Skip to main content
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

High-Interest/Low-Capacity Programs

There are many programs offered at WPPL that are of high interest to our patrons and community, but due to their hands-on nature often result in low attendance capacities. Due to these disparate factors, WPPL is creating a fair and equitable system for program registration and attendance, known as “high-interest/low-capacity programming." These programs use our high-interest/low-capacity registration process to help ensure fair access to programs with limited space and supplies.

How it works:

  • Programs designated "high-interest/low-capacity" will open registration 30 days prior to the program. Everyone who signs up will start on the waitlist.
  • Closer to the program date, priority will be given to those who haven’t attended a high-interest/low-capacity program in the past 30 days. If spots are still available, they’ll be filled in order of sign-up date and time. If you’re moved to registered status, we’ll notify you before the program. 
  • Patrons who have not attended a high-interest/low-capacity program in the past 30 days will receive priority registration.
  • Remaining spots will then be filled based on registration date and time.

Our goal is to give more library patrons the opportunity to participate. Programs using this model will be clearly labeled. We appreciate your understanding and continued enthusiasm for library programs!

FAQs

What does “High-Interest/Low-Capacity” mean? 
High-Interest/Low-Capacity programs are select high-demand events that tend to fill very quickly. To help create more equitable access, we’re using a registration model that prioritizes patrons who have not attended a high-interest/low-capacity program within the past 30 days. 


Does this mean I can only attend one program per month? 
Not necessarily. If you attend a high-interest/low-capacity program, you will not receive priority registration for another high-interest/low-capacity program for 30 days. However, if space remains after priority registration is completed, you may still be added based on registration date and time. This model only applies to designated high-interest/low-capacity programs — all other programs are unaffected. 


How are you tracking attendance? 
We will take attendance at all high-interest/low-capacity programs. Attendance is recorded internally to determine 30-day eligibility for future High/Low programs. 
We use a spreadsheet system that clearly indicates whether a patron has attended within the past 30 days so staff can apply registration priority consistently and fairly. 
This information is used only for program registration purposes. 


What if I register but cannot attend? 
We understand that plans change! If you’re unable to attend, please cancel as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone on the wait list. 
If a patron does not attend and we aren’t notified in advance, the registration may be counted as attendance for the purpose of 30-day priority eligibility. This helps us manage fairness for high-demand programs. If something unexpected prevents you from attending, please reach out — we’re always happy to talk. 


Why not just increase program capacity? 
Many high-interest/low-capacity programs are hands-on and require specific supplies, space, and staff support to ensure a quality experience for participants. Attendance limits help us maintain that quality and ensure adequate instruction. 


Why are you making this change? 
We’ve heard from library patrons who felt discouraged after repeatedly being unable to register for popular programs. This new model is designed to broaden access and give more patrons the opportunity to participate. We appreciate your understanding and continued enthusiasm for library programming. If you have additional questions, please contact us — we’re happy to help. 


Why don't you give priority registration to Westlake residents? 
Since our programs are attended primarily by Westlake residents already, priority registration would not solve this problem. Our programs are loved by all, and we want everyone to have a chance to enjoy them.