Public Use Policy

SECTION 4. PUBLIC USE POLICY

4.1 Use of Library Buildings

• The director must approve any organization’s/individual’s equipment or materials placed in library buildings. The equipment cannot interfere with use of the building and LDRL will not be responsible for damages to the equipment. LDRL will not accept storage responsibility for historical documents or objects owned or controlled by groups or individuals.

• The display case(s) shall be available upon request for any non-profit organization or an individual on a first come, first serve basis. There may be a two week limit for displays. LDRL will not be held responsible for any items left in the display case(s).

• An adult (18 years or older) must be in charge of group activities at all times during use of LDRL’s facilities.

• The director shall have the authority to establish reasonable rules and regulations governing the use of the public rooms.

• LDRL will maintain smoke, alcohol, and drug-free facilities. Use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs in any form is prohibited.

• Library patrons will only be allowed food and drink in designated areas.

• LDRL abides by the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and does what is necessary to implement its policies.

• No animals except to aid a person with a disability are allowed in the library buildings (Appendix Q)

4.2 Meeting Room Policy

• Each branch of LDRL has a meeting room available for use by public organizations and civic groups based in Monroe and Randolph Counties. The following guidelines apply to all library property.

• Library program and meetings have first priority; LDRL reserves the right to reschedule group meetings to accommodate library use if necessary;

• Meeting rooms are scheduled on a first come, first served basis;

• Meeting rooms must be scheduled in advance according to each branch’s rules;

• Organizations and groups using the meeting rooms must be not-for-profit and open for public membership

• No admission fees or other monies may be collected or other sales made. Educational programs, including those conducted by LDRL and its partner agencies, may assess cost recovery fees;

• Meeting rooms may not be used for commercial purposes (i.e., sale of goods or service, executing fee-for service agreements, or securing contracts of commitment to services provided elsewhere).

• Public programs must be listed or presented as informational, educational or instructional. Presenters shall make no direct solicitation of attendees to secure clients or customers for their commercial purpose;

• No smoking, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, weapons, or illegal substances are allowed;

• No supplies or equipment will be stored by LDRL for outside groups;

• Organizations are responsible for damages to the facilities occurring during their occupation and they will leave the room neat and clean;

• Meeting room set up or break down is the responsibility of the reserving organization personnel.

• Damages to facilities will result in loss of deposit and repair fees to the extent of the damages;

• Library will be notified of all cancellations at least 24 hours in advance. A failure to notify the library branch of the cancellation may result in restricted access to future use of the meeting rooms.

• LDRL reserves the right to deny meeting room use to any group whose stated or avowed purpose(s) is not deemed in the best interest of the library or its policies;

• Meeting informational signs are permitted on library property only after approval by library staff and not longer than one hour prior to meeting;

• All organizational materials must be removed following meeting room use;

• LDRL is not responsible for any injuries occurring on library premises;

• Library staff reserves the right to enter all meetings held in the meeting rooms;

4.2.1 Huntsville Library Meeting Room Policies

• • Meeting room capacity - 50;

  • Food or drink allowed with refundable deposit of $25;

  • Room is available during library hours;

  • Meeting rooms are scheduled on a first come, first served basis;

  • Meetings should be scheduled at least 3 days in advance; long-term reservations may be made at the discretion of the branch manager;

  • Adult request use of room will sign “Programming Room Use Checklist” (Appendix M)

4.2.2 Madison Library Meeting Room Policies

• • Meeting room capacity - 20;

  • Meeting rooms are scheduled on a first come, first served basis;

  • Adult requesting room will sign “Programming Room Use Checklist” (Appendix M);

  • Meetings should be scheduled at least 3 days in advance; long-term reservations may be made at the discretion of the branch manager.

4.2.3 Paris Library Meeting Room Policies (Appendix H)

• • Meeting room capacity: Roegge Room-100, McKamey Room-75;

  • Meeting rooms are scheduled on a first come, first served basis;

  • A refundable deposit is required to use meeting rooms. Roegge Room-$100, McKamey Room-$50;

  • Adult requesting room will sign “Programming Room Use Checklist” (Appendix M);

  • Groups using room when library is closed must pick up key from library staff prior to meeting during regular library hours. Library staff is NOT responsible for staffing library outside of normal library hours;

  • Rummage sales and money-making /home business selling activities will be permitted in only the McKamey Room. All rummage sale or personal items must be removed after sales or deposit will be forfeited.

4.2.4 Moberly Library Meeting Room Policies

• • Meeting room capacity - 40;

  • Food and drink are allowed with a refundable deposit of $25;

  • Room is available only during library hours;

  • Adult requesting room will sign “Programming Room Use Checklist” (Appendix M);

  • Meetings should be scheduled at least one week in advance.

4.3 Rules of Conduct for Library Users

• Any behavior which is disruptive or which hinders the use of the library is prohibited on library property. This includes, but is not limited to; loud or boisterous behavior, verbal or physical harassment, drunkenness, running, fighting, and congregating in large groups;

• Seating at library tables and chairs are limited to the numbers of persons for which the furniture was designed. Furniture must not be rearranged unless approved by library staff. Furniture must not be abused;

• No person shall possess on the Library premises a firearm, knife, or any other weapon of any kind; unless authorized by law;

• Sleeping in the libraries is not permitted;

• Shoes and shirts must be worn in the libraries;

• Selling products or services is not permitted in public areas

• Soliciting donations are not permitted in public areas;

• Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are on library property.

• A parent or other responsible caregiver (age 14 or older) must attend children under the age of 10 at all times while on the library property;

• Violation of federal laws, state laws, or local ordinances will not be permitted on library property;

• Theft, vandalism, and mutilation of library property are criminal offenses, which will be prosecuted. LDRL reserved the right to inspect all bags, purses, briefcases, backpacks, and other such items when staff members have reason to believe that this rule has been violated;

• LDRL is not responsible for items that are left unattended;

• Skateboards, roller blades or other sports equipment may not be used on library property;

• Smoking and illegal drug use are not permitted in the libraries;

• Listening to audio equipment is permitted if others cannot hear it;

• Patrons are not permitted to use the libraries telephone except in the case of emergencies;

• Any lewd or lascivious activity is prohibited.

• Certified guide or service animals are the only animals permitted within the libraries; (See Appendix Q)

• Rules apply on all library property;

If there is a behavior issue or rule violation, the patron will be asked for identification. Patrons may be asked to leave and parents of children may be notified. Depending upon the circumstance, the local police may be called;

Library users in violation of any of the above rules will be asked to cease the behavior. If the behavior does not change, he/she or the group will be asked to leave the library. If the person refuses to leave, the police will be called. The director may bar any offender from the library for up to 30 days at his/her discretion.

4.3.1 Petitioning and Distribution of Literature on Library Property

Pursuant to the authority granted to LDRL under RSMO 182.230, this policy establishes reasonable rules and regulations controlling petitioning and distributing literature to employees or patrons on LDRL property by individuals herein referred to as Petitioners.

Persons are prohibited from engaging in the personal distribution of literature to library employees and patrons in LDRL buildings and grounds except as provided.

Employees’ distribution and solicitation for charitable activities and bulletin board displays are regulated by different policies. Limited exceptions for petition, solicitation or distribution does not constitute endorsement by LDRL.

Government agencies that disseminate information in LDRL businesses pursuant to the approval of the Library Director or his/her designee are not engaged in petition or distribution of literature as defined in this policy, and are not subject to the restrictions.

Petitioning and distribution of literature is allowed in the following circumstances:

1. Inside a library, petitions are allowed only in the context of scheduled meeting in library meeting rooms. Petitioners may not stand outside the meeting room.

2. Petitioners may stand outside library building on LDRL property in areas designated by staff, away from entrances, must not impede traffic, or pursue patrons.

4.4 Audiovisual Equipment Lending

User requirements

• User must be an adult resident of Randolph or Monroe County, with a valid library card and no outstanding fines or overdues.

• 3 day loan period.

• $5 overdue fine on each piece of equipment, material must be returned by 10:00 A.M. on date due.

• Reservations are required and equipment.

• Loan agreement must be signed.

• Equipment must be picked up and returned to library during library hours.

• $25 returnable deposit required per piece of equipment, returned upon inspection.

4.5 Computer Policy

Access

The Little Dixie Regional Libraries provides Internet access as an extension of its commitment to meeting the informational needs of the community.

The Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. The Internet is a worldwide community with a highly diverse user population and it is the public's responsibility to use this resource wisely

The Internet computers must be used in a responsible manner, respecting the rights of others, and taking care with use of the equipment. Computer and Internet settings may not be changed. Computers may not be used for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose, including any activities prohibited under any applicable federal, Missouri, or local laws. Violation of current Missouri law (Missouri Revised Statutes 573.010 and 573.060) in regards to accessing and displaying pornography and/or obscene materials will result in suspension of computer privileges. All users must abide by MoreNet's Acceptable Use Policy.

All computers within the Library, including staff computers, are filtered for pornographic and sexually explicit web sites in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Patrons connecting to the library’s network with their own laptops or PCs will also be filtered for pornographic and sexually explicit web sites. Adults doing bona fide research may request that filters be disabled.

Computer use by patrons is limited to a total of four hours per day. This time limit includes activity at all branches. Extension of the time limit may be granted at the librarian's discretion.

All computer use will be on a first come, first serve basis. Patrons are responsible for all printing from computers. Black and white copies are 15 cents per page and color copies are 50 cents per page.

Library cards are required to use a computer workstation. Visitor passes may be issued to visitors who have identification. Patrons are required to use their own library card.

Using another’s patron cards in order to increase the length of time on a computer is against policy and can lead to a loss of computer privileges.

Patrons may lose computer privileges for violating any Internet Access Policies. One verbal and one written warning will be given to violators. Patrons may request that their Internet privileges be reinstated by talking to the Branch Manager or Director after a six-month ban. If a patron is reinstated and violates policy again they will be immediately banned. They will not go through the process again of one verbal and one written warning. Patrons may not appeal a second banning.

Internet Safety Policy

Parents or guardians, not the Library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children. Maintaining the physical safety and well being of children is the role of the parent/guardian or assigned chaperone. The library staff cannot take legal responsibility for the care of the unattended child. The Library filters access to pornographic and sexually explicit web sites from all computers as required by Missouri Revised Statute 182.827 and the Children's Internet Protection Act. Gambling and hate sites are also filtered. Filtering software is not guaranteed to protect a child from access to information that a parent/guardian finds inappropriate.

The Library’s web site attempts to help guide children and young adults to Internet sites appropriate for these age levels. Minors should use caution in their use of electronic mail and other forms of direct electronic communications, as these forms of communication can expose minors to dangerous situations.

Children’s Internet Protection Policy

Its is the policy of Little Dixie Regional Libraries to restrict minors from gaining computer access to material that is pornographic for minors in accordance with Sections 182.825 and 182.827, RSMO.

Definitions – Key terms are as defined in Section 182.827, RSMO.

Access to Inappropriate Material – All public access computer shall be equipped with software that limit minor’s ability to gain access to material that is pornographic for minors or purchase Internet connectivity form an Internet service provider that provides filter services to limit access to material that is pornographic for minors.

Supervision or monitoring – It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Little Dixie Regional Libraries to supervise and monitor usage of the public access computers in accordance with this policy and Sections 182.825 and 182.827, RSMO.

Confidentiality

Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users' activities. However, Little Dixie Regional Libraries will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or as necessary for the proper operation of the Library.

Authorized library staff may access personal data stored in the library's computer system only for the purpose of performing their assigned library duties. Staff will not disclose any personal data we collect from you to any other party except where required by law or to fulfill your service request. The library does not sell, lease or give users' personal information to companies, governmental agencies or individuals except as required by law or with the user's authorization. The library can electronically monitor public computers and external access to its network and reserves the right to do so when a violation of law or library policy is suspected. Staff is authorized to take immediate action to protect the security of library users, staff, facilities, computers and the network. This includes contacting law authorities concerning an individual perpetrating a violation. Access logs will be maintained for 30 days.

The Director of Libraries is custodian of library records and is the only party authorized to receive or comply with public records requests or inquiries from law enforcement officers. The Director may delegate this authority to designated members of the library's staff. The Director confers with the County Attorney before determining the proper response to any request for records. We will not make library records available to any agency of state, federal, or local government unless a subpoena, warrant, court order or other investigatory document is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction, showing good cause and in proper form. We have trained all library staff and volunteers to refer any law enforcement inquiries to the Director.

Wi-Fi Services

• LDRL does not guarantee Wi-Fi accessibility at all branches or locations within branches.

• Patrons agree to abide by all applicable LDRL computer use policies.

• LDRL does not guarantee the security of patrons’ computers or data while they are using the Library’s wireless connection.

• LDRL assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or wireless device configurations, security or data files resulting from connection to the Library’s wireless access.

• LDRL reserves right to limit bandwidth on a per connection basis on the wireless network, as necessary, to ensure network reliability and fair sharing of network resources for all wireless users.

• Patrons may not extend or modify the wireless network in any way. LDRL reserves the right to remove any unauthorized access points.

• Printing to the library printers is not available from wireless devices.

• Library staff is not able to provide technical assistance and nor guarantee that patrons will be able to make a wireless connection.

Hotspot Device Services - Approved by LDRL Board 07/20

The Hotspot devices allow free internet connection on the go and anywhere T-Mobile service is available on your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or other mobile device. Patrons will be able to check these out at all Little Dixie Regional Libraries locations.

The purpose of the circulation of mobile hotspots is to lessen the gap of the digital divide by providing our patrons with greater access to the internet beyond the walls of the library. In addition to general internet usage, you can access our digital library, download eBooks, and so much more with free internet access where coverage is available through T-Mobile.

Included with each hot spot: Carrying case, USB cable with charger, and mobile hotspot unit.

Hotspot Borrowing Guidelines

• • • Mobile Hotspots are considered library materials and are subject to all applicable policies and procedures governing them

    • 14-day check out only

    • One renewal only; if no holds are on the material

    • Must be 16 years or older to check out with a library card in good standing with the Little Dixie Regional Libraries system

    • 1 hotspot check out per household at a time

    • Hotspots are deactivated if overdue or if excessive data is used, including downloading movies or other large files

    • Average data limit per checkout is 5 GB

    • Any attempt to alter data or the configuration of the Mobile Hotspot is strictly prohibited and may be considered an act of vandalism and subject to full replacement cost value

    • The library reserves the right to rescind privileges for the checkout of items if these guidelines are not followed

    • All components must be returned together or replacement costs will be applied ($100 device, $15 case, $10 USB cord, $25 convenience fee)

Coverage depends on the T-Mobile network so location of the Mobile Hotspot and congestion of the network may affect user experience.

Little Dixie Regional Libraries is not responsible for personal information shared over the Internet or for information and websites accessed using the device, or any misuse, harm or any other result due to the use of the Mobile Hotspot.

Unless specified otherwise, T-Mobile hotspots are filtered in order to comply with CIPA (Children's Internet Protection Act). The filter can only be turned on/off. The categories cannot be customized.

According to T-Mobile the categories they block are as follow: Anonymizer, Compromised, Criminal Skills / Hacking, Hate Speech, Illegal Drugs, Mature, Nudity, Phishing/Fraud, Porn/Sex, Spam, Spyware/Malicious Sites. Additionally, Safe Search is forced with Google, YouTube, Bing, and DuckDuckGo.

4.6 Charitable and Community Activities

LDRL may participate in fundraising and other collection activities with charitable and not-for-profit organizations using the following guidelines:

• LDRL will provide limited space within its facilities if space is available without hindering public service activities.

• The organization must provide services of a non controversial nature.

• Such events and activities shall be limited to one at a time and shall require only minimal staff time.

• LDRL will not be liable for any loss or theft from the collection.

• Publicity of the activity shall not be the responsibility of LDRL.

• Requests for library participation shall be submitted to the Director. The director will respond within 15 days of the request.

• Groups denied have the right to appeal to the Board of Trustees. Such appeals must be submitted at least 10 prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board.

Activities may include participation in local community collections (blood donations, personal care items, non-perishable food, etc.) at the branch manager’s discretion on a case by case basis. Participation may include both advertisement in the library and collection locations in the library. The activities shall be of a local interest and concern only and for the purpose of assisting local nonprofit organizations.

4.7 LIBRARY ROAD CLOSURE POLICY (Adopted July 2019)

Little Dixie Regional Libraries understands the rare need for road closures around the library due to a variety of community needs. The library will be in favor of closures if they are community based and open to all. If the library is already closed, the LDRL board will have no issue with the road closure for private functions. The library board is not in favor of a public road being closed for private functions at any LDRL location.

4.8 Video Security System Policy (Adopted September 9, 2021)

Little Dixie Regional Libraries (LDRL) strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for its staff and patrons. In pursuit of this objective, selected public areas of library premises are equipped with video cameras that are recording at all times. The video security cameras will be positioned to record only those areas specified by the Executive Director, and will complement other measures to maintain a safe and secure environment in compliance with library policies. Signage will be posted at library entrances disclosing this activity. Camera locations shall not be changed or added without the permission of the Executive Director. The video security system shall be used only for the protection and safety of patrons, employees, assets, property and library operations.

Reasonable efforts shall be made to safeguard the privacy of patrons and employees. Video cameras shall not be positioned in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of personal privacy, such as restrooms, employee break rooms or changing rooms.

Only the Executive Director, IT Manager, Branch Managers and other employees (“Authorized Employees”) and/or service providers designated by the Director are authorized to operate the video security system. Access to video records shall be limited to Authorized Employees and service providers, when accompanied by an Authorized Employee, who shall only access such records during the course of their regular duties. Library employees and service providers are to review and comply with this policy and the guidelines promulgated in accordance with this policy. Such persons shall not violate any laws relevant to this policy (including, but not limited to, Section 565.250 RSMo. et seq., 18 U.S.C. § 1801 and Missouri common laws pertaining to privacy rights) in performing their duties and functions related to the video security system.

It is LDRL’s intent to retain all recorded images for approximately thirty (30) days. Images will not be routinely monitored in real-time, nor reviewed by library staff, except when specifically authorized by the Executive Director or other Authorized Employee. Any records produced by the video security system shall be kept in a secure, locked facility or manner, and managed appropriately by library staff to protect legal obligations and evidentiary values.

Use/Disclosure of Video Records:

As of the date of the most current revision of this policy, video security is used only at the Moberly, Paris, Madison, and Huntsville Libraries.

1. Video records may be used by LDRL to identify the person or persons responsible for LDRL policy violations, criminal, or actions considered disruptive to normal library operations.

2. Video records may be used to assist law enforcement agencies in accordance with applicable state and federal laws upon receipt of a subpoena, warrant or court order. Such requirements may, however, except as hereinafter provided, be waived by the Executive Director when appropriate. Video records of incidents can be retained and reviewed as long as considered necessary by the Executive Director. In the case of a video record which identifies a patron and is a “library record” under Section 182.815 RSMo, in the absence of patron consent, the Executive Director shall, as allowed by Section 182.817 RSMo, require a warrant or other court order issued upon a finding that the disclosure of such record is necessary to protect the public safety or to prosecute a crime. (See also LDRL Policy 2- 672 Confidentiality of Patron Records.)

3. Video records of incidents can be retained and reviewed as long as considered necessary by the Executive Director.

4. Video records may be shared with Authorized Employees when appropriate or, upon approval by the Executive Director, other library staff in order to identify person(s) suspended from LDRL property and to maintain a safe, secure and policy-compliant environment.

5. Video records may be used, upon authorization by the Executive Director, as otherwise allowed by law.

6. Only the Executive Director or Executive Director’s designee shall be authorized to release any video record to anyone other than an Authorized Employee, including, but not limited to, law enforcement personnel, media, patrons, and other persons.

7. Video records are closed records under Section 610.021 RSMo to the extent they relate to any of the exceptions listed therein, including but not limited to those set forth in subsections (1), (3), (13), (14), (19) and (20).

Originally Posted online September 7, 2021

Updated 4.8 Video Security System Policy - September 14, 2021