Library Policies

Effective Date: 9/15/14
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 9/15/14

Purpose

The Behavior in the Library policy is established to provide guidelines for patron behavior that will ensure the safety of staff and patrons as well as maintaining a welcoming atmosphere in the library and providing equitable access to all individuals.

Overview

Behavior rules apply to all patrons of Huntington City-Township Public Library when using library facilities, or when participating in library programs.
Inappropriate conduct includes any individual or group activity which is unreasonably disturbing to other individuals lawfully using library facilities, materials and/or premises or is otherwise inconsistent with activities such as reading, studying, properly using library materials and other similar conduct normally associated with a public library.

Definition of Inappropriate Behaviors

Inappropriate behavior includes but is not limited to the following activities:

• Committing or attempting to commit any activity that would constitute a crime.
• Possessing, selling, distributing, displaying or using any dangerous weapon upon library premises or using or threatening the use of any other object in such a manner that it may be considered a weapon. Limited exception will be made for firearms with legal carry permits.
• Engaging in any physically intimidating or assaultive behavior or making threats of violence.
• Possessing, selling, distributing, consuming or being under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or controlled substance.
• Engaging in any behavior that a reasonable person would find to be disruptive, harassing, or threatening to library users or staff including stalking, prolonged staring at or following with the intent to annoy or behaving in a manner that could reasonably be expected to annoy or disturb other patrons.
• Engaging in any sexual contact, activities or expression.
• Selling, soliciting, surveying, distributing written materials, panhandling or canvassing for any political, charitable or religious purposes inside a library building, doorway or vestibule without prior authorization of the Library Director.
• Smoking or other use of tobacco products including vapor or e-cigarettes in library facilities or on any library property, including outdoor seating areas.
• Sleeping, napping or dozing in or on library premises.
• Possessing or consuming food in any area other than the designated café area.
• Engaging in excessive or disruptive conversations, talking loudly, or making ongoing noise that is disturbing to other library users or staff.
• Not wearing shoes or not being fully clothed within the library.
• Entering or remaining upon library premises with a bodily hygiene so offensive that it constitutes a nuisance to others.
• Use of furniture in any manner that may damage the furniture, to include placing feet on the furniture.
• Using library materials, equipment or facilities in any manner inconsistent with their customary use.
• Theft or intentional damage of library materials, furniture, equipment or facilities.
• Bringing any animal into the library except service animals.
• Entering non-public areas of the library without permission.
• Causing damage to library restrooms or facilities or using restrooms in a manner inconsistent with their customary use.
• Engaging in any activities that are inconsistent with the normal uses of public library facilities that include reading, studying, and using library materials.
• Violating library rules for acceptable use of the internet and library public computers.

Staff Response to Infractions

Violation of one or more of the behaviors listed above shall constitute misconduct that will result in enforcement of the policy which may include expulsion from the library and forfeiture of library privileges.

Minor violations of these rules will first result in library staff attempting to educate or warn individuals about policies and enforcement. Repeat misconduct or severe offenses (even in a single isolated event) may result in individuals being banned from the Library for a minimum of one day to a maximum of one year. Library staff will follow the banning procedure set forth below.

Huntington City-Township Library has a zero tolerance policy for threats and acts of violence. Any conduct that threatens the life or safety of any person or that is damaging to library property, equipment or facilities will result in immediate expulsion from the library.

Library staff is authorized to contact law enforcement in response to any illegal behavior or in the event an individual refuses to leave the library when expelled. Staff may also contact law enforcement to assist in the management of any situation which may be considered dangerous or unpredictable.

Whenever possible bans should be issued by a Department Head or the Library Director; however, all staff are fully empowered to issue bans at any time without prior approval.

Banning Procedure

If a person has engaged in severe or repeat misconduct and staff has determined that the individual involved should be banned:

• Staff will issue a written notice to the individual involved stating that the individual is banned from the premise of Huntington City-Township Public Library and the Markle Branch. Any expulsion from one location is to be considered in force at all locations. The notice will indicate the reasons for the ban and the time period of the ban. A copy of the ban notice will be given to the individual at the time the ban is issued. If necessary the ban may be mailed to the individual.
• If the patron is a minor, an attempt will be made to contact the parent or legal guardian. If no contact is possible, a copy of the ban notice must be sent to the parent or legal guardian.
• A copy of all Ban Notice forms with all documentation will be given to the Library Director within
• 24 hours of the banning action. The Director has the power to affirm, modify, or revoke any suspension or banning.

If any person who has been issued a Ban Notice enters any Huntington City-Township Public Library location before the return date listed on the Ban Notice, he or she will be asked to leave. Refusal to comply with the Ban Notice may result in contact with law enforcement.

Appeal Procedure

Any person who is issued a ban notice may appeal the ban. A request for appeal must be made in writing to the Library Director. The Director will review the ban and the appeal and determine the status of the ban. If the Director upholds the ban a second appeal may be made to the Library Board. The request for appeal must be sent in writing to the Library Board President. The appeal will be heard at a regular Library Board meeting. The Library Board will vote on the status of the ban.

Effective Date: 9/20/99
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 5/26/15

The Collection Development Policy is intended as an outline for the guidance of general collection development decisions. The policy will outline the types of materials that are collected as well as their disposition and standards for access.

Philosophy and Scope

Patron demand will be the primary determining factor in collection management decisions. Circulation history, patron requests, and hold levels will be used to determine appropriate materials for the collection. In addition to patron demand, Library staff will select materials that are critically acclaimed and well-reviewed. The collection will be balanced with popular materials and information sources that provide a bread and depth of world viewpoints.

The Huntington City-Township Public Library collects materials in a variety of formats and a variety of viewpoints. The Library does not discriminate against any material due to the political, racial, religious, or social viewpoints that are expressed therein. The Library respects and honors the rights of individuals to view materials, even if the content may be controversial or unacceptable to others.

Materials for children and teens are collected to provide a breadth of resources that encourage literacy, discovery, and learning. The Library encourages materials that reflect diversity and encourage an understanding of the community and the world. The reading and viewing of library materials by children is ultimately the responsibility of the parents. The Library will not censor or restrict the checkout of materials to children and teens.

The Library endorses the Library Bill of Rights, as published by the American Library Association, and the Freedom to View statement adopted by the American Film and Video Association. (Specific language of both statements removed from policy)

Responsibility

The Library Board will adopt and regularly review a Collection Development Policy. The Library Director will be responsible for interpreting this policy. The materials budget will be allocated annually by the Library Director and the Technical Services Department Head.

The Library Director will assign staff to specific collection development tasks as they see fit. Assigned staff will be responsible for selecting and deselecting all materials. The Library Director has the authority to override and collection development decision for any reason. No employee will be disciplined or dismissed for the selection or removal of library materials if the decision is made in good faith and in accordance with the adopted policy.

Selection Criteria

General selection criteria for all areas will include the following:

• Accuracy and authoritativeness of the material
• Quality of writing and reputation of the author or publisher
• Date of publication and currency of information
• Cost and availability of material
• Availability of space
• Local importance or historical value
• Interests and needs of the community
• Physical durability and quality of the format
• Need for a balanced collection with multiple viewpoints

Formats

All formats are considered viable parts of the Library collection and will be selected based on need and demand. In general the most durable formats should be selected whenever possible.

Electronic Resources

Electronic resources in all formats are considered a vital part of the collection and will be selected according to demand.

Selection Based on Local Interest

The Library will attempt to purchase materials of local interest or those created by local authors or artists. These selections will be subject to the same selection criteria as all other materials. The Library will not purchase an item solely on the criteria of local subject matter or authorship.

Standards in Content and Quality

Competent and objective opinion is sought from a variety of reviewing sources as to factual accuracy, effective expression, significance of subject, and sincerity and responsibility of authorship. At times, however, the need for material on a certain subject or viewpoint may outweigh shortcomings of style, content or format.

Patron Requests

Patron requests for materials are encouraged and will serve as an important selection tool. In all cases the materials requested by patrons will be given precedence over other selections, however all materials must meet the standards for quality and authoritativeness outlined above. The Library reserves the right to not purchase any item for any reason. Interlibrary Loan should be considered for materials that will not have continued demand in the Library collection. Items that are repeatedly requested through interlibrary loan should be considered for selection.

Requests for Reconsideration

Any person who has concerns regarding the content or quality of any book or other library material has the option to express their concerns. When any patron expresses a concern about material they will be informed of the Library’s position of opposition to censorship. The patron will be immediately directed to the Library Director. The Director will attempt to address the patron’s concerns without formal action whenever possible. The Director’s position will always be against the removal of items from the Library collection. If no agreement can be reached the Director will assist the patron in taking their concern to the Library Board. Once a patron has asked to speak to the Board about a request for reconsideration the Director cannot refuse to address that concern with the Board. The request for reconsideration will be taken to the Board of Trustees at their next regular meeting. The final determination regarding the disposition of the request for reconsideration is made by the Board of Trustees.

Collection Maintenance, Replacement and Weeding

The Library will be committed to a continuous process of withdrawal of materials. Each collection will be reviewed at least once every two years to remove outdated or damaged materials. A continuous process of withdrawal ensures that each collection contains relevant, attractive materials and that the collection size does not exceed the allocated space. The area served, interests of the users at each location, and the available space determine the appropriate size of the collection.

Materials will be considered for removal from the collection based on the following criteria:

• Worn or damaged
• No longer relevant or timely
• No longer accurate
• Low use
• Multiple copies of a title that is no longer in demand

Specific guidelines for weeding will be addressed in the Collection Development procedure.

In most cases materials should not be replaced directly. Materials may be replaced with new editions or copies, or new or similar titles in the subject area if they meet the following criteria:

• Publication within three years if the item has more than three checkouts per year
• Historical circulation of more than five checkouts per year regardless of age
• Inclusion in any professional list of core collection items only if the item has maintained at least three checkouts per year
• Specific request by library staff for materials that they determine to have continued value

Effective Date: 2/16/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 1/12/16

Computers are located throughout the building allowing access to the library catalog. There are terminals in the Reference, YA and Children’s areas for use of the internet and databases. There is a 60 minute time limit. These computers are all attached to a printer. Black and white prints are $0.20 per page. For color prints, please ask the Reference staff for assistance. Color prints are $1 per page. You may purchase a flash drive from the Reference Desk.

The reference area also has a color scanner available for public to use at no charge. Please sign up at the Reference Desk for use.

Information regarding our Internet policy is located on the start-up page of the computer. To use the terminal, you must agree to our policy.

The Huntington City-Township Public Library recognizes access to information as a fundamental right of citizenship and facilitates access to information regardless of format or technology. The provision of computers and internet access for patron use is in keeping with the Library’s stated educational and informational mission, goals and objectives. Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to preparation of citizens and employees.

The purpose of Library-provided Internet and LAN access is to facilitate communications in support of research and education. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Responsibilities

To ensure fair and proper use of library computing resources, users must follow the legal, ethical and cooperative rules listed below.

Legal

Computing resources may only be used for legal purposes. Examples of unacceptable purposes include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Violation of any applicable federal, state, or local laws, ordinances, rules, or regulations.
• Harassment of other users
• Libeling or slandering other users
• Destruction or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communication
• Unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material
• Violation of software license agreements
• Transmission of speech not protected by the First Amendment, such as libel and obscenity
• Intentional propagation of computer viruses or other malicious software.
• Attempting unauthorized entry to the Library’s network or external networks
• Users may not represent themselves as another person.
• Unsolicited advertising is not acceptable
• Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the library or other users

Ethical

Computing resources should be used in accordance with the ethical standards of the Library. Examples of unacceptable use include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Violation of computer system security
• Unauthorized use of computer accounts, access codes, or network identification numbers assigned to others
• Use of computer communications facilities in way that unnecessarily impede the computing activities of others
• Violation of network usage policies and regulations
• Violation of another user’s privacy

Display/Dissemination of Inappropriate Materials

Use of the Library Internet access stations to display, disseminate or transmit obscene or pornographic material is prohibited.

Cooperative Responsibilities

The Huntington City-Township Public Library strives to balance the rights of users to access different information resources with the rights of users to work in a public environment free from harassing sounds and visuals. We ask all our library users to remain sensitive to the fact that they are working in a public environment shared by people of all ages, with a variety of information interests and needs. In order to ensure an efficient, productive computing environment, the Library insists on the practice of cooperative computing. This includes:

• Refraining from overuse of connect time, information storage space, printing facilities, processing capacities, or bandwidth capacities.
• Refraining from the use of sounds and visuals which might disrupt the ability of other library patrons to use the library and its resources.

Computer Station User Policy

An individual has up to one hour of computer time per day. Library staff may extend this limit if no other patron is waiting.

Use of the computers is on a first-come, first –served basis. Users are required to sign in at the computer.

Downloading to individual computers is prohibited.

Children 6 and under must have a responsible adult assisting them at the computer.
Printing may be done for 20 cents per page. Payment for printing may be made at the Reference desk.

Although the Library will not provide e-mail accounts, assistance in subscribing to web-based e-mail will be given and access to such accounts will be allowed.

The Library must have on file a signed parental consent form for children and young adults to use the internet. Parents must allow or not allow computer use when filing out registration card for any child under 18. If the child does not have a card, they must have parent or guardian give their approval for internet use before a visitor’s pass is issued.

Internet Safety

The Internet and its available resources contain a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. The user is the selector in using the Internet with individual choices and decisions. The Internet is not monitored by any entity. Users may encounter material that could be considered inappropriate.
In offering Internet access, library staff cannot control access points which often change rapidly and unpredictably. Users are hereby notified that they are responsible for the access points they reach.

Parents of minor children assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. Parents and children are encouraged to read and follow the recommendations of Child Safety on the Information Highway and My Rules for Online Safety. Specifically no personal information should be given without the parent’s permission. If a child encounters any information that makes him feel uncomfortable, he should tell his parent immediately. Copies of some suggestions from these websites are attached to this policy.

The Huntington City-Township Public Library site and software provides no security for credit card numbers or other personal information.

The Library computer workstations may not be used to view or transmit sexually explicit material that appeals to the prurient interest or any other material that is not constitutionally protected, or to conduct other illegal activity.

The Huntington City-Township Public Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from use of its World Wide Web server or from its connections to other Internet services.

Sanctions

Violators of computing resources use policies may lose library privileges. Violations of the policies described above will be dealt with in a serious and appropriate manner. Illegal acts involving Library computing resources may also be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

Disclaimer

Since the Internet is a global electronic network, there is not state/county control of its users or content. The Internet and its available resources contain a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view. In offering Internet access, library staff cannot control access points that often change rapidly and unpredictably. Users are hereby notified that they are responsible for the access points they reach. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. The Huntington City-Township Public Library assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from use of its World Wide Web or from its connections to other services.

Limitation of Liability

Huntington City-Township Public Library assumes no liability for any loss or damage to users’ data or disks, nor for any personal damage or injury incurred as a result of using Huntington City-Township Public Library’s computing resources.

Effective Date: 5/1/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 3/24/15

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for accepting donations made to the Huntington City-Township Public Library.

Monetary Donations

Individuals and groups may give monetary donations directly to the Huntington City-Township Public Library or to the Friends of the Library. Monetary donations do not entitle the donor to specify the use of the donation except in the case of memorials as outlined in this policy. Donations of $500 or more for specific projects may be accepted at the discretion of the Library Director.

Material Donations

All donations of materials will be given directly to the Friends of the Library to distribute as appropriate. The Friends of the Library will allow Library staff to select materials from the donations to be added to the Library collection. All decisions on materials will be made in accordance with the Collection Development Policy.

The Friends of the Library have established guidelines for accepting donations. The Friends will not accept the following items:

• Magazines older than 6 months
• “Homemade” recordings of any kind
• Handwritten journals or diaries
• Encyclopedias
• Reader’s Digest Condensed Books
• Textbooks
• Pamphlets, leaflets, clippings, newspapers, etc.
• Musty, mildewed, water damaged, or “unsellable” items

Once items are donated they become the property of the Friends of the Library. The Friends of the Library reserve the right to use and dispose of the donated items in the most appropriate way. Common dispositions of items include:

• Addition to the Library collection
• Disposition through the Friends of the Library book sale
• Contributions to local charitable organizations
• Disposition through the Better Worlds Books organization
• Made available for recycling

Neither the Friends of the Library nor Huntington City-Township Public Library will be responsible for appraising or documenting donations for the purposes of income tax deductions. Such appraisals are the responsibility of the donor. The Friends of the Library will provide appropriate documentation of the receipt of materials.

Other Items

Items other than books and audio-visual materials may be accepted on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Library Director. Once donated all items become the property of Huntington City-Township Public Library and may be disposed of or distributed as appropriate.

Memorials

Individuals or groups wishing to provide a donation in memory of a specific individual may do so in a monetary form. Monetary donations for materials will allow the donor to specify a subject for materials to be added to the collection. Library staff will determine the best materials to be added to the collection and will determine the most appropriate way to distribute the funds. Requests for specific titles may be made, however Library staff may choose not to select that title based on collection needs. Material memorial donations will not be accepted unless except at the discretion of the Library Director. Memorial items will receive a book plate with the memorial information and all donors will be recognized on the Library website. Once added to the collection all memorial items become the property of Huntington City-Township Public Library and may be disposed of or distributed as appropriate.

Indiana Room

Donations of historically significant items and documents may be made to the Indiana Room independently of any of the conditions outlined in this policy. These donations will be accepted on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Indiana Room Department Head and the Library Director. Once donated all items become the property of Huntington City-Township Public Library and may be disposed of or distributed as appropriate.

Effective Date: 2/15/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 1/20/16

Hours of Operation

The Library will establish and maintain a regular schedule of open hours for both the Huntington and Markle locations.

All hours of operation will be approved by the Board of Trustees.

The Library will meet or exceed all public library standards and requirements in regards to the total number of open hours, the number of evening hours, and the number of weekend hours.

Scheduled Closure

The Library will be closed for specific holidays throughout the year. The Board of Trustees will approve a holiday closing schedule each year. In addition the Library may be closed at the discretion of the Board of Trustees for events throughout the year including, but not limited to, staff training and community events.

Emergency Closure

In the event of an emergency the Library Director will have the discretion to close the Library for not more than two days without the approval of the Library Board. An additional day of closure may be approved by the Board President.

The Library will be closed if Huntington County Emergency Management declares a “code red” travel advisory. The Library will reopen 2 hours after a “code red” is lifted.
In the event of an emergency closure Library staff will attempt to alert patrons through available media outlets.

Patrons will not be responsible for fines accrued during an emergency closure.

Effective Date: 2/1/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 6/15/15

Library cards are issued at no charge to residents or real property owners of Huntington City-Township and the Town of Markle. Only one card will be issued per resident. In all cases Indiana State Code regarding the issuing of library cards will supersede all provisions of this policy.

At the time of application, residents must show proof of ID and proof of current address. Acceptable forms of identification include driver’s license, passport, current utility bill, bank statement and/or rental agreement. Staff may accept other forms of identification if they determine them to be legitimate; however staff will also retain the right to refuse any form of identification if there is reasonable doubt regarding authenticity or currency.

At the time of application library staff will verify all addresses using an online system to ensure that they are in the correct taxing district.

If a patron is applying for a library card based on owned property rather than a home address they must provide a tax statement or receipt in their name. Dependent children may also be issued a card based on property ownership.

Cards for patrons under the age of 18 must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
No new card or renewed card will be issued if a patron has fines or fees exceeding $10.00. New cards will not be issued to children if their parent or legal guardian has fines or fees exceeding $10.00.

Replacement Cards

Lost, damaged or stolen cards may be replaced at a cost of $2.00. A free replacement will be given if a card is expired and eligible for renewal. Proper ID must be presented to obtain a replacement card.

Card Use

The registration term for all patron types will be 1 year unless otherwise noted.

The item checkout limit for all patron types will be 100 unless otherwise noted.

Each borrower must have and use their library card. No checkout will be allowed without a library card.

Patrons who are unable to come to the library may make arrangements with the Adult Services Department Head to have someone pick up their books for them. If this is a regular occurrence the card will be kept at the Circulation Desk and authorized users will be added to the card.

Privacy of patron use is strictly enforced and information regarding checkouts, overdues, and holds will not be shared with anyone except the card holder. The responsible parent or legal guardian may be informed of any information on a minor’s account only if they are the one who signed the library card application.

A library card allows access to public computers. Patrons will not be allowed to use the computers if they have fines or fees exceeding $10.00. Non-residents or residents who do not have a library card may be issued a guest pass for computer use. Guest passes will not be issued to patrons who hold a valid library card.

Patron Types

• Adult Patron
  • Full borrowing privileges are extended to those who live, or own property in Huntington City-Township or the Town of Markle.
• Young Adult Patron
  • Used for patrons ages 13-17. Internet use consent form must be signed by the parent or legal guardian. If a child has 2 parents under separate residency 2 cards may be issued to the child. Each card must be signed for by the responsible parent or legal guardian.
• Juvenile Patrons
  • Used for patrons age 12 and under. Internet use consent form must be signed by the parent or legal guardian. If a child has 2 parents under separate residency 2 cards may be issued to the child. Each card must be signed for by the responsible parent or legal guardian.
• School Card – Student
  • Used for patrons in grades K-12 who do not live in the district but attend a school system that operates at least in part in the district. Internet use consent form must be signed by the parent or legal guardian. Only one card per child is allowed. The card must be signed for by the responsible parent or legal guardian. Students 18 and older do not require parental signature. All students must show proof of attendance at the school in the form of documentation that contains both the student’s name and the school name or a school ID.
• School Card – Teacher
  • Used for teachers in grades K-12 who do not live in the district but are employed by a school system that operates at least in part in the district. For the purpose of this card a teacher will be defined as any permanent staff providing instruction in the school or any school administrator. All teachers must show proof of employment at the school in the form of documentation that contains both the teacher’s name and the school name or a school ID.
• Huntington University Student
  • Registration term: school year
  • Huntington University students who live on campus are considered temporary residents. University students who do not live on campus or in the township are not eligible for a library card. Students must provide a letter of residency from the college or other proof of residency. Cards will expire May 1st.
• Non-resident Patrons
  • Any person who is not a resident of Huntington City-Township or the Town of Markle may pay for a non-resident card. The cost is commensurate with the cost of supplying services to borrowers who pay library taxes. The cost is based on the Indiana State Library formula and may change annually. (Note: the library will sell only individual non-resident cards. The practice of issuing family cards will be discontinued as it is not consistent with the state code.)
• Schools and Caregivers
  • Item limit: 20
  • Schools, day cares, nursing homes and other caregivers who legally occupy premises in Huntington City Township or the Town of Markle but not owning property may be issued an organization card. All organization cards must be approved by the Adult Services Department Head or the Library Director. The card can be used only for the purpose of the school or business. Each card holding entity must establish a list of authorized users. Only these users will be allowed to check out materials with this card.
• Tutors and Tutees
  • Item limit: 20
  • Tutors and tutees who are actively enrolled in the Huntington County Literacy Coalition tutoring program may apply for a free library card.
• Temporary Patron
  • Registration term: 6 months
  • Item limit: 6
  • Individuals who do not have a permanent residence in Huntington City-Township or the Town of Markle but have reason to be in the area for less than 6 months may apply for a free library card. This includes residents of temporary housing or shelters.
  • All applicants must supply some proof of address with their name on it.
• Public Library Access Cards (PLAC)
  • Huntington City-Township Public Library cards will be issued at no charge to non-residents who are in good standing at their home library and have purchased an Indiana Public Library Access Card (PLAC). These cards may be purchased at the home library, Huntington City-Township Public Library or the Markle Branch. PLAC cards are valid for one year from the date of purchase. The cost of a PLAC card is set by the Indiana State Library and may change annually. Huntington City-Township and Markle residents may purchase a PLAC card to be used at other libraries throughout the state.
• Staff
  • All HCTPL staff will be entitled to a library card at no cost. Staff cards will not accumulate fines however lost materials will be billed in full. At the time of termination or retirement the staff card will be changed to a regular adult card. If the card holder does not live in Huntington City-Township or the Town of Markle their card will remain valid until the time it expires.

Effective Date: 10/1/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 9/17/15

Lost Materials

Lost materials are those that have been checked out by a patron and not returned. Items are considered lost if they are not returned within 45 days of the checkout date. At the time an item is considered lost, the patron will be charged the value of the item that is listed in the item record. If no value is listed the following default values will be applied:

Effective Date: 2/1/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 6/18/18

Loan Periods & Fines

*Cannot be borrowed by PLAC card holders

• Due dates and fines will be calculated according to days the library is open. No fines will accrue and items will not be due on days the library is closed.
• The maximum fine accrual for any item will be $5.00.
• Patrons with more than $10.00 in fines and/or fees will not be allowed to check out or renew.

Renewal

• Items may be renewed online, in-person, or over the phone.
• Items with outstanding holds will not be allowed to renew.

Overdue Notices

Lost Items

• The final overdue notice will include a date 45 days from the due date. Items must be returned or renewed by this date. Items not returned or renewed will considered lost.
• At 45 days overdue the system will automatically change the item status to lost and the full replacement fee of the item will be added to the patron’s card.
• Lost items may be returned at any time before the replacement fee is paid. If an item is returned the patron will be credited the replacement fee minus the accrued fine.
• Lost items that have been paid for cannot be returned. No refund will be given.
• The library will not accept replacement copies of items in lieu of payment.

Holds and Requests

• Patrons may request items online, in person or over the phone.
• The maximum number of holds and request per person will be 25 items.
• Requests will be filled in the order in which they are placed.
• Items will remain on the hold shelf for pickup for 3 business days.

Availability

The Huntington City-Township Public Library will offer the following spaces as meeting and/or study rooms for public use.

• North Meeting Room – max occupancy 50
• South Meeting Room – max occupancy 40
• Board Room – max occupancy 16
• Study Rooms 1-4 – max occupancy 3
• Markle Meeting Room – max occupancy 25

The North and South meeting rooms can be combined to create one room with a maximum occupancy of 90.

The meeting and study rooms may be used by any patrons of the library. A library card is not required for the use of the study rooms; however a valid library card will be required to book any other meeting room. This requirement may be waived at the discretion of the Director.

The meeting and study rooms are available at no cost to any group.

The meeting and study rooms may be used for the following purposes:

• Business meetings
• Club meetings
• Training
• Private parties or gatherings (North and South meeting rooms only)
• Individual or group study
• Individual or group work

The following activities are prohibited in the meeting and study rooms:

• Any commercial or for-profit event
• Regular business hours or client meetings
• Supervised visits or meetings with social workers

Reservation

Meeting rooms may be booked in advance by completing the meeting room request form on the library’s website or in person at the reference desk. Meeting room reservations will not be made over the phone.

Meeting rooms may be booked up to one year in advance. A group or individual may not book the meeting room more than 2 times in one month for the same purpose and on-going bookings will be allowed for not more than 6 consecutive months.

Each reservation must have a designated contact person who is at least 18 years of age. This person will be responsible for the room and any set-up and clean-up that must be done.

Study rooms may be booked up to one week in advance in person or by phone. Study rooms may also be used on a walk-in basis. Persons wishing to use a study room must check in at the reference desk before using the room. Study rooms will be booked for not more than 2 hours per event.

Huntington County Literacy Coalition tutors will take precedence over all other use of the study rooms. Tutors may book the study rooms up to 6 months in advance and may have unlimited on-going booking.

All reservations will be approved by assigned library staff. The Library Director reserves the right to deny or cancel any meeting room request at any time for any reason.

Guidelines

Library facilities may not be used for any meeting or event designed to financially benefit any individual or group either at the time of the meeting or at a future date. No donations may be solicited, except for non-profits at the discretion of the Director. No admission or other fees may be charged to attendees, except library or non-profit events at the discretion of the Director. No products or services may be advertised, solicited, or sold. Authors and artists may be allowed to sell materials as outlined in the Author and Artists Sales Policy.

Approved use of the library facilities does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies, beliefs or activities by the library. Any misrepresentation of this fact will result in the loss of facility use privileges for the offending group. Groups who publicly announce or advertise their meetings to the public must include the following disclaimer in their announcements or advertisements:

This event and its associated viewpoints are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Huntington-City Township Public Library or its staff.

The meeting rooms are available only during normal library hours. Early entry for morning events in the North and South meeting rooms may be allowed up to one hour before the library opens at the discretion of the Library Director.

Meetings must be concluded at least 30 minutes before the library closes and the room must be vacated at least 10 minutes before the library closes.

The designated contact person shall be held responsible for all activity in the room and the clean-up of the facility. All tables and chairs should be returned to their storage positions, trash placed in plastic bags and any spills wiped up.

The Library is not responsible for items left in the meeting rooms. The Library does not provide long term storage.

No furniture or equipment may be removed from or added to any meeting or study room without prior approval. Anything that is moved must be returned to its original place at the end of the meeting.

Nothing may be attached to the walls, doors or windows. Whiteboards or flipchart stands are available upon request.

The Library may provide audiovisual equipment to be used by the public. Any requests for audio-visual equipment must be made at the time of reservation. Staff assistance with the use of equipment may be available but is not guaranteed.

The group or individual using the meeting room facilities must agree to indemnify and hold Huntington City-Township Public Library harmless for any personal injury, lost or stolen articles, or damaged property owned by anyone using the meeting room facilities.
The use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, candles or other incendiary devices is prohibited in all areas of the library.

A normal noise level and appropriate conduct will be expected of groups utilizing the facility. Parents/guardians are responsible for providing supervision for children before, during, and after any events occurring in meeting room facilities. All individuals using the meeting or study rooms are required to comply with the Library’s behavior policy.
Failure to comply with any of the terms of this policy or inappropriate use of the meeting or study rooms may result in the loss of meeting or study room use privileges for the individual or group involved.

Any of the terms or conditions of this policy may be modified or waived, in part or in whole, at the discretion of the Library Director, except those related to commercial activities.

Effective Date: 8/17/15
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 7/22/15

The Huntington City-Township Public Library and Markle Branch (The Library), both inside the building and on the property, fall under the category of a public space. Any Library event, free event, or public meeting within the Library building is deemed a public event and therefore open to photography and video recordings.

Photos and Videos taken by Library staff

The Library staff may take photographs and videos of people attending library programs and using library services. These images and or videos may be used on the library website, library social media, or any in other communication to the public without the prior consent of the subject. All images taken by the Library Staff are used solely for the purpose of promoting library programs and services and none of the images will be used to generate a profit or for commercial purposes. No names or other identifying information will be used in these photographs and/or videos. A Library staff member must be notified if an individual does not wish to be photographed or recorded. If the subject is under 18 notification must be given by a parent or legal guardian. Notification may be given at any time; however the library will not be at fault for any photographs or recordings published prior to notification.

Photos and Videos taken by others on Library grounds

Persons wishing to take photographs and videos within the Library or on Library property may do so, as long as it does not disturb, disrupt, or negatively impact patrons’ use of Library services and facilities. All photographers must heed the verbal or written desire of patrons who wish to not be photographed or recorded. At any time, Library staff has the authority to ask anyone taking photos or video to stop. Photos or videos that require additional set up, or set up that will be disruptive to patrons require prior approval from the Library Director. Any photos and videos attributed to the Library cannot be used to further a political or religious agenda, or for commercial purposes.

Concerns or inquiries regarding this policy will be directed to the Library Director.

Effective Date: 5/21/18
Authorized By: Library Board of Trustees
Date of Last Revision: 5/21/18

During the normal course of business the Huntington City-Township Public Library may collect data from patrons. This policy outlines the responsibilities of the Library and the patron in maintaining data privacy. patrons have the right to request access to this policy at any time.

Confidentiality of Library Records

In accordance with Indiana Code IC 5-14-3-4 all records relating to library patrons and their use of library materials and services are strictly confidential and not available for public viewing. Library staff and administration will never release records to unauthorized third parties. Records of minors will maintain the same confidentiality rights as adults.

Library staff may access records containing personally identifiable information for library purposes only. Staff will not disclose personally identifiable information to anyone except where required by law.

The Library reserves the right to cooperate with law enforcement to provide personally identifiable information when requested.

Patron Accounts

In order to create a patron account, we ask for and record the following information in an electronic database: full name, address, phone number, birth date, gender, PIN, email address, and driver’s license. For the accounts of minors, parent name, parent address, and parent driver’s license will be recorded. An electronic signature is also obtained and stored.
Patrons may use an electronic form to request a library account. All of the information normally needed for accounts will be collected on this form. The form may be transmitted through the library’s website or through a third party. All information that is collected will be kept confidential. The patron is responsible for ensuring their privacy on their personal accounts and devices.

A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is required to access public computers and online account services. A PIN may be changed by library staff;, however, it is not visible to staff in the electronic record. It is the responsibility of the patron to maintain the security of the PIN.
Patrons may agree to allow the Library to maintain a history of borrowed materials. This is an opt-in service and must be approved by the patron. Records of borrowed materials will only be disclosed to the account holder.

The Library may use the phone number and/or email on record to provide library notices. Phone numbers may be provided to a third party vendor for the purpose of automating library notices. The patron may agree to allow the Library to use their email address to receive promotional emails.

Reference Consultations

No records are kept of any personally identifiable information, services used, or information requests made in the course of conversations with library staff. A count of a staff interaction may be recorded for statistical purposes. Personal information and the content of the interaction are not recorded.

Computer and Internet Use

Patrons may access Library computers with their library card or with a guest pass. The Library does not save a history of web-browsing or file access. The use of a computer is recorded for statistical purposes; however, the Library does not match a patron ID with the computer use log. Library staff will have access to patron ID information while a patron is logged in.

It is the patron’s responsibility to log out of any personal accounts that are accessed on library computers. The patron is also responsible for the security of any information transmitted or provided to outside parties while using library computers.

Patrons may access the public wireless connection provided by the library. This connection does not require sign-in and is not secure. Patrons are responsible for the safety and privacy of their data and devices while using the wireless connection. The Library will record wireless access activity for statistical purposes. No patron data or activity is stored or monitored.

All computer use must comply with the Library’s Computer and Internet Use Policy.

Library Website

The Library maintains a website for the purpose of providing information to patrons. Library website access and activity is recorded for statistical purposes. No patron data is stored or recorded.

The library website contains links to external websites and databases. The Library is not responsible for the privacy practices, security, or content of these external sites. The inclusion of these links is not intended to endorse any views expressed, activities, or products of these websites. If a patron discloses personal information through an external link they should be aware that this information may be collected and used by others.

Third Party Partners

The Library may contract with third party partners to provide some services, such as digital content, emails, genealogy databases, reference databases, etc.

The information submitted to these vendors by patrons is not under the Library’s control. Many of these vendors may ask for a library card number to authenticate a patron account.

Third party services may gather and disclose patron information including:

• Personally identifiable information
• Other information that could be used to identify a patron, such as an IP address, search history, location, and device ID
• Non-personally identifying information such as ad views, browser information, demographic data, page views, etc.

Patrons accessing third party sites are strongly encouraged to learn about the privacy policies of the websites they visit.