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Disruptive Behavior Policy

Purpose:

It is the policy of The City Library to provide a safe, comfortable environment that is conducive to the use of library facilities, resources, and equipment either by individuals or small groups. The library is designed for the use of all members of the public. Patrons are expected to observe the rights of other patrons and staff members and to use the library for its intended purposes.

Behavior Not Allowed in the Library:

Any behavior that endangers the safety or health of others
Violation of any local, state, or federal law
Vandalism or deliberate destruction of library properties
Note: Patrons will be financially responsible for any destruction of library property.
Theft of library materials or the personal property of others patrons or staff members
Deliberate disruption of library procedures (including the work of the staff)
Use of abusive language
Loud talking or laughing that disturbs or could disturb other patrons
Sleeping as well as smoking, eating or drinking in areas not designated for these activities
loitering in the building or on the grounds
Inappropriate dress (shirts and shoes must be worn at all times)
roller blades or skate boards (etc) in the building, courtyard, parking area
personal stereos (unless given specific permission by a staff person)
entry into PERSONNEL ONLY areas
Use of cell phones that is disruptive to other patrons
Consequences:

In most cases, patrons who are behaving inappropriately in the library will be given one warning by the library supervisor of the day and asked to behave in an appropriate manner. Patrons who refuse to behave more appropriately after one warning will be asked to leave the library. Serious violations, which include behaviors that are absolutely unacceptable, do not require a warning, but can result in the loss of library privileges for as long as the director deems necessary.

In the cases in which a patron poses a clear danger to her/himself or others, deliberately violates the law, or refuses to leave the library after being asked to leave by the supervisor of the day, the police will be called to handle the situation.

In extreme cases where a patron is consistently disruptive every time he/she visits the library, the Director will bring the matter to the attention of the Board of Trustees who shall decide on any further action.

Policy Reviews:

The City Library Director, Staff, and Board of Trustees will regularly review this policy. Public notice will be made of any policy changes and patrons will be expected to abide by the terms of any updated policy.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees
May 25, 2016
Last review Oct. 25, 2016
Reviewed March 2016


Unattended child Policy

Purpose:
The City Library encourages the active enjoyment of the library -- it facilities, resources, and equipment. However, for this to occur, guidelines must be established which will promote the intended purpose / use of the library.

Children who are left unattended or appear to be in the facilities without adult supervision can be a cause of concern to the library. Issues of safety, liability, and responsibility motivate the library to address this potentially serious problem.

Procedures Used if Child is Deemed "Unattended"

A staff person will notify the supervisor of the day that there is an unattended child in the building.
The supervisor will attempt to locate the child's parents in the building / grounds.
If the parent / guardian cannot be found in the building or on the grounds, a staff member will stay with the child while the supervisor of the day continues to attempt to locate the parents.
If the parents cannot be located within an hour, or if the library is closing, a staff member will be directed to notify the police. (Staff will wait 15 minutes after closing before this measure is taken.)
Under no circumstances shall a staff member take the child out of the building.

Policy Reviews:

The City Library Director, Staff, and Board of Trustees will regularly review this policy. Public notice will be made of any policy changes and patrons will be expected to abide by the terms of any updated policy.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees
May 25, 2016
Last Reviewed Oct. 29, 2016


Volunteer Policy

Philosophy

The Board of Trustees recognizes that the service rendered by Volunteers is invaluable as they help the Library accomplish its mission of service to the community. Volunteers provide special assistance to the Library Staff in the operation and programming of the Library by giving their time to short term projects or extended service. Though the Trustees encourage the staff to develop volunteer opportunities and to train volunteers in performing their duties, no work shift shall be solely dependent on volunteers for its daily operation. Volunteers are always under the supervision of paid Library Staff. (Because of their service to the community, the Board of Trustees seeks to publicly recognize the efforts of the Volunteers.

Definition of a Volunteer
One who performs a service of his or her own free will; one who contributes time, energy and talents directly or on behalf of The City Library and is not paid by Library funds. All Volunteers must e accepted by the library director prior to performances of assigned tasks.

Opportunities / General Information

The Library offers volunteers many different opportunities. The library is open morning, afternoon, and evening hours, and there are volunteer jobs available most of the hours the library is open. Scheduling is arranged so that the work is convenient for both the volunteer and the Library. To best match people with jobs, Volunteers fill out an application form and talk with the volunteer Coordinator. For more information, stop in the library, or phone (260) 403-6144.

Guidelines for Volunteers:
The Library Director serves as Volunteer Coordinator for the library. The Director may designate a staff member to oversee volunteer assignments.
Each Volunteer's shift is 1.5-3 hours long.
Position begins immediately and is an ongoing position.
A three month commitment is requested.
Volunteers will not be used to replace or reduce the number of paid staff.
Volunteers are recognized as contributors to the goals and services of the library
Volunteers are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of All library information.
The library will, upon request, provide letter of reference for the volunteer, if deemed appropriate.
Procedures and requirements for the volunteer will vary with age of volunteer.
Volunteers will not be expected to do anything staff would not do.

Possible Jobs:
Checking in books and videos
Shelving and organizing shelf materials
Mending books, DVD's and other materials as needed
Working at special events
Decorating for holidays or other events
Helping with programming
Organizing magazines and removing bar codes as needed.
Delivering materials with shut-ins
Helping with fund raising activities
Preparing materials for programs
Clerical duties

What are the age levels of volunteers? Who are the volunteers?
Adults
Young adults (grades 7-12)
Retirees
business and community leaders
students
community service
friend and foundation members
library users
special populations
current and former library staff members
people wanting to become involved

How Do I Apply?
Complete the volunteer application and send it to the Volunteer Coordinator at The City library, or bring it in to the library during open hours.
Phone: