We have encountered the same issue at our library. After talking to our attorney, we came up with a standard "donation" we offer whenever asked: a behind the scenes tour of the library and coffee and a visit with the director in the office. (We offer this to any groups who ask, really: Rotary, Girl Scouts, homeschool parent groups, etc.) People really enjoy the opportunity to see the behind the scenes areas of the library, like the workroom, office, drop box room, and book sale storage spaces, and as part of the tour we show them things like how we process and repair books, for example. Our municipalities offer the same sort of "donation" to our library fundraising auction: a behind the scenes tour of city offices and facilities, like the wastewater treatment plant, which is rather fascinating actually, a look inside a police car, and time with the city manager. This way we can support local organizations who ask for our help while not running afoul of the law, and everyone gets to know their library and city better. And its fun, too! On Wed, Feb 1, 2023, 11:37 AM Membiela, Clare (MDE) via Michlib-l < michlib-l@mcls.org> wrote:
Hello Kaitlin:
Your instincts are spot on. I would strongly urge you to consult your library’s attorney before attempting a project like this.
Public entities may not provide donations to other entities (even non-profits or other municipalities). If your participation is in the context of your position at the library – so that the library is in effect “lending” you to benefit another organization or cause, that could be problematic.
In addition, there could be employment and insurance related issues too.
If the fundraiser is to benefit the library, there could be issues with that as well, depending on exactly what services are offered and when they are performed – even if working with your friends’ group.
Public entity fundraising can be complicated, so it is best to get expert assistance.
I hope this is helpful!
Take Care,
Clare
Clare D. Membiela, MLS, J.D.
Library Law Consultant
Library of Michigan
MembielaC@michigan.gov
517-335-8132
*The research and resources above are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.*
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*From:* Michlib-l <michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> *On Behalf Of *Kaitlin Matesich via Michlib-l *Sent:* Wednesday, February 1, 2023 10:49 AM *To:* Michlib-l@mcls.org *Subject:* [Michlib-l] Fundraiser Concerns
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Hello all!
I was recently approached to offer my services as a Story Time presenter as a biddable item for a local "Spring Fling" fundraiser. My first instinct was, "I can easily put together a bespoke story time for 5-10 kiddos. Offering literacy services as part of a fundraiser, what a great idea!" but then the reality of the logistics and the idea of individuals paying for a private library/librarian experience set in.
Has anyone had a similar experience? What did you, your library or your friends group do?
Any suggestions for a literacy focused, biddable experience or item?
I don't feel comfortable offering "private" story time services outside of the library setting, and would never want to go to an individual's residence to host a story time. The idea of "selling" a story time or even allowing someone to pick a theme for a program that would be open to the public doesn't sit right (if it is even legal) .
--
*Kaitlin Matesich*
*Youth Services Coordinator*
*Benzie Shores District Library*
*630 Main St. Frankfort, MI*
My Pronouns: She/Her - See www.mypronouns.org <https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mypronouns.org%2F&data=05%7C01%7CMembielaC%40michigan.gov%7Cccade33fe8d94862ca4e08db046c93cf%7Cd5fb7087377742ad966a892ef47225d1%7C0%7C0%7C638108636610785985%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=OP0mjUFyh9zOB1EVnOKPxBYfG4DjTGWefzXv0KTVmUM%3D&reserved=0> to learn more*.*
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