Section 1: Access to Library Services

Section 1.1: Americans with Disabilities Act Policy

The Matteson Area Public Library District (MAPLD) complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, (the “ADA”) and the updates of 2011 and 2016, and offers alternative reasonable compliance to meet its requirements.  Accordingly, the Library will take appropriate steps to ensure that Library communications with applicants, participants, and members of the public with ADA disabilities are as effective as communications with others; make reasonable accommodations in Library policies, practices, and procedures when necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability unless a fundamental alteration in a Library program would result; and operate its services, programs and activities so that, when viewed in their entirety, they are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

The Library Director is the library’s ADA Compliance Officer.  The telephone number is: (708) 748-4431, Ext. 316.

Implementing this Policy is the responsibility of all library staff.

Method of Notification
A copy of this Policy shall be included with the Library’s other policies and shall also be posted on the Library’s main bulletin board and on the Library’s website.  Notices of the availability of the Library’s ADA services and of this Policy shall also be displayed at the front desk.

If a person with visual impairment or other disability inquiries about this Policy or about the Library’s ADA services, staff shall offer to read the policy and to provide appropriate ADA services.

Programming
All notices and advertising for Library-sponsored programming shall contain an appropriate ADA notice (such as the following):

Any person needing an accommodation for a disability in order to access the benefits of the Library’s services, programs or activities under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the programming staff.  Any person needing an accommodation for a disability in order to attend a meeting at the Library should contact the Matteson Area Public Library District by telephone at 708-748-4431, or in writing, not less than five (5) working days prior to the meeting.

Accommodations to Persons with a Disability
Forms for requesting ADA assistance and for complaints under the ADA are available at the front desk.  All Library staff is available to provide ADA assistance and to assist a patron in filling out the forms, if needed.

Staff will assist a patron with a disability in any reasonable way needed, including opening doors, carrying, retrieving library materials, completing library forms, etc.

Despite the Library’s best efforts, not all library materials may be available in accessible formats, not all areas of the Library are available to individuals with disabilities, and not every Library program, service and activity can be made accessible to every disabled person without fundamentally altering the nature of the service, activity or program.  However, the Library does make every reasonable effort to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities upon request.

Meeting Room Users
Groups using the meeting rooms and presenters are required to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The Library offers the facility as a service to community groups, but has no responsibility for content by the groups using the room.

Grievance Procedure
Persons who believe they have been discriminated against based on their disability should file a complaint with the Library Director.  An ADA complaint should be submitted to the Library Director in writing and should contain information about the alleged discrimination, including the name, address and telephone number of the individual filing the claim, and also the location, date and description of the problem.  The ADA complaint should be submitted to the Library Director as soon as possible, but not later than 60 calendar days after the alleged ADA violation.

ADA complaints will be brought to the attention of the Library Board before its next regular meeting following receipt of a completed complaint form.

Within 15 calendar days after receipt of the complaint, the Library Director or designee will meet with the individual to discuss the complaint and possible resolutions; and within 15 days after such meeting, the Library Director or designee will respond in writing, and where appropriate, in a format accessible to the individual., The response will explain the position of the Library and offer options for possible resolution of the complaint.

If the response of the Library Director or designee does not satisfactorily resolve the problem, the individual may appeal the decision to the Board of Library Trustees within 15 calendar days after the individual’s receipt of the response.  Within 15 calendar days after receipt of the appeal, the Library Trustees, the Library Director or designee will meet with the individual to discuss the problem and possible resolutions, and within 15 days after the meeting will respond in writing (and, where appropriate, in a format accessible to the complainant), with a possible final resolution of the problem.

Individuals may also file an administrative complaint with the U.S. Equal Opportunities Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of the date of the alleged discrimination, or may file a lawsuit for injunctive relief and damages.

Any or all of these methods may be pursued at the same time.

Individuals are protected from retaliation or coercion when pursuing their rights or responsibilities under the ADA.

For further information
In accordance with Section 35.106 of the ADA’s Title II Regulations, all applicants, participants, beneficiaries, and other interested persons are advised that further information may be obtained from the Library Director and also from the Office on the Americans with Disabilities Act, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, DC 20035-6118.  Telephone: (202) 514-0301 (Voice) or (202) 514-0381 (TDD).

Approved on: August 12, 2013

Revised on: 3/14/16 & 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.2: Confidentiality of Library Records Policy

It is the policy of the Matteson Area Public Library District in accordance with the Illinois Library Records Confidentiality Act (75 ILCS 70/1, et seq.) that all registration and circulation records of library patrons as well as other records identifying the names of library users are confidential.  This policy is adopted to protect the right to privacy of each patron and user.  A copy of the Act is attached hereto as Exhibit A.

The Library will only make the foregoing library records available to an agency of federal, state or local government if:

1)a subpoena, warrant, court order or other investigatory document is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction that shows good cause and is in proper form; or

2)(a)  if a sworn law enforcement officer states there is probable cause to believe there is imminent danger that someone will be physically harmed and that it is impractical to secure a court order as a result of an emergency;

(b)  the sworn officer making such a claim completes and signs a form (attached hereto as Exhibit B) acknowledging declaration of said emergency and acknowledging receipt of the information requested from the Library; and

(c)  the information released under signature of a sworn law enforcement officer will be limited to identifying a suspect, witness, or victim of a crime and will not include disclosure of registration or circulation records that indicate materials borrowed, resources reviewed or services used at the Library.

In the event that a request or demand for registration, circulation or other records is made to the Library, the request or demand and/or the person so requesting or demanding will be immediately referred to the Library Director or Manager in Charge.

The Library Director or Manager in Charge will consult with the Library’s legal counsel to ensure compliance with the Library Records Confidentiality Act and determine the proper response.

It must be further noted that Section 21.5 of the U.S.A. PATRIOT ACT provides federal law enforcement officers with the ability to obtain a search warrant to gain access to certain library records on the basis that the officer believes that the records sought may be related to an ongoing investigation related to terrorism or intelligence activities.

The U.S.A. PATRIOT ACT prohibits libraries or librarians served with a search warrant under FISA (Foreign Intelligence Source Act) rules from disclosing the existence of the warrant or the fact that records were produced as a result of the warrant, under penalty of law.  In other words, a patron cannot be informed that his/her records were given to a federal agent or that the patron is the subject of any federal investigation.

The Matteson Area Public Library District only retains records that are essential to conducting its business and those records are only retained as long as necessary to complete that business.  The Matteson Area Public Library District does not maintain historical records of completed transactions.

The Matteson Area Public Library District may give current information regarding materials borrowed or overdue to the borrower when requested by said individual in person.

The Matteson Area Public Library District may also give current information regarding materials borrowed or overdue to the legal guardian who was the signatory on the membership record. Overdue notices regarding material borrowed by a minor child age 17 or under will be mailed to the signatory’s address.

Approved on: August 12, 2013

Reviewed on: 4/13/2021

 

Library Records Confidentiality Act

(75 ILCS 70/1, et seq.)

Sec. 1.

(a) The registration and circulation records of a library are confidential information.  No person shall publish or make any information contained in such records available to the public unless:

(1) required to do so under a court order; or

(2) the information is requested by a sworn law enforcement officer who represents that it is impractical to secure a court order as a result of an emergency where the law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe that there is an imminent danger of physical harm.  The information requested must be limited to identifying a suspect, witness, or victim of a crime.  The information requested without a court order may not include the disclosure of registration or circulation records that would indicate materials borrowed, resources reviewed, or services used at the library.  If requested to do so by the library, the requesting law enforcement officer must sign a form acknowledging the receipt of the information.  A library providing the information may seek subsequent judicial review to assess compliance with this Section.

This subsection shall not alter any right to challenge the use or dissemination of patron information that is otherwise permitted by law.

(b)  This Section does not prevent a library from publishing or making available to the public reasonable statistical reports regarding library registration and book circulation where those reports are presented so that no individual is identified therein.

(b-5) Nothing in this Section shall be construed as a privacy violation or a breach of confidentiality if a library provides information to a law enforcement officer under item (2) of subsection (a).

(c)  For the purpose of this Section, (i) “library” means any public library or library of an educational, historical or eleemosynary institution, organization or society; (ii) “registration records” includes any information a library requires a person to provide in order for that person to become eligible to borrow books and other materials and (iii) “circulation records” includes all information identifying the individual borrowing particular books or materials.

(Source: P.A. 95 40, eff. 1 1 08.)

Exhibit A

 Officer’s Request for Confidential Library Information

Officer’s Request for Confidential Library Information Form

Exhibit B

Section 1.3:  Public Participation in Library Decision Making Policy

The MAPLD shall provide a variety of mechanisms for members of the public to present their questions and concerns about its programs, services, and other library-related matters.  Residents and others who have an interest in the library are welcome at any open meeting of the Library Board either as observers or to present information and concerns to the Board in accordance with the MAPLD Board’s Public Forum Policy which provides as follows: (Per Board request remove italics. Please change to regular font)

The Board of Library Trustees of the MAPLD encourages and welcomes public participation and input, and will hear any interested individual pursuant to the guidelines outlined in this policy.  The purpose of this policy is to ensure that interested individuals are allowed time to address the Board while permitting the Board to conduct its meeting in an efficient and effective manner.

Therefore, at the beginning of each regular meeting, a period of time not to exceed 15 minutes will be devoted to concerns presented by the public.  Before appearing before the Board, the members of the public are urged to seek solutions to their concerns through administrative channels.  If there are no members of the public wishing to address the Board, the Board may continue with its meeting.

The following rules shall govern speakers who address the Board:

  1. Members of the public wishing to speak are asked to sign up with the Library Director or Board President before the Board Meeting and provide their name, and topic on which they wish to speak. If applicable, the individual will provide the organization or association with which they are affiliated.  NOTE: Members of the public will not be allowed to discuss individual personnel issues or confidential patron matters, and the speakers’ concerns or comments should be limited to Library business.  No public comments shall be heard on behalf of or opposed to a candidate for public office, or on any matter that may be subject to discussion by the Board of Library Trustees in closed/executive session in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.
  2. Public participation and comment will be permitted during the “Public Comment” portion of the Agenda.
  3. The Board President or person presiding over the meeting will ask if anyone wishes to address the Board and will determine the order in which the speakers are recognized.
  4. The time allowed for each person to speak will be three (3) minutes. Speakers are asked to strictly adhere to time allocated and to be brief and to the point.
  5. Speakers must identify themselves, topic(s) and group affiliation, if any, before speaking.
  6. Speakers may provide written copies of their concern to the Board. Requests to append written statements or correspondence to the meeting minutes will not be favored as meeting minutes are a summary of the Board’s discussion and actions.  Written materials presented to the Board will be included in the Board’s files, but will not be attached to the meeting minutes.
  7. Groups are asked to designate a single spokesperson.
  8. Board members will generally not respond to comments from speakers. The Board President or other presiding officer may respond as appropriate and, for example, direct speakers to the appropriate staff member for assistance.  Issues requiring possible action by the Board may be added to a future agenda.  Issues that may need to be addressed by the administration will be duly noted.
  9. Abusive, profane, frivolous, harassing and/or repetitive comments and/or personal attacks will not be permitted and shall promptly be ruled out of order by the President or other presiding officer.
  10. Individuals addressing the Board must at all times adhere to the Library policies and other rules as may be necessary for the efficient and orderly conduct of the meeting.
  11. The public comment time limit and/or maximum time limit per speaker may be extended upon a majority vote of the Board.

The Board vests in the Board President or presiding officer, the authority to terminate the remarks of speakers who fail to adhere to the above rules.

All public comment shall be addressed to the Board as a whole and no comments shall be addressed to an individual member of the Board, Library staff or other members of the public.

There shall be no debate on any matters raised during public comment.  The Board may, however, refer any matter of public comment to the Library Director, Library staff, an appropriate agency for review, or may place the matter on a subsequent agenda for discussion.

No final action may be taken on any public comment or concern which requires a resolution, or written contract, or which has the effect of approving any expenditure of funds.  The Board may, however, direct that any matter raised on these subjects be set for a future agenda, including the preparation of resolutions or other documents for consideration at such time.

In addition to attending Board meetings, telephone calls, letters, and visits to the Library Director are encouraged, and the Director maintains an open-door policy.  Appointments to meet with the Director are encouraged, but not required.  The Library Director, or appropriate staff, will respond to letters and telephone calls within five workdays.  Comments placed in the Library’s suggestion box will receive a personal response, if desired and contact information was included.  Responses to questions and comments of general interest may also be addressed in the Library newsletter.

Approved on: August 12, 2013_

Reviewed on: 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.4:  Hours of Operation Policy

The MAPLD will be open 68 hours each week from the day after Labor Day in September until Memorial Day weekend in May.  The Library is closed on Sundays during the summer months. The Library Director, with the approval of the Board of Trustees, will determine the days and daily hours of operation.  Regular and holiday schedules for the calendar year will be posted on the public Bulletin Board and on the Library’s Web site.

 However, library hours could change dependent upon external factors outside the control of library administration.

The Library will close on the holidays approved by the Board of Trustees and at other times deemed necessary by the Library Director with the approval of the Board of Trustees.  Except in the case of emergencies, notice of closings will be posted in the Library, and on the Web site, two weeks in advance.

Regularly scheduled hours of operation will be established to best meet the needs of Library users and will be evaluated by survey and/or public input on a regular basis.

Approved on: September 10, 2012_

Reviewed on: 8/12/13 & 3/14/16

Revised on: 4/13/2021

 

1.5: Electronic Information Network and Computer Systems Use Policy

1.5:1  General Policy

The MAPLD endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that meet the cultural, informational, recreational, and educational needs of the Library’s patrons.  It is within this context that the Library provides access to electronic information, including the Internet and other electronic media.  Access to electronic information networks is intended primarily for use as an information resource tool.  Providing access to electronic information networks is consistent with the Library’s collection development policy and mission statement.

Holders of a current, valid MAPLD card, and authorized guests are entitled to use the Library’s computers.  Parents and/or guardians of minor children may request that their child be prevented from using their Library card to access the Library’s Internet-connected computers, by notifying Library staff and signing a form provided by the Library that delineates this decision.  Use of another person’s Library card for Internet access is not permitted and may result in loss of Internet privileges for the cardholder as well as for the unauthorized person.

1.5:2  Patron Rights, Responsibilities, and Risks

Electronic information networks, including the Internet, are dynamic, global resources that provide access to a wide variety of information.  The MAPLD does not have control over these resources and is not responsible for the content, availability, reliability, currency, accuracy or appropriateness of information accessed via their use.  Patrons use these resources at their own discretion, and the Library is not responsible for any damages, indirect or direct, including but not limited to loss of data or any violation of privacy, arising from a Library patron’s use of electronic information resources.    Patrons using electronic information networks agree that the Library may need to monitor computer use from time to time as an operational necessity.  Furthermore, the Library may be required to disclose any information if directed to do so by a court of competent jurisdiction.  The Library extends the protections of applicable confidentiality laws to all records of Internet activity maintained on Library equipment.  The Library reserves the authority to reasonably regulate these resources to ensure the proper and efficient operation of the Library.

Patrons have certain rights with respect to the use of Library resources, including electronic information networks such as the Internet.  Patrons have the right to equitable access and the right to confidentiality and privacy in the use of electronic information resources to the extent possible given certain constraints, such as proximity of other patrons and staff in public access settings.  Patrons also have the right to access and read all Library service policies, and discuss questions with the appropriate Library staff.  This policy is part of the Library’s overall policy structure and should be interpreted in conjunction with other existing policies.  Copies of all Library policies are available upon request.

The MAPLD recognizes that the Internet contains material that is inappropriate for children and that may be objectionable to some adults.  The Library also recognizes that it is a parent’s or guardian’s responsibility and right to guide his/her child’s Library use.  Parents or guardian, not the Library or its staff, are responsible for information selected and/or accessed by their children.  The Library encourages parents and guardians to monitor and supervise their children’s network use.

1.5:3  Rules and Guidelines for Use

The staff of the MAPLD shall develop such rules and procedures as it deems necessary to ensure fair and reasonable use of the Library’s electronic information network resources.  A separate document, “Rules and Procedure for Electronic Information Networks and Computer Systems” details these procedures.  Library staff is responsible for periodically reviewing and updating the document as necessary.  Any changes must be approved at the next meeting of the Library Board.

The MAPLD requires that patrons using electronic information networks accept “The Statement of Acceptable Use of Electronic Information Networks” displayed on the open screen at the start of each computer session.  Failure to use electronic resources within the guidelines of acceptable use may result in suspension of access privileges, and/or loss of Library privileges.  Library staff is responsible for periodically reviewing and updating the statement as necessary.  Any changes must be approved at the next meeting of the Library Board.

The Library Director shall also create and enforce guidelines for acceptable staff use of Library computers.  These guidelines are subject to periodic review by the Board.

1.5:4 Guidelines for Use by Minor Children

The Matteson Area Public Library District recognizes that electronic information networks such as the Internet may contain material that is inappropriate for children.  The Library does not serve (in place of parents).  Parent/guardians, not the library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected or accessed by their children.  The Library will block a child’s Library card from being able to access the Library’s Internet computers if requested by a parent or guardian, but the Library is not responsible for children with blocked cards that utilize the library’s Internet connected computers as a guest or who access the Library’s wireless Internet.  Parents are expected to monitor, supervise, and guide their children’s use of the Internet.

Rules and Procedures for Electronic Information Network & Computer Systems Use

The following rules and procedures apply to everyone using the Library.  They have been developed to implement the policy of the Board of Library Trustees entitled Electronic Information Networks and Computer Systems Use Policy.

  • In order to give assurance of privacy, access to the browser’s history files is disabled.
  • A copy of the “Statement of Acceptable Use for Electronic Information Networks” is displayed at the start of each computer session.

Statement of Acceptable Use for Electronic Information Networks

The MAPLD provides access to electronic information networks, including the Internet, primarily for use as an information resource tool.  All electronic traffic originating from Library connections shall be in accordance with the following Acceptable Use Guidelines.  Failure to use electronic resources within the guidelines of acceptable use may result in suspension of access privileges, and/or loss of Library privileges.

ACCEPTABLE USE GUIDELINES

  1. Users are expected to follow all federal, state, and municipal laws in their use of electronic information networks.
  • Users may not use the networks for any illegal activity. Users may not place any material on the Internet related to any illegal activity or constituting or encouraging conduct that would constitute a criminal offense or give rise to civil liability.
  • Users may not use the networks to access child pornography or material that is obscene as defined by law.
  • Users may not use the electronic information networks in any way, which violates licensing agreements between the MAPLD and network/database providers.
  • Users may not violate software license agreements or engage in unauthorized duplication of copy protected software.
  • Users are responsible to respect copyright laws and owners’ right to private information and resources.

Illegal acts involving the Library’s network connections may be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

  1. Users are expected to utilize the Library’s electronic information networks properly. Users may not use the networks for any purpose that results in interference with or disruption of network users, services, or equipment.  Interference includes but is not limited to:
  • Distribution of unsolicited advertising.
  • Propagation of computer worms, viruses or other harmful components.
  • Using the network to make unauthorized entry to any other machine accessible via the network.
  • Destruction of, damage to, or unauthorized alteration of the Library’s computer equipment, software, or network security procedures.

Users may not install software or download any files onto the hard drives of the network computers.  All downloaded files must be saved to removable storage devices. Users will be held responsible for any damage to Library software or hardware.  The Library cannot ensure the security of account or credit card numbers entered using the network.  Users are responsible to assume payment of fees for any fee-based services they incur.

  1. Users are expected to follow Library rules of conduct while using the Library’s electronic information networks. Users may not use the networks for any purpose that results in harassment or intimidation of others, or in any manner that disrupts or significantly hampers its use or the use of the Library by others.  Unacceptable use includes but is not limited to:
  • Use or dissemination of information in a manner which violates the legal rights of others.
  • Violation of the privacy of another user or Library patron.
  • Overuse of computer equipment which denies access to other users

Approved on: August 12, 2013 ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

Revised on: 2/13/18

Reviewed on: 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.6:  Library Programs Policy

The MAPLD supports its mission of connecting people with the world of ideas and information by developing and presenting classes and programs that provide opportunities for information, learning, and entertainment.  Educational classes and enriching experiences are scheduled throughout the year as interest warrants.

These classes and programs for all ages are an extension of the services and projects provided by the MAPLD.  They are defined as a planned activity or event that may be developed and presented by Library staff, Independent contractors, or cosponsored by other community organizations.  All Library programs are open to the public without charge unless the presenter provides supplies for participants that require a cost recovery fee.

In addition to utilizing staff expertise, collections, services and facilities in developing and delivering programming; the Library contracts with professional instructors, performers and presenters who have a specialized or unique expertise.  Staff members who present programs do so as part of their regular job and are not hired as outside contractors for programming.

Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute MAPLD endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants, and program topics, speakers and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy.

Library programs are generally open to anyone wishing to attend.  If space restrictions or program requirements limit the number of people who may attend, preference will be given to residents of MAPLD.  Persons attending Library sponsored or cosponsored programs are expected to adhere to the Library’s policies on patron conduct.

Presenters may not directly solicit business before, during, or following a program, although cards and brochures may be left on the display table for attendees to pick up.  Any sale of products at Library programs must be approved by the Library Director and benefit the Library.  Programs are not to be presented for commercial, religious, or partisan purposes or the solicitation of business.

By separate action, and reaffirmed herein, the MAPLD has endorsed the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and its interpretation, “Library-Initiated Programs as a Resource.”

Approved on: March 14, 2016

Reviewed on: 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.7:  Emergency Closings Policy

Matteson Area Public Library District may temporarily close or limit services because of a public health emergency such as an epidemic/pandemic in the event that any of the following occur:
A. mandate, order, or recommendation for closure is issued by Cook County Health Department, Illinois State Department of Health or other local, state or federal government officials.
B. If a Library employee has been diagnosed with the disease, MAPLD will temporarily close to reassess the situation.
C. At the direction of the Library Board of Trustees
D. At the discretion of the Library Director and Board President

In addition, Matteson Area Public Library may temporarily close, reduce its operating hours, or limit services in the event that there is insufficient staff to maintain basic service levels or to reduce the possible spread of the contagion. In the event of closure, any overdue fines or fees may be suspended. The exterior book drop may be closed, or it may be kept open and cleared periodically, depending on guidance from experts and health officials.

Types of Library Closures:

  • Complete Closure: no staff in the building at any time.
  • Library Closure with Essential Services Only: exempt and other essential library employees may be required to work either from home or on site during closures to perform necessary duties, such as payroll, bill paying, building maintenance, emptying book drops, etc.
  • Library Closure with Reduced Services – staff may:
    • be allowed to work inside the building, although the building is closed to the public
    • be assigned to provide services to patrons in newly determined ways
    • be assigned to clean the building

Approved on: September 10, 2012_

Revised on: 8/12/13 & 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.8:  Evacuation of Building Policy

The following emergencies require evacuation of the building:

  • Fire or smoke visible in the building
  • Power loss for more than 60 minutes, unless conditions outside (i.e. storms) make evacuation a more dangerous prospect than allowing patron to remain inside. In such cases, patrons are required to move to the basement
  • Bomb or terrorism threat

If evacuation is necessary, the highest priority is making sure that all patrons are evacuated as quickly as possible while maintaining calm.  Staff should quietly request that patrons leave the building immediately, taking their personal belongings with them.  In an emergency, time is of the essence.

If evacuating for events such as fire/smoke, or bomb threat, staff should lead patrons to the emergency staging areas on the NE and SW corners of the Library property.

Before leaving the building, working together staff must check to be sure all patrons are gone, including checking the restrooms.  Then staff should exit as quickly as possible through the nearest exits.  Get everyone out of the building and then call 911.

Power loss for more than sixty minutes may constitute reason to close the Library, at the discretion of the Library Director, or the Manager on Duty.  If the power goes off and has not come back on within an hour, and if the power company has no reasonable time for return of power, inform patrons that the Library is closing due to a power failure, and follow regular closing procedures.  Before closing, make sure all lights and machinery are switched off.  The Director should be notified in the event of a closing. In addition to the Director notify the Board President or another Board Member if the President is not available. If conditions outside make evacuation dangerous, then the staff will move patrons to the basement.

If a staff member receives a bomb or terrorism threat, he/she should immediately notify the Library Director, or the supervisor in charge.  Then, notify patrons and other staff that the facility is being evacuated.  Patrons and staff should leave the building by its regular exits as quickly as possible.  It is up to the manager on duty to ensure that the building is evacuated.  Notify the police of the threat and wait outside at the emergency staging areas at the NE and SW corners of the Library property, for the police to arrive and search the building.

Approved on: September 10, 2012

Revised on: 8/12/13, 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.9: Homebound Services Policy

Homebound services is a way to provide materials and/or information to individuals in our taxing district who cannot physically access the Library due to physical disability, extended illness, pregnancy, parents of a new born child, or extreme transportation problems.

To qualify for Homebound Services:

  • Applicant must reside within the Library’s District
  • Applicant must be a registered borrower
  • Delivery is limited to Monday-Friday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at a mutually agreed time

Note:  Verification of eligibility may be requested from the patron, and may include a physician’s statement, or a recommendation from a social worker, nursing home official, or retirement center administrator.

Services available include:

  • Free photocopies, maximum 5 sheets per request
  • Reference service by telephone, email, or mobile phone apps
  • Interlibrary loan, although there may be a fee assessed by the loaning library
  • Fax service charged at $1.00 per page
  • Talking Book Service for Blind and Physically Handicapped
  • Materials loaned i.e. books, magazines, audio books, music, or DVDs

Length of loan is two weeks (not including delivery and pick-up time).  There is no charge for delivery and pickup.

Patron is responsible for lost and damaged materials. Any overdue fines or fees are only assessed when the delay was the result of the patron, and not due to the Library’s lapse time in picking up materials.

Visits will not be made or Library materials personally delivered to any patron who for any reason, as determined by the Library staff, poses a substantial risk to the health and well-being of Library staff and other patrons.  Every reasonable attempt will be made by the Library to accommodate the library needs of such patron in a way to avoid personal contact.  If a patron is required to be quarantined due to contagious illness, personal delivery of Library materials will resume upon receipt of a physician’s written assurance that quarantine is no longer necessary.

Approved: 9/10/12

Revision Date: 8/12/13, & 4/13/2021

 

Section 1.10:  Suspension of Borrowing Privileges Policy

The borrowing privileges of a Library patron may be suspended for such time as the patron is indebted to the Library for $5.00 or more as a result of damage to Library property or for the failure to timely return any book, material or other personal property belonging to or in the custody of the Library.

When a MAPLD cardholder is delinquent beyond $50.00, all cards for which patron has signed a statement of responsibility, may be frozen until such time as the delinquencies are completely cleared

Approved: September 10, 2012

Revised: 2/13/18 & 4/13/2021