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Library Policies of Bekkum Memorial Library, Westby
Board Approved 9-27-05 I. Mission and Goal Statements
A. The mission of the Bekkum Memorial/ Westby Public library is to provide quality materials and services that fulfill educational informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the entire community in an atmosphere that is welcoming, respectful, and businesslike.
B. The goals of the Bekkum Memorial/Westby Public Library shall be:
1. To serve all residents of the community and the surrounding region.
2. To acquire and make available to all; residents of the above area such books, periodicals, pamphlets, and other services as will address their needs to a) become well informed, b) locate answers to questions, c) cultivate the imagination and creative expression, d) develop skills for career and vocational advancement, and e) enjoy leisure by means of reading and other media services.
3. To maintain a program of service which locates information, guides reading, organizes material for people of various backgrounds, and stimulates thinking and intellectual development in individuals of any age.
5. To strive consistently to discover new methods and improvements for better service for the library’s customers.
6. To review regularly these goals of the Bekkum Memorial Library/Westby Public Library and, if necessary, revise them in the light of new developments. II. Who May Use the Library Board Approved_9-27-05
A. The library will serve all residents of the community and the public library system area. Service will not be denied or abridged because of religious, racial, social, economic, or political status; or because of mental, emotional, or physical condition; age; or sexual orientation.
B. The use of the library may be denied for due cause. Such cause may be, but not limited to, failure to return library materials or to pay penalties, destruction of library property, disturbance of other patrons, or any other illegal, disruptive, or objectionable conduct on library premises. III. Patron Responsibilities and Conduct Board Approved 9-27-05
A. It is a patron’s responsibility to maintain necessary and proper standards of behavior in order to protect his/her individual rights and the rights and privileges of other patrons. If a patron creates a public nuisance, that patron may be restricted from the library and from the use of the library facilities. Those who are unwilling to leave or do not leave within a reasonable amount of time, after being instructed to do so by the staff, will be subject to the law.
B. Young children: The Bekkum Memorial Library/Westby Public Library encourages visits by young children and it is our desire to make this important visit both memorable and enjoyable for the child. Library staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the library.
Therefore, it is library policy that all children under age six must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.
C. Disruptive children: Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier at busy times and that by nature can cause more commotion. However, children (whether with parents or not) who are being continually disruptive may be asked to leave the library. If the child is asked to leave the library and needs to contact a parent, they may do so.
D. Food and/or beverages: Food and/or beverages are not allowed in the library, except at designated times or in designated rooms.
E. Proper apparel:. Shirts and shoes are required to enter library.
F. Other Activities: The following activities are not allowed in the library, including but not limited to: · Smoking · Creating a disturbance by making noise; talking loudly, or engaging in other disruptive conduct. · Interfering with another person’s right to use the library or with the library staff’s performance of their duties · Threatening behavior, including, but not limited to violence, threats of violence, and possession of weapons. · Bringing animals into the library except service animals or animals used in programs. · Playing audio equipment so that others can hear it. · Misusing the rest rooms (i.e. using them as a laundry or washing facility). · Soliciting or canvassing of any kind. · Entering “staff only” areas without permission. · Running. · Sleeping. · Cell phone use.
IV. Services of the Library Board Approved 9-27-05
The library provides materials and resources for information, entertainment, intellectual development, and the enrichment of the people of the community. The library should endeavor to:
1. Select, organize, and make available necessary books and materials. 2. Provide guidance and assistance to patrons. 3. Sponsor and implement programs, exhibits, displays, book lists, etc., which would appeal to various age groups. 4. Cooperate with other community agencies and organizations. 5. Secure information beyond its own resources when requested. Using interlibrary loan and other resource sharing methods provided through the system and state. 6. Lend to other libraries upon request. 7. Develop and provides services to patrons with special needs. 8. Maintain a balance in its services to various age groups. 9. Cooperate with school or other institutional libraries. 10. Provide flexible open hours, including evening and weekend hours, as needed to best meet the needs of the community. 11. Regularly review library services being offered. 12. Use media and other public relations mechanisms to promote the full range of available library services. V. Responsibilities and Authorities of the Library Board Board Approved 9-27-05
A. Refer to Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin Statutes (particularly section 43.58), the Wisconsin Public Library Trustee Manual, and individual library bylaws to provide basis and framework for the responsibilities and authority of the library board and individual trustees. Duties include, but not limited to: 1. Legal responsibility for the operation of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library is vested in the Board of Trustees. Subject to state and federal law, the Board has the power and duty to determine rules, policies and regulations governing library operations and services. 2. The Board shall select, appoint and supervise a properly certified and competent library director, and determine the duties and compensation of all library employees. 3. The Board shall approve the budget and make sure that adequate funds are provided to finance the approved budget. 4. The Board shall have exclusive control of the expenditure of all moneys collected, donated or appropriated for the library fund and shall audit and approve all library expenditures. 5. The Board shall supervise and maintain buildings and grounds, as well as regularly review various physical and building needs to see that they meet the requirements of the total library program. 6. The Board shall study and support legislation that will bring about the greatest good to the greatest number of library users. 7. The Board shall cooperate with other public officials and boards and maintain vital public relations. 8. The Board shall approve and submit the required annual report to the Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning, and the city council, and county board.
B. The Bekkum Memorial Library/Westby Public Library encourages each library trustee to take advantage of training opportunities for trustees offered by the public library system or statewide agencies and organizations. Likewise, the library encourages trustees to be active in the state library organization and its efforts to inform the governor and legislature of the benefits and needs of public libraries.
VI. Volunteers and Friends Board Approved 9-27-05
The Library Board encourages individuals and groups to volunteer their time and efforts in the service of the Bekkum Memorial Library. In appreciation of volunteer services, the Library acknowledges the need to organize volunteer activities and provide for appropriate recognition befitting the benefit to the library and the communities it serves.
Annual recognition will be given to volunteers.
A library friends group is a formal association of people who unite to plan and execute, in conjunction with library goals and the needs of the library director, programs and events to benefit the library. In particular, a friends group is often heavily involved in fund-raising for the library and often oversees periodic book sales. Friends groups always serve in conjunction with the library board which is the legal authority to set policy for the development of the library.
VII. Personnel Policy Board Approved 11-29-05
A. Management Policy: The duly appointed library board shall have all management rights, authorities, and responsibilities as stated in Wisconsin Statues, Chapter 43. 1. The library board shall select, appoint, and when necessary for valid reasons, dismiss the director of the library. 2. The board shall establish all other positions and all wage and benefit levels for all library staff. The library director will hire personnel for open positions. 3. The library board shall provide an effective orientation for new directors to assure that the director understands a) the policies and processes related to the daily operation of the library, b) reporting and budgetary requirements that assure accountability and compliance with the law, c) the expectations of the board in regard to administrative processes and protocol, particularly as they relate to conducting effective and efficient board meetings, and d) rules and requirements for state certification and any assistance which is provided by the library to acquire and maintain appropriate certification. 4. The library board shall conduct annual appraisals of the library director’s performance, at which time personal and management goals can be discussed and negotiated. Performance appraisal form - appendix I B Administrative Policy:. The person appointed, as library director shall be charged with the sole administration of the library.
1. The director shall be responsible to the library board in matters pertaining to and concerning the library; be present at board meetings, prepare and present reports and meeting documents as requested.
2. The director shall maintain financial records in an efficient manner; present periodic reports to the library board and to the municipal governing body; prepare the draft of the annual budget to be presented to the library board, and assist trustees with presentation of the adopted request for appropriation to the municipal governing body.
3. The director shall hold meetings with staff and/or volunteers for training and interpreting board policy.
4. The director will be responsible for preparing annual performance assessments for library staff and volunteers.
5. The director shall have the responsibility for collection development for all material in the library; this includes selection, ordering, processing, weeding, and inventory of the collections according to the guidelines in the policy.
6, The director will recommend changes in or additions to library policies as needed.
7. The director will perform preparatory work to assist the board with regular library planning.
8. The director is to administrate the services of the library (see IV
C. Salaries: Salary is subject to review by the Library Board. Salary will by based upon experience, education, years of employment and job description.
D. Vacation Policy: Director and Assistant Librarian
Years of Employment Vacation Time Accrued 0-12 months none 1 year 33 hours for Director 30 hours for Assistant 2-9 years 66 hours for Director 60 hours for Assistant 10-15 years 99 hours for Director 90 hours for Assistant over 15 years For each year after 15 yrs. of completed service, 6 additional hours up to a maximum of 75 additional hours.
1. Amount of Vacation time is based on the director being hired to work 33 hours per week and the assistant being hired to work 30 hours per week. If hours hired change for the director or assistant the amount of vacation time earned will also change.
2. Vacation time must be used in the calendar year earned. No vacation time can be carried over to the next year without prior board approval.
3. A summary of vacation time used must be available for review of the employee and board of directors.
4. Vacation time for the Director and the Assistant cannot be taken concurrently without prior board approval. 5. Employee Request for Vacation form must be on file at library and kept with earned/used summary sheet.
6. At least two (2) week notice must be given before vacation time is used. Vacation time may be used with a shorter notice time if hours can be covered.
7. Vacation time earned will be prorated after 1 year of employment until the beginning of the next calendar year. 8. Vacation and/or sick days may not be taken on top of or in addition to the total number of work hours allowed per week.
E. Leave of Absence: Leaves of absence without pay may be granted to library employees for maternity, adoption, illness, travel, or graduate or certification training. All leaves are considered on a case-by-case basis and must be approved by the director. A leave for the director must be approved by the library board. 1. Requests for leave should be submitted in writing well in advance of the time when the leave is to begin. Written requests should indicate both a beginning and ending date for the leave. Vacation time must be used before an unpaid leave will be approved for reasons other than maternity, adoption, or military training. 2. When an employee is on unpaid leave he/she is responsible for all health insurance costs and other benefit premiums/deductions that may apply. 3. In some instances it may be necessary to deny requests for leaves of absence. Leaves are a privilege and can be granted only if the best interests of the library can be maintained
F. Jury Duty: In the event a library employee is called for jury duty, the library will release them and assure no loss of wages. If fees and expenses paid to jurors do not equal or exceed wages normally paid by the library, these fees can be turned in to the library board and the employee will be paid their wages as usual.
G. Work Schedule Policy: Major changes in the director's schedule may not be made without approval of the library board. Requests for such shall be made in writing to the library board. Requests for changes in the work schedule of other staff or volunteers shall be made in writing to the library director. A schedule of all employees work hours including director must be posted two weeks in advance. No overtime (over 40 hours per week) pay is allowed without Library Board Approval. Board approval must be given before the over time hours are worked.
H. Meetings, Conventions, and Workshops: The director, staff and trustees attending continuing education opportunities to aid the library shall be allowed expenses at the discretion of the library board according to the amount appropriated in budget for such. The director, staff and trustees are encouraged to attend and participate in continuing education activities.
I. Bereavement:
1. The Director and Assistant Director are eligible for paid bereavement leave in the event of death in the immediate family.
2. The director may take up to 18 hours and the assistant director may take up to 16 hours of consecutive working time of paid bereavement leave for the death of a father, mother, guardian, foster parent, stepfather, stepmother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, spouse, sister, brother, child, stepchild or grandchild.
3. Time off for other funerals will be considered on an individual basis, with the general rule that personal time will be used for this purpose.
4. If leave time is required beyond that specified in this Section, such additional leave time may be allowed by the Board of Directors and deducted from the employee’s sick leave or taken as unpaid leave.
5. Pay for paid bereavement leave shall be computed at the regular hourly rate to a maximum of six (6) hours for one day. Bereavement leave shall not be credited as time worked for the purpose of computing overtime.
J. Military Leave: The Director and Assistant Director who are duly enrolled members of the National Guard, State Guard, or any other organized reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States shall be allowed a military leave of absence which has been ordered. The leave, under normal circumstances, will not exceed fourteen (14) days excluding Sundays and legal holidays. A copy of the order requiring attendance at military training sites hall accompany all requests for a military leave.
K. Sick, Emergency, Personal Leave
1. After satisfactory completion of their performance probationary period, the Director and Assistant Director shall be credited with 6 hours of SEP time for each month worked. Leave accumulation shall be limited to 288 hours. Accumulated leave can only be used as sick days.
2. In the event an employee suffers compensatory illness in the course of performing his/her duties and qualifies for worker’s compensation, said employee may use accumulated leave credits to bring the total compensation received (between the City on said leave and worker’s compensation ) up to the employee’s regular base rate of pay for any given pay period. Sick leave may be used in this manner until all of the accrued sick leave has been paid. When worker’s compensation is paid, such monies shall be paid to the City, the City shall pay the employee his/her actual wages.
3. During their initial year of employment, the new Director or Assistant Director shall be entitled to a pro rated amount of leave based on the number of months of employment during that calendar year. New Director or Assistant Director shall be ineligible to use paid leave during their initial probationary period; however, upon completion of the probationary period, they shall be credited with leave based upon their initial date of employment with the City.
4. Accumulated leave hours may be used only when the employee is sick or disabled. Accumulated leave is granted for medical reasons only. The use of accumulated leave for purposes other than obtaining medical treatment or remaining home on medical advice and for medical reasons is an abuse of sick leave policy and grounds for termination.
5. The use of leave days for emergency or personal purposes shall not exceed two (2) consecutive days without review and approval of the director (for assistant director) and Library Board (for director).
L. Holiday Pay: The following days shall be paid holidays for the director and assistant director. They will be paid for 6 hours per day. New Year’s Day Easter Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day
M. Equal Opportunity Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library to provide an equal employment opportunity for all qualified and qualifiable persons. Equal employment opportunity shall be according to the provisions of State and Federal laws and regulations. See City of Westby Personnel Policy for more information
N. Drug-Free Workplace Policy: In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited while performing work for the Bekkum Memorial Public Library, whether that work is carried out in the workplace building or not. All employees shall abide, as a condition of employment, by the terms of this notice and shall notify the library director or board within five (5) days of any criminal drug statuet conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace.
Failure to comply with the above requirements shall be grounds for appropriate personnel action against such employee up to and including termination or such employee may be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.
See City of Westbv Personnel Policy for more information.
O. Sexual Harassment Policy: Harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of Title VII (federal law) and Statute 111.36(b)(state law). Sexual harassment, either verbal or physical is an unlawful employment practice and will not be tolerated by the Bekkum Memorial Public Library.
The Bekkum Memorial Public Library accepts and adheres to all definitions and procedures outlined in the law as regards sexual harassment. Any employee who engages in sexual harassment will subject themselves to disciplinary action up to and including discharge.
See City of Westby Personnel Policy for more information. P. Licenses and Certifications: The employment contract and/or letter of appointment specify that as a condition of employment the director will obtain and maintain the appropriate certification. Library directors are required to participate in continuing education activities in order to maintain their certification.
Q. Performance Review: The Library Director’s performance will be evaluated yearly by assigned members of the board of directors. The Library Director will evaluate other staff performance on a yearly basis.
The performance review should be based on three factors:
R. Hiring Employees Under Age Eighteen (18). Part-time or seasonal employees under eighteen (18) years of age must have a state-issue work permit, and the permit must be obtained before the employee is allowed to begin work as a Bekkum Memorial Public Library employee. The prospective employee may obtain the application for a work permit from any public high school; the library director needs to provide the prospective employee with a letter stating the library’s intention to employ the minor and the nature of the duties he/she will perform as a employee of the City and the Bekkum Memorial Public Library.
S. Maternity & Paternity/Adoption Leave Refer to City of Westby Personnel Policy
T. Use of Library Telephone, Mail, E-Mail
Employees are permitted to use Library telephones or computers for personal reasons, but are to limit such use to instances of necessity. This is a privilege and not a right and may be withdrawn by the Library Board if abused through excessive use or causes interference with work duties.
Long-Distance Calls for personal reasons may be made at the employee’s expense.
Employees shall not use the address of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library or City offices for receipt of personal mail and other deliveries nor shall they use Library/City postage machines or stationery for personal use.
U. Absenteeism and Tardiness
V. Disciplinary Policy: An employee of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library may be dismissed for any action or behavior that causes the Library’s image or operation to be diminished. This includes but is not limited to: incompetence, misconduct, inattention to assigned duties, or unapproved absences from work.
Normally termination would be a final step which would follow: 1. a substandard performance appraisal 2. verbal and/or written warnings, 3. suspension, and/or 4. extended probation.
It is important that complete and clear records be maintained of all disciplinary processes for the protection of the employee and the library.
The Library wants each employee to be successful in his/her job and will work with employees to eliminate deficiencies.
While notice of intent to terminate can be expected, the Bekkum Memorial Public Library reserves the right to dismiss an employee without notice in cases involving theft, drug or alcohol abuse, criminal activity, or in instances of significant misconduct.
W. Grievance procedure: It is the intent of the Bekkum Public Library that every employee shall have the opportunity to express concerns relating to the physical surroundings in which the employee works, procedures and conditions of the specific position, relationships with fellow workers or supervisors, and library rules as they apply to staff. A concern or grievance should follow the procedure below:
1. Staff grievances are to be brought to the directors’ attention. If the grievance is not resolved the concern/grievance should be discussed with the Library Board President and be possible taken to the library board. The concern/grievance should be submitted in writing to the Library Board. The board president will in turn, present the concern, during closed session, to the full board at the next or a special board meeting. In the case of the director having a concern, this should be discussed with the board president and a written grievance/concern may be taken to the Library Board during closed session at the next or special board meeting. 2. If the director is part of the problem, or if the board president is part of the director’s problem, the concern/grievance should be submitted in writing to the library board. The board president will, in turn, present the concern, during closed session, to the full board at the next or a special board meeting. 3. The board’s representative will respond to the employee with five (5) days of the board meeting at which the issue is discussed, providing a determination, solution, or a strategy for how the board will address the issue over time.
X. Resignation and Retirement Policy: A library employee wishing to resign or retire from employment must notify the director or the library board as soon as practicable. The library requests a minimum notice of two weeks. For the library director a notice of at least one month is preferred.
The employee must submit a formal, written resignation statement giving the exact date that employment is to be terminated. Between the time of notice and the time when employment ends a final performance appraisal may be conducted.
See City of Westby Personnel Policy for more information about computation of final paycheck. VIII. Materials Selection/Collection Development Policy: Board Approved 11-29-05
A. Objectives: 1. The purpose of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library is to provide all individuals in the community with carefully selected books and other materials to aid the individual in the pursuit of education, information, research, pleasure, and the creative use of leisure time. 2. Because of the volume of publishing, as well as the limitations of budget and space, the library must have a selection policy with which to meet community interests and needs. 3. The materials selection/collection development policy is used by the library staff in the selection of materials and also serves to acquaint the general public with the principles of selection. 4. The Bekkum Memorial Library Board of Trustees endorses the “Freedom to Read” and “The Library Bill of Rights” as published by the American Library Association. Found as Appendix II and III.
B. Responsibility for Selection The ultimate responsibility for selection of library materials rests with the library director who operates within the framework of the policies determined by the Bekkum Memorial Public Library Board of Trustees. This responsibility may be shared with other members of the library staff; however, because the director must be available to answer to the library board and the general public for actual selections made, the director has the authority to reject or select any item contrary to the recommendations of the staff. C. Criteria for Selection 1. The main points considered in the selection of materials are: 2. Reviews are a major source of information about new materials. Sources of such reviews are trade publications such as Booklist, New York Times Book Review, YALSA, as well as ALA and WLA reviews. 3. The lack of a review or an unfavorable review shall not be the sole reason for rejecting a title which is in demand. Consideration is, therefore, given to requests from library patrons and books discussed on public media. Materials are judged on the basis of the work as a whole, not on a part taken out of context.
D. Weeding 1. An up-to-date, attractive and useful collection is maintained through a continual withdrawal and replacement process. Replacement of worn items is dependent upon current demand, usefulness, more recent acquisitions, and availability of newer editions. This ongoing process of weeding is the responsibility of the library director and is authorized by the Library Board. Withdrawn materials can be disposed of as the Director sees fit. 2. Certain items which the director/ board deems to no longer be worthwhile may be disposed of.
E. Potential Problems or Challenges 1. The Bekkum Memorial Public Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons. Selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the basis of the principles stated in this policy. 2. Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children. 3. Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of their contents, and no library material will be sequestered except to protect it from damage or theft. 4. Materials/items for which library no longer deemed to be worthwhile will be sold or discarded. F. Challenged Materials Although materials are carefully selected, there can arise differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection will be presented with the “Request for Reconsideration of Library Resources” packet which is available at the Library. When the patron has completed the steps outlined in the packet, the inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Bekkum Memorial Public Library Board, and will be resolved by consensus in closed session if necessary. The material will continue to circulate until the matter is resolved. A sample of the “Request for Reconsideration of the Library Resources” is found in Appendix IV.
G. Gifts and Donations: 1. The library accepts gifts of books and other materials with the understanding that they will be added to the collection only if appropriate and needed. If they are not needed because of duplication, condition, or dated information the director can dispose of them as he/she sees fit. The same criteria of selection which are applied to purchased materials are applied to gifts. Memorial gifts of books or money are also accepted with suitable bookplates placed in the book. Specific memorial books can be ordered for the library on request of a patron if the request meets the criteria established by the Board. It is desirable for gifts of or for specific titles to be offered after consultation with the library director. Book selection will be made by the director if no specific book is requested. The Bekkum Memorial Public Library encourages and appreciates gifts and donations. 2. By law, the library is not allowed to appraise the value of donated materials, though it can provide an acknowledgment of receipt of the items if requested by the donor. 3. If a gift is given that the Library Board does not deem appropriate, the gift may be declined and a suitable recommendation made to the donor. 4. Naming rights will be at the discretion of the Library Board. When a gift of $500.00 or more is given a name plate will be added to the gift wall plaque. 5. Money given for the purchase of library materials will be deposited in the Library Memorial Account with the City of Westby. The Library Director will purchase the materials, money will be debited from the Memorial account, and the Library treasurer will be informed of the donation. A thank-you note will be written by the Director. 6. Monitory donations that are given to the library not for purchase of materials, will be given to the library board treasure who will deposit the monies. The donation will be used at the discretion of the library board. The treasurer will write a thank-you note.
H. Interlibrary Loan
Because of limited budget and space, the library cannot provide all materials that are requested. Therefore, interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of this library's collection. In return for utilizing interlibrary loan to satisfy the needs of our patrons, the Bekkum Memorial Public Library agrees to lend its materials to other libraries through the same interlibrary loan network, and to make an effort to have its current holdings listed in a tool that is accessible by other libraries throughout the state. IX. Circulation Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006
A. Registration 1. All borrowers must be registered and must have a valid local or system patron card to borrow library materials. 2. Patrons must fill out an application form to register for a new library card. The following statement will be printed on the registration form for the patron's information and acceptance: I agree to be responsible for all items borrowed with the library card issued in the above name, including items borrowed with it by others with or without my consent unless I have previously reported the loss of my card. I promise to comply with all library rules and policies both present and future, and to give prompt notice of change of address or loss of library card. Signature _________________________________ Identification is required. A driver's license or student ID is preferred; however, any other official ID or recent non-personal piece of mail may be acceptable. 3. Applicants under 13 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued. This parental signature is not required for children who are renewing cards. 4. Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued. 5.Bekkum Memorial Library cards may be issued to anyone living not in the State of Wisconsin. Out of state residents will only be able to use said library card to check out materials that are currently on the shelves of the Bekkum Memorial Library. B. Lost or Forgotten Cards 1. If a patron loses his/her library card, that patron should notify the library as soon as possible and request a replacement. 2. All patrons, adult and juvenile, are expected to bring their library cards with them if they intend to check out items. 3. Cost of a replacement card is $2.00.
C. Loan Periods 1. Loan periods are 3 weeks for books, audio books and compact discs. 2. Generally, reference books do not circulate. Upon request, some reference materials may be checked out overnight. 3. Interlibrary loan books are three weeks and videos are one week, unless the loaning library requests its return sooner. 4. Loan periods are 1 week for video materials and DVDs. 5. Books and video materials may be renewed once if there is not a waiting list. 6. Periodicals may be checked out for one week. The director may establish the loan period for special collections, materials which are temporarily in great demand, such as for student projects, or materials added to the collection which are in a new format, e.g., computer software. There is no limit on the number of items a patron can borrow at one time, with the exception that two items on a subject is the limit for a known school assignment. D. Reserves Reserves may be placed by patrons either in person, over the phone, or on the internet. Patrons will be notified when the materials are available. There is no charge to the patron for placing a reserve or for interlibrary loan services. Reserves will be held for seven days. E. Fines and Charges Fines for Bekkum Memorial library are as follows: All materials are subject to a .10 per day late fee. Fines will never exceed the cost of replacement and the $5.00 processing fee. F. Damaged Materials Materials returned damaged or in unusable condition, the patron must pay the replacement cost. If reparable, the patron will be assessed the cost of the repair. A notice of these charges will be sent to the borrower. Lack of payment will result in the loss of library privileges.
G. Lost Materials When materials are marked as lost, patrons will be billed for the replacement cost plus processing fee of lost materials. (Charge for lost materials will never exceed replacement cost plus processing fee.) The lost materials will become the property of the patron upon payment of bill. If the materials are found at a later date the library is under no obligation to refund the replacement costs back to the patron. Refusal of payment for lost materials or after 3 claimed returned items will mean the loss of library privileges. H. Confidentiality 1. As specified in Wisconsin Statutes 43.30, "records of any library which is in whole or in part supported by public funds, including the records of a public library system, indicating the identity of any individual who borrows or uses the library's documents or other materials, resources or services may not be disclosed except by court order or to persons acting within the scope of their duties in the administration of the library or library system, to persons authorized by the individual to inspect such records, or to libraries authorized under subs. (2) and (3)." 2. The Bekkum Memorial Library adheres strictly to all sections of this Statute regarding the protection of the confidentiality of its users. 3. Library staff is aware of the requirement specified in Wisconsin Statutes 43.30 to disclose to a custodial parent or guardian of a child under age 16 any records relating to that child’s use of the library’s materials, resources or services. This may include any records of library activities which are maintained by the library, but only records for the particular individual specified in the request. 4. If there is a concern about the identity of the person making a request for records of a child under the age of 16, the form “Custodial Parent/Guardian Certification” found in Appendix V shall be filled out and signed before records will be made available. 5. A custodial parent/guardian request will be acted upon as soon as practicable. 6. Library staff must refer all requests for library records and all requests for information about particular library users to the library director or the library director’s designee. Procedures for staff to follow in case of law enforcement visits are found in Appendix VI.
7. The Bekkum Memorial library staff will not discuss the reading habits or movie tastes of patrons; will not reveal who has been issued a library card; and will not share information about use of library resources and services by identified library patrons except as necessary for the performance of their job duties and in accordance with law and procedures approved by the library director and/or board. X. Reference Service Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 A. Bekkum Memorial Library staff will provide information in the form of short answers to specific questions and guidance in locating material for patrons who appear in person, call on the telephone, or request information through correspondence. B. Staff will assist patrons in the use of the Library and teach basic research methodology, when appropriate (this includes providing help in developing a research strategy and advice on whether a trip to the Library would be worthwhile for individuals who telephone). C. Staff will provide bibliographic verification of items both in the Library and not owned by the Library and will assist patrons in obtaining materials through interlibrary loan, when appropriate. D. Staff may refer library users to other agencies and libraries in pursuit of needed information. E. Staff may use not only the Library's resources in printed form, but consult appropriate digital resources as well as the regional resource library and other agencies by telephone in pursuit of "ready reference" information. XI. Programming Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 A. A "program" is a planned interaction between the library staff and the program participants for the purpose of promoting library materials, facilities, or services, as well as offering the community an informational, entertaining, or cultural experience. B. Programming includes but is not limited to such activities as storytimes, films, summer library program for children, speakers, and book or author discussion groups. C. The board, in conjunction with the library director, will establish a budget and goals for programming to facilitate the effective implementation of this service. XII. Public Relations Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006
A. Public relations goals of the Bekkum Memorial Library are: 1.To promote a good understanding of the Library's objectives and services among governing officials, civic leaders, and the general public; 2. To promote active participation in the varied services and activities offered by the library to people of all ages. B. The Board recognizes that public relations involves every person who has connection with the Library. The Board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that he or she represents the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.
C. The director will be expected to make presentations and to participate in community activities to promote library services. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for preparation and speaking. Materials to be used by press, radio, or television will be approved by the director. XIII. Displays and Exhibits Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 A. As an educational and cultural institution, the Bekkum Memorial Library welcomes exhibits and displays of interest, information and enlightenment to the community. Displays of handiwork, historical material, nature study, or any other material deemed of general interest may be exhibited. The director shall accept or reject material offered for display based on its suitability and availability. B. The Library assumes no responsibility for the preservation or protection, and no liability for possible damage or theft of any item displayed or exhibited. All items placed in the Library are there at the owner's risk. C. Areas available to the public for displays and exhibits are the glass exhibit case, the general bulletin board and top of magazine shelves. A release must be signed by the exhibitor before any artifact can be placed in the library. An example of the release follows: Bekkum Memorial Public Library Display and Exhibit Release I, the undersigned, hereby lend the following works of art or other material to the Bekkum Memorial Library for exhibit purposes only. In consideration of the privilege of exhibiting them in the Library, I hereby release said Library from responsibility for loss, damage, or destruction while they are in the possession of the Library. Exhibition to be held in the
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Signature__________________________________Date________________ XIV. Public Notice Bulletin Board Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 Bulletin board materials may be submitted for posting by nonprofit organizations for civic, educational, or cultural purposes. Such organizations may submit literature publicizing a specific event. Limited space generally allows only short-term notices. The director must approve all postings and may prohibit postings which do not meet library standards. Library staff will place and remove postings promptly. XV. Meeting Room (Story Room) Usage Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 A. Library Programming will have first priority in room use. B. The room is available to individuals or organized groups. C. 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 Board of Directors. D. The room may be reserved no more than 1 week in advance and use must take place during library hours. E. There will be no charge for use of the meeting room. F. No admission may be charged by the group or individual using the room. G. No refreshments may be served and no smoking is allowed. H. Only groups fewer than 12 people may use the meeting room. I. The people using the room shall leave it in neat, clean, and orderly condition. If not, the group/individual will be denied access to the meeting room in the future. J. The Library is not responsible for any equipment, supplies, materials, clothing or other items brought to the Library by any group or individual attending a meeting. K. The Library Board and staff do not assume any liability for groups or individuals attending a meeting in the Library. XVI. Equipment/ Material Use Policy Board Approved 1-31-2006 Amended May 27 2008 A. A computer is available to patrons on a first-come, first-served basis. In order to make the service available to as many patrons as possible, a time limit for usage has been imposed. Library staff is available for general assistance in using the computer, time allowing. However, staff is not expected to train patrons in the use of application programs. Tutorial manuals will be provided when available. B. A printer is available at a charge. Only paper from the library will be used. C. A photocopy machine is available to patrons to copy materials at a charge. Only paper from the library will be used. Copy machine users are advised that there are restrictions on copyrighted materials. Any violation of copyright is the responsibility of the copy machine user. D. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of equipment. E. Fax machine is for staff use only. F. The Library assumes no responsibility for damage or alleged damage to a borrower's tape player, CD player, VCR, DVD player, MP3 player, computer or car stereo system by library materials. XVII. Computer Use Policy Board Approved _3/28/2006 A. The Bekkum Memorial library is providing computers and access to the Internet as a means to enhance the information and learning opportunities for the Public. B. The Library Board, its staff, and volunteers have no control over the information on the Internet and are not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the internet. C. Computer and Internet use is offered in sessions on a first come-first serve basis. Exceptions may be made if deemed appropriate by the librarian. D. Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources is a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. Users will respect and uphold copyright laws and all other applicable laws and regulations. Users shall not distribute computer viruses or cause damage to computer equipment or programs. The user will be held responsible for their actions using the Internet. E. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet. F. Children that are under 10 years old must have a parent/guardian present during their child’s use of the Internet. G. Children under 10 may use the software installed on the computer without accessing the Internet under the librarian’s discretion. H. Users may not access pornographic materials on the internet. I. Absolutely no FOOD or DRINK while on a computer. J. There is a cost for printing. K. Patrons must sign in on computer use sheets and pay for any lost or damaged materials that are checked out on their card before being allowed to use a computer. M. Patrons must log-out when finished using the computer. XVIII. Disasters Policy Board Approved 3/28/2006 A. Fire 1. Activate fire alarms, located at the exit doors 2. Evacuate the building. 3. Investigate the situation, if fire can obviously be contained and extinguished quickly and safely by staff, proceed to do so. 4. Call 911 if there is any doubt about whether the fire can be controlled. 5. Staff needs to stay on scene and assist fire department as needed. B. Medical Emergencies 1. Evaluate the accident scene. 2. Call 911 if needed or requested to do so. 3. Keep the sick or injured patron comfortable and protected from needless disturbance until medical help can be obtained. 4. Assist emergency personnel by clearing away bystanders. 5. Do not touch any blood from injuries. Staff should provide band aids, cleaning supplies, and first aid materials as needed. 6. Any blood should be cleaned wearing gloves and with a peroxide solution. 7. Notify Westby City Hall personnel and defer incidents reports to them. 8. No medication, including aspirin, should ever be dispensed to the public C. Bomb Threats 1. If by phone, engage caller and write down exact statements. 2. Clear the building. 3. Try to engage assistance while on the phone, if possible have another person call 911. 4. Ask the caller for information. The location of the bomb? When is the bomb going to explode? What does it look like? What kind of bomb is it? What will cause it to explode? Why are you doing this? Who are you? Where are you calling from? 5. Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises such as motors running, background music and any other sounds which may indicate where the location from which the call is originating. 6. Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents and speech impediments. 7. Immediately after the caller hangs up, call the police on the other line (if not done before). Leave bomb threat line open. D. Fights/Altercations 1. Defuse situation if possible. 2. Call 911 for assistance. 3. Identify parties involved. 4. Notify director of incident in a timely manner. E. Threatening Persons 1. Evaluate the level of seriousness. 2. Call 911 for police. 3. Identify parties involved. 4. Assist police with directions or other information. 5. Notify director of incident in a timely manner.
F. Snow Storms 1. The Library will follow the recommendation and actions of the city between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. 2. Closing at other times: Person that is working will contact the Library Director for a decision about closing. If unable to reach library director, personnel will contact any other board member for a decision about closing. XIX Revision of Library Policies Board Approved 3/28/2006 The preceding statements of Bekkum Memorial Public Library's policies shall be subject to review and needed revision at least every five years by the Library Board. Individual policies will be reviewed or added as needed. Adopted: March 28 2006 |
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