MISSION STATEMENT OF THE LIBRARY:
The Ainsworth Public Library will strive to meet the growing needs for our community residents in their personal, educational, and professional quest for information.
VISION STATEMENT OF THE LIBRARY:
The Ainsworth Public Library believes it is essential to provide materials and services which will help community residents of all ages obtain information meeting their personal, educational and professional needs in a user-friendly environment. The Library will strive to be a leader in the area of technology so that local citizens have access to the latest trends in this area.
INTELLECTUAL FREEDOM
The Ainsworth Public Library adopts the position statement of the American Library Association, the Library Bill of Rights, and the Freedom to Read Statement on book selection and controversial materials. The library does not endorse the ideas contained in books in our collection.
It is the responsibility of the Librarian, supported by the Library Board, as guardians of the people’s freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards and tastes upon the community of large. To meet these challenges the following procedure for dealing with a book selection complaint should be followed:
- Make certain that the complaint has been filed in writing by requesting the patron to fill out the Request for Withdrawal of Material Form located in the appendix.
- Within five days of receipt of the formal complaint, the Head Librarian/Director will contact the Library Board members. The Board and Head Librarian/Director will then read and evaluate the material. The Head Librarian/Director shall also request professional reviews on material in question from the Nebraska Library Commission or from library journals for use on this matter.
- Prior to the first meeting, individual members shall examine the materials in question for review.
- The Board shall meet within ten days of its appointment to reconsider the material. At this meeting the decision shall be one of the following:
- The material is compatible with the philosophy and criteria of this policy and should not be restricted or removed.
- The material is not compatible with the philosophy and criteria of the policy and should be restricted or removed.
- The material should be limited to conditions specified by the Board.
- The Head Librarian/Director will present the Board’s decision to the patron requesting the withdrawal of material in writing as soon after the meeting as possible.
- Material that has undergone a challenge may not be re-challenged until one calendar year after the recommendation of the reconsideration.
Adopted by Board on April 2, 2015
LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS
The library subscribes to the Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association which affirms its belief in the following basic policy:
- As a responsibility of library service, books, and other reading matter selected should be chosen for values of interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community. In no case should any book be excluded because of race or nationality, or the political view of the writer.
- There should be the fullest practicable provisions of material presenting all points of view concerning the problems and issues of our time, international, national, and local; and books or other reading matter of sound factual authority should not be proscribed or removed from the library shelves because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
- Censorship of books, urged or practices by volunteer arbiters of morals or political opinion or by organizations which would establish a coercive concept of Americanism, must be challenged by libraries in maintenance of their responsibility to provide public information and enlightenment through the recorded word.
- Libraries should enlist the cooperation of allied groups in the fields of science, of education, and of book publishing in resisting all abridgment of the free access to ideas and full freedom of expression that are the tradition and heritage of Americans.
- As an institution of education for democratic living, the library should welcome the use of its meeting room for socially useful and cultural activities and discussion of current public questions. Such meeting places should be available on equal terms to all groups in the community regardless of the beliefs and affiliations of their members.
Reviewed by Board April 2, 2015
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LIBRARY BYLAWS:
MEMBERS:
- The Board will consist of five members appointed by the Mayor, with approval of the City Council for a term determined by the State Law. The Library Board has the right to send a list to the Mayor for considerations of possible library users who might be interest in serving on the Board.
- The Mayor/City Council may appoint board members for additional terms by consent of the board member whose term will be expiring. Any board member of more than 12 years on the board, may be re-appointed for another term if a citizen cannot be found to go on the Board.
- A new board member is chosen to fill unexpired terms at the next regular meeting of the Board after the vacancy occurs.
- Any board member missing more than three consecutive meetings or six meetings a year shall be replaced by the Mayor upon the vote and request of the Board.
- Board members shall follow the laws on the “Conflict of Interest Law” and shall not vote on any item directly involved with that person. Board members may not in their private capacity negotiate, bid for, or enter into a contract with the Ainsworth Public Library in which they have a direct or indirect financial interest. A board member shall withdraw from Board discussion, deliberation, and vote on any matter in which the Board member, an immediate family member, or an organization with which the Board members is associated has a substantial financial interest. A board member may not receive anything of value that could reasonably be expected to influence his or her vote or other official action.
- Board members will use the list of responsibilities of the members in the Nebraska Trustee Handbook as a guideline.
MEETINGS:
1.Regular meetings of the Library Board shall be held on the first Wednesday of each month starting at 5 p.m. at the Ainsworth Public Library. The meeting notice will be posted at the Library, at the City Clerk’s Office, in the local newspaper, announced over the local radio station, as well as posted on the library’s website and library’s Facebook page.
2. At all meetings of the Library Board, three members shall constitute as a quorum and a majority vote of all members present shall be required for the adoption of any motion or resolution. If a quorum is not present at a regular meeting, the attending board members may set a date for another meeting to be held within one week, and all Board members will be notified of this specially called meeting.
3. Special meetings of the Library Board may be called by the President or by any two members, for a specific purpose. No business may be transacted at such special meeting except the stated purpose. A twenty-four-hour notice of any special meeting shall be given to the Board members and the Head Librarian/Director, unless such notice is waived. Notice of any special meeting and purpose of meeting must be advertised in the local newspaper and/or over the local radio station. If there is not sufficient time to advertise in the paper, notices must be place in three separate local public meeting places as soon as possible prior to the meeting.
4. The By-Laws and policy of the Library may be amended at any time by a 3/5 majority vote of the entire Board.
5. The presiding officer shall be entitled to vote on all motions.
6. Board members must notify the President or Head Librarian/Director as soon as possible when they are unable to attend a meeting to ensure a quorum will be met.
7. The order of business for regular meetings shall include, but not be limited to, the following items which shall be covered in the sequence shown unless circumstances make an altered order more efficient:
a. Call meeting to order
b. Notice of the posting of the Nebraska Open Meeting Act
c. Roll call
d. Approve minutes of previous meeting
e. Approve claims for payment
f. Monthly Library Report of Head Librarian/Director
g. Old (unfinished) business
h. New business
i. Upcoming meetings and workshops
j. Correspondence and Communication
k. Agenda items requested for next meeting
l. Adjournment
COMMITTEES:
Committees for specific purposes may be appointed by the President. Such committees shall serve until the completion of the work for which they were appointed. All committees shall make a progress report to the Board at each of its meetings. No committee will have other than advisory powers unless, by suitable action of the Board, it is granted specific power to act. The President shall be, ex officio, a member of all committees.
OFFICERS:
- The officers of the Library Board shall consist of a President and Vice-President who shall be elected from the membership every two years at the August meeting.
- The Head Librarian/Director will act as Secretary/Treasurer of the Board if so directed and appointed by the Board.
- The term of each officer shall be for two years after the regular meeting in August and until his/her successor has been duly elected.
- A vacancy in any office shall be filled at the next regular meeting of the Board after the vacancy occurs.
DUTIES OF OFFICERS:
President:
1. Preside at all meetings
2. Appoint the standing committees
3.Sign all necessary documents and claims
4. Call special meetings of the Board, either on his/her own motion when the occasion requires or on request of any two board members.
5. Complete the evaluation of the Head Librarian/Director each year and submit to the City Office for their records.
6. Perform other duties that generally pertain to the office or as directed by the vote of the Board.
Vice-President:
- Perform all the duties of the President in the latter’s absence or disability
Secretary/Treasurer:
- Keep an accurate record of the proceedings of all meetings of the Library Board.
- Record the attendance at such meetings.
- Have the custody of all official books, records, accounts, and documents of the Library Board.
- Sign all bills and present to the President for their approval and signature. Take claims of bills to the City Clerk’s Office for payment of the expenditures approved by the Board.
- Present to the City Council the name of any person who might be appointed to fill a vacancy on the Library Board, and to perform such other duties as may be directed by the Library Board.
Head Librarian/Director:
The Head Librarian shall be appointed by the Board and shall be responsible to the Library Board. This person shall be considered the executive officer of the library under the direction and review of the Board, and subject to the policies established by the Board. The Head Librarian/Director shall act as technical advisor to the Board and shall be invited to attend all Board meetings (but may be excused from closed sessions) and shall have no vote.
BOARD RESPONSIBILTIES:
Under the powers of administrative/governing boards granted by law, boards make operating and administrative polices. The Board acts as an agent of public trust governing the library. The head librarian/library director is responsible for the internal management, daily operation and procedures of the library. The head librarian/director exercises professional judgment under the direction and the review of the Board to implement the goals, objectives and policies set by the Board.
There are five areas of the library governance that stand out as primary responsibilities for library boards. They are to:
- Make everyone in the community aware of the library.
- Secure adequate financial support.
- Hire a competent director when the position becomes vacant.
- Develop policies
- Encourage continued growth and development of library staff.
The duties and responsibilities of library board members and the head librarian/director may appear to overlap. Understanding the differences in function assures teamwork and better library service. Following is a chart of related responsibilities of the library board and of the head librarian/director.
Responsibilities of Library Board:
- To select and evaluate the library director, if applicable, and to work through the director, following the established chain to command in the library.
- To establish and regularly review all policies related to the library.
- To aid in the active promotion of the library in the community.
- To help develop and defend the library’s annual budget before funding agencies, receive reports and approve expenditures at board meetings and seek additional funding as appropriate.
- To be familiar with local ordinances, state statutes and national laws that affect the library.
- To approve the library’s materials’ selection policy that is used by the staff to select materials for the library.
- To faithfully attend and be prepared for all board meetings and support majority decisions reached by the board, in order to ensure good library services for the community.
- To be familiar with the services of regional library systems and how they help the library fulfill its mission
- To be familiar with the services of the Nebraska Library Commission and how it helps the library fulfill its mission.
- To present the annual report to the municipality and/or county government defend the budget before funding entities and actively represent the library to the general public.
- To explore ways to improve the library’s services engaging in ongoing strategic planning.
- To receive regular reports from the library director and other staff, as appropriate, indicating progress toward the library’s goals, and recommendations related to future needs of the library.
- To participate in local, state and national organizations (as possible), to read library-related publications, to visit other libraries and other board members in order to keep up with current trends and practices, and to support staff professional involvement.
- To maintain status as a certified public library board under the board certification program.
Responsibilities of Head Librarian/Director:
- To act as technical advisor to the board and to recommend employment of all personnel and supervise their work.
- To carry out the policies of the library as adopted by the board and to recommend needed policies for board action.
- To maintain an active program of public relations.
- To prepare an annual budget for the library in consultation with the board and to give a current report of actual expenditures against the budget at each meeting.
- To know local, state, and national laws and to actively support library legislation in the state and nation.
- To select and order all books and other library materials according to board policy.
- To attend all board meetings and to serve as secretary of the board if required.
- To make full use of the regional library system services.
- To make use of the services and consultants of the Nebraska Library Commission.
- To report regularly to the library board, to the officials of local government, and to the general public.
- To suggest and carry out plans for extending services of the library.
- To prepare regular reports detailing current progress and future needs of the library.
- To affiliate with state and national professional organizations and to attend professional meetings and workshops
- To maintain status as a certified public librarian under the librarian certification program.
Adopted by the Ainsworth Library Board: April 20, 2006
Reviewed by the Ainsworth Library Board: May 14, 2022
Amended by the Ainsworth Library Board: August 7, 2024
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COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT POLICY
DESCRIPTION OF COLLECTION:
The collection contains wide selection of adult and juvenile fiction as well as adult and juvenile non-fiction volumes. Magazines, DVDs, Audio Books, Large Print, cake pans, puzzles, games, and puppets are also contained in the collection. The library houses Makerspace equipment such as a vinyl cutter, Cricut machine, heat press, button maker, Accut Die Cutter, and a mug press. The library has a number of S.T.E.A.M. items to use with the public. The library has internet access for the public.
COOPERATIVE PROGRAMS:
- Inter-Library Loan
- Cooperative loans with the Ainsworth School System and their libraries in the grade school, middle school, and high school
- Talking Book and Braille Service through the Nebraska Library Commission
- CHRIS (Consumer Health Information Resource Service) from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha Nebraska
- Loans from the Central Plains Library System
- Loans from the library of Nebraska Library Commission
- Belong to the Nebraska Overdrive Group to provide eBooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines
- Databases found in NebraskAccess
- NebrasKard Program
SERVICE OF THE LIBRARY
The aim of the Ainsworth Library is to meet the needs of the majority of residents living in Brown County and not just our library patrons. The library will select from the mass of available materials and organize for easy access those books and materials that best meet the need of the community.
The library staff will provide guidance and assistance for people to obtain the information they seek as recorded in print, audio-visual resources, and in technology.
The library will provide information and materials to help people to:
- Equip themselves for efficient activities in useful occupations and practical affairs
- Increase their competence to form sound judgement
- Increase their understanding and appreciation of literature, the arts, sciences, and the political and world
- Promote personal and social well being and develop creative and spiritual capacities
The library will initiate programs, exhibits, book lists, book clubs, story-hour, etc., to stimulate the use of library materials for the enlightenment of people of all ages.
The library accepts a responsibility for securing information beyond its own resources by borrowing for patrons materials which are not owned by our library, which cannot be purchased, or materials for which the demand does not justify purchase.
The library will lend to other libraries, materials which are request by their patrons and not available in the borrowing library. Patrons from our library will have a priority in the use of materials.
The library will endeavor to maintain a balance in its services to men, women, young people, and children. The library will cooperate with but cannot design to meet educational curricular needs.
Library service will be provided during the hours that best meet the needs of the community.
Periodic review will be made of library service to determine whether the needs of the community indicate that present services should be discontinued or other services should be added.
The library will always endeavor to balance special group interests with general demand, to present fairly and truthfully opposing sides of every controversial subject handled. Political or social affiliations of a specific author will not be cause for rejection of their works. Neither will serious works which present an honest aspect of life be excluded because of coarse language or frankness. While the library does select its materials to maintain a quality collection, it does not censor any book for reasons of religious or political thought expressed. Judgement is made after a thoughtful review of the whole book.
Generally excluded will be denominational or proselytizing works, and textbooks.
Gifts are accepted with the understanding that the library has complete control over their disposition.
MATERIAL SELECTION
- The library will provide any materials which helps to meet its objectives to best fit the needs of the community.
- The Head Librarian/Director shall have the responsibility for the selection and purchase from the mass of available materials for those books and materials which best meet the interest and needs of the community.
- The library will maintain an up-to-date collection of selections, i.e. H.W. Wilson catalogs, Booklist, an/or Library Journal. Selection tools may also include ALA Award Winning Book Lists, recommended books from the Nebraska Library Commission or workshop reviews, Award winner lists, and the Best Seller Lists.
- The library will keep itself informed of other public agencies available with resources of books and other materials in the area to avoid any unnecessary duplication.
- The library will not attempt to furnish materials needed for formal courses of study offered by elementary and secondary schools, and by institutions of higher learning. The library has materials for self-study, but is not primarily designed to furnish reading required for academic study.
- The library will not purchase any merchandise for an individual’s personal use.
- All materials except those which are in special demand and can not be duplicated, including rare and fragile items, will be lent for home use under library regulations and procedures.
- Materials acquired will meet high standards of quality in content, express, and format. The librarian shall:
- Evaluate literary qualify, asking questions such as
- Are the style, theme, sentence structure, and vocabulary at the student’s level?
- Do the characters speak and act believable for their character?
- Is the plot well contrived and carried off well?
- Does the overall concept reflect a development theme, such as an adolescent’s emergence into adulthood.
2. Examine appropriateness of the text and illustrations to a child’s interest, age and maturity 3. Determine usefulness:
- Are the material objectives suitable, accurate, and original?
- Does it do justice to the topic
- Is it too narrow in scope?
CRITERIA USED FOR EVALUATING MATERIALS
Criteria used for evaluating materials during acquisition, as well as in weeding of the collection will be as follows:
- Reputation of author
- Recommendations
- Format, technical quality, durability
- Content
- Ease of use
- Uniqueness of approach
- Style
- Time lines or lasting value
- Scope
- Time lines or lasting value
- Scope
- Unity
- Totality of impression
- Achievement of purpose
- Accuracy
CRITERIA FOR SELECTING MATERIAL
The following criteria will be used for selecting materials for acquisition:
- Price
- Physical limits of library building
- Demand-potential use
- Relationship to existing collection
- Availability elsewhere in the area
- Comparison to other sources on subject
- Appropriate to library goals
- Appropriate for clientele
SELECTION PRIORITY
Selection priority shall be given to materials which have the following distinction:
- Award winning and honor books such as Newberry Medal, Caldecott Medal, Golden Sower Award Books, and choices for best books for young adults by the American Library Association.
- Books listed on the Best Seller List and popularity of the author
- User demand: Three or more requests by separate individuals for a title should be considered for possible purchase.
FORMAT OF SPECIAL MATERIAL
Format for specific criteria for choosing the format and reviewing tools:
DVDs
- Balance popular demand with quality
- Good technical quality
- Non-fiction and documentaries must be accurate and up-to-date
- Appropriate subject for movie
Computer Software
- Good documentation that is easy to understand
- User friendly software
- Good vendor support
USER NEEDS
The library acknowledges that each person has information needs that are important to that individual. It also recognizes that it has limited financial resources to respond to these needs. The library has a responsibility to use public funds in ways that are advantageous to the largest number of its constituents. While the library’s materials collection will not deny an need consistent with its mission, the library will never the less develop its collections with the recognition that it has the ability to meet certain needs more effectively and efficiently than other needs. It is aware of the availability of complementary information giving institutions in the regions. The cumulative result is the creation of a hierarchy of user needs to be addressed by the Ainsworth Public Library.
The library recognizes three general categories of user needs. These categories are designated as Higher Priority, Mid-Priority and Lower Priority. The library will develop its collections to meet all the needs in all three categories, but it will place reactively greater emphasis upon meeting the needs in the higher priority category.
HIGH PRIORITY
- Adult leisure time
- Students enrolled in elementary/secondary programs
- Pre-school leisure time
MID-PRIORITY
- Persons seeking do-it-yourself information
- Persons who want to confirm information received from another source
- Youth leisure time
- Young adult leisure time
LOWER PRIORITY
- Students enrolled in college/university programs
- Persons seeking career information
- Persons seeking understanding of interpersonal relationship
- Persons pursuing self-realization (spiritual, moral, ethical, emotional and psychological concerns)
- Students enrolled in adult basic education programs
DUPLICATES
Duplicates will be purchased based on number of requests by the public for a certain book plus the Librarian may use her professional judgement on purchase of quality items.
REPLACEMENTS
The following guidelines will be used for the replacement of library material:
- Number of titles on the subjects which is already available in library
- Coverage the library has on the subject
- Amount of similar materials on the subject being published in the future
- The demand for material in that subject area
WEEDING
Materials that are no longer useful in the light of stated objectives of the library will be systematically weeded from the collection according to accepted professional practices using the CREW method as a guideline.
Weeding will be done on a continuous basis not to exceed the amount set in the Public Library Accreditation Guidelines set by the Nebraska Library Commission.
The library staff evaluates the collection for weeding with the Library Director having the final say on discarded material.
Criteria used for evaluating materials will be used also for weeding criteria.
Materials no longer useful may be:
- Offered for Sale
- Taken to a used book warehouse or online auction site
- Given away
- Destroyed
BOOK SALE
Materials which are no longer useful in the light of stated objectives of the library will be systematically weeded from the collection according to accepted professional practices. Such materials will be put in the used Book Sale which the library runs all year. If the weeded items do not get sold at the book sale, they may then be given away or destroyed.
Reviewed by Board on 9-11-2024
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Reconsideration Policy
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS OR CHALLLENGES
The Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the basis of the principles stated on this policy.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with the parents or legal guardians. Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children.
Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of their contents, and no library material will sequestered except to protect it from damage or theft.
Challenged Materials
Although materials are carefully selected, there can arise differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection may complete a “Request for Reconsideration of Material” form which is available in the library. The library director will have each board member read and review the item up for reconsideration. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Ainsworth Public Library Board of Trustees for discussion and take a vote of retaining the title or removing from the library collection. The requested title up for reconsideration may not be reviewed for reconsideration again until after a period of three years.
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REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS FORM
The trustees of Ainsworth Public Library have established a materials selection policy and a procedure for gathering input about particular items. Completion of this form is the first step in that procedure. If you wish to request a reconsideration of a resource, please return the completed form to the library director.
Date:____________________
Name:___________________________________________________________
Address and City:____________________________________________________
State/Zip Code: _____________________________________________________
Phone:__________________________ Email: ____________________________
Do you represent yourself or an organization?_________________________________
Name of organization _________________________________________________
Resource on which you are commenting: Book (e-book)_____ Movie _________ Magazine _____ Audio Recording______ Digital Resource______ Game_______ Newspaper________ Other____________________
Title_____________________________________________________________
Author/Producer_____________________________________________________
What brought this resource to your attention?_________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Have you examined the entire resource? yes _______________ No _______________
If not, what sections did you review? _______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What concerns your about the resource: _____________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Are there resource(s) you suggest to provide additional information and/or other viewpoints on this topic? _______________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What action are you requesting the committee consider? __________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Reviewed by Board on 9-11-2024
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LIBRARY POLICIES
CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY RECORDS
Nebraska State law stipulated confidentiality of library records, i.e. Law 84-712.05; “Records which may be withheld from the public: stated that “The following records, unless publicly disclosed in an open court, open administrative proceeding or open meeting or disclosed by a public entity pursuant to its duties, maybe withheld from the public by the lawful custodian of the records…(10) Records or portions of records kept by a publicly funded library which, when examined with or without other records revealed the identity of any library patron using the library’s materials or services”.
It is the policy of the Ainsworth Library Board to insure the privacy of the users of its service and to consider any library records to be confidential in nature. Confidentiality extends to all of the library’s materials and services, including information sought or received, and materials consulted, borrowed, or acquired or transmitted, and includes database search records, reference interviews, interlibrary loan records, use of library computers, and all other personally identifiable uses of library materials, facilities, or services. Confidentiality is essential to protect the exercise of First Amendment rights.
Library records are for the sole purpose of protecting public property and are not used directly or indirectly to identify the types of materials used by individual library patrons. Under no circumstances shall the Library Staff answer to a third party about what a patron of the library is reading, or the kinds of information asked for, from the library’s collections. The library will hold confidential the names of card holders and their registration information and not provide access for private, public, or commercial use.
No library record shall be made available to casual members of the public, press, or any agency of State, Federal, or Local government, except pursuant to such process, order, or subpoena as may be authorized under the authority of and pursuant to Federal, State, or Local Law relating to civil, criminal, or administrative discovery procedures of legislative investigative power. All library staff members are to refer any request for such records to the Library Director. Upon receipt of such process, order, or subpoena, the Library Director will inform the Library Board President and will consult with the City Attorney to determine if such process, order, or subpoena is in proper form.
The only exception to this is with holders of a NebrasKard. When signing up for a statewide card, the patron signs the NebrasKard Library Customer Registration and Borrower Agreement Form which gives permission for the home library to share library card registration information with another library for purposes of seeking the return of any items that have been borrowed from those libraries. This includes individual’s name and address, as well as phone number and e-mail address.
While the privacy of library users is protected by this policy, all library users are subject to the library’s User Behavior Policy, which governs each user’s exhibited behavior while on the library grounds, and states in part that “An behavior or activity deemed illegal by local, state, or national statutes shall constitute grounds for immediate contact with the police department.”
Revised November 6, 2003
Reviewed April 2, 2015
PROCEDURE FOR COMPLYING WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT ON REQUEST FOR PATRON RECORDS
- The library staff member receiving a request to examine or obtain information relating to registration records or other records identifying the names of library users, will immediately refer the person making the request to the Director, who shall explain the confidentiality policy. In the Director’s absence, staff member will contact the Assistant Director or Library Board President in that order. Do not disclose any information to that individual.
- The Director will ask to see official identification and will photocopy the id and badge number of agent. Get a business card for the library’s records. After identifying the agent-in-charge, verify his/her identity by calling the local FBI Office. Field offices can be found at www.fbi.gov/contact/fo/fo.htm or use the telephone book to find number of other law enforcement agencies.
- Tell agent-in-charge who is in charge at the library’s end. Request that the agent and his/her officers direct all inquiries through the person-in-charge (the Library Director).
- If the law enforcement official presents a subpoena, the library director will contact the town’s legal counsel for advice on how best to proceed. It is desirable for legal counsel to be present when the subpoena is executes.
- If the law enforcement official presents a subpoena, it is executable immediately. The Library Director will notify legal counsel and will attempt to have legal counsel present during the search to be sure that the search conforms to the terms of the warrant. If time does not allow for this, the search must be allowed to proceed. The Library Director or her/his representative will cooperate with the search to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are viewed or scanned. Library staff should not interfere with the search and/or seizure of library property. Staff may not say anything about this search to anyone! The Library Director may inform the Board President about this issue. If the Board President is not available, the Director will contact the City Mayor. The President or Mayor may not share any information on this issue with anyone else.
- Library Director will remind staff of their roles. They must not interfere with the search. Advise them that they are not required to answer questions from law enforcement. It is improper and may be illegal to instruct staff not to answer questions, but they should be advised of their right to decline to be interviewed and their right to have an attorney present if they choose to be interviewed. Be sure staff understands that there is no such thing as an informal conversation or off-the record comment with agents in such circumstances. Staff is not required to authenticate documents seized or otherwise respond to questions except as to the location of the items described in the warrant (and these inquiries should be directed to the person-in-charge). The least said by staff the better off it will be.
- The library will keep a record of all legal requests and items taken off site. Agents must provide an inventory of items that are seized. This is important in recovering the items later. Do not sign another verifying the contents or accuracy. Director may delegate someone to take notes of the search. This person should not do anything that may be interpreted as obstruction. Be courteous, cooperative, and quite. Calm monitoring and note taking can be helpful to recall what took place. Note down what questions were asked, such as where certain items can be found. Agents sometimes number the rooms that they enter. Record the numbering scheme. Record an inventory of the type and location of all evidence seized. Try to observe the agents’ conduct, the places searched, and the time involved in each part of the search.
- The library will keep a record of all cost incurred by any search and/or seizures. In some cases, the library may be able to be compensated, e.g. if the library must rent computers to replace those seized.
- If the court order is a search warrant issued under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) (USA Patriot Act amendment), the warrant also contains a “gag order” which means that no person or institution served with the warrant can disclose that the warrant has been served or that records have been produces pursuant to the warrant. The library and its staff must comply with this order. No information can be disclosed to any other party; including the patron whose records are the subject of the search warrant. You may contact an attorney and essential staff up the chain of command such as Assistant Librarian, Library Director, Board President, or the mayor, but not nonessential staff, spouses, etc.
- Director will keep records of the incident in a secured location.
- Although it is unlikely that there will be time to appraise the governing authority before or during the search, be sure to brief them as soon as possible. They may be called by the press.
- If you are bound by a gag order, talk to the attorney to help draft an appropriate “no comment” statement. Make sure staff is briefed on these points or that they refer all press inquiries to a designated person.
Adopted November 6, 2003
Reviewed April 2, 2015
Library Cards
Patrons are required to have a valid library card in order to check out
materials. The library is funded mostly by city taxes and a small amount by
the county. The Ainsworth Public Library will issue a library card free of
charge if the patron resides within Brown County. Library card applicants must
show 2 forms of identification to demonstrate residency. Patrons residing
outside of the county may purchase cards for a fee of $35 per year/per family.
A child must be at least four years old before being awarded a library card.
All children being issued a card must have parental approval.
Our library does participate in the NebrasKard program so any library patron
from our county may sign up for one free of charge as long as they have a
good library record.
Check Out Loan Periods
Adult patrons may check out a total of five items at one time.
Children under the age of eighteen may have a total of four items out at
one time.
Only two titles by one author or two titles on a certain subject may be
checked out at one time.
The loan period for books, audio books, videos, and puppets are two weeks.
Magazines may be checked out for four days.
An unlimited number of paperbacks that are not cataloged (such as our
Paperback Exchange Section) may be checked out for an indefinite period
of time but are expected to be returned.
Cake pans may be checked out for one week
The audio-visual equipment such as the slide projector, filmstrip projector,
over-head projector, and screen are available for loan with a small fee.
All items are due on the date stamped on the item. Overdue charges will be
assessed if not returned on time.
Please note that certain reference materials and items that have a one-of-a-
kind historical value may not be checked out.
Renewals
Books may be renewed in person, over the phone, or by email for a period of two
weeks from the original due date if no one else has requested the material.
Magazines will be renewed once with a four-day extension
Overdue Items
Items not returned on the due date are considered overdue. The borrower
will be notified by a phone call or an overdue notice in the mail.
Twenty-five cents per day shall be charged for an overdue book or other library materials until the item is returned or to a maximum of $10.00.
Fines for damaged items shall be at the discretion of the librarian.
The library provides a Book Drop located in the front of the building so that
items may be returned when the library is closed.
Borrowing privileges can be suspended until the items and overdue charges
are paid. Additional charges for lost or damaged items will be charged. These charges will be equal to the replacement cost of the item. Because all residents in Brown County share the library materials, prompt return is appreciated.
Placing Holds
You may request that the librarian place holds on items which are checked
out, so the material is reserved at check-in time.
There is no charge for requesting a hold.
You will be notified by phone when the item is returned to the library and
you will have five days to pick the item up before it is given to another
patron or returned to the shelves for general use.
Adopted October 2, 2014
EXHIBITS, DISPLAYS, AND BULLETIN BOARDS
- The Public Library is anxious to provide for the public as many attractive, educational, and cultural exhibits are possible. Use of the bulletin board and exhibit space is welcome.
- No poster, display, exhibit, pamphlet, brochure, leaflet, booklet, etc. shall be exhibited, displayed, or placed in the library for distribution without permission from the librarian.
- The library assumes no responsibility for the preservation, protection, or possible damage or theft of any item displayed or exhibited. All items placed in the library are done so at the owner’s risk.
- The display case shall be locked at all times to prevent the loss of items due to theft or damage from handling.
- Whenever possible, displays or exhibits utilizing the area shall incorporate books or materials from the library’s collection which have a relationship to the subject or the display.
- No political or religious posters shall be allowed.
- Any type of solicitation or collection of money shall not be allowed.
Adopted October 2, 2014
GIFTS, MEMORIALS, DONATIONS
- The library accepts unrestricted gifts of books, periodicals, movies, audiobooks, cake pans, puzzles, and the like with the understanding that they will be added to the library collection only when needed. The same criteria will be used to evaluate gifts as used in the purchased of new books. Some gifts may not be able to be used to the full advantage because:
- Book may be a duplicate of an item of which the library already has a sufficient number.
- Book may be interesting, but not of sufficient present reference or circulation value to the library.
- Book may be in poor physical condition and would not justify expense of processing, cataloging, and preparing it for circulation.
- The Library Board and the Ainsworth Library Foundation will gratefully accept the unrestricted gift of money, lands, or property. The Library Board, the Library Foundation, and the City council will review gifts of bequests with specific restrictions attached before acceptance.
- All money given as a gift to the library will automatically be deposited in the Ainsworth Library Foundation bank account.
- Personal property, portraits, antiques, and other museum objects will not be accepted.
- Textbooks will not be accepted.
- The library will not accept materials that are not outright gifts.
- The library does not appraise gifts, but a receipt may be given to patron stating how many books or other items were given to the library. This receipt must have the date of donation noted on it.
- Any library staff member has the authority to accept gifts on behalf of the library as long as it is deemed as suitable for the collection and will be processed and housed with the regular collection.
Adopted 10-14-2014
MEETING ROOM POLICIES
- $35 charge for use of meeting room unless it is waived by librarian.
- Meeting must be scheduled one week in advance.
- No smoking allowed.
- No food allowed unless group is given Librarian’s approval.
- The key must be returned right away to librarians. Arrangements may be made to leave the key in the Book Drop if the library is closed.
- Room must be left as found. If not, the room will not be rented to the group again.
- Lights must be turned off before leaving the meeting room.
- No alcoholic beverages will be allowed in the library
MEETING ROOM USE AND RESERVATIONS
- Reservations are to be made with the Librarian at least one week in advance of date needed.
- No additional furniture or equipment other than that furnished by the library is to be used without the Librarian’s approval. The librarian cannot allow any organization to store any equipment at the library.
- The Video Telecommunications Conference Unit has first priority in the meeting room as long as it is housed at the library. Library programs will be scheduled far enough in advanced so the Division of Communications can block out the time we need in the meeting room for special programs. Library programs receive first consideration in scheduling all other events except for the Video Unit.
- In the event of a conflict, preference is given to meetings that are free and/or open to the public.
- Any group using the room without permission in advance from the Librarian may not charge an admission fee. Admissions may possible be approved for meetings sponsored by the library or an approved non-profit educational group or institution for short-term classes, institutes, discussion groups, and forums involving small fees.
- The room may not be reserved for commercial purposes.
- A list of room policies will be posted:
- $35 charge for use of meeting room unless it is waived by librarian.
- Meeting must be scheduled one week in advance.
- No smoking allowed.
- No food allowed unless group is given Librarian’s approval.
- The key must be returned right away to librarians. Arrangements may be made to leave the key in the Book Drop if the Library is closed.
- Room must be left as found. If not the room will not be rented to the group again.
- Lights must be turned off before leaving the meeting room.
- No alcoholic beverages will be allowed in the Library.
- All groups failing to secure all necessary performance licenses shall indemnify and hold harmless the Ainsworth Public Library from any and all suits, claims, and actions brought against Ainsworth Public Library. Further, all groups shall pay any and all attorney fees and costs which Ainsworth Public Library incurs in its defense against any suits, claims or actions due to any groups failure to secure proper performance licenses.
Adopted October 2, 2014
STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The Board of Trustees wishes to encourage staff and trustee attendance at educational classes, workshops, seminars, and conferences related to both library services and employee’s duties as a means of enhancing the library’s offering to the community. Attendance at programs designed to educate library staff and trustees is encourages and shall not require approval from the Library Board.
It is important that all staff be trained to do their job when first hired. This training is the responsibility of the Director or Director designate.
As the skills, techniques, and knowledge required to work in the library evolve, continuous retraining will be needed. Some of this training will occur in-house on an individual basis and in the form of staff meetings. Other training will take place at workshops, conferences, and meetings where staff can learn about the changing library world and talk to, and share with, colleagues from other libraries.
Since the library has limited resources for meeting and conference fees and related expenses and staff time is a premium, the Director will decide as fairly as possible, how these resources can best be allocated.
DUES
The library shall pay state, regional, and national association dues for its employees and trustees if they so wish to become a member. Associations may include the Niobrara Reading Council, Nebraska Library Association, or the American Library Association.
CONVECTIONS, MEETINGS, SEMINARS
The library encourages the attendance of all staff members and trustees at professional meetings, conferences, workshops, and conventions. When possible, time will be allowed with pay for every staff member and or trustee to attend.
Library funds will pay for mileage for one car, registration fees, meals, lodging in connection with Library workshops, meetings, or convections.
Any staff member who is interested in attending a conference or meeting should let the Director know as soon as possible so that individual wishes can be considered.
TRAVEL EXPENSES
Any Library employee or Library Board member shall be reimbursed for their expenses including transportation, meals, and lodging according to the city policy while engaged upon the business of the library which requires them to be away from their homes.
Adopted October 2, 2014
LIBRARY TELESCOPE POLICY
- The library’s telescope may be checked out by an Ainsworth Public Library resident card holder who is 19 years of age AND in good standing. The cardholder must sign a new Lending Policy and Agreement each time the telescope is borrowed.
- The telescope may be checked out for a maximum of one week. Telescope may be renewed one time if there are no holds.
- The telescope must be returned inside the library during normal library hours and must be given directly to staff when returned. DO NOT leave the telescope outside of the library or in the library’s lobby.
- The overdue fine for the telescope is $5.00 per day. Please be aware that library staff must check multiple aspects of the telescope before accepting it back. In addition, all materials contained in the telescope package must be present for the item to be considered returned. If the telescope is overdue 14 days or more, the full replacement cost ($500) will be charged to the borrower. If not returned after two weeks, the borrowers will be billed for the replacement cost of the telescope and the library may take legal action to retrieve the telescope.
- Borrowers must return the telescope and all accompanying materials in good condition. When borrowing the telescope, patrons accept full financial responsibility for it and its accessories while in their possession and understand that they shall be responsible for all costs up to $500 associated with damage to, loss of, or theft of the telescope during the period it is checked out. The condition of the returned telescope will be determined by Ainsworth Public Library staff.
- The telescope may not be loaned to anyone other than the borrower who signs the agreement with the library. Children should use the telescope only under the supervision of a responsible adult.
- The borrower is responsible for reading the instruction manual for the telescope’s proper care and use. Patrons need to treat the telescope with care, keeping it in a clean, dry, dust free place and safe from liquids, extreme temperatures, and from being dropped. Borrower must not expose the telescope to water or extreme heat or cold and will not point the telescope at the sun. All covers should be kept attached to the telescope at all times. Do not attempt to clean the telescope with any chemicals or liquid or store the telescope outdoors. Keep the dust caps on the front of the telescope and on the eyepiece when not in use. Make sure to turn off the viewfinder when not using it.
- When transporting the telescope in a vehicle, the borrower will either have another adult hold the telescope or secure it from movement during transport with a seat belt. Do not let the telescope ride unsecured in a vehicle.
- The borrower is responsible for reading the instruction manual for proper care and use of the telescope. The borrower agrees to assume all risks with use of the telescope and not to hold the Ainsworth Public Library liable for any damages to the borrower or others as a result of telescope use.
- If there is damage to the telescope, the zoom lens, etc., our partner, Mike Modrcin, at the Omaha Astronomical Society will assess it. The library director should send an email to the astronomical society describing the damage at the following address: mmodrcin@gmail.com. Someone from the society will respond within a day or two
- The borrower will only use the telescope for its intended purpose: to view the nighttime sky. Telescopes have been calibrated and borrowers do not need to adjust the finder scope. Never look directly at the sun with the telescope. Blindness could result.
- The telescope will be kept in a secure staff area. When the borrower picks up the telescope, staff will remove it from the secure area to hand it over to the customer after following the checkout procedure.
AINSWORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY
LIBRARY TELESCOPE BORROWER CONTRACT
The Ainsworth Public Library is pleased to offer a telescope checkout service.
Please read the following rules and procedures regarding the use of the telescope.
- The borrower agrees to never look directly at the sun through the telescope or its finder scope. It is understood that permanent eye damage could result. The telescope should never be pointed at the sun. The Ainsworth Public Library will not be held liable for any injuries incurred as a result of telescope use. _________ (Borrower’s initials).
- The telescope may be borrowed by patrons 19 or older with a valid Ainsworth Public Library card holding it at least four months and in good standing with no overdue items, lost materials, overdue fines, or other censures.
- Telescope will be loaned for a one-week period. Telescope may be renewed one time if there are no holds.
- The telescope must be picked up and returned inside the library.
- A $5 per day fine will be applied to telescope returned late. If not returned after two weeks, the borrower will be billed for the $500 replacement cost of the telescope and the library may take legal action to retrieve the telescope.
- When transporting the telescope in a vehicle, the borrower will either have another adult hold the telescope or secure it with a seat belt.
- The borrower is responsible for reading the instruction manual for the telescope’s proper care and use.
- The borrower will not expose the telescope to water or extreme heat or cold and will not point the telescope at the sun. The borrower will only use the telescope for its intended purpose: to view the nighttime sky. The telescope has been calibrated and borrower’s need not adjust the finder scope.
- The borrower is responsible for all items included with the telescope and will return the telescope and all its parts. If any of these items are damaged or lost, the borrower will pay a replacement fee.
Parts included in Accessories Bag: Audubon Society Pocket Guide
Instruction Manual and Viewing Guide
Headlamp
LIABILITY AGREEMENT
By signing this agreement, you are consenting to the following:
- Full responsibility for telescope, its condition and whereabouts.
- Payment of $500 if damaged or lost
- Responsibility for telescope accessories bag and all included parts.
Borrower:
Printed Name: _______________________________________
Library Card Number ________
Checkout Signature: ____________________________________________________________
Check in Signature: _____________________________________________________________
**FOR STAFF USE ONLY**
Telescope Check-out Procedure
- Confirm Borrower’s Current contact information
- Have Borrower read and sign contract. Make sure to get Borrower’s initial in Contract number 1. Answer any questions of Borrower.
- Check out telescope and note the date due to borrower.
- Ask Borrower to watch the NHAS video on telescope “Care and Maintenance” at www.omahaastro.com/library in person at the library before checking out.
- Demonstrate to borrower how to lift and handle the telescope, making special note of how to carry and move it. It should be picked up by the black base. Remind them not to touch or clean the lens.
Telescope Check-in Procedure
- Check-in telescope
- Confirm all telescope parts have been returned
- Check the status of the batteries in the red dot finder which is attached to the telescope. Make sure the red dot finder is turned off (align the white dots and listen for the click).
_______Zhumell Telescope with Base
______ Celestron 8-24 mm zoom lens (attached to telescope)
______ Accessory Bag
______ Audubon Society Pocket Guide
______ Laminated Instruction Manual and Quick Start User’s Guide
______ Headlamp
Adopted April 8,2023
LEGO POLICY
- Children must have adult supervision to use Legos if under six years of age.
- Lego Box must be checked out at the front desk for use in the library
- Patrons must pick up Legos and return the Lego Box to front desk so that the box can get checked back in.
- Legos will not be checked out for use outside of the library unless a teacher, school, or extension office request to use for student or youth programs.
Adopted on March 3, 2016
LIBRARY BEHAVIOR POLICY
Section 51-212 of the Nebraska Statutes specifically gives public libraries the power to regulate the use of the library and to exclude from the library persons who violate or refuse to comply with the library’s rules and regulations. In addition, there are statutes, state and local, prohibiting theft and mutilation of books and library materials, defacing public property, drug paraphernalia, public intoxication, consumption of alcohol on public property, disturbing the peace, obstructing free passage, stalking and disorderly conduct.
LIBRARY CONDUCT/BEHAVIOR
No conduct which interferes with or discourages the public’s use of the library or passage to and from the library will be permitted. The library specifically prohibits tobacco use, weapons of any kind, misuse of rest rooms, such as laundering clothes or personal bathing, leaving unattended children, sleeping, rollerblading, solicitation or distribution of unauthorized material, tampering with computer equipment or files, noise making or engaging in disruptive conduct. Behavior that is either physically or verbally abusive to library staff, volunteers or patrons will not be permitted.
FOOD AND/OR DRINK
Small snacks are the only food permitted in the library. However, permission for other food may be granted for special events and meetings. Non-alcoholic beverages are permitted in the library.
CELLUAR TELEPHONES, ELECTRONIC AND AUDIO EQUIPMENT
The use of cellular telephones, pagers, laptop computers, tablets, Kindles, Nooks and audio equipment are permitted as long as they are not disruptive to other users of the library.
CONSEQUENCES OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
Failure to comply with the library behavior policy will result in the following progressive penalties:
- Verbal warning that loss of privileges may result.
- Expulsion from all library grounds for remainder of day.
- Expulsion from all library grounds for one week.
- Expulsion from all library grounds for one month.
- Expulsion from all library grounds for six months.
In a case where a violation involves possible criminal behavior (destruction of property, harassment, abuse, assault, etc.) rather than confronting the person, staff will call the police. Behavior leading to police involvement may lead to more severe penalties.
Any suspension of one month or longer may be appealed. If an individual wishes to appeal his/her loss of privileges, he/she may file a written appeal to the Library Director within 10 days of the notification of loss of privileges. The Library Director will meet with the claimant and/or parent or legal guardian of any minor and will make a determination within five business days thereafter. The Library Director will respond to the individual in writing.
UNATTENDED CHILDREN
In order to prevent undue disruption of normal library activities, to provide for the general welfare of all persons using the library and to provide for the general safety of children using the library the following policies are adopted:
- Supervision—Birth Through 7 Years of Age: All children seven years or younger shall, at all times, be attended and adequately supervised by a responsible person, e.g. an adult or mature adolescent unless they have the approval of the Librarian.
- Adult Supervision of Children with Special Needs: Children may be left unattended while participating in scheduled library programs and the responsible person may choose to leave the building, but the responsible person should plan to be at the library when the program is scheduled to conclude. However, a responsible person should remain at all times with children who have special needs related to physical, mental or emotional development.
- Supervision—8 Years and Older: Children from the age of eight year and older may use the library unattended, subject to the rules and regulations of the library.
- Responsibility of the Ainsworth Public Library: The Library assumes no responsibility for children left unattended on library premises.
Approved April 2, 2015
LIBRARY CODE OF CONDUCT
Libraries need a formal, written code of patron behavior which defines or identifies behavior that are and are not acceptable in the library. The Code of Conduct supports library staffer who must maintain order and enforce library rules.
The Library Code of Conduct is essentially part of library policy and therefore public. To be effective, the library code of Conduct should be well publicized and widely distributed. You may wish to:
- Put it on the library’s website.
- Conspicuously post it near the circulation desk.
- Display it in poster format at appropriate locations throughout the library.
- Give it to anyone who receives a new library user’s card.
Unacceptable Behaviors Identified
A general statement at the beginning of the Code about appropriate conduct in the library may offer guidance to library users and cover situations not specifically spelled out in the Code. The following behaviors should be identified in the Library Code of Conduct as unacceptable:
- Removing or attempting to remove library materials, equipment or property without proper checkout or other official library authorization.
- Failing to renew or return library materials when due.
- Failing to pay library fines and/or fees.
- Concealing, sequestering or “stashing” library materials or property within the library for the exclusive use of an individual or group.
- Mutilating, defacing or otherwise damaging library materials or property by marking, underlining, highlighting, removing pages or portions of pages, removing binding or removing electronic theft devices.
- Eating and drinking in the library without permission by Librarian.
- Smoking in building or near entrances and exits.
- Stealing or knowingly possessing stolen library property.
- Entering unauthorized areas of the library.
- Remaining in the library after closing or when requested to leave during emergency situations or evacuation exercises.
- Opening emergency exits except in emergency situations.
- Parking wheeled vehicles in unauthorized areas outside or inside the library.
- Skateboarding or inline skating either inside the library or in unauthorized areas on library property.
- Vandalizing or defacing the library building, furniture or equipment.
- Maliciously accessing, altering, deleting, damaging or destroying any library computer systems, network computer program or data.
- Carrying deadly weapons in the library, unless authorized by law.
- Causing a disturbance or engaging in any behavior which interferes with library activities.
Recommend Sanctions
Depending on the nature of the infringement and the seriousness of the violations, the following sanctions may be employed or imposed for inappropriate or unacceptable behavior:
- Being asked to leave library premises
- Suspension or loss of library privileges
- Criminal prosecution
Adopted April 2, 2015
Holidays
The library will not be open on:
- New Years Day
- Memorial Day
- July 4th
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
If any of these holidays fall on Sunday, the library will be
closed on Monday.
The library may be closed on other holidays which the city honors,
or when the other businesses are closed.