Library Policies
Jefferson Township Public Library Policy Manual
1 AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
5 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN LIBRARY DECISION MAKING
8 CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY PATRON RECORDS
10 FINES AND RECOVERY OF OVERDUE MATERIALS
13 RECIPROCAL BORROWING PRIVILEGES
16 LINKING TO EXTERNAL RESOURCES
17 MATERIALS IN LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH
18 REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
20 REFERENCE AND INFORMATION SERVICES
29 DISTRIBUTION OF FREE MATERIALS
33 UNATTENDED CHILDREN/CHILD SAFETY
1 AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The Jefferson Township Public Library strives to provide equal access equal access to employment opportunities and to all library facilities, activities, and programs in adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The Jefferson Township Public Library does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its library programs or services. The library will take appropriate steps to ensure that communications with job applicants, library patrons, and members of the public with disabilities are as effective as communications with others. The library welcomes input from persons with disabilities about ways the library can more completely serve them, and every effort will be made to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. Individuals with service animals are welcome in areas where pets or animals are not normally permitted. Library materials are provided in various formats and, to the extent possible, equipment and visual aids are provided to assist in using library resources. Questions about ADA compliance and complaints or suggestions about accessibility of library facilities, activities, and programs should be addressed to the library director.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library will be open a minimum of 70 hours each week. The library director, with the approval of the Trustees of the library, will determine the days and daily hours of operation. Regular and holiday schedules for the calendar year will be posted on the library’s Web site. The library will close on the holidays approved by the Trustees of the library. In emergency situations, such as inclement weather, the Library Director may close the library, on the approval of the President of the Trustees of the Library. Except in the case of emergencies, notice of closings will be posted in the library two weeks in advance and will be reported to the local news media.
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The Internet is a valuable tool available for providing library services. The Jefferson Township Public Library provides access to the Internet through individual staff accounts 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 information sources (i.e. blogs, podcasts). 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. Staff Internet accounts are the property of the Library, and are not to be considered the private property of library staff. Staff Internet accounts may not ever be used for illegal or commercial purposes. Personal use of the Internet should not be conducted on staff time and personal files should not be maintained on the library computers. As part of the library’s mission of providing access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, the Jefferson Township Public Library provides patrons with access to the Internet. Patrons may also access the Internet via personal laptops using the library’s wireless connection. Information exchanged electronically should not be considered secure. Parents are responsible for monitoring their children’s use of library computers and the Internet.
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Programs are an extension of the services provided by the Jefferson Township Public Library and are offered for citizens of all ages. Programs are defined as a planned activity or event that may be developed and presented by library staff or may be cosponsored by the library and other community organizations. Library programs are open to the public without charge. Library staff will present preschool story time programs on a regular schedule throughout the year. Other programs for children and young adults will be planned during school holidays and summer vacations. Each year the library director will establish a budget for hiring performers and purchasing materials to support children’s programming. Programs for adults may be scheduled throughout the year as interest warrants. Speakers from community groups and businesses may be invited to present programs on topics of general interest or of a timely nature. Presenters may solicit business before, during, or following a program only with the permission of the Library Director or the librarian administering the program. Cards and brochures may be left on the display table for attendees to pick up. No fees may be charged to attend any library sponsored or cosponsored program. 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 Jefferson Township. Persons attending library sponsored or cosponsored programs are expected to adhere to the library’s policies on patron conduct.
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5 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN LIBRARY DECISION MAKING
The Jefferson Township Public Library 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 Trustees either as observers or to present information and concerns to the board. Library Trustee meetings will be held in compliance with state laws governing meetings of public bodies. Any member of the public who wishes to speak to the Trustees will be asked to identify themselves, indicate group affiliation if speaking on behalf of anyone other than self, and to limit comments and general information to five minutes. Library administration and the Trustees welcome written documentation to support or restate information and concerns, but written documents are not required. Any group or individual wishing to place a library-related item on the official agenda for action should contact the library director one week in advance. When public information gathering forums are planned, care will be taken to schedule forums at times that are convenient to potential participants. If necessary, several forums may be scheduled to allow maximum input into library service decisions. 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. Responses to questions and comments of general interest may also be addressed in the library newsletter.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides a variety of computers for public use. Online library catalog computers access the library’s holdings and provide access to other resources, including the Internet. Computers and software programs are provided to permit patrons to do research, communicate, access printed, audio and video information, test new computer programs, and enhance self-learning. Software is purchased according to the collection development policy to support specific areas of library service. Recommendations for additional software purchases are welcome and will be handled according to the collection development policy. Library staff can provide basic training on select computer technology or software; online tutorials and self-instructional videos or DVDs may be available for some software programs. Periodically, the library will provide free public training for software and computers. The library will promote those classes, when available. Users agree to observe all copyright and licensing laws and will not duplicate any computer programs or documentation unless expressly labeled as being “in the public domain” or “shareware.” No software may be loaded on library computers without permission from the library director. No private files may be stored on the library computer(s) without permission of the library director, and any files left on the computers will be deleted. The Library has installed software on all public computers that will, upon the restarting of the computer, will return the computer to its original starting state. The continual return of the computer to its starting state removes all software and records of computer use that are not part of the original starting state. Users will supply their own recording media (diskettes or portable storage devices) when needed, but must check to ensure that the computer being used can support the desired storage media. The library will strive to prevent the storage and transmittal of users’ identification and records of their usage of public computers. However, given the complexity of technology and the uncontrolled nature of the internet, the Library cannot guarantee the security of users’ identity and records of their usage. The library computers are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations are required. It is expected that if people are waiting to use computers, computer use by users will be limited to 30 minutes. Users printing information from computers are expected to pay the library .10 cents for each page that they print. The library uses an “honor” system to recover the cost of printing information from the computer. When using a library computer, children under the age of 12, must be supervised by an adult.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library has established policies that facilitate the borrowing of library materials for use outside of the library building. A patron must be a registered patron of the Jefferson Township Public Library, or a registered patron of another Morris Automated Information Network (M.A.I.N), or a registered patron of a public library with whom the Jefferson Township Public library has an open borrowing agreement. The person presenting the card is assumed to have the authority to use that card unless it has been reported lost or stolen. . Library materials will be loaned to anyone holding a valid library card, from the Jefferson Township Public Library, another M.A.I.N Library, or a library with whom the Jefferson Township Public Library has an open borrowing agreement, for the loan period established by The Jefferson Township Public Library. Materials that are not returned by the due date will be subject to fines, as established by the schedule approved by the Jefferson Township Public Library. Borrowing privileges will be revoked by the library director or his or her designee if the circulation policy is abused. Abuse of the circulation policy includes failure to return materials on time, failure to pay fines that exceed the threshold established by the Jefferson Township Public Library, or intentionally damaging materials. Disputed claims, such as materials that are claimed returned but have not cleared from the patron record or items that a patron claims not to have borrowed, will be accepted and removed from the patron record no more than twice a year. Fines and records of overdue materials are maintained for a minimum of three years and are subject to the library’s policy on “Fees and Recovery of Overdue Materials.”
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8 CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY PATRON RECORDS
The policy of the Jefferson Township Public Library is to preserve the privacy of its patrons’ circulation, borrower registration, and usage records and to treat them with confidentiality. These records include, but are not limited to, patron registration data, circulation records, overdue and reserve records, participation in library sponsored programs, record library visits, and/or any data that contain information that links a specific patron to specific materials or services used. Each patron has individual control over his or her borrower’s card, and presentation of the card permits access to information about the borrower’s current circulation record. Except during the actual period of transaction (circulation, maintenance of record on unpaid fines, reservation of materials), the library administration purposes, records will be expunged when the information is no longer needed or upon expiration of any records retention requirements. The library has no control over any data that a library computer user sends to another computer server during an Internet session. Transactions are erased regularly; however, data can remain on the hard drive and confidentiality of this data cannot be assured. In compliance with New Jersey Statute 18A:73-43.1, no information will be released to any person, agency, or organization, except in response to a valid court order or subpoena, properly presented to the library administrator. Nothing in this policy shall prevent authorized library personnel from using library records in the administration of their regular duties. Staff will not disclose personal information we collect from you to any other party except where required by law or to fulfill your service request. Library resources and services may not be used to conduct illegal activities. Nothing in this policy prevents the library from exercising its right to enforce the approved rules of behavior, to protect its facilities, computer network, and equipment from harm, or to prevent the use of library facilities and equipment for illegal purposes. Any employee or volunteer who discloses information in violation of this policy commits an offense and is subject to disciplinary action and may be subject to criminal prosecution.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library has as its mission the provision of free and unlimited access to library service and information. All services are paid for by local taxpayers, supplemented by funds from donations and trusts. It is expected that the library budget will fully fund all services and materials. No services will be offered that cannot be fully supported by the budget.
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10 FINES AND RECOVERY OF OVERDUE MATERIALS
Library materials are purchased for use by all citizens of Jefferson Township. The Jefferson Township Public Library establishes regulations for the loan of materials, including circulation periods, renewal processes, and fines for late return. The Trustees of the Jefferson Township Public Library believe that the individual who chooses to keep materials past the due date, or who refuses to settle unpaid fine or fees, compromises to some extent his or her right to privacy. The library will attempt to recover overdue materials and will notify patrons of unpaid fines and fees according to procedures established by the Trustees of the Jefferson Township Public Library.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library participates in the national interlibrary program that permits the library to borrow materials for its patrons from other libraries.. Materials will be requested for patrons who do not hold a current library card, but use will be limited to in-house. Books and photocopies of articles from periodicals not owned by Jefferson Township Public Library, or that are otherwise unavailable, may be requested for loan through interlibrary loan. Requests for periodical articles, including newspapers and reports, will be checked against the library’s electronic databases before the request is forwarded to ensure that the requested information is not available. Audio and film recordings, microfilm, and genealogy materials may be requested but are often difficult to obtain. The Jefferson Township Public Library does not charge for interlibrary loan service; however, the patron is responsible for charges or fines imposed by the lending library. Every attempt will be made to borrow items from libraries that do not charge fees for loaning materials. If a patron does not wish to borrow an item if charges are imposed (such as insurance fees, lending fees, photocopying charges), this must be stipulated when the request is made. Fines for overdue materials and processing costs for lost items will vary with the lending library and are the responsibility of the patron. The library may restrict the number of items requested by an individual patron or “meter” the number of items referred through interlibrary loan when necessary to ensure fair, equitable, and timely service within the constraints of budget and staffing. This action will be taken only in consultation with the patron, and alternative sources for service will be suggested. Requests that staff determine may violate copyright laws will not be accepted. Photocopies received through interlibrary loan will be stamped with a notice of copyright.
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It is the intent of the Jefferson Township Public Library to comply with Title 17 of the United States code, titled “Copyrights,” and other federal legislation related to the duplication, retention, and use of copyrighted materials.. Library staff will refuse to duplicate any materials if doing so would violate copyright and will, when asked, inform patrons if materials being borrowed are subject to copyright restrictions (see also, “Interlibrary Loan”), and staff will refuse any request that would violate copyright regulations. Policies and procedures for use of the library’s meeting room will include provisions related to use of copyright protected materials. The library does not purchase audiovisual materials with public performance rights, and DVDs, videos, downloadable video, and other films are loaned for personal and home use only. The library has purchased a public performance license that covers material from specific producers in order to show films in the library meeting rooms. Library staff will follow copyright law in selecting and using materials for public performance at programs. Organizations using the library’s meeting rooms are also covered by the license and must follow copyright laws. Original or copyright-free art will be used to produce library publicity items or for creating displays and decorations.
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13 RECIPROCAL BORROWING PRIVILEGES
Recognizing that no library collection can meet all of the informational, recreational, or educational needs of members of its community, the Jefferson Township Public Library enters into agreements with other libraries to expand the range of materials available to our citizens. Reciprocal borrowing privileges may be extended to patrons of any library that extends privileges to residents of Jefferson Township. Reciprocal borrowing agreements must be approved by the Trustees of the Jefferson Township Public Library. Residents of Jefferson Township may request a current list of libraries with which reciprocal borrowing agreements exist. Due to differences in borrower registration procedures and circulation systems, borrowers may be required to register with the lending library but any nonresident fees will be waived. Privileges will not be extended, or may be limited, to persons who have lost library privileges in their own home library due to overdue materials, unpaid fines, or other unresolved problems. In addition to providing reciprocal borrowing privileges, the Trustees of the Jefferson Township Public Library may also enter contracts to provide library service to residents of communities that do not have library service. However, reciprocal borrowing privileges will not be extended to residents of communities that significantly cut hours or reduce services after entering into the reciprocal borrowing agreement.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library is supported primarily by taxes paid by residents of Jefferson Township. Library cards are provided at no additional charge to employees of business in Jefferson Township, students attending schools in Jefferson Township, and anyone owning real property within Jefferson Township may obtain a library card at no charge. Members of the armed services temporarily residing in the library’s jurisdiction may also receive a library card without charge. Others may apply for borrowing privileges by paying the current fee established by the Trustees of the Jefferson Township Public Library. Library cards are valid for one year. The library has a responsibility to protect the taxpayers’ investment in the collection of the library; therefore photo identification and verification of residence is required to obtain a library card. Identification can be established through a current driver’s license, school identification card, or other valid picture identification issued by a governmental agency. If no valid picture identification is available, the circulation supervisor may accept other reasonable forms of identification that establish identity. A parent or guardian must assume responsibility for materials borrowed by a person under sixteen years of age; therefore it is the adult’s identification that is required for registration of a minor. If proof of residence is not provided, the library card will be mailed to the address provided. Library cards may not be forwarded to a second address and will not be distributed in person without proof of residency. Demographic information may be gathered in order to plan library services. This information is used in the aggregate (no identifying information is compiled or reported) and is not stored or disclosed in any way that would identify the person registering. State and federal rules and laws pertaining to confidentiality of records and privacy protect information provided on the registration form. Information about use of library materials and services will be disclosed only under court order or in keeping with federal legislation.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library welcomes gifts of new and used books, audio recordings, videos and DVDs, and similar materials. Items will be added to the collection in accordance with the selection policy of the library. Once donated, items become the property of Jefferson Township Public Library, and may be transferred to other libraries and nonprofit agencies, sold, traded, or discarded if they are not added to the collection. The donor may place no conditions on the donation. Donated items will not be returned to the donor, and the library will not accept any item that is not an outright gift. The library will acknowledge receipt of donated items, but is unable to set fair-market or appraisal values. It is recommended that the donor make a list of items donated. If items are being donated to obtain a tax benefit, it is the donor’s responsibility to establish fair-market value or obtain expert assistance in establishing any value. Once a donated item has been added to the library collection, it is subject to all other library policies and may be discarded according to the policy on withdrawal and disposition of library materials. Monetary gifts, bequests, and memorial or honorary contributions are particularly welcome. Funds donated will be used to purchase items in accordance with the selection policy of the library. Books and other materials purchased with bequests and memorial or honorary contributions will be identified with special donor plates whenever possible. If requested at the time the donation is made, notification of memorial or honorary contributions will be sent to the family of the person being recognized. Suggestions for subject areas or other areas of interest are welcome and will be followed to the extent that such items meet the library’s selection policy and collection needs. Acceptance of donations of equipment, real estate, stock, artifacts, works of art, collections, etc., will be determined by the library board based on their suitability to the purposes and needs of the library, laws and regulations that govern the ownership of the gift, and the library’s ability to cover insurance and maintenance costs associated with the donation.
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16 LINKING TO EXTERNAL RESOURCES
The Web site of the Jefferson Township Public Library serves as a logical extension of the library’s information resources and supports its mission to connect patrons with timely, accurate sources of information. In order to strengthen the library’s print and nonprint collection, effort will be made to find valuable sites that are unique and that supplement the existing print and electronic collection available in the library. The library’s Web site is not intended to be open as a full or partial public forum. Library staff, under the direction of the library director, will select Web sites to link to from the online reference resources and other subject areas on the library’s Web site. Whenever possible, priority will be given to links to other governmental and community Web sites that provide legal, noncommercial, public service information. The library may link to commercial sites when the director has determined that sufficient free content is available to make it a worthwhile resource or when the resource is the most authoritative and no free resource is available. Requests for Web sites to be placed on the Jefferson Township Public Library Web site must be reviewed and approved by the library director. Staff will write a short annotation that describes the content of the linked Web site. Annually, all links will be checked to ensure that the content remains accurate, reliable, and timely. Sites that no longer meet the needs of library patrons or that no longer meet the selection criteria will be removed. Patron complaints or concerns about site content will be handled under the library’s “Request for Reconsideration of Materials” policy.
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17 MATERIALS IN LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH
The Jefferson Township Public Library strives to have a collection that reflects the population it serves. To that end, part of the collection development budget will be allocated to purchase materials in the preferred language of residents who are not native speakers of English. Materials considered for purchase will be evaluated as much as possible under the same guidelines and policies used for Englishlanguage materials. When necessary, staff will seek assistance in the selection of materials from appropriate community members. Citizen recommendations are always welcome and appreciated.
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18 REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
The Jefferson Township Public Library welcomes comments and suggestions regarding the continued appropriateness of materials in the collection, especially with regard to outdated materials. Suggestions and recommendations will be considered and utilized by the library in the ongoing process of collection development. Individuals may take issue with library materials that do not support their own views or values on a subject or that is not compatible with their beliefs. Staff is available to discuss concerns and to identify alternate materials that may be available. If a patron’s concern is not satisfied through discussion with staff, a formal, written request for reconsideration of materials may be submitted to the library director. The Jefferson Township Public Library is not a judicial body. Laws governing obscenity, subversive materials, and other questionable matters are subject to interpretation by the courts. Therefore, no challenged material will be removed solely based on a complaint of obscenity or any other category covered by law until a local court of competent jurisdiction has ruled against the material. No material will be knowingly added to the library collection that has been previously determined to be in noncompliance with local laws. For a request for reconsideration to be considered, the form must be completed in full. The patron submitting the request must be a resident of Jefferson Township and hold a valid borrower’s card. The Trustees of the library and the director consider each request in terms of the criteria outlined in the library’s materials selection policy, related statements, printed reviews, and other appropriate sources. The director will respond, in writing within 30 days of receipt, to the patron’s request for reconsideration. The response will indicate the action to be taken and reasons for or against the request. An item will be evaluated for reconsideration only once in a 12-month period.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides materials and services to support the informational and educational needs of the citizens of Jefferson Township. Selection and purchase of library materials rests with the library director who may delegate some responsibilities to other staff members. Staff will adhere to accepted professional practices when making selection decisions. The recreational, educational, and informational needs of the community will be considered in selecting materials. Prior to the beginning of each budget year, the director will determine how budgeted funds will be allocated among the major collection subdivisions, e.g., adult nonfiction, fiction, youth collection, reference, periodicals, and nonprint. Circulation statistics and counts of in-house use of materials will be maintained to assist in decision making. Average cost per item, as determined by the previous year’s purchases and reports in library and publishing journals, will also be considered in allocating funds. Materials will be selected based on positive reviews in professional journals or actual examination and evaluation of materials. Popular demand, such as bestsellers, school bibliographies, or local interests, may also be used as the criterion for selection of materials. Items that must be updated every year may be placed on a standing order list to ensure timely delivery. Suggestions from the community for items to be considered for purchase are strongly encouraged, but materials must meet selection criteria. The Jefferson Township Public Library does not attempt to acquire textbooks that specifically support local curricula, but it may acquire textbooks for general use by the public. Multiple copies of popular books, e.g., bestsellers, resume guides, or tax preparation, may be purchased to meet shortterm demand. Paperback books will be purchased when available to meet short-term demand. The library will attempt to have information available in a variety of formats, such as book, nonbook, pamphlet, magazines, etc., when available and practical. Generally, only one copy of materials in other formats—DVD, compact disc, computer programs, etc.—will be purchased unless long-term high demand is anticipated. Film and audio recordings will be selected for potential long-term use that meets general interests. Regardless of an item’s popularity, the library may choose not to select it if the available format is not durable enough to withstand reasonable library use or if it would require excessive staff time to maintain. Objections to items in the collection should be made in writing to the library director. (See also the “Request for Reconsideration of Materials” policy.) Materials that no longer meet the needs of the community and no longer support the library’s collection will be withdrawn and disposed of in accordance with the library’s “Deselection of Materials” policy.
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20 REFERENCE AND INFORMATION SERVICES
The staff of the Jefferson Township Public Library endeavors to provide accurate information and materials in response to requests from library users in an efficient, courteous, and timely manner. Questions are generally answered in the order received, with priority given to questions asked by patrons who are in the library. Services available through the reference desk include information services (answers to specific questions, call number and ownership of a specific book, recommendations on subject materials); instruction on the use of the library and library materials (indexes, online services, catalog, reference tools); bibliographic verification of items requested (title, author, publisher, ISBN, price); reader’s advisory (suggestions on books to read, videos and DVDs to view, recordings to hear); referral to community services; and assistance in locating materials. Before responding to a reference request, staff must understand the question completely. When answering specific information questions, staff will always cite the source of the answer. Personal beliefs, opinions, and experience are generally not acceptable sources of answers to reference questions but, if given, will be appropriately identified as such. Staff will accompany the patron to the location of the desired materials in the library and confirm that the information meets the patron’s need. If a patron’s question cannot be completely met through the library’s resources, staff will refer the patron to a more appropriate resource to obtain the desired information whenever possible. Staff will attempt to provide accurate contact information for other agencies when referring a patron but cannot make the actual phone call on behalf of the patron. Telephone reference service and service provided through technologies, such as chat and e-mail can be used to supply readily available information that does not require extensive research and that can be accurately imparted in brief written passages. Extensive research requires selection of appropriate material, interpretation of data and sources, or analysis of information. This type of research best occurs when the staff can personally consult the patron, either in person or via some form of communication technology. Samples of available materials can be gathered and held for patron pickup, or if possible, can be transmitted via available communication technology. Telephone reference questions that can be answered quickly (within two or three minutes) should be handled while the patron waits on the phone. Questions that require more time to answer, or that are received while other patrons are waiting in the library, will be handled as callbacks. All callbacks will be cleared by the end of the day or the patron will be notified of the delay. Privacy and concern for accuracy of information will be considered when leaving messages on answering machines or with another household member. Additional care and caution will be exercised when providing legal, medical, or consumer information. To avoid misunderstandings, it is preferred that patrons visit the library to review this type of information, rather than receiving the information over the telephone, or that patrons be directed to reliable online resources to view and interpret the information for themselves. Staff will provide definitions, quote material verbatim, and direct patrons to information sources but will not offer advice or opinions, condense or abstract information, or suggest a course of action or diagnosis. Staff will provide the source and copyright date for legal and medical information. All requests for reference information are confidential. Staff may consult with one another when necessary to serve the patron or consult with staff at other libraries, agencies, and organizations. Questions may be tallied for statistical purposes and compiled to assist in staff training. In all cases, patron confidentiality and privacy will be maintained.
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Homework questions and assistance with school assignments received from students, regardless of age or grade level, will be answered in the same manner as any other reference question (see also the policy on “Reference and Information Services”). Priority will be given to questions asked by patrons in the library. Telephone and online chat assistance will be limited to short, factual questions that can be answered without interpretation of materials. Materials may be pulled from the shelves and held for patron pickup. Elementary grade students needing intensive assistance with their homework (e.g., interpretation of assignments, tutoring, explanation of math problems, etc.) will be referred to the school district’s homework assistance program and/or online homework help programs.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides fax service to patrons upon request. Materials and information may be requested by incoming fax and requests so received will be treated in the same confidential manner as reference questions. Patrons requesting to send a document via fax will be required to pay the library, $3.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each page sent thereafter, if the call is within the library’s area-code. If the document is being sent via fax to a phone number outside of the library’s area code the cost will be $3.00 for the first page and $2.00 for each page thereafter. The cover sheet of the document will not be considered when determining the patron’s fee for the fax. A transaction verification page will be provided for documents sent via fax when requested by the patron. Fees collected for sending faxes will be kept separate from other collected fees. An accounting of the fees collected for sending faxes will be rendered each month by the Library Bookkeeper. This service is provided as a convenience to patrons when commercially provided fax services are unavailable to the patron. Fees for the Library fax service are intentionally set higher than current market rates to encourage patrons to use fax services provided by local merchants
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides a photocopier for public use. Fees for the copier are established by the Library’s Trustees. Fees collected for photocopying will be kept separate from other collected fees. An accounting of the fees collected for photocopying will be rendered each month by the Library Bookkeeper. The Library photocopiers are self-service. Staff will provide assistance to patrons who are using the photocopier. This assistance will be limited to showing patrons how to operate the photocopier and replenishing necessary photocopier supplies. When assisting with the copier, staff will not knowingly violate copyright law. Patrons using the photocopier are expected to adhere to the U.S. Copyright Law when copying materials subject to copyright. The library attempts to maintain its equipment in good working order; however, the library is not a retail print or copy shop. Copies are for convenience only and those seeking high quality printing or copies (such as for resumes, business correspondence, etc.) are directed to local printing businesses. The library will reimburse only for the first copier malfunction or poor quality copy. At the discretion of the staff, patrons may be permitted to take materials to a nearby copy center if the copier is out of order. Decisions will be made based on the immediacy of need, the type of material, and anticipated length of time that the copier will be out of service.
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In accordance with the (name of library’s) policy on collection development, information may be acquired in a variety of available electronic formats. Whenever possible, and if doing so is economically viable, the library will acquire electronic information that allows the least restrictive use of electronic resources. Whenever possible, remote access to electronic resources will be made available to library cardholders. Access to basic electronic resources will generally be available free of charge to all library patrons. When it is not possible to provide electronic resources without charge, charges will be established by (governing authority) on a cost-recovery basis. Charges will also be established for printing search results. Search results may be saved to a flash drive or forwarded electronically to a patron’s e-mail address if these functions are supported by the electronic resource. The library does not and cannot guarantee compatibility between programs and peripheral devices. Search time on unmediated electronic resources may be limited to 15 minutes per patron when others are waiting to use the equipment. Electronic resources are generally only one of the available sources of information, and reference staff will help patrons locate other library resources that will meet their information needs. Staff is also available by appointment to discuss search strategies, provide instruction on how to use the electronic resources, and offer suggestions for other resources that may be useful.
In accordance with the Jefferson Township Public Library’s policy on collection development, information may be acquired in a variety of available electronic formats. Whenever possible, and if doing so is economically viable, the library will acquire electronic information that allows the least restrictive use of electronic resources. Whenever possible, remote access to electronic resources will be made available to library cardholders. Access to basic electronic resources will generally be available free of charge to all library patrons. When it is not possible to provide electronic resources without charge, charges will be established by the Library’s Trustees on a cost-recovery basis. Charges will also be established for printing search results. Search results may be saved to a flash drive or forwarded electronically to a patron’s e-mail address if these functions are supported by the electronic resource. The library does not and cannot guarantee compatibility between programs and peripheral devices. Search time on unmediated electronic resources may be limited to 15 minutes per patron when others are waiting to use the equipment. Electronic resources are generally only one of the available sources of information, and staff will help patrons locate other library resources that will meet their information needs. Staff is also available by appointment to discuss search strategies, provide instruction on how to use the electronic resources, and offer suggestions for other resources that may be useful.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides access to a broad range of information in a variety of formats through the Internet. Staff will conduct Internet searches on behalf of patrons when warranted as part of the library’s reference and information services. Computers are also available for patrons who wish to conduct their own searches or use other Internet resources. The library is responsible only for the information provided on its own Web site. Access points and links to information resources on the library’s home page are selected by library staff and are checked regularly to ensure that they remain valid and consistent with the roles of the library. The library cannot monitor or control information accessed via the Internet. The library cannot guarantee that information on the Internet is accurate. If requested, staff will assist patrons in conducting searches and offer guidance on evaluating sources and verifying information. Library staff will assist patrons with searches and suggest search strategies, but can provide limited assistance in teaching patrons how to use the Internet. The library will occasionally offer short introductory classes to familiarize patrons with the basics of Internet searching. Videotapes, DVDs, books, and other learning resources are also available for patron use. The library director will determine the Internet functions that are enabled, but generally they will be limited to those that assist patrons in locating and obtaining information. When it is technically possible to do so, files may be downloaded to portable storage devices or printed to designated printers. Patrons who download files are responsible for verifying that the files are free of computer viruses. Charges for printing will be established by the Trustees of the Library. By logging on to the Internet, patrons agree to abide by the library policy on public use of computers. Parents or guardians are responsible for Internet use by their children. The library will make available to parents information related to safe Internet practices and computers in the children’s room point to age-appropriate Web sites. Staff is available to assist children who are conducting searches. Patrons, including minors, who access the Internet in the library, may not display text or graphics defined by federal or state law as obscenity or pornography. 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. U.S. copyright law governs unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted materials. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials, except as permitted by the fair-use regulation without permission of the copyright owner. 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.
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As part of its mission to support lifelong learning the Jefferson Township Public Library provides proctoring services for students enrolled in distance education courses and for testing required for career advancement. Exams may be on paper or online. The library will provide monitoring but cannot provide oneon- one proctoring or continuous, uninterrupted monitoring of exams. Library staff will conduct the proctoring. Several staff members may be involved in proctoring, and the library cannot guarantee that the same staff member will be available during the entire test period. Students are responsible for determining whether the library’s level of supervision matches the requirements of his or her institution. Exam proctoring must be scheduled and is subject to the availability of staff and appropriate space. Proctoring is available during regular library hours, Monday through Saturday. All proctoring must be completed no later than 30 minutes prior to library closing. The library will make every attempt to meet the needs of the student, but proctoring may be cancelled if the library is closed due to inclement weather or other emergencies, including computer malfunctions or severe staffing shortages. Exams must be mailed to the attention of the library director. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the exam has arrived in time. The student is responsible for providing supplies, such as pencils, paper, Scantron forms, or blue books, which are not provided by the educational institution. The library cannot provide these items. Photo identification, such as a driver’s license or school ID card, must be presented at the time that the exam is taken and must match the name on the exam materials. The school or the student is responsible for providing a properly addressed envelope with sufficient postage for returning the exam to the school. The library is unable to provide overnight delivery service. Testing materials will be handled in the same manner as all other library mail. Staff is not able to make special trips to the post office or arrange for pickup by delivery or mailing services. The library cannot assume responsibility for completed exams that are not received by the educational institution.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library provides a meeting room, known as The Riker Room, to support library programs and functions that further the work of the library. When not being used by the library, the room is available for use by established not-for-profit organizations and noncommercial groups based in Jefferson Township. In accordance with the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and its interpretation pertaining to meeting rooms, the library does not limit use of the meeting room based on the subject matter or content of the meeting or on the beliefs or affiliations of the meeting’s sponsors. However, all meetings must adhere to the rules established by the Library’s Board of Trustees. Failure to comply with the established rules may result in loss of future use. Except for library and library-related programs, groups and organizations may reserve the meeting room no more than one time each month. A limited series of weekly or daily meetings may be scheduled at the discretion of the library director. Rules and procedures for use of the meeting room are established by the Library’s Board of Trustees and are reviewed annually. A copy of the rules and procedures will be provided with the application for meeting room use. A completed and signed application must be returned to the library director within two business days or the reservation may be subject to cancellation. Groups and organizations using the meeting room are required to set up for their meeting, return furniture and equipment to its original location, and leave the room clean and in good condition. The library will attempt to supply standard, nonconsumable meeting equipment and supplies, such as an easel for flip chart pads, a chalkboard, and a speaker’s podium if these items are requested when the reservation is made. However, availability of equipment cannot be guaranteed, and meeting planners are encouraged to provide their own equipment. Use of the meeting room does not imply endorsement, support, or cosponsorship by the Jefferson Township Public Library of the activities that take place in the meeting room or of the beliefs of the group using the meeting room. Groups or individuals using the meeting room may not imply that the event or program is sponsored, cosponsored, or endorsed by the library in any advertising or publicity. All meetings and programs held in the library meeting rooms must be open to the public. No selling, solicitation, or taking of orders for future purchases may occur without written permission from the library director. No admission fees may be charged for programs held in the meeting room. Groups and organizations failing to comply with any part of this policy or the established procedures will be denied further use of the meeting room. A library staff member may be present at any time during the meeting.
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Display and exhibit space is available within the Jefferson Township Public Library for sharing educational, artistic, and cultural materials that promote interest in the use of books, library resources, and information, or that share information about local art and cultural organizations. The library staff has the primary responsibility for developing displays and exhibits using library resources. However, exhibits that are related to public events and timely topics may be scheduled. Preference for exhibit and display space is given to local nonprofit organizations. Exhibits that are solely for commercial purposes, including the sale of goods and services, will not be considered. Exhibits and displays may not contain dangerous or hazardous materials, including but not limited to explosives, biological, or chemical material, any device that creates noise while on display, firearms, or perishable materials. Although the library supports free speech and the First Amendment, exhibits may not include speech that is not constitutionally protected or material that would violate election laws if the library is being used as a polling site. The library director may also exclude other items if they are determined to be illegal or would pose a health hazard to library patrons. The library director will consult with appropriate public agencies as part of the decision process. Displays should be arranged in a neat and attractive manner with printed labels that are legible. No prices may be display on items that are available for purchase, although a card (not to exceed 3″ x 5″ in size) may provide contact information for sales after the exhibit or display has been dismantled. For security and inventory reasons, staff cannot open display cases to show items to potential buyers or to permit items to be removed for sale. The library will take reasonable care to ensure the safety and security of items displayed, however the library has no insurance to cover loss, damage, or theft. Exhibitors are encouraged to obtain insurance for items of value and will be required to sign a form releasing the library from liability. Items must be removed from the display cases or exhibit areas as scheduled. Items not removed as scheduled will be removed by staff and secured for 30 days. After 30 days, unclaimed items will be disposed of in accordance with local ordinance. Display or exhibit of items in the library does not indicate endorsement of the issues, events, items, or services promoted by the displayed materials. Organizations that are denied the use of exhibit areas or display cases or that disagree with the director’s decision regarding items to be displayed may appeal the decision to the library board.
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29 DISTRIBUTION OF FREE MATERIALS
Items that publicize or promote community organizations and local events further the role of the library as the central source for civic, cultural, educational, and recreational information. Display space is available in the Jefferson Township Public Library for community organizations engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, or charitable activities to disseminate information. Bulletin boards may not be used for personal or commercial advertisements. Posters and flyers displayed on the bulletin may be displayed for a maximum period of one month. Library staff will remove items that are no longer current or that have been posted for one month. Items removed will be discarded; library staff cannot return posters and flyers that have been displayed. Community organizations engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, or charitable activities may distribute informational brochures through information racks or on public information distribution tables provided the Library has space for them. Items that may be distributed in the information racks and distribution areas include flyers, brochures, leaflets, newspapers, and pamphlets that provide information about nonprofit civic, educational, cultural, or recreational organizations and events. Materials that promote programs or projects of a personal or commercial nature may not be distributed in the library. Items may be distributed for as long as they are valid. If space becomes limited, preference will be given to items of a timely nature and to organizations or groups that have not recently distributed items. Distribution or posting of items by the library does not indicate endorsement of the issues, events, or services promoted by those materials. Items left or posted that do not meet the criteria outlined in this policy will be removed and discarded. Questions about the policy and its application can be addressed to the library director.
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The Jefferson Township Public Library welcomes the opportunity to partner with private and public agencies and organizations when doing so benefits the library and the community Partnerships are considered to be long-term relationships with specific responsibilities and outcomes assigned to each partner. Sponsorships are considered as a means for agencies and organizations to support specific library projects, services, or programs and are short-term. Each opportunity will be evaluated by the library director to determine the short- and long-term costs (including staff time) and benefits. Based on the scope of the partnership or sponsorship, the director will determine whether a formal agreement or contract is required. The library director may enter into formal agreements or memos of understanding. Contracts for more elaborate partnerships or sponsorships require approval of the Library’s Board of Trustees. The mission and policies of potential partners and sponsors must be compatible with the policies, vision, mission, and goals of the library. Partners and sponsors agree to act in ways that are mutually beneficial and adhere to oral or written agreements. Priority will be given to organizations, agencies, and businesses that help the library extend or enhance services to the community. The library will develop each partnership individually, documenting the terms and conditions. If deemed appropriate by the library director, these terms will be formalized in a written agreement or contract. The director will assign a staff member to be the primary liaison for the partnership and expects the partner to do the same. The library may cancel a partnership agreement at any time if the partner uses the library’s name without prior consent or if the nature of the partner’s mission changes substantially or in a manner that becomes inappropriate with the library’s mission and image.
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The Jefferson 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 Jefferson Township Public Library seeks to foster a quiet and orderly environment that is conducive to reading, acquiring information, and study. 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 behavior includes, but is not limited to, noisy, boisterous actions; inappropriate behavior, including smoking, running, or loud talking; misuse of library property; uncooperative attitude; or actions that deliberately annoy others or prevent the legitimate use of the library and its resources. Abusive language and behavior toward staff will not be tolerated. 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 nonaudible signal and should be answered outside the library. 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. Library staff will not deliberately seek out unattended children; however, unattended children frequently become disruptive when they become bored. 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 Jefferson Township Police Department. Under no circumstances will library staff take a child out of the building or transport children to another location.
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Library staff and patrons visiting the Jefferson Township Public Library have the right to work in a safe environment. This policy, along with the policy of patron conduct, intends to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of those who are in the library. Any behavior that is disruptive or that prevents the library from ensuring a safe environment or from fulfilling its mission will result in an appropriate response including denial of access to facilities and services. Weapons of any kind are prohibited in the Jefferson Township Public Library. Possession, use, or threat of use of a dangerous weapon will result in eviction from the library. Weapons are defined as any dangerous item designed for use in harming a person or animal, including but not limited to firearms, such as rifles, handguns, BB guns, etc., switchblades, martial arts weapons, and explosives. No open flames, incendiary devices, or explosive devices, including fireworks, are permitted in the library. Lighters, matches, and candles may not be used in the library. Violence or threats of violence will not be tolerated. If a patron is violent or makes violent threats, the library staff will call the local police and evict the patron from the library. Items that are commonly used for nonthreatening purposes, such as canes, knitting needles, and box cutters are permitted. However, patrons who threaten to or appear to be threatening to use such items as weapons will be dealt with in the same manner as those carrying dangerous weapons. Patrons who are in possession of a dangerous weapon will be asked to remove the item from the building and will be provided with a copy of this policy. If the patron does not comply with the request, the library staff will call the Jefferson Township Police Department.
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33 UNATTENDED CHILDREN/CHILD SAFETY
The Jefferson Township Public Library is a public facility that offers services to a wide range of citizens, and children are especially welcome. The library has the responsibility to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for every patron who is appropriately using its services and facilities. Children and young people are expected to adhere to the same standards of patron conduct expected of adults. Parents, guardians, or assigned chaperones are responsible for the behavior of their children while in the library. Children under the age of seven should never be left unsupervised in any area of the library. If a parent cannot be located within ten minutes, the staff will call the Jefferson Township Public Library to report an abandoned child. Older children who are disruptive or misbehaving will be asked to leave the library; see policy on “Library Behavior”. If the child cannot safely leave the library to return home on his or her own, staff will allow the child to remain at the library under close supervision until a parent can be contacted. Children who are old enough to be in the library on their own will be asked about transportation approximately 15 minutes prior to the library’s closing. Children who have not been picked up at closing time will be given the opportunity to call a parent or other responsible adult. Children who have not been picked up within fifteen minutes after closing will be left in the care of the Jefferson Township Police Department. Under no circumstances will staff transport children in a vehicle or accompany them home.
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