Do
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Keep in mind that you may need to show photo ID and/or go through a security screening at some government buildings
- Silence your mobile device
- Sit as closely as possible to speakers/officials
- Be courteous and respectful to others
- Ask any questions to attendees before and after meetings (do not disturb them during the meeting itself)
- Fulfill any Documenters assignment goals as instructed (i.e. comprehensive notes, live-tweeting, etc.)
- Gather any documents distributed or created during the meeting, such as board/committee agendas, worksheets and informational packets
- Does the government body have a newsletter or listserv? Sign up for it using the documenters@citybureau.org email address
- Recommended: Feel free to introduce yourself to attendees and committee/board members (see Identifying yourself for more information)
- Recommended: At the end of the meeting, ask the meeting secretary for their notes to compare
Do not
- Use public comment periods for personal questions/statements while operating as a Documenter
- Distract attendees from the meeting
- Be intrusive—stay within the designated seating area for audience members during the meeting.