It is the policy of the ALA Golden Gate Chapter that only ALA members and/or their qualified guests may attend any Chapter or Section luncheons or meetings. "Qualified guests" include non-members who would be eligible for ALA membership under the Bylaws of the International ALA, and employees of a member's firm.

Reservations for Chapter or Section luncheons or other events must be pre-paid, and must be received by the appropriate party (as listed in meeting announcements) no later than three business days in advance of the meeting to guarantee an order for food. Any attendees who have not so reserved are still expected to pay the attendance fee, but will not be guaranteed food service. Cancellations received more than three business days prior to the event will result in refunds; three or less days prior to the event no refunds will be issued due to restaurant/catering charges incurred.

The costs of luncheon events are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. However, they may be tax deductible under other provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.