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janet118

(1,663 posts)
Sat Mar 10, 2012, 11:51 AM Mar 2012

Grassroots legal question - can you help me?

A friend and I were collecting signatures for 2 Democratic candidates outside the library in our town when a woman who worked at the library came out and told us that there was no "political" activity allowed on the library property and that we had to leave. If there were any questions, we should contact the library director on Monday.

This is after we were refused access to the local supermarket parking lot for nomination papers. Since that was private property, we went to the library.

I know that it is mandatory that post offices allow you to collect signatures as long as you don't block the door (can't wait 'til their privatized, eh?) but what about libraries, town hall and other publicly owned properties? Does anyone know what the law is?

Thank you in advance.

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Grassroots legal question - can you help me? (Original Post) janet118 Mar 2012 OP
Libraries are usually owned by the county leftofcool Mar 2012 #1
I'm pretty sure our library is town-owned janet118 Mar 2012 #2
Found it!!!! Yes!! janet118 Mar 2012 #3

leftofcool

(19,460 posts)
1. Libraries are usually owned by the county
Sat Mar 10, 2012, 11:58 AM
Mar 2012

You may need only a permit from the county to conduct political business. Counties set their own rules and regulations for such things. While they are not owned publically, you do pay county taxes so it is your right to collect signatures. Check on the permit.

janet118

(1,663 posts)
2. I'm pretty sure our library is town-owned
Sat Mar 10, 2012, 12:06 PM
Mar 2012

although it may get some funding from the county for regional book exchange system. But I will check on that. Thanks.

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