WEBINAR

Rethinking Library Rules: How DC Public Library Built a New, Community-Centered Code of Conduct

Updating a library’s code of conduct can be one of the most daunting and nuanced policy processes an organization undertakes. Libraries must balance safety, access, equity, staff empowerment, and the needs of diverse community members... all while maintaining trust and transparency.

In this webinar, hear how DC Public Library transformed its long-standing Rules of Behavior into a new, values-driven Code of Conduct designed to create a safe, welcoming, and healthy environment where everyone can learn, explore, and thrive. Centered on extensive staff and public engagement, the project gathered feedback from more than 300 staff members and 2,500 customers and stakeholders through surveys, focus groups, workshops, and interviews - including teens and advocates for unhoused residents.

Learn how DC Public Library approached this complex work through multiple layers of feedback, cross-departmental collaboration, and staff training to build a Code of Conduct rooted in clarity, consistency, inclusivity, and enforceability.

Monique McSween

Director of Customer Experience, DC Public Library

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Monique McSween serves as the Director of Customer Experience at DC Public Library, where she leads systemwide customer service strategy, training, and quality improvement across 26 libraries. She previously served as Deputy Director of Public Engagement and Strategic Development at the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, overseeing customer service for 72 recreation centers, parks, and pools, as well as community engagement, marketing and communications, and partnerships. Earlier in her career, Monique was Vice President of Communications at Meridian International Center and an Advisor to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. She brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience uniting government, business, nonprofit, and community partners to address issues that shape people’s lives.

Martha Saccocio

Director of Community Engagement, DC Public Library

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Martha Saccocio currently serves as director of community engagement for DC Public Library. She is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the Library's community engagement, building processes for collaboration, and supporting staff developing and maintaining relationships with community stakeholders. Her North Star is ensuring the Library is responsive to community needs and aspirations — to create a library system that reflects the diverse communities we serve.