Purpose
This policy establishes guidelines for the use of the OWWL Library System name, branding, logos, and related assets. It applies to all individuals, groups, organizations, and entities.
Name and Identity Protection
The name “OWWL” and “OWWL Library System” are the exclusive identifiers of the OWWL Library System. They are not geographic descriptors. They are the protected identity of this organization.
No individual, group, organization, or entity may use the OWWL name, branding, or any description that implies an association with OWWL Library System as part of their own name, title, or identity without express written consent from the Executive Director through a formal affiliate agreement.
This includes informal or community-organized groups that serve libraries within the OWWL service area.
Use of the OWWL name, branding, or descriptive language that implies affiliation, regardless of intent, may suggest an official relationship that does not exist. This creates confusion for member libraries, community members, and partner organizations.
Any group that incorporates the OWWL name, branding, or affiliated descriptions into its identity without authorization will be asked to discontinue that use promptly. Failure to comply may result in a written notice from the Executive Director and referral to the Board of Trustees for further action.
Authorized use of the OWWL name, branding, and identity is limited to:
- OWWL Library System staff and Board members acting in their official capacity.
- Member libraries using approved logos and branding as outlined in this policy.
- Vendors or partners operating under a current written agreement with the Executive Director.
Requesting Permission to Use OWWL Name, Branding, or Assets
Any member library, organization, vendor, community partnership, or other group that wishes to use the OWWL name, any OWWL logo, or any asset created and maintained by the OWWL Library System must submit a written request to the Executive Director prior to any use.
Written requests must include:
- The purpose of the intended use.
- A description of all places the name, logo, or asset will appear, including any digital platforms, social media accounts, or online publications.
- Any relevant materials, drafts, or samples upon request.
The System reserves the right to review samples or drafts of any materials that include OWWL name, branding, or assets to determine compliance with this policy. The System may require changes before approving use.
Vendors and for-profit entities may not use OWWL Library System name, branding, logos, or assets for any purpose without written permission from the Executive Director.
Authorized Use for Member Libraries
Member libraries are authorized to use the following logos and assets without prior permission, within the context of each logo’s stated purpose and this policy.
- OWWL Library Card Logos: For use in promoting the library card, OverDrive/Libby, or the catalog.
- OWWL Member Logo: For use on websites and general brand materials, secondary to the individual library’s own branding.
Member libraries may use the following logos and assets with permission, based on specific programs, promotions, or projects.
- OWWL Partnership Logo: For use in promoting System-sponsored or supported programs and events only, secondary to the individual library’s own branding.
- System-Wide Program Assets: Logos designed for System-wide programs, including The Great Give Back, Booklet, One Book OWWL Kids, and Take Your Child to the Library Day, may be used within the context of those programs only.
Usage Guidelines
All approved use of OWWL name, branding, logos, and assets must adhere to the following guidelines.
Logos and branding may be used only to characterize accurate and appropriate relationships between OWWL Library System, member libraries, and partner organizations.
Logos and branding may be displayed only in situations that are true, appropriate, and consistent with the programs and resources for which they were designed.
Logos and branding may not be used in connection with illegal activities or materials that are defamatory, libelous, obscene, pornographic, inconsistent with the mission of OWWL Library System, or otherwise objectionable.
Logos and branding may not be used in any manner that violates the trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights of others, including vendors, publishers, or individual authors.
Logos and branding may not be used in any manner that violates local, state, or federal laws, regulations, or public policy.
Logos and branding may not be used in any manner that conflicts with the core values of OWWL Library System, System Resolutions, or System Policies, including fundraising activities or any service associated with fines or fees.
Logos and branding may not be used on clothing or merchandise by any individual or group other than authorized System staff.
Logos are distinctive graphic assets and may not be altered, modified, or combined in any way.
Logos and branding may not be reproduced from scanned, photographed, or otherwise low-quality sources. All logos must be obtained directly from the OWWL Library System in their original digital format. Member libraries may request current logo files from the Executive Director.
Outdated logos, including images of library cards or any artwork predating this policy, are no longer eligible for use.
The OWWL name and logos may not be used in social media account names, handles, hashtags, or profile descriptions without written permission from the Executive Director. This applies to all platforms, including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
The URL https://owwl.org serves as the shared access point for the System catalog and resources. It may not be used by any individual library to identify itself, represent its own services exclusively, or imply that the domain belongs to a single library. When promoting themselves, member libraries must direct patrons to their own library’s catalog page or website rather than presenting the shared URL as their own.
Questions and Permission Requests
All questions and permission requests regarding the OWWL name, branding, logos, and assets should be directed to the Executive Director of the OWWL Library System.
Last Updated by the OWWL Library System Board of Trustees on January 8, 2025