NEW
.
Article I Circulation
The basic purpose of the New
Buffalo Township Public Library Circulation Policy is four fold:
1. To make materials widely available.
2. To provide
maximum use of the materials collection.
3. To facilitate
requests for materials.
4. To provide for
the retrieval of overdue materials.
Article
II Library Cards
Sec. 1
Requirements
Proof of identification is required to obtain a Library
Card. A driver’s license is preferred; however,
other identification such as those items listed below, may be used.
Driver’s License Current
tax receipt Student report card or school
Car registration Michigan
ID card from the schedule or school ID
Current telephone bill Secretary of State Voter
registration card
Current utility bill Current
automobile insurance Current major charge account bill
Lease Agreement ID card
Property Deed
Checkbook with name and address
When the applicant is a second homeowner with an
out-of-state driver’s license, he/she must show proof of local property
ownership. Any of the above mentioned
forms of identification may be used as long as the item has both the
applicant’s name and local address on it.
All borrowers must be registered and must present their
library card at the time of borrowing materials. When parents/guardians and their children
ask to check books out on each others cards, they may only do so if they
present the card or personally accompany each other. Library Cards shall expire one (1) year from
date of issue and must be renewed for continued borrowing privileges.
Sec.2 Resident,
Second Homeowner/Resident, and Free Library Card
The Library participates in the MichiCard program
sponsored by the State of
Free borrower’s cards are available to:
Any resident, property owner or renter in
Teachers: Any
teacher employed by the
Sec. 3.
Non-Resident Library Card
The Library will issue cards to both resident and
non-resident minors under the age of eighteen (18) years of age when they are
accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who authorizes issuance of the card
and signs for the minor.
Sec.
5. Temporary Card.
A
Temporary Card shall be issued to a visitor or vacationer staying in the
service area temporarily (6 weeks or less) who wishes to use the library. A driver’s license, phone number and proof of
temporary residence must be given before a card is issued. If the visitor is staying with a friend or
relatives, a letter or phone call can be used to establish temporary residency.
Temporary card holders shall be entitled to no more than 5 items per checkout.
Temporary cards expire within three months of issuance. Temporary cards may be renewed the following
year if the card holder presents the card and proof of temporary
residence.
Article III Loan Periods
Sec. 1 Books
1. Three
(3) weeks for most books. Books may be
renewed two times. However, if there are
reserves on file for a particular book, Staff shall inform patrons of the
reserves and ask that the book be returned as soon as possible instead of
renewing it.
2. One (1)
week and two (2) weeks for books designated limited loan. These are books that are in high demand and
are called “7 day books” and “14 day books.”
Renewals will not be allowed for “7 day books” and “14 day books.”
3. One (1)
week for seasonal holiday books. When
not in season, a holiday book may be converted to a three (3) week
checkout. Staff will determine this.
4. Reference
materials are for library use only, but the Staff will make up to five (5) free
copies per day for patrons from these materials.
5. Inter-Library
Loans are due the date indicated by the Lending Library.
Sec. 2 Periodicals
1. Two (2)
weeks for all magazines. Renewals not
allowed.
2. Library
selected newest issues of certain magazines shall remain in the Library.
Sec. 3
Audio-Visual Materials
1. Audiocassette
books shall be checked out the same as regular books. The rules stated in Sec.1 above shall apply.
Sec.
4 Videos – VHS and DVD
3 days, 3 items per family no
renewals.
Sec. 5. Extended
Loans
Patrons may be granted extended loan periods for a special
need or to cover times when they will be out of town. The Library will determine which materials it
will lend for extended loans. (For
example: materials in heavy demand may
be excluded.)
Sec. 6 Limits on
Materials
Limits as to the number of materials allowed in any given
subject area are determined by the Staff.
As a general rule, three (3) materials on any non-fiction subject is the
limit.
Sec. 7 Patron
Claims Materials Returned
When a patron claims he or she has returned a material,
but the Library has no record of its return and the Staff cannot locate the
material, the Staff shall explain to the patron that records show that the materials has not been
returned. The Staff shall keep looking
for it, and ask the patron to do the same.
The Staff shall ask the patron if he or she could have loaned it to
someone and to check in places like under beds, in the car, closets, etc., as
they do turn up in unusual places. Staff
shall note on the computer that the material is claimed to be returned so any future
contacts will be made with that knowledge.
Sec. 8 Lost and
Damaged Materials
If a patron has damaged or lost a material, the Librarian
shall notify the patron of the repair cost or the replacement cost of the
material. Videos, compact discs, or cassettes that have been damaged will be
replaced, not repaired.
Article IV Policy Regarding Material Content
In accordance with the American Library Association Bill
of Rights, we provide materials and information presenting all points of
view. We recommend that patrons preview
video cassettes to ensure suitability for family viewing. It is in accordance with the Library’s policy
that individuals make their own determination with regard to this matter. In some instances, ratings can be provided as
a convenience but not as a matter of Library Policy.
Article
V Reserves
Patrons may place reserves either in person or over the
telephone. Patrons placing materials on
reserve will be notified by postcard or telephone when the materials are
available. The materials must be claimed
within one (1) week of notice and within two (2) days for books with long
reserves, such as 7-day books.
Entertainment videos may not be reserved.
Article
VI Inter-Library Loan
Sec. 1 Patrons
Only patron cardholders in good standing will be allowed
to borrow through Inter-Library Loan.
Non-cardholders must first apply and be issued a library card before
they are eligible to use the Inter-Library Loan program. New cardholders will be allowed to borrow
only one material at a time until they have established an acceptable borrowing
record with the Library (six months to a year depending on amount of
checkouts).
Sec. 2 Materials
No reference material will be loaned or borrowed. We will photocopy and fax, mail or send copies
by Ariel to borrowing libraries. We will
loan special requests, with limited searching.
We will loan complete periodicals.
If patrons do not pick up their Inter-Library Loan materials, we will
not reorder for them. If there is a
charge for the Inter-Library Loan material and the patron has agreed to pay,
the charge will remain on the card if the material is not picked up, and no
more materials can be borrowed until it is paid.
Sec. 3 Fees
There is no charge to the patron for Inter-Library Loan service
within our cooperative delivery area.
Materials that must be borrowed through nationwide Inter-Library Loan
will have a $1.00 per book postage charge.
Nationwide materials will not be borrowed unless the patron agrees to
pay the postage charge.
Sec. 4 Borrower
Responsibilities
Materials must be returned by the due date indicated. Due Dates are established by the Lending
Libraries. An overdue is the
responsibility of the patron. The patron
assumes responsibility for all Inter-Library Loan charges and for any
replacement cost for lost materials, or repair cost for damaged materials. If
the Librarian establishes that a patron has abused his/her Inter-Library Loan
privileges, that patron shall no longer be able to use the service.
Article VII Patron Responsibilities
It is a charge of the New Buffalo Township Public Library
Staff to see that the rights of individuals to use the Library are upheld. The Library Staff is obligated to enforce
these rules so that the facilities can be used to the fullest by all patrons.
Sec. 2 Patron
Behavior
LIBRARY
BEHAVIOR
The
New Buffalo Township Public Library encourages people of all ages to visit the
library. Those using the library and its resources have the right to expect a
safe, comfortable environment that supports appropriate library services. The
New Buffalo Township Public Library seeks to foster a welcoming and orderly
environment that is conducive to reading, acquiring information, and study.
Voice
levels will vary in certain areas of the Library. Patrons working closely together
(example: internet computers, work
tables) are expected to respect each other and maintain a quieter voice level. Respect for other patron’s privacy while
using the Library is also expected.
People
entering the library are expected to respect the rights of other patrons to use
the library. No person shall harass or annoy others by being noisy or
boisterous, by playing audio equipment so that others can hear it, or by
behaving in a manner that reasonably can be expected to disturb other persons.
People
demonstrating disruptive behavior will be required to leave the library after
one warning from library staff.
Disruptive behaviors include:
People
demonstrating aggressive, abusive behaviors will be asked without warning to
leave the library. Local law enforcement
may be asked to intervene if needed.
These behaviors may be cause for loss of library privileges. These behaviors include:
Patrons
committing any of the above violations or other acts deemed inappropriate by Staff
will be handled in one of the following ways:
Minor
violations will result in a warning and if not heeded the patron will be asked
to leave.
Major violations will result in losing library
privileges for up to 6 months and the local police will be informed. Violation forms, signed by the Director will
be completed and if the patron is a minor the form will be mailed to the
parents or guardians. Violation forms
will be kept on file for up to 2 years.
The person may appeal the violation in writing within 6 months of the
date of the offense.
Personal appliances, such as
computers, audio devices, and calculators, may be used if the noise level is
low and use does not interfere with others. Because of the lack of outlets and
concern for electrical overload, all appliances must be battery-powered and may
not be plugged into library outlets without staff approval. Staff will attempt
to locate a suitable workstation in the public areas but cannot guarantee that
an electrical outlet will be available. Cellular telephones and pagers should
be turned off or switched to a non-audible signal and should be answered
outside the library. Patrons are expected to take care of their personal
belongings while using the Library. The
Library will not be responsible for items that are forgotten or that are left
laying anywhere on the Library premises.
Patrons
must leave the library at the time the library closes. Staff will lock doors and turn off computers
5 minutes prior to closing the library.
Patrons should complete their work and expect to leave the building at
closing. Staff will not be expected to wait for a patron beyond closing
time. Library staff may not offer rides
to patrons or wait with patrons for rides to come. Patrons must provide their own transportation
to and from the library. Patrons should
be respectful of library staff and the library’s hours of operation.
Young
children may not be safe when left unattended in the library. Staff will not
know if children are leaving with a parent, a friend, or a stranger. Parents
are responsible for ensuring the appropriate behavior of their children while
in the library. If a parent or other responsible adult cannot be located,
unattended children who are disruptive will be placed in the care of the
police. Under no circumstances will library staff take a child out of the
building or transport children to another location.
Approved
by New
Children's Safety Policy
We welcome children in the Library
and hope that children who use the Library will perceive it as a fun place to
be.
The New Buffalo Township Public
Library staff members are available to assist children with Library materials
or services. The Library is not equipped and it is not the Library's role to
provide long- or short-term child care.
Our top priority is the provision
of a safe environment for all children. However, the responsibility and
for the safety and well-being of children is the responsibility of parents or
guardians.
This parental responsibility
extends to their children's use of Library computers with access to the
Internet. Programming offered for children at the library is not intended to
take the place of care by a parent or other caregiver. The Library respects the
privacy of parents and children who use its libraries; however, Library staff
will take appropriate action if a child visiting a library appears to be
"at risk":
If one of the above situations
occurs, staff shall follow established procedures, which may include an attempt
to contact the parent or guardian of an unattended child, or notification of
law enforcement, as appropriate.
For the safety and comfort of
children, a responsible adult or adult caregiver over the age of twelve should
accompany children while they are using the Library and assist children when
they are using library resources. While in the Library, parents and caregivers
are responsible for monitoring and regulating the behavior of their children.
Please be mindful of the following: noise level, running, pulling items off the
shelves, tantrums, bathroom needs, and social interaction with other children.
Parents,
Guardians, and Caregivers* responsibilities:
·
Persons 17 years old or younger are defined as
`children' for the purposes of this Policy.
·
Parents or legal guardians, whether present in the
library or not, are responsible for their children's behavior at all time.
·
Parents or legal guardians are responsible for any
damages to library property caused, in whole or in part, by their children,
regardless of the children's age.
·
Children under the age of eight years must be accompanied by a parent, a guardian, or a
Caregiver*, at all times
·
Parents, guardians or Caregivers* are responsible
for maintaining control over their children's behavior in the library, at all
times
·
Parents, guardians or Caregivers accompanying
children eight years or
younger must stay within a reasonable distance (within eyesight) of their
children, at all times
·
*(If a parent designates a
`Caregiver' to accompany a child eight years or younger to the library in the
parent's absence, the Caregiver must be at least 12 years of age and must
demonstrate maturity and competence to care for and control the children left
in their care, while in the library.)
*** Age 12 is based on the minimum
age requirement for attending Red Cross Babysitter Training.
***The
library staff retains the right to search all personal bags or backpacks.
***Patron library privileges may be limited at the discretion of the
Library Director.
Approved
by The New
Article
VIII Request for Patron Information
Sec. 1
Confidentiality
The New Buffalo Township Public Library Board of Directors
believes that patron records are privileged and confidential information.
Disclosure of these records containing names, addresses
and telephone numbers would constitute an invasion of privacy pursuant to the
Freedom of Information Act set forth in MCL 15.243 (1) (a). Therefore, any person requesting such information
will be denied access to patron records under the policy.
Sec. 2 Denial of
Request for Information Form
To:
You are hereby notified that your request of
_____________(date) has been denied because the information requested is exempt
from disclosure pursuant to MCL 15.243 (1) (a).
The Public Library maintains a policy of confidentiality of patron records and will not release patron
names, addresses, or telephone numbers.
Under
Name ____________________________________ Title ____________________________
New
Date __________________________
Article
IX Materials Overdue and Fines
Sec. 1
Materials Overdue
Director’s
discretion in collection of overdue items.
Proceedure: 1week (7days overdue) call, 2 week (14 days overdue)
call. 3 weeks (21 days overdue) send
itemized letter. 4 weeks (28 days
overdue) Overdue letter. 5 weeks (35
days overdue) send suspension letter. 6
weeks (42 days overdue) bill patron.
Sec. 2
Fines
Books, Audio Books, Video Books, and Magazines have a fine
of $.10 per day.
Holiday Books that have a 7-day check out have a fine of
$.10 per day.
Books that are in high demand that have a 7-day check out
have a fine of $1.00 per day.
Inter-Library Loan materials have a fine of $ .10 per day.
Videos and DVDs have a fine of $1.00 each per day.
Article
X Library Privileges Suspended or
Withdrawn
A patron will be put in a
“SUSPENDED” status when:
1. The Library is unable to contact the patron
by U.S.Mail, i.e. moved with no forwarding address,
undeliverable, etc; or
2. The patron has
not responded to a bill within 1 week for materials that have not been returned;
or
3. The patron has
outstanding fines totaling $3.00 or more for one (1) month or longer for
returned
materials.
4. The patron has
fines totaling ten dollars ($10.00) or more.
5. The patron owes
for lost or damaged materials for one (1) month or longer.
No checkouts will be allowed to a suspended patron. Patrons must pay the entire amount of fines
before privileges are reinstated. Three
(3) or more suspensions shall result in the patron losing his/her library
privileges. The patron will then have to
apply to the Library Board for reinstatement of his/her library card.
A patron will be put in a “WITHDRAWN” status when:
Article
XI Statement on Service to Schools
Since any workable relationship between schools and public
libraries is dependent upon communication and joint cooperation, every
opportunity to create good will between these two important educational
institutions is important. All Staff
members are expected to be aware of the Library’s services to the schools and
encourage maximum utilization.
Article
XII Community Use of
Sec. 1 Use by Groups
In accordance with the Michigan Public Accommodations Act,
this tax supported facility may be used only by those groups whose membership
is open to all without restriction based on race, sex, or religious creed.
Space in the Lower Level of the Library may be reserved by
professional and governmental individuals or groups and by any local organized
non-profit group in
Sec. 2 Library
Endorsement
The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the Library
does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies or beliefs
by the Library Staff or Library Board.
Sec. 3 Food, Drink,
and Smoking
Food and/or drink is prohibited in the Library unless
permission is granted by the Library Board.
The cost of necessary cleaning, if such permission is granted, will be
billed to the person who signed the application for permission to hold a
meeting in the Library.
Sec. 4 Liability
The Library Board and Staff do not assume any liability on
groups or individuals attending a meeting in the Library.
Sec. 5 Duties of
Scheduled Groups
The scheduled group is responsible for setting up chairs,
tables, furniture and/or library or non-library equipment prior to the meeting
and for returning all library property to the designated location upon the
termination of the meeting.
Article
XII Programming
Sec. 1
Purpose/Philosophy
To promote the New Buffalo Township Public Library, its
materials, and its services.
Sec. 2 Content
Library sponsored programs must be non-commercial in
nature. Although a professional or
business person may be invited to speak, the information should always be
generic in nature.
Sec. 3 Fees
There will be no charge for library programs, unless there
is a fee for the purchase of materials, or unless the program is in cooperation
with another community agency that is fee-supported.
Article
XII Bulletin Boards
To publicize through the posting of posters, flyers, etc.,
meetings and other events sponsored by non-profit organizations. This privilege is open to all groups
regardless of political, religious or moral ideology.
Article
XIII Reference Service
Sec. 1 Cross
Indexes and City Directories
Patrons, businesses and other institutions will be
expected to use cross indexes and city directories in the Library. Information from these sources will not be
provided over the telephone.
Sec. 2
Interpretation by Librarians
In the course of reference duty, a librarian may be asked
to quote from medical, legal, census, or tax related sources. It is the policy of the New Buffalo Township
Public Library to do just that, quote directly from available sources. Librarians should refrain from making
judgmental or evaluative comments and should never provide “their”
interpretation. Likewise, librarians
must not interpret specific dictionary definitions or make recommendations to
patrons for the purchase of a specific encyclopedia or products listed in
Consumer Reports.
Article
XIV Monetary Gifts to the Library
Employees
From time to time, organizations that hold meetings at the
New Buffalo Township Library or that request a library employee to speak at one
of their meetings held outside the library setting, may wish to give a monetary
gift to an employee as an appreciation for any service provided. This type of monetary gift should be viewed
as a goodwill gesture, and according to Library Policy, must be given to the
Library and not to the person performing the service. By giving the money to the Library, any
conflicts of interest are avoided and any attempt at cultivating favoritism on
the part of any one employee can be avoided.
Moreover, since many of our services are provided during regular work
duty, the acceptance of any monetary gift would be a violation of compensation
already provided for in the salary schedule.
It is realized that some organizations may decide to
present a gift other than money to show appreciation for a service. These might consist of a bottle of wine or
some other material gift, and these seem perfectly acceptable to receive. In all cases, however, the organization
should not be led to believe that a gift is expected as a result of regularly
performed duties.
Article
XV Gifts, Donations and Bequests
All monetary donations, gifts and memorials given to the
Library will be used for future plans.
The Library encourages and welcomes gifts, endowment funds and bequests.
Article
XVI Appraisal of Gifts and Donations
The appraising of a gift or a donation to the Library for
income tax purposes is the responsibility of the donor since it is the donor
who requires an appraisal, not the Library.
Article
XVIII Public Use of Equipment (Except Computers)
Sec. 1 Telephones
Telephones in the Library are for the use of the Library
Staff and are not to be used by the general public for personal or business
use. Only in special situations shall
the Library Staff give patrons permission to use the phone. In these situations, Staff shall dial the
number for the patron to avoid long-distance charges.
Sec. 2 Photocopy
Machine
The copy machine is available to any member of the
community who wishes to copy materials at the rate of $ .15 per page. Senior citizens (age 60+), totally disabled
persons receiving Social Security, and businesses may copy at the rate of $ .10
per page. Persons wishing to make 50+
copies at one time shall be charged at the rate of $.10 per page. Non-profit organizations may have copies at
the rate of $ .05 per page. These
organizations include churches, scout troops, service clubs, township and city
governmental bodies and the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). These rates are for black and white copies on
8 ½ x 11 or 8 ½ x 14 size paper. The
rates are double for 11 x 17 size paper.
All color copies are at the rate of $ .50 each for 8 ½ x 11 or 8 ½ x 14
size paper, and $1.00 for 11 x 17 size paper.
No discounts allowed on color copies.
Copy machine users are advised that there are restrictions
on copyrighted materials which permit, in general, no more than one copy of a
page for personal use. Violations of
copyright are the responsibility of the copy machine user.
Free copy service of non-circulation materials is
provided as a deterrent against mutilation and theft. A patron cardholder may make up to
five (5) free copies per day (black & white, 8 ½ x 11 size only) from
selected library materials; i.e. encyclopedia, periodicals, reference shelf
books. Non-cardholders shall pay
the regular copier fees.
IRS publications and forms are not considered reference as
they may be obtained free of charge from the IRS. The Library will make pre-printed forms and
publications available to patrons as a community service. However, if patrons request photocopies of
IRS reproducible forms and publications, the regular photocopy charges will
apply.
Copies are available to the Staff and Board members free.
Sec. 3 Laminator
As a safety measure only library staff will be allowed to
use the laminator. If a patron needs a
large quantity of laminating done they must drop it off to be done by library
staff, and will be called when the laminating is finished. If it is a small amount the patron may wait
for staff to laminate the items
Laminating shall be at the minimum rate of $1.00 (1 – 5
feet) plus $.20 per foot thereafter.
The Library provides fax service to the general public
during regular Library hours. Patrons are
not permitted to send their own faxes.
Staff will do this for patrons upon request. Charges are $1.00 per page within the
A microfilm reader-printer is available for patron
use. The Library has newspapers and
census records on microfilm. Patrons
wishing to use this equipment shall ask Staff for the films. If assistance in getting started is needed,
Staff shall accommodate patrons. Patrons
are expected to exercise care while using the films. Patrons wishing to print shall be charged
$.10 per page.
The following equipment is available for in-house use:
IBM
Typewriter Filmstrip cassette
player
The Library utilizes computers for the on-line catalog and
provides computers for word processing, CD ROM reference, Internet access, and
other various programs. Staff may
restrict computer usage at any time.
Staff use of computers for library research or necessary
library duties takes precedence over public use. Staff is available to respond to questions
regarding operating instructions, software selection, and miscellaneous
problems. Staff is not able to provide
in-depth training of computer programs.
After repeated Staff instruction, patrons are expected to become self-sufficient.
The Lower Level computers, except for the on-line catalog,
may not be used by patrons during Library programs held in that area.
Article
XIX Public Use of Computer Equipment
INTERNET ACCESS
The Internet is a valuable tool
available for providing library services. The New Buffalo Township Public
Library provides access to the Internet through staff accounts for professional
staff, public service staff, and other staff as necessitated by job
responsibilities. Staff is encouraged to use the Internet for business
communications, to conduct research for patrons and library programs, and to
monitor appropriate listservs and blogs. To ensure that a broad range of
information is shared and to conserve time, staff may monitor library-related
listservs and blogs and to relay important information to other staff.
Staff may use Internet resources
to answer reference questions and to supply information for patrons. The
library will accept requests for materials, reference questions, or other
communications via its general e-mail address from patrons normally served by
the library. Personal use of Internet accounts by staff is not prohibited, but
any personal communications must include the following disclaimer: “Views
expressed by the writer do not necessarily reflect those of New Buffalo
Township Public Library.” Personal use of the Internet should not be conducted
on staff time and personal files should not be maintained on the library
computers. Library Internet accounts may not ever be used for illegal or
commercial purposes.
As part of the library’s mission
of providing access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, the
New Buffalo Township Public Library
provides access to the Internet for staff and patrons. Patrons may also
access the Internet via personal laptops using the library’s wireless
connection. Information exchanged electronically should not be considered
secure. Patron use is subject to the library’s acceptable use policy. Parents
are responsible for monitoring their children’s use of library computers and
the Internet.
Sec. 1 INTERNET
USE
As part of its mission
to provide a broad range of information in a variety of formats, the New
Buffalo Township Public Library provides access to the Internet. The library is
responsible only for the information provided on its own Web site. The library
cannot monitor or control information accessed via the Internet. The library
cannot guarantee that information on the Internet is accurate.
New Buffalo Township
Public Library utilizes Comcast as its Internet service provider. As part of
our agreement with Comcast, use of services for any activity that violates, or
constitutes an attempt to violate, any local, state, federal or international
law, order or regulation, or to engage in tortuous conduct, is a violation of
this Policy. You may not use the Service to harm or attempt to harm a minor,
including, but not limited to, posting, possessing, disseminating, or
transmitting material that is unlawful, including child pornography or obscene
material or material that infringes on the copyright of another.
Illegal activity is prohibited in
New Buffalo Township Public Library and on New Buffalo Township Public
Library’s networks, equipment and software. Employees are authorized to bring
to an individual’s attention any act which will detract from the decorum of the
library or will create a hostile workplace in violation of state and federal
civil rights laws. In cases in which it is deemed necessary to enforce laws,
police will be called for assistance. New Buffalo Township Public Library
cooperates with police in the enforcement of laws, statutes and ordinances.
Patrons, including
minors, who access the Internet in the library, may not display text or
graphics defined by federal or state law as obscene or pornographic. In
addition, minors are prohibited from accessing materials considered to be
“harmful to minors.” Library employees are authorized to take
appropriate actions to enforce the rules of conduct and to prohibit use of
computers by individuals who fail to comply with the Internet Safety Policy as
stated or implied herein.
Deliberate and
continued display of some materials that are not obscene or pornographic may
still constitute sexual harassment. Actions that violate federal, state, or
local laws will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Repeated
actions that create a disturbance or that may be considered sexual harassment
may result in the loss of some or all library privileges.
While the use of chat
rooms, social networking sites, wikis, blogs, and other Internet functions are
not prohibited, the Library neither encourages nor offers technical support for
their use. Patrons should be aware that the anonymity of some functions might
also provide cover for individuals with criminal intentions. Users, including
minors, are warned that other individuals may obtain unauthorized access to
personal information and/or may misrepresent themselves. Users, including minors, are advised not to
share personal identification information to unknown or otherwise unverified
sources via electronic communication.
Library
users with a laptop or other wireless device can access the Internet via the
library’s network. Library users must provide their own computer with a
wireless network card. Users are responsible for setting up their own
equipment. Library staff members are not permitted to provide direct assistance
configuring laptops.
Printing is not accessible
via the wireless network. The library's wireless network is not secure.
Information sent from or to your laptop can be captured by anyone with a
wireless device and the appropriate software. Users are responsible for virus
protection, personal firewall, and other measures to protect the information on
their laptop. The library is not responsible for any loss of information or
damage to your laptop that might result from using the wireless network.
To comply with Michigan Public Act No.
212 of 2000, Internet computers located on the main floor of the Library are
for use by adults only, and Internet computers located in the Lower Level of
the Library are for use by minors only. An exception may be made for an adult to use
the Children’s computers only if the adult is using the internet with their
child and there is a computer available. Children under the age of eighteen
(18) years (minors) shall not be permitted individual use of the Internet
computers without written consent of a parent or legal guardian. A parent or legal guardian who wishes to
allow his/her child to use the Internet computer without parental supervision
shall be requested to sign an Internet Access Release Form in person. Staff will request proof of identification,
such as a driver’s license or social security card. Proof of identification will be photocopied
and attached to the signed Release Form. A minor who does not have written
consent of a parent or legal guardian to use the Internet will only be allowed
to use it in the presence of his/her parent or legal guardian.
Individual computer stations maybe designated
for special use by staff or patrons at the discretion of the library director
or designated staff. Special use may
include homework or research and take precedence over other forms of computer
usage.
The Staff will assist library users in getting started on
the Internet. However, the Library
cannot guarantee that Internet-trained Staff will be available to assist users
at all times when the Library is open.
The Staff is not able to offer extensive explanations about the Internet
or personal computer use or provide in-depth training. Time permitting, the Staff will try to answer
specific questions about the Internet and offer suggestions for effective
searching. The Staff can also provide
information about Internet training opportunities and Internet books and
manuals.
Internet Guidelines:
All users
of the Internet are expected to use this Library resource in a responsible and
courteous manner, consistent with the purposes for which it is provided, and to
follow all Internet-related rules, regulations and procedures established for
its use including, but not limited to, those of the Library. Responsible, courteous use of the Internet
includes:
1.
Recognizing that the Internet, like all of the Library’s information
sources, must be
shared and used in a manner which
respects the rights of others and refrains from
activity that prevents others from using
it.
2.
Using the Library’s Internet resources for educational, informational
and recreational
purposes only.
3.
Refraining from illegal or unethical use of the Internet.
4.
Respecting intellectual property rights by making only authorized copies
of
copyrighted, licensed or otherwise
controlled software or data residing on the
internet.
5.
Respecting the privacy of others by not misrepresenting oneself as
another user; by
not attempting to modify or gain access
to files, passwords, or data belonging to
others; and by not seeking disallowed
access to any computer system via the Internet.
6. Refraining from damaging or altering the setup of the
equipment used to access the
internet at the
Library.
7.
Refraining from altering or damaging software or data residing on the
library
computers.
8.
Refraining from the deliberate propagation of computer worms and
viruses.
9. Refraining from the transmission of
obscene, pornographic, threatening, harassing or
abusive language and images.
Internet
procedures and computer usage
1. All
patrons wishing to use a computer must sign up at the circulation desk by
giving their full name to the staff. Use
of computers is available to patrons on
a first-come, first-served basis. In order to accommodate as many patrons as
possible, sign up periods shall be limited to sixty (60) minutes per day.
However, more time may be allowed if there open computers. Users who must leave
their computer for a short time must inform the staff to keep their time slot
available. Users must inform the staff
when they are done using the patron computer.
2.
Patrons may call up to one day ahead to reserve a computer station. If patrons
do not sign in within fifteen (15) minutes of the specified reservation time,
the computer becomes available to other patrons.
3.
Printing from computer stations is available.
All print jobs will be processed at the circulation desk. Each page printed, good or bad will cost .10
cents each.
4.
Patrons may use USB drives or CDs to store files. These devices must be free of viruses and are
the sole responsibility of the owner.
The library will not be responsible for any damage or loss of
information on a patron’s USB drive or CD.
5.
Patrons do not have the authority to install programs or download programs on
the library computers. Only designated
library staff will be allowed to make changes or install computer software.
6. All
computers, except the on-line catalog, will be turned off five (5) minutes
prior to closing. Patrons signed in on
computers are expected to have their tasks (printing, disk back-up) completed
before closing time. Computers will be
turned off five (5) minutes prior to closing time whether or not the patron has
finished his/her tasks.
Amended:
January 20, 2009
Article
XX User Fees
Lost Library Card $
.50
Lost Materials Replacement Cost
Damaged Materials Replacement Cost, Repair Fee, Bindery
Fee
Photocopies of 8 ½ x 11 or 8 ½ x 14 size paper
Photocopy $ .15 each
Photocopy-Senior Citizen (age 60+) $ .10 each
Photocopy-Totally Disabled Person on SS $
.10 each
Photocopy-Business $
.10 each
50+ Photocopies made all at one time $ .10
each
Photocopy-Non-Profit $
.05 each
Photocopies of 11 x 17 size paper
Photocopy $ .30 each
Photocopy-Senior Citizen (age 60+) $ .20 each
Photocopy-Business $ .20 each
Photocopy-Non-Profit $ .10 each
Photocopy -
Reference-Printed materials only:
Cardholders 5 pages free per day (8 ½ x 11
size only)
$
.10 per page thereafter
Student (NB
Area Schools) Free (school assignments only—
Staff will make the determination)
Laminator (per foot) $1.00
(1 – 5 feet)
$ .20 per foot thereafter
(See Article XXII, Sec.3)
Fax (per page to
send) $1.00 (within the
Fax (first page) $3.00
(outside the
(each
additional page) $1.50 (outside the
Fax (per page to
receive) $ .10
Computer Printing $
.10 per page
(Internet, e-mail,
word processing, games, genealogy, etc.)
Article
XXI Fires
If anyone should notice the smell of smoke or has reason
to believe there is a fire, report to the Director or person in charge of the
building. Any announcement or
information given by the Director or person in charge must be factual and made
in a calm voice. If a fire occurs, call
the fire department and the Director or person in charge will decide when and
if to evacuate the building and will direct the Staff and patrons to whichever
exits are not on fire.
Familiarize yourself with the types and applications of
the fire extinguishers in the building.
The following are the three types and their function.
Type A: Wood, paper
trash, clothing. DO NOT use on burning
liquids or electrical equipment.
Type B: Flammable
liquid.
Type C: Electrical
Dry chemical extinguishers have a multi-purpose A-B-C
rating.
The New Buffalo Township Public Library has Dry Chemical
(A-B-C) Extinguishers.
The Library has a special fire extinguisher for the
computers that is located on the upper level in the rear of the building.
Article
XXII Health Emergencies
The Staff should
exercise caution when administering first aid of even a minor nature because of
the potential danger of lawsuit.
However, the sick or injured patron should be made comfortable and
protected from needless disturbance until medical help can be obtained. Since each case is unique, the Staff should use their own judgment to do what is
prudent and reasonable.
The Emergency Ambulance/Police should be called
immediately by dialing 911 in the event of a serious problem. The Director or person in charge of the
building at that time should also be notified immediately.
In the event of an accident or injury like a stroke, heart
attack, coma, etc., an accident report form must be completed as soon as
possible. At least get the name of the
injured person so we can follow up later.
If a member of the Library Staff is injured in any way on
library property, an incident report form must be filled out at once and turned
in to the Director. An incident report
should still be completed even if the person appears unharmed.
Article
XXIV Bomb Threat
Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask the caller to repeat the message and try
to write down every word spoken by the person.
If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of
possible detonation, ASK FOR THIS INFORMATION.
Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises that may indicate
where the call is originating from. Listen
closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents,
and speech impediments.
Immediately after the caller hangs up, call the police and
notify the Director or person in charge.
The police will want to talk first hand with the Staff member who
received the call.
Clear the building; both floors should be clear of patrons
and Staff. The police will handle the
actual bomb search unless they specifically request the Library Staff to
identify any unusual objects.
Article
XXIX Snow Storms
To avoid confusion, and for the safety of our library
staff and our patrons, the New Buffalo Township Public Library will close when
New Buffalo Area Schools close (between Monday through Friday) during inclement
weather due to snow or ice. Closing of
the Library will be at the discretion of the Library Director or person in
charge on weekends or in other hazardous conditions such as fog or heavy
storms. The Library will close early if
the school closes early due to inclement weather.
January 20, 2009
Article
XXV Tornadoes
A WARNING is issued when a tornado, severe thunderstorm,
hail or flood has actually been sighted in the area or indicated on radar. The warning gives the location and size of
the tornado and the course the storm is following. The Lower Level of the Library would be the
best place to take shelter. It would be
best to crouch under a table on the side of the room from which the tornado is
approaching.
Adopted: November
14, 2000
DESELECTION OF MATERIALS
Materials that no longer fit the
stated mission and service priorities of the library will be withdrawn from the
collection. This may include materials that are damaged, that include obsolete
information, or that have not been used within a reasonable period of time.
Decisions will be based on accepted professional practice, such as those
described in The CREW Method, and the professional judgment of the
library director or designated staff. When necessary, local specialists will be
consulted to determine the continued relevance, worth or reliability of
materials.
Items withdrawn from
the collection will be disposed of in accordance with local law, which permits
discarding worn, dirty, or dangerously outdated material into the trash,
recycling of paper, or transfer to the Friends of The New Buffalo Township
Public Library for sale. No withdrawn items may be sold or given directly to
individuals or groups; however, items that do not sell in the Friends sale may
be transferred to other nonprofit organizations or placed in a “free” area for
anyone to take. Discarded magazines and newspapers may be given to other area
libraries or social service agencies or recycled at the discretion of the
library director.
Approved by New