Grassroots legal question - can you help me?

[janet118]

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.

[leftofcool]

1. Libraries are usually owned by the county

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]

2. I'm pretty sure our library is town-owned

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

[janet118]

3. Found it!!!! Yes!!

SOLITITATION OF SIGNATURES IN PUBLIC PLACES

Vee'll be back!!!

I'll be making copies for the rest of the volunteers in case they run into similar assholes.