Who can use the meeting rooms?
In accordance with the goals and objectives of Lincoln City Libraries, meeting rooms are provided to enhance library services to the citizens of Lincoln and Lancaster County. Meeting rooms are primarily for the use of library-sponsored programs. When not in use for library-sponsored events or other city uses, meeting rooms are available for use by groups which meet the library's guidelines. Meeting rooms are open to all groups in the community, regardless of the beliefs and affiliations of their members, for educational, civic, and cultural purposes. The meeting rooms are intended for the use of groups and organizations rather than for use by individuals or for personal, social activities. The meeting room may be used when one individual tutors another in literacy skills.
To arrange a meeting
Contact the Administration Office at Bennett Martin Library (402-441-8503) to book a meeting or obtain information about the meeting rooms. Library-sponsored events have first priority for use of library facilities. Advance scheduling and approval by the library is required. At least five business days prior to the event, one completed copy of the application is to be returned to the library's Administrative Office along with payment for the applicable fees. Applications must be approved by the library, the booking confirmed, and all fees paid before the group can use the meeting room. Bookings may be made up to one year in advance for non-profit groups and up to thirty days in advance for for-profit groups.
Both online and printable (PDF) versions of the application form are available.
To cancel a meeting
Groups cancelling a meeting booking must report the cancellation to the Administration Office (402-441-8503). The application form signed by the group representative constitutes an agreement that a meeting will take place. If a meeting is cancelled, the library must be notified as soon as possible so the space is available to others. If the group has paid a fee, the fee is forfeited if the cancellation occurs five business days or less from the meeting date.
Food/Refreshments
Light refreshments (snacks) may be served by a group. Meals may not be served. Beverages may be served. Groups must provide their own coffee makers, cups, and any other equipment or supplies. Groups are expected to leave the room clean for the next users. Alcohol and smoking are not permitted in the library.
Library Furnishings and Equipment
All meeting rooms are supplied with chairs and tables. Setting up and taking down folding tables and stacking chairs is the responsibility of the group using the room. The meeting room must be left in good condition. The person who signs the facility use agreement is held responsible for damages or cleanup requiring custodial service. The library does not assume responsibility for damaged, lost or stolen property of users of the meeting rooms. Library equipment must be reserved in advance, and all applicable fees paid no less than five busines days prior to the meeting. Depending on equipment booked, a valid library card may be required. The group must provide supplies such as marker pens, flip chart paper, etc.
Equipment Storage
Storage is not provided for equipment owned by groups using the meeting rooms. Groups using their own equipment must remove that equipment after each meeting.
Fees and Fines
Use
There is no fee for government agencies or non-profit groups for use of the meeting rooms during regular service hours of the library building in which the room is located. All other groups may reserve meeting rooms for a fee of $10.00 per hour or fraction thereof.
Equipment Fees and Availability
Various audio/video equipment is provided for a flat fee of $10.00. Equipment will vary with location.
Fines
All meeting rooms must be cleared and attendees must be out of the building by closing time. Users violating this policy will be assessed a charge to compensate for staff overtime. The group will be held accountable for damages to the room or equipment. Repair and/or replacement costs associated with any such damage will be charged to the person who signs the facility use agreement.
Meeting Room Locations and Capacities
Bennett Martin Public Library
14th & N Streets
Auditorium (4th floor):Anderson Branch
100 people seated auditorium-style, or 10 tables (60 people), or 200 children sitting on the floor (there must be one main aisle to the exit and one aisle down the center of the children).Conference Room (4th floor):
39 people seated auditorium-style, or 6 tables (36 people), or maximum of 49 children sitting on the floor.
Fremont & Touzalin
Meeting Room:Eiseley Branch
60 people seated auditorium-style, or 7 tables (42 people), or maximum of 110 children sitting on the floor.
1530 Superior Street
Room 1:Gere Branch
9 tables (56 people)Room 2:
6 tables (38 people)Both Rooms:
15 tables (94 people)
56th & Normal
Room 1:Walt Branch
70 people seated auditorium-style, or 7 tables (42 people), or maximum of 102 children sitting on the floor.Room 2:
40 people seated auditorium-style, or 3 tables (18-20 people), or maximum of 60 children sitting on the floor.Both Rooms:
120 people seated auditorium-style (7 chairs per row with an aisle down the middle), or 10 tables (60 people), or maximum of 162 children sitting on the floor.Special Note About Gere's Room Capacity:
- The Fire Marshall has set a room capacity limit. Once that limit is reached, we may not admit additional people.
- Children will be given preference in seating.
- No strollers will be allowed in the program room (please park them in the lobby)
- Program passes will be give on a first-come first-served basis the day of the program, to those who are present.
- If program is repeated, program passes will be given to those unable to get seats for the first program
6701 South 14th Street
Room 1:
9 tables (56 people)Room 2:
6 tables (38 people)Both Rooms:
15 tables (94 people)
Schedules
Meeting Room Schedules are now on a separate page.