The Santa Clara City Library (“Library”) permits filming and photography under the conditions described herein only to the extent that it does not interfere with the operations, programs and activities of the Library, and is consistent with City policies, rules, and procedures.

The Library authorizes filming and photography in Library facilities as follows:

1. Casual amateur and journalistic photography, filming, and videotaping is permitted in public areas such as the lobby, study and program areas of Library facilities for customers and visitors provided that the photography does not interfere in any way with library operations or capture any identifiable likenesses of individuals without their permission. Any such photographers are responsible for arranging all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed. Library staff will not facilitate or intervene to obtain such permission, or assist with activity in any way.
2. Photographing, filming, or videotaping Library customers using the Library’s public computers is strictly prohibited.
3. Except as permitted by applicable law, no commercial or professional media photography or filming may occur in Library facilities without the prior written permission and approval of the City Librarian. Such approval shall contain the conditions under which the commercial/media photography or filming will take place and address the rights to ownership of the photos/films.
4. Classes or events sponsored by the Library may be photographed or video-recorded by the Library’s staff or its representatives. Attendance at a Library-sponsored class or event constitutes the consent of all attendees, and the consent of the parents or legal guardians of any minor children in attendance, to the future broadcast, publication, or other use of photographs or videos at the sole discretion of the Library. To ensure the privacy of all individuals, including children, images will not be identified using full names or personal identifying information without written approval from the photographed subject, parent or legal guardian.
5. Any consent granted pursuant to this policy to permit photography or filming may be revoked at any time upon failure to comply with terms of the policy or other rules and regulations of the Library.

Questions related to this Policy and Commercial/Professional requests should be directed to the City Librarian, Monday – Friday during regular business hours, (408) 615-2930

Downloadable policy document: Audiovisual and Camera Equipment Use Policy

Revised and Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, November 4, 2024