CIA Help

5.1 Access + Expectations

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The Interactive Media Lab supports community access to its facilities through a combination of independent use, structured programming, and educational partnerships. 

Community participants may include: 

  • Independent community members age 18 and older 

  • K-12 youth participating in supervised programs 

  • Participants from partner colleges or educational institutions 

  • Community members participating in IML-hosted workshops, camps or grant-funded programs 

An IML staff member will be present in the facility at all times. IML staff-to-client ratios for day camps or events will be determined in advance and communicated during the booking process. 

IML staff retain authority to pause or halt activity if safety or policy concerns arise. 

All community users are subject to the expectations outlined below. 

Eligibility + Age Requirements 

Community members 18 years of age or older may use the IML for independent use. Community participants under the age of 18 may not access the IML independently.  

All youth must be: 

  • Part of a supervised program or booking 

  • Led or overseen by IML staff and/or approved instructors 

Supervision is required at all times within the IML for minors including during workshops, camps, tours and educational programs. 

Additional requirements for youth programs may include: 

  • Parental or guardian consent forms 

  • Media release forms 

  • Defined staff-to-participant supervision ratios 

Check-in Procedures 

All users must check in at the IML Equipment Checkout upon arrival.  

Users may be required to: 

  • Present valid identification  

  • Sign required agreements or acknowledgements 

  • Receive visitor badges or access to booked spaces. 

Access cards must be turned back in at the end of the booking. 

Group leaders or instructors are responsible for accounting for participants at all times. 

Visitor Badges 

Visitor badges may be asked to be worn at all times while in the IML. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants comply with identification and badge requirements. 

Visitor badges must be returned at the end of the booking. 

After Hours + Security  

After hours use of the IML may require: 

  • Additional staffing 

  • Security coordination with MCC 

  • Additional fees 

Users may not access the IML after hours without explicit authorization.  

Youth participants may not remain in the facility outside approved program times. 

MCC Common Spaces 

Access to MCC shared spaces is available to anyone, including the Cafe, Innovation Hall, meeting pods (bookable through the MCC Front Desk), and the RISE Conference Room (by request through the MCC Events Coordinator). Use of all shared spaces is subject to MCC policies, availability and any applicable reservation requirements. 

Prohibited Activities 

Users may not:  

  • Operate restricted equipment without authorization from IML Staff.  

  • Modify, reconfigure or service IML equipment or infrastructure without prior approval of IML staff. 

  • Use spaces or equipment beyond the approved scope of the booking. 

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