual user fee is charged. Full refund of the Audio/visual Equipment Fee will be given if the required 24 hour cancellation notice is given by the customer. Fees may apply to
Center for Contemporary Culture (CCC)
Other Equipment:
Exhibit B: Other Charges and Equipment User Fee
DATE APPROVED BY THE LIBRARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS: JUNE 7, 2012
EFFECTIVE DATE: JULY 1, 2012
REPLACING POLICY EFFECTIVE: June 1, 2017
Phone: (860) 695-6300
