Taylor Community Library Policies |

Collection Development Policy

Collection Development Policy Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the development and maintenance of a well-balanced collection to meet the needs of the community within the limits imposed by availability, funds, and space. This policy is designed to support the Library’s Mission Statement, and it will guide librarians and staff of the Taylor Community Library (TCL) and inform the public of the principles upon which selections are made.

Mission Statement

The Taylor Community Library enhances the community by supporting all individuals in their pursuit of knowledge, education, and recreation. This is achieved through free access to a vast collection of resources which are available in a variety of formats, staff assistance, and a range of programs and events tailored to meet the diverse needs of our ever-evolving society.

Community Served

The direct service area for the Taylor Community Library includes Taylor Borough and Old Forge Borough. As part of the Lackawanna County Library System, TCL offers library services free of charge to any resident of Lackawanna County.

Selection Criteria

Library staff utilize professional judgment and expertise in making collection development decisions, including decisions about choosing titles, identifying quantities for purchase, and selecting locations for materials. Anticipated demand, community interests, strengths and weaknesses of the existing collections, system-wide and regional availability, physical space limitations, acquisitions procedures, and fiscal resources are all factors taken into consideration. Materials are acquired in multiple formats when appropriate, including print, audiovisual, and digital resources. Highest selection priority is given to those materials in all formats having the broadest appeal.

Material Selection

Materials will be selected based on, but not limited to, the following criteria:

Public demand, interest, or need;

Contemporary significance, popular interest, or permanent value;

Attention of critics and reviewers;

Prominence, authority and/or competence of author, creator, or publisher;

Timeliness of material;

Relation to existing collections;

Need to present alternate viewpoints or balance on a specific subject matter in the collection;

For non-fiction, accuracy of information as determined by reviews in reputable review sources.

Accessibility for multiple users of electronic formats.

Intellectual Freedom

The Taylor Community Library supports and is supported by the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights.

The Taylor Community Library maintains a diverse collection of materials designed to satisfy the needs and interests of the community. In no case will library materials be excluded because of race, nationality or social, political, or religious views of the authors, nor will materials be proscribed or removed from the Library because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

Reconsideration of Materials

The Taylor Community Library recognizes that the choice of library materials by library users is an individual matter. While an individual may reject materials for themselves, they cannot exercise censorship to restrict access to the materials by others.

Recognizing that a diversity of materials may result in some requests for reconsideration, the Taylor Community Library has established reconsideration procedures to address concerns about library resources including print resources, electronic resources, programs, and use of meeting room space. If you wish to request reconsideration of a library resource, please return a completed Resource Reconsideration form to Briana Cimino, Library Director, Taylor Community Library, 710 S Main Street, Taylor, PA 18517, or to bcimino@albright.org.

Restrictions:

The person completing this form must be a resident of Lackawanna County.

Only one form per person will be considered at one time.

A person may submit no more than three forms during a 12-month period.

The Library Director will decide on the action taken. Decisions may be appealed in writing to the Board of Directors within 14 business days after a decision is communicated by the Library Director.

The decision rendered by the Library Director or, upon appeal, the Board of Directors will remain in place for 36 months. A subsequent complaint about the same resource, regardless of the identity of the person submitting the form, will not be considered until the 36 months have elapsed.

Donated Materials

The Taylor Community Library welcomes donated materials, but accepts them with the understanding that it has the right to handle or dispose of them in the best interest of the Library. Such material may be added to the collection provided it meets the standards of selection or sold as part of the Library’s book sale. Once given to the library, they cannot be returned to donor. We do not accept encyclopedia sets, outdated media formats, magazines, college textbooks, or musty or soiled materials.

Purchase Requests

The Taylor Community Library welcomes purchase suggestions from library users. Although we may not be able to acquire everything that is suggested, all suggestions receive serious consideration.

Collection Maintenance

A strong collection requires ongoing evaluation and maintenance. Materials will regularly be weeded from the collection based on the following criteria:

Accuracy and currency of information;

Physical condition of materials;

Availability of newer, more comprehensive, or more accessible material;

Relevance to collection and scope of collection;

Ease of borrowing materials from another library;

Relevance to community needs;

Date of last circulation and number of circulations;

Number of copies in the collection.

Community Room Policy (Alma H. Rees Community Room)

The Alma H. Rees Community Room is primarily available for Taylor Community Library (TCL) programs. When the Community Room is not in use by the Library, it is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis to community organizations, nonprofit groups, and government entities engaged in activities related to charity, advocacy, civic engagement, religion, or politics that do not charge for attendance. Any other use must be approved solely by the Library Director. No uses of the Community Room that are likely to disturb Library patrons in their customary use of Library facilities, to impede Library staff in the performance of their duties, or to endanger the Library’s building or collection will be permitted. This policy does not apply to Library events (see Programming Policy).

A signed Community Room Request Form must be submitted to the Library no later than 14 days in advance of the meeting. The application must be signed by an authorized representative of the group who shall attend the meeting and be responsible for the conduct of meeting attendees and for any damages. Each application for use of the Community Room will be reviewed, and the contact person will receive confirmation. The Community Room will not be considered scheduled until confirmation is made.

Regular use of the Community Room may be granted at the discretion of the Library. However, to promote accessibility of the Community Room for Library events and a variety of community groups, TCL may limit reservations for any or all groups or individuals. The Library and the Library staff reserve the right to reject reservation requests if the anticipated meeting is to be unreasonably disruptive to regular library functions or in any other way inconsistent with or in contravention to any of the terms and conditions of this policy. No organization and/or group may consider the Library as their permanent meeting place or use the Library as their mailing address. To appeal a rejected request for use of the Community Room, the applicant must submit a letter of appeal to the Library Director at least 14 days prior to the next Library Board meeting for review by the Board of Directors.

The Taylor Community Library provides its Community Room as a public service. Use of the room does not constitute endorsement of viewpoints expressed by the program or participants in the program. No advertising or announcement implying such endorsement will be permitted. All advertisements, mailings, and postings must include the disclaimer, “This event is not endorsed by or sponsored by the Taylor Community Library.”

The Community Room shall not be used for entrepreneurial or commercial purposes, for the solicitation of business, for profit, or for fundraising other than fundraising solely for the financial benefit of the Library, unless specifically permitted by the Library Board of Directors. Non-profit groups or organizations may charge for material fees, with permission from the Library Director.

Guidelines for Use

The Community Room may be used by no more than thirty (30) people at one time.

All individuals must follow the Library’s Patron Behavior Policy.

Room reservations may not begin before the Library is open or continue past the time that the Library closes. The Community Room must be reset to its original condition and vacated 15 minutes before the Library closes.

Room reservations must be made by an individual that is at least 18 years of age, and the applicant is responsible for supervision of all children using the room.

A large screen television and DVD player are available in the Community Room. Equipment should only be operated by those who are familiar with how to use it properly, or with assistance from Library staff. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide any necessary equipment that is not available in the Community Room.

The Library assumes no liability or responsibility for any accident or loss of personal property that might occur as a result of the use of the Community Room. All items belonging to the group must be removed immediately at the conclusion of the room reservation. No storage of the organization’s items or equipment is available before or after the reservation window, except at the discretion of the Library Director.

Alcoholic beverages, lighted candles or flames, and gambling are prohibited.

The removal of Library property, including furniture, equipment, and items affixed to the walls from the Library is prohibited.

Nothing may be attached to the walls, ceiling, floor, windows, or doors of the room.

The organization reserving the room assumes responsibility for any damage done to the Community Room, its contents, the building and the grounds, or any personal injuries sustained by attendees. Any damages to Library property will be billed directly to the sponsoring organization or individual.

Library staff are not at the disposal of the organization or group.

TCL reserves the right to cancel any room reservation at any time if necessary. The Library will not be held responsible for any costs incurred as a result of such cancellation. The contact person for the reservation will be notified by the Library with as much advance notice as possible in the event of a cancellation. It is the responsibility of the contact person to notify any other group members or attendees of the cancellation.

In the event that the Library closes due to an emergency or inclement weather, use of the Community Room is automatically cancelled.

Meetings must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in denial of future use of the Community Room, financial liability for damages, and/or removal from the Community Room.

Alma H. Rees Community Room Use Request Printable Form

Confidentiality of Library Records Policy

Overview

The Taylor Community Library protects the privacy of library records and the confidentiality of patron use of the library as required by relevant laws and reflected in the library’s Values Statements. This policy seeks to establish protocols that will give staff and Board of Trustees direction in the enforcement of these laws and values.

Legal Requirements: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

24 Pa.C.S.A. Education § 9375

Records of the following institutions which relate to the circulation of library materials and contain the names or other personally identifying information of users of the materials shall be confidential and may not be made available to anyone except by a court order in a criminal proceeding:

(1) The State Library.

(2) A local library established or maintained under the provisions of this chapter.

(3) The library of a university, college, or educational institution chartered by the Commonwealth.

(4) The library of a public school.

(5) A library established and maintained under a law of this Commonwealth.

(6) A branch reading room, deposit station or agency operated in connection with a library described in this section.

At TCL the term “circulation records” refers to the following:

Records from Integrated Library System that link a patron to a specific resource.
Records of computer usage including browser histories.
Printouts associated with a specific patron.
Anecdotal reporting by staff on an individual’s library usage.
Security camera footage.
Verification of an individual’s presence (or lack thereof) in a library facility, vehicle, or virtual service.

Staff Procedures

Requests received by staff should be referred to a member of the Leadership Team or the CEO.
The member of Leadership Team or CEO will ask the requestor if they have a subpoena or search warrant. If No the requirement will be explained to the requestor. If a subpoena go Step 3. If search warrant, go to Search Warrant section below.
If a subpoena, the CEO will confer with legal counsel.
If the subpoena is acceptable to legal counsel, the CEO or their designee will supervise the transfer of information ensuring that no other user records are disclosed.

If law enforcement officers bring a court order in the form of a Search Warrant:

A search warrant is executable immediately, unlike a subpoena. The law enforcement officers may begin a search of library records as soon as they enter the library.
A member of Leadership Team or CEO will request that law enforcement officers wait until legal counsel is able to examine the search warrant and to assure that the search conforms to the terms of the search warrant. (IMPORTANT: The law enforcement officials are not required to accede to your request to delay the search).
The CEO or their designee will work with the officers to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are disclosed.

Exceptions

In the following instances, the procedures outlined above can be bypassed:

Clear and present danger to library staff or patrons.
Internal library investigation assuming legal counsel determines utilizing documentation, data, or records in specified manner does not violate existing laws.
If a caller inquires as to the presence or lack thereof of a specific patron, staff will ask for a description of the patron and take the caller’s number. If a patron matching the caller’s description is present, staff will record name and phone number of the caller and invite patron to use library phone to call if they wish.

Conflict of Interest Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to protect the Taylor Community Library (hereafter known as the Library) interests when it is contemplating entering into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of a board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or employee who is considering a proposed transaction or arrangement for the Library; or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction. This policy is intended to supplement but not replace any applicable state and federal laws governing conflict of interest applicable to governmental, nonprofit or charitable organizations.

Definitions

Contract – An arrangement for the acquisition or use by the Library of services, supplies, materials, equipment, land or any other personal or real property.
Interested Person – Any board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or Library employee who is considering a proposed transaction or arrangement who has a direct or indirect financial interest, as defined below, is an interested person.
Financial Interest – A person has a financial interest if the person has, directly or indirectly, through business, investment, or family:
- a. An ownership or investment interest in any entity with which the Library has a transaction or arrangement,
- b. A compensation arrangement with the Library or with any entity or individual with which the Library has a transaction or arrangement, or
- c. A potential ownership or investment interest in, or compensation arrangement with, any entity or individual with which the Library is negotiating a transaction or arrangement.
Compensation – Direct and indirect remuneration as well as gifts, gratuities, or favors that are not insubstantial.

A financial interest is not necessarily a conflict of interest. Under the instructions below “Determining Whether a Conflict of Interest Exists”, a person who has a financial interest may have a conflict of interest only if the appropriate governing board or committee decides that a conflict of interest exists.

Ethical Guidelines

Each board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or Library employee is expected to perform his or her duties in accordance with the law and the highest ethical standards. As a board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or Library employee, you, or any member of your family, are prohibited from having a financial interest in any contract with the Library in which you are employed or influencing, or attempting to influence, the making of any contract in which you have a financial interest.

Acceptance of Gifts, Gratuities, or Favors

No board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or Library employee, any member of his or her immediate family, or any business in which he or she has a principle interest, shall accept any gift, gratuity or favor from any source doing or seeking to do business with the Library or attempting to influence the judgment of such employee or official.

Except as otherwise prohibited by law, the foregoing shall not prohibit the Library from accepting any gift, gratuity or favor of a fair market value (regardless of the donor’s cost) of one hundred ($100.00) dollars or less, provided the gift, gratuity or favor shall be physically retained by the Library and made available for the use or enjoyment of all employees of the Library, and provided further, only one such gift from the same donor may be accepted annually.

Any offer to the Library of a gift, gratuity or favor of a fair market value in excess of one hundred ($100.00) dollars shall be referred to the Library board which shall determine at a public meeting whether to accept or reject such gift, gratuity or favor on behalf of the Library.

This policy is not intended to prohibit a board member, officer, or member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, or Library employee, or members of their families, while in attendance at a conference or gathering of a statewide or regional association of such people, from accepting meals and/or hospitality from sponsoring entities, provided all persons in attendance at such conference or gathering are invited to attend or participate in the sponsored activity.

Procedures

Duty to Disclose: In connection with any actual or possible conflict of interest, an interested person must disclose the existence of the financial interest and be given the opportunity to disclose all material facts to the governing board, or members of committees with governing board delegated powers who are considering the proposed transaction or arrangement. In the case of a Library employee, the matter shall be referred to the governing board for decision following the procedures listed below.
Determining Whether a Conflict of Interest Exists: After disclosure of the financial interest and all material facts, and after any discussion with the interested person, 3 he/she shall leave the governing board or committee meeting while the determination of a conflict of interest is discussed and voted upon. The remaining board or committee members shall decide if a conflict of interest exists.
Procedures for Addressing the Conflict of Interest: An interested person may make a presentation at the governing board or committee meeting, but after the presentation, he/she shall leave the meeting during the discussion of, and the vote on, the transaction or arrangement involving the possible conflict of interest.
- a) The chairperson of the governing board or committee shall, if appropriate, appoint a disinterested person or committee to investigate alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement. In the case of Library employees, the matter shall be referred to the governing board for decision.
- b) After exercising due diligence, the governing board or committee shall determine whether the Library can obtain with reasonable efforts a more advantageous transaction or arrangement from a person or entity that would not give rise to a conflict of interest.
- c) If a more advantageous transaction or arrangement is not reasonably possible under circumstances not producing a conflict of interest, the governing board or committee shall determine by a majority vote of the disinterested board members whether the transaction or arrangement is in the Library’s best interest, for its own benefit, and whether it is fair and reasonable. In conformity with the above determination it shall make its decision as to whether to enter into the transaction or arrangement.
Violations of the Conflict of Interest Policy:
- a) If the governing board or committee has reasonable cause to believe an individual has failed to disclose actual or possible conflicts of interest, it shall inform the individual of the basis for such belief and afford the individual an opportunity to explain the alleged failure to disclose.
- b) If, after hearing the individual’s response and after making further investigation as warranted by the circumstances, the governing board or committee determines the individual has failed to disclose an actual or possible conflict of interest, it shall take appropriate disciplinary and corrective action.
- c) Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge, and possible prosecution Disciplinary actions shall be consistent with board policies, procedures, [applicable collective bargaining agreements] and state and federal laws.
- d) In the event an investigation determines that a violation of this policy has occurred involving a federal award, the violation shall be reported in writing to the federal awarding agency in accordance with that agency’s policies.

Records of Proceedings

The minutes of the governing board and all committees with board delegated powers shall contain:

a) The names of the persons who disclosed or otherwise were found to have a financial interest in connection with an actual or possible conflict of interest, the nature of the financial interest, any action taken to determine whether a conflict of interest was present, and the governing board’s or committee’s decision as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed.

b) The names of the persons who were present for discussions and votes relating to the transaction or arrangement, the content of the discussion, including any alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement, and a record of any votes taken in connection with the proceedings.

Compensation

a) A voting member of the governing board who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Library for services is precluded from voting on matters pertaining to that member’s compensation.

b) A voting member of any committee whose jurisdiction includes compensation matters and who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Library for services is precluded from voting on matters pertaining to that member’s compensation.

c) No voting member of the governing board or any committee whose jurisdiction includes compensation matters and who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Library, either individually or collectively, is prohibited from providing information to any committee regarding compensation.

Annual Statements

Each board member, officer, member of a committee with governing board delegated powers, and Library employee who consider proposed transactions or arrangements shall annually sign a statement which affirms such person:

a) Has received a copy of the conflict of interest policy,

b) Has read and understands the policy,

c) Has agreed to comply with the policy, and

d) Understands the Library is either a government agency or is charitable and in order to maintain its federal tax exemption it must engage primarily in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.

Organizational Conflicts

In the event of a potential organizational conflict, the potential conflict shall be reviewed by the Library Board to determine whether it is likely that the Library would be unable or appear to be unable to be impartial in making the award. If such a likelihood exists, this shall not disqualify the related organization; however, the following measures shall be applied:

The organizational relationship shall be disclosed as part of any notices to potential contractors;
Any Library employees or officials directly involved in the activities of the related organization are excluded from the selection and award process;
A competitive bid, quote or other basis of valuation is considered; and
The Board has determined that contracting with the related organization is in the best interests of the program involved.

Display of Non-Library Publicity Materials Policy

The Taylor Community Library may designate specific areas at its locations for the display of non-library publicity materials. Examples include, but are not limited to, flyers, brochures, and electric bulletin board signs. These areas are open for community organizations and governmental entities engaged in educational, cultural, charitable, or civic activities.

A copy of all items intended for posting on a library bulletin board must first be submitted for approval by a designated library staff member. Items posted without approval are subject to removal. Approval will be granted based upon library policy as herein stated and subject to available space.

The following items/types will not be approved:

Political campaign materials of a partisan nature urging people to vote for or against a person or an issue.
Postings designed for individual or commercial profit or gain.
Postings proselytizing for a specific religious sect or affiliation.
Postings containing content that could be considered discriminatory or harassing based on a group or individual’s protected status (i.e., race, color, religion/religious creed, sex/gender, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin/ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or status in any other group protected by federal, state or local law) or which advocates in any way for such discrimination.
Undated materials. In the event that a group or individual would like to appeal the library’s decision not to display an item, an appeal may be made by using the Library Resources Challenge Form.

Faxing Policy

Taylor Community Library offers faxing services to the public. Patrons needing fax service can visit the Library during regular business hours and speak with any member of the staff. Requests will be handled in a timely manner, but library services and operations will take priority.

Operation is limited to library staff. The library is only able to provide both outgoing fax services.

A fax transmission cover sheet will be available, if requested. The cover sheet is included in the price of the fax.

All material to be faxed must be on an 8 ½” by 11” sheet of paper and be free of wrinkles, folds or tears. Materials not in appropriate form will be photocopied at a cost of .25.

Local fax transmission charge is $1.00 per page. Local faxes are faxes that are within the 570area code. Long distance fax transmission service is $1.00 per page. Long distance fax numbers include all numbers outside of the 570 and out-of-state faxes. International faxing is not available. Cash, credit card and checks are accepted.

If the first call results in a busy signal or other failed connection, 2 more attempts will be made to transmit in the next 10 minutes. If failure persists, patrons may return to the library at a later time to retry. Patrons must be in the library to send faxes.

Patrons will be given receipt of fax transmittal. The library is not responsible for transmission of faxes nor is the library responsible for any damage or loss of data or consequential damage arising out of the use of this service. Transmission errors are common and print quality is variable and not controlled by the library.

The fax service may not be used for illegal purposes and patrons must abide by copyright laws.

Harassment & Bullying Policy

Policy brief & purpose

The purpose of this policy is to communicate to all employees that the Taylor Community Library will not in any instance tolerate harassment or bullying behavior. Employees found in violation of this policy will be disciplined, up to and including termination.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, trustees, contractors, and anyone else whom employees come into contact with at work. For more details on how to recognize, report and deal with sexual harassment please refer to the library’s sexual harassment policy.

Defining harassment

Harassment is any verbal or physical conduct designed to threaten, intimidate or coerce a person of a protected status as defined in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Harassment includes but is not limited to:

Verbal harassment: includes comments that are offensive or unwelcome regarding a person’s national origin, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, body, disability or other protected status, including jokes, epithets, slurs, mockery and negative stereotyping.
Nonverbal harassment: includes distribution, display or sending of any written or graphic material that ridicules, denigrates, insults, belittles or shows hostility, aversion or disrespect toward an individual or group because of national origin, race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, appearance, disability, sexual identity, marital status or other protected status.

Defining bullying

Bullying is repeated inappropriate behavior, either direct or indirect, whether verbal, physical or otherwise, conducted by one or more persons against another or others, at the place of work and/or in the course of employment. Bullying is similar to harassment however it need not be related to a protected status. Bullying may be done for reasons such as jealousy, personal dislike, revenge or insecurity. Bullying includes but is not limited to:

Physical bullying: Pushing, shoving, kicking, poking, tripping, assault or threat of physical assault, damage to a person’s work area or property
Verbal bullying: Slandering, ridiculing or maligning a person or his or her family; persistent name calling that is hurtful, insulting or humiliating; using a person as butt of jokes; abusive and offensive remarks
Nonverbal bullying: Nonverbal threatening gestures; glances that can convey threatening messages; socially or physically excluding or disregarding a person in work-related activities.

How to address and report harassment or bullying

Individuals who believe they have been the victim of conduct prohibited by this policy or believe they have witnessed such conduct should discuss their concerns with their immediate supervisor or human resources. Any reported allegations of harassment, bullying or retaliation will be investigated promptly. The investigation may include individual interviews with the parties involved and, where necessary, with individuals who may have observed the alleged conduct or may have other relevant knowledge. Taylor Community Library will maintain confidentiality throughout the investigatory process to the extent consistent with adequate investigation and appropriate corrective action.

Disciplinary action

Misconduct constituting harassment, bullying or retaliation will be dealt with appropriately. Responsive action may include, for example, training, referral to counseling or disciplinary action such as a warning, reprimand, reassignment, temporary suspension without pay, or termination, as the Library believes appropriate under the circumstances. If the employee is a union member then a representative of the union may be included in the investigation or decision process.

Lodging a bona fide complaint will in no way be used against the employee or have an adverse impact on the individual’s employment status. However, filing groundless or malicious complaints is a violation of this policy and may be the subject of appropriate disciplinary action.

Confidentiality

All complaints and investigations are treated confidentially to the extent possible and information is disclosed strictly on a need-to-know basis. The identity of the complainant is usually revealed to the parties involved during the investigation. The Director will take appropriate steps to ensure that the complainant is protected from retaliation during and after the investigation. All information pertaining to a complaint or investigation is maintained in secure files within the Director.

Internet & Wi-Fi Use Policy

The Lackawanna County Library System (LCLS), through its member libraries, provides public access to the Internet via local area networks and a wide area network linking all system libraries. Access to this network is free to:

1. Any adult member in good standing of the LCLS. Patrons are allowed to log onto a computer once per business day for a 1 hour period. If circumstances allow, an additional 1 hour period may be permitted;
Any juvenile member in good standing accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Juvenile patrons are limited to the filtered workstations in the children’s area of the Taylor Community Library and filtered workstations in other system libraries. Children have to come to the circulation desk to be logged on to a computers and are allowed one (1) session for (one) 1 hour per business day.
Any young adult member in good standing of the LCLS. Patrons are allowed to log onto a computer once per business day for a 1 hour period. If circumstances allow, an additional 1 hour period may be permitted;
Any purchaser of a non-resident LCLS card. Patrons are allowed to log onto the computers once per business day for a 1 hour period. If circumstances allow, an additional 1 hour period may be permitted.
Any holder of a valid library card from another Pennsylvania library that participates in the statewide card program. Patrons are allowed to log onto the computers once per business day for a 1 hour period. If circumstances allow, an additional 1 hour period may be permitted.

In accordance with current state and federal laws, the LCLS libraries exercise their rights to selectively employ filtering technology to block access to images that are obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors (age 16 and under). However, filters are not 100% effective and may not filter images that should be blocked, and conversely, may block images that should not be blocked. In the case of an inappropriate site that was not filtered, a patron may be requested to exit the site in question. Specific time limits set system-wide. Reservations are not presently necessary, but please note that presentation of your library card is required.

Library staff may assist patrons in getting connected to the Internet, but searching for specific materials and information is the user’s responsibility.

The system headquarters – Albright Memorial Library in Scranton – provides free classes in the use of the Internet for those who are interested. A listing of times and availability is published monthly. Call (570) 348-3000 ext. 3038 for more information, or check the library’s web page at www.albright.org.

Printing is available subject to fees and limitations established by the member libraries. Users are reminded that material on the Internet may be subject to the copyright law of the United States (U.S. Code; Title 17). See NOTICE posted at all print stations.

The following restrictions apply to all individuals who access the Internet over the LCLS network:

Users may not access inappropriate matter, such as matter that is obscene, pornographic, threatening, or otherwise in violation of community standards.
Users may not engage in unlawful activities or misrepresentation.
Users may not attempt unauthorized access (including hacking) to any computer system.
Users may not make unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s personal information by means of the Internet, e-mail, or any other electronic technology. Minors must have the authorization of their parent or guardian to disclose their own personal information.
Users must be careful not to expose themselves to dangerous situations. Users must be cautious when using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, discussion groups, news groups, game rooms, and all other forms of communication.

Any attempt to alter workstation or network settings, or any attempt to defeat library security programs, etc., will be viewed as a serious matter and may result in the loss of access privileges on a temporary or permanent basis. The library receives the right to expand or alter the list of prohibited sites without notice.

While there is much of value on the Internet, patrons are reminded that no one regulates the Internet and its content. Consequently the LCLS cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information found. Users are also cautioned that they may encounter material that is offensive. As the libraries are public buildings for the use of all, users are asked to be considerate of others, and to act in such a manner that respects the privacy of each patron. The libraries reserve the right to request viewers to change web pages. The libraries reserve the right to employ filtering software on all or selected workstations. System member libraries may establish other requirements as dictated by local issues and concerns, as long as those requirements do not conflict with the System-wide policy. The LCLS and system member libraries assume no responsibility for damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of this service.

Use of the library’s Internet service constitutes acceptance by the user of all pertinent LCLS rules, regulations, and policies as posted.

All patrons must agree to this policy when logging into a computer at Taylor Community Library. (TCL 2012).

Materials Donation Policy

The Taylor Community Library currently accepts donations of books and non-print materials. We appreciate the generosity of our patrons. Each item we receive will be carefully evaluated for inclusion in our circulating and local history collections. Items we currently DO NOT ACCEPT include:

Magazines of any kind regardless of publication date
Encyclopedias
Textbooks
Reader’s Digest condensed books
Books which have been stored for some time and have acquired a musty odor
Books that are damaged which would include broken spines, torn pages, writing or coloring with the contents
Any non-print material not in working order
VHS tapes and cassette tapes

Any item which will not be added to our collection will be sent to another library or put in our on-going book sale. All proceeds from this sale directly benefit the Taylor Community Library. ALL donations must be brought directly into the library to the Circulation Desk. If you need assistance with getting materials inside the library please call the library. Please note we DO NOT pick up materials from other locations. Any materials which are left outside the library will be disposed of properly.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The Library does not engage in and stands against all forms of illegal Discrimination with regard to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, or the other proper exercise by an employee of their rights guaranteed by the Public Employee Relations Act No. 195.

Patron Behavior Policy

Welcome to the Taylor Community Library! We aim to provide the best library service possible to all visitors. In return, we ask that you treat the library, its contents, staff, and other patrons with respect. Failure to do so may result in denial of service, suspension of privileges, or expulsion from the library.

The following behaviors are prohibited in the library building and on its grounds:

Any acts that violate federal, state, or local laws, ordinances, or regulations

Physical, sexual, or verbal harassment of staff and/or other library visitors

Obstructing access to any part of the library facility or grounds, including bringing in personal items (e.g. suitcases, skateboards, etc.) that may be a hazard, take up an excessive amount of space, or impede library use

Possession of weapons, except by on-duty law enforcement personnel

Smoking, vaping, use of controlled substances, tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs as well as possession of alcohol or drugs on the premises

Creating a disturbance that would prevent others from enjoying the library, including loud talking, loud audio equipment (including cell phone use), use of profanity, or viewing inappropriate materials in plain sight of other visitors

Leaving children unsupervised or uncontrolled (see Unattended or Disruptive Children Policy)

Consuming food or beverages at public computers or in a non-designated area

Sleeping

Petitioning, soliciting, or selling goods or services

Bodily hygiene that is disruptive to others using the library, including strong body odor, bathing, shaving, or washing of clothes

Failing to wear a shirt or shoes

Bringing in animals, unless they are a service animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or part of a sanctioned library program

Photographing or filming without permission from library staff

Staff reserve the right to determine what constitutes reasonably disruptive behavior in the library. Staff follow a 1-strike policy. If you are asked to stop engaging in the activity/behavior once and do not comply, you will be asked to leave the library for the remainder of the day. A visitor who repeatedly violates this policy or violates it in a way that threatens the safety of staff and/or other visitors may have their access to the library suspended for a period of time determined by the Library Director. Visitors whose access has been suspended have the right to appeal to the TCL Board of Trustees within 15 days of an incident.

Political Activity in Library Policy

Purpose

Although libraries collect materials that represent a diverse array o(viewpoints and opinions in political matters, it is not in the interest of the library to become a setting for political activities such as the display or distribution of campaign materials for elected officials or ballot measures. The purpose of this policy is to define the types of political activities prohibited on library premises. The Library will not support, endorse, or advocate the viewpoints or beliefs of any one candidate, political party, partisan organization or group. Posting or distributing partisan election or campaign material in Libraries or on Library property is not permitted. Elected officials, candidates for political office, representatives of political parties, and registered third-party advertisers may not use open Library space or property to solicit or advocate among library users and may not use open Library space or property to make public statements or host media events, unless they are part of a shared Library program or announcement.

No elected official or candidate from that level of government will be invited to speak or present at library events, except for at all-candidates meetings, until after the election has concluded. Candidates, political parties, and registered third-party advertisers may not book any library spaces for meetings or other activities related to the election underway.

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy:

“Ballot initiative” refers to any ordinance, measure, referendum, or amendment authorized by popular vote.
“Candidate” refers to any individual campaigning for an elected office.
“Library” refers to the Taylor Community Library.
“Premises” refers to library facilities including exterior and interior walls, windows, entrances or doorways, hallways, offices, and any public areas.

Policy

The following political activities are prohibited on Library premises:

In person solicitation of votes for any candidate or ballot initiative.
In person solicitation of contributions for any candidate or ballot initiative.
Display of posters or flyers in support of any candidate or ballot initiative.
Distribution of flyers, brochures, or other printed material in support of any candidate or ballot initiative.
Use of the library website or social media accounts for any of the above activities.

As part of an exhibit, the library may allow the display of historical campaign materials to promote voting or to provide history education.

Programming Policy

Definition: A program is a planned public activity for five or more people that is presented by library staff, authorized volunteers, or contractors. Examples include, but are not limited to, story time, lecture, workshop, discussion group, performance, book talks, demonstration, class, and panel discussion. Programs are offered for adults, young adults, and children.

Selection: Library programs are selected by library staff and must adhere to the Taylor Community Library’s mission. (See attached.) Individuals or entities who wish to conduct a program at the library or request that the library offer a program must fill out the attached Program Request Form. The Library’s philosophy of open access to information and ideas extends to Library programming, and the Library does not knowingly discriminate through its programming. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants. The library does not offer programming that is purely commercial, religious, or partisan political in nature. If a party wishes to challenge the library’s decision regarding a program selection, the party must follow the Taylor Community Library’s Library Resource Challenge procedure

Fees: All Library programs are free. A materials fee may be charged if additional materials are required.

Access: All programs are open to the public though registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited. For some programs a library card may be required to enter or make a reservation. Some programs may be designed with specific audiences in mind. Programs targeted toward a specific audience will be publicized as such.

Printable Program Request Form

Public Comment Policy

The Taylor Community Library, as part of its commitment to the community, offers a Public Comment section during public meetings. We ask that speakers observe the following rules:

All speakers must sign in using the form provided. Name is required. Speakers may also enter the name of the organization they represent if applicable.
Time Limit: 5 minutes though this may be changed at the discretion of the presiding Officer.
The following is prohibited:
- Insults or attacks on individuals.
- Name-calling.
- Profanity.
- Racial or ethnic slurs.
- Discriminatory remarks based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry or place of birth, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or age.
- Any other behavior that is inconsistent with the Values of the Taylor Community Library and its Patron Policy.

Service Animal Policy

As required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Taylor Community Library will allow service dogs to accompany patrons with disabilities in public areas. The dog may be of any breed. Additionally, miniature horses are allowed under the ADA. The dog (or miniature horse) is not required to wear a vest, and the library, per ADA requirements, will not require the patron to show proof of certification. Instead, the patron/handler will be asked the following questions:

Is the service animal required because of a disability?
What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?

If a service animal is out of control, and the patron/handler does not take effective action to control it, or if the animal is not housebroken, the library may ask the patron/handler to remove the animal from the library. Staff will offer the patron/handler the opportunity to receive goods or services without the animal’s presence.

The patron/handler is solely responsible for any/all damages or injuries caused by the animal. Under no circumstances will Taylor Community Library bear any responsibility for any damages to library patrons, staff, or property.

The Mission of the Taylor Community Library is to provide materials, related services, and programming to meet the educational, recreational and informational needs of the residents of Lackawanna County. In keeping with this mission, the library uses various social media outlets such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and others to engage library patrons in an open communication about library materials, services and programs.

The role and utility of social media outlets are constantly evaluated by library staff and may be terminated at any time without notice.

By joining, utilizing, and/or posting on the Library’s social media outlets, you agree to comply with this Policy. The Taylor Community Library assumes no liability regarding any event or interaction that takes place on library sanctioned outlets and does not endorse or review content outside the library sanctioned outlets created by the Taylor Community Library staff. Comments posted by users on library outlets do not reflect the view of the library staff, administration, and Board. Comments containing copyright violations, child pornography, or physical threats will be removed.

Unattended or Disruptive Children Policy

The Taylor Community Library encourages children and their families to use the Library. However, staff cannot assume responsibility for unattended children. When children are left unattended, even if a parent, tutor, or guardian is in the building, problems can arise. If left alone in the Library:

Young children may become frightened or confused and wander away;
Older children left on their own for a length of time may become bored and disruptive.
Older children left in charge of younger siblings cannot be expected to deal with a small child who becomes frightened, tired or ill.

The Taylor Community Library is a public facility and cannot regulate who enters the building. Children left on their own may be approached by strangers, view non-age-appropriate materials, or otherwise come in contact with a situation that is beyond their ability to cope. If an unattended child has a medical emergency, the Library staff cannot take legal responsibility for the child.

To protect children while they are using the Taylor Community Library and to provide all patrons with a facility that is safe, pleasant, and conducive to library use, the following guidelines must be observed:

The parent or caregiver is responsible for the behavior and supervision of children in their care while at the Library. Children who are deemed disruptive by the Library staff will be asked to leave the Library property. This includes, but is not exclusive to the following:
- Improper use of public computers
- Loud or boisterous speech, singing, or other noise making
- Improper use of cell phones
- Improper attire (shirts and shoes are mandatory)
- The consumption of food or drink within the Library
Children under the age of 10 years old must be under the care of an adult (parent or caregiver) at all times, including while the adult is using a public computer or looking for library materials.
Parents must remain in the Library during programs for children under the age of 10 years old.
Older children (ages 11 through 17) must adhere to all Library policies (copies available at the Circulation Desk). Older children (ages 11-17) who are in the Library at closing time are expected to have an appropriate way to get home. The Library staff is instructed to call Taylor Police if a child is left without transportation or is unable to contact a parent or caregiver.
The children’s area of the Library is reserved for children, their parents or responsible adult caregivers, and adults interested in children’s literature, such as teachers and college students taking children’s literature classes. Out of concern for the safety of our young patrons, adults who are unaccompanied by a child or children in the children’s area of the Library may be questioned by staff, and may be asked to move to another area of the Library.

Please make sure that your children know and obey the Library’s rules. Prepare them for an emergency by giving them your cell or work number. Every child should be taught their home telephone number at an early age. Know the library hours and pick your child up at least 15 minutes before the Library closes or make other travel arrangements before the Library closes.

PARENTS/GUARDIANS & CAREGIVERS, please be aware that for the safety and comfort of all children visiting the library, CHILDREN 8 and under must be in sight of and supervised by a parent/caregiver at all times. This includes while the adult is using a public computer or looking at library material.

If a child in this age group is found unattended, library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the library and inform him/her of this policy.

If the parent/caregiver cannot be found, if the child is found unattended again, or if the library is closing, the police will be called for assistance and the patron’s library privileges may be suspended.

Taylor Community Library Policies