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What to Expect with Special Events at the Library

Looking to host special events at the library? Let me help with that! My name is Samantha and I am the Special Events Coordinator at Spokane Public Library! A bit about me: I love animals, triathlons, nutrition, reading (of course), and breweries. I also love Spokane and am proud to work in one of its treasures – the library!

You may be aware of the amazing resources the library provides, but you can now take it a step further and book special events, specifically events that occur after library operating hours, such as – weddings, corporate gathers, galas – you name it! With over 8 years of experience in the event industry, you can trust me to make sure everything runs smoothly for your big day. Email me at smurphy@spokanelibrary.org to get started!

What types of rooms can I book for large-scale, special events?

You can reserve anything from a classroom for a ticketed lecture you want to host to a hall worthy of a 300-guest gala.

What makes an event “special”?

When we say “Special Events”, we mean events where attendees pay for a ticket and/or are private, invitation-only, after-hours events. This may include events like award ceremonies, corporate retreats, annual fundraisers, and even weddings. These types of events will require a rental fee of the space so we can help accommodate your gathering. For more information about paid room rentals for special events, please refer to our fee schedule here.

There are many cases where your gathering may not be considered a “special event”. If your event is during library hours, is free to attend for your guests, and does not require special catering or third-party assistance, then you do not need to pay the rental fee and can book the room yourself. This includes baby and bridal showers, birthday parties, free lectures or classes, board meetings, and more.

What do the event types mean?

When you go to book a room, you will see a drop down menu with the various types of rooms we have at our libraries. If you are planning on hosting a special event of any kind, please click the Special Events booking type so we can process your rental payment.

What are our meeting room expectations?

For regularly booked meetings or events in our spaces during operating hours, please refer to our Meeting Room Policy. When booked free of charge (meetings that do not classify as special events), these spaces are unsupported by library staff, but come equipped with the tools you need to arrange the room as you see fit.

For special events, I will provide a level of coordination and service beyond self-serve, and assist with your event. This can include things like: greeting rental companies or caterers, coordinating load-in and set up, or assisting in planning out the schedule of events for the evening. If you work with a nonprofit, contact me with special nonprofit pricing for any special event you wish to host at smurphy@spokanelibrary.org.

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