PURPOSE:
This policy is intended to identify the time, place, and manner in which people may use the exterior areas of OPL property to exercise their First Amendment constitutional rights.
SCOPE:
This policy covers only the exterior areas of OPL property, which includes the walkways connecting the library buildings with sidewalks adjacent to the public streets.
This policy does not apply to the public sidewalks adjacent to the public streets. Separate policies regulating the time, place, and manner of an activity and governing interior spaces of OPL offices, parking areas, and grassed areas may apply.
POLICY:
Leafletting, political campaigning, exhibiting signs, petition signature gathering, political or charitable fundraising, and other expressive activity are permitted on the exterior areas of OPL property, including the walkways, to the extent otherwise permitted by law. Such activity will not be permitted:
- On the buildings' exterior steps and entrance way
- In any way that obstructs or otherwise interferes with access to the buildings which typically includes an area five feet laterally from the sides of entrances and exits and 10 feet in front of entrances and exits
- Within the buildings’ lobbies
- On accessible ramps
- On vehicle parking surfaces
- Outside of the hours the building is open to conduct business
- Any place that obstructs or interferes with driveways to the buildings and their parking areas
- Any other exterior space specifically designated by the library’s executive director on a case-by-case basis
- To the extent the activity damages public property
- Any activity that damages public property
IMPLEMENTATION:
OPL staff and security personnel are responsible for enforcing this policy. Violations of this policy could result in loss of library privileges or access. The Omaha Police Department will be responsible for the enforcement of criminal laws.
Approved by the Board of Trustees
of the Omaha Public Library
August 20, 2025
Download a PDF of this policy