Libraries should carefully draft a contract when inviting performers, speakers, bands, etc. Below are some sample highlights to be included, but any additional information is always helpful.

Sample Contract #1

• We, the undersigned, are in agreement to have  (NAME OF SPEAKER/PERFORMER)  speak/perform on (DATE)  from  (START TIME)  to  (END TIME)  at  (LOCATION).

• The amount of agreed-upon compensation, to be given after successful completion of the program, is  ($xxx).

• The organization should include a clause stating that it will not be obligated to give any payment unless all points in the contract have been satisfactorily fulfilled.  In addition, if the speaker/performer does not show up at the specified time, the contract is null and void.

• If the performer has special needs regarding setup configuration, sound equipment or other special arrangements, it should be spelled out n the contract who will see that these needs are met.

• The contract should include the signatures of all those involved.  

• After the contract has been signed, copies should be made and distributed to all those concerned.

• Attach all pertinent information that will expand on the nature of the program.

• Head Speaker/Performer:

_(Signature of head speaker/performer)_          Date:  ___________

   ____      (Printed name)                     __

• Director of Library:

______(Signature of director)________           Date:  ___________

   ____      (Printed name)                     __

• Library Staff Person Responsible (if not the director):

_______(Signature of staff person)________   Date:  ___________

   ____    _  (Printed name)                   __

Sample Contract #2

This contract is made (date)____________ by and between the Board of Trustees of the _________________ Public Library (hereafter referred to as Sponsor) and __________________  (hereafter referred to as Speaker) in connection with an engagement sponsored by _________________Public Library, upon the following terms and conditions:

Type of Engagement:________________________________________________________________

Compensation:______________________________________________________________

Terms of Payment: payment in full after last presentation at the _________ on __________

Additional Terms:

1. In the event that the engagement covered by this contract shall be prevented by weather, physical disability, or any other cause beyond the control of the parties, Speaker and the Sponsor shall respectively be relieved of their obligations stated in the contract.

2. The Sponsor reserves the right to cancel this engagement for any reason at any time prior to 30 days preceding the engagement, voiding this contract and excusing the Sponsor from any payment or other compensation. If this contract is canceled by the Speaker less than 30 days prior to the scheduled engagement, the Speaker will reimburse the Sponsor the amount of $________ to help defray the production, promotion and labor costs that are incurred up to the date of the cancellation.

3. The speaker shall indemnify and hold the sponsor harmless from any claims or damages which arise from the Speaker’s negligent or intentional acts or omissions.

4. The Sponsor reserves the right to audio or videotape record any lecture, reading or speaking engagement. The Sponsor may retain the tape in its files, may replay the tape for its employees, and may make the tape available to Sponsor’s customers. Sponsor shall make no more than three copies of the tape. Sponsor shall not sell the tape. The Sponsor shall provide a copy of the tape to the Speaker, upon the Speaker’s request.

5. In the event expense reimbursement is included as compensation, the Speaker shall provide the Sponsor with receipts or similar documentation adequate to confirm the expenses incurred.

6. This Contract is a personal services contract, and is not assignable by either party absent the prior consent of the other party.

7. This contract represents the entire agreement of the parties hereto, and may not be amended except in writing signed by the parties.

Sponsor: Board of Trustees of the __________Public Library, ______________________________________________

         Mailing Address

________________________________________________________                    _______________________________

Library Director’s Signature                                                                               Date

Speaker: Name: _______________________________        Signature: __________________________________________

_______________________________________________________            ______________________________________

Mailing Address                                                                                    Date