Policies

 

Policy Statement Of the Loup City – Sherman County Library 

The MISSION of the Loup City Library is to provide informational, cultural, educational and recreational resources and services to all residents of Sherman County.  The Library seeks to accomplish its mission by providing access to a broad range of materials and services to meet the present and future needs of the community it serves.  In this effort the Loup City – Sherman County Library cooperates with other libraries, community and governmental agencies and institutions.  The Library will comply with the laws and regulations of the State of Nebraska and the Children’s Internet Protection law as it pertains to Freedom of Information. (XVII.1701) Long range goals of the library are to maintain a quality collection and commit to excellence and computer technology. 

General Library Objectives 

The general library objectives of this public library shall be:
a. To assemble, preserve, and administer, in organized collections, books and related educational and recreational material in order to promote, through guidance and stimulation, the communication of ideas, enlightened citizenship, and enriched personal lives, in a pleasant atmosphere that invites patronage.
b. To serve the community as a center for reliable information.
c. To support educational, civic, and cultural activities of groups and organizations.
d. To provide opportunity and encouragement for children, young people, men and women to educate themselves continuously.
e. To strive continually to identify community needs, to provide programs of service to meet such needs, and to cooperate with other organizations, agencies, and institutions which can provide programs or services to meet community needs.
f. To provide opportunity for recreation through the use of literature, films and other art forms. 

Use of the Public Library 

  

  1. User Privileges:
    1. Within the library, the use of all references and collections, digital and print, are free to all residents of Sherman County.
    2. Service will not be denied or abridged because of religious, racial, social, economic or political status.
    3. Books may be borrowed by non-residents (those living outside the County boundaries) and temporary residents for a short time at the discretion of the librarian.  

 

  1. Opening Hours:
    The Library shall be open as follows: Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 am-1pm and 2:00pm – 6:00pm, Wednesdays 2:00-8:00pm, Friday 2:00 pm-6:00 pm, Saturday 2:00pm – 5:00pm. 
  2. Checkout and Renewals:
    1. All borrowers must have a library card in order to check out books, movies, cake pans, and for e-books.
    2. Books, periodicals, and cake pans shall be issued for a one-month period and renewed, if requested, one time.
    3. Videos/DVDs may be checked out for one week. 
    4. Reference books may not be issued for home use.
    5. Borrowed items may be returned through the book drop. 
  3. Borrowed items may be renewed by verbal report, phone, email, text, or social media message.
  4. The Opals library system limits an adult patron to 15 items/patron. DVDs are limited                to 5/patron per checkout.
  5. Fines:
    1. Any person failing to return books or other library materials due to their loss or destruction will be assessed a fine as indicated above until notification of such to the library. This person will also be assessed the replacement cost of the material and any incurred expenses in doing so.
    2. Library privileges may be suspended at the discretion of the librarian until the fine is paid. 
  6. It is the policy of the Loup City Library to attempt to notify by email or phone those patrons who have overdue library materials. After two attempts have been made to notify the patron, the Library may send a letter notifying the patron of delinquency. A reasonable service charge shall be assessed to reimburse the Library for its costs in giving such written notice. 

Collection and Procurement of Library Materials 

  

  1. The Loup City Library complies with all laws and regulations pertaining to the operation of a library and follows such guidelines when selecting library materials.
  2. Items for children may be assessed prior to purchase by one of the following: Junior Library Guild, Novelist Plus Reviews which include Booklist and Kirkus, VIZ media and Common Sense Media.
  3. By providing for all – not just for those who use the library.
  4. By not discriminating because of race, nationality, profession, religion, customs or sex.
    b. The librarian shall be responsible for the selection and purchase from the mass of available materials those books and materials which best meet the interest and needs of the community as stated above. The librarian will be aware of Award winning books including: Coretta Scott King, Golden Sower, Michael Printz award, American Library Association/YALSA, and the National Book Award.
    c. Each acquisition shall be coded to identify purchase and original ownership by the library. 
  5. Selection/Collection Development Policy Collection Development is the process of making certain the information needs of the people are met in a timely and economical manner, using all information sources. To this end, the library will collect materials and provide information, personal and leisure enrichment and assemble materials of local historic interest as a means of preserving the heritage of our community. 

    The community, which the Library serves, covers every age group from toddler to senior with usage coming from every level.  Therefore, we purchase books and magazines for a variety of interest. 

    When a request is made for an item not included in our collection, the Library will make every effort to obtain it through interlibrary loan.  If several requests are made for the same item, the Library will consider purchasing that item. If there are costs associated with acquiring the item, those costs will be paid by the patron.

  6. Adult materials are selected with the interest of the readers in mind. Selection of children and youth books and materials should avoid harmful doctrines or teachings, but be broad enough to keep collection in tune with the times, and show no partiality in serving one group over another.  Keep in mind a public library is an education/recreational unity.  The library should stock books giving inspiration, knowledge, information, and amusement. The board gives the Librarian full discretion as to purchase and stands behind these decisions. 

    Tools used in the selection of books and magazines can be found in the following aids: 

    Paperbacks are a vital part of the Library collection as they are convenient to handle, economical to buy and are frugal with shelf space.  Young and old readers prefer them.  Hardbacks are preferred mainly in heavy usage areas. 

    Although duplicates are rarely necessary, in cases of high demand, the purchase of an extra copy may be justified. 

    The library shall subscribe to periodicals that reflect the community’s interests. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Services of the Public Library 

  

  1. The library staff will provide guidance and assistance for people to obtain the information they seek at no charge.
    b. The library will initiate programs, story hours, reading clubs, meetings, classes, book lists, training sessions, etc., to stimulate the use of library materials for the enlightenment of people of all ages.
    c. The library will cooperate with civic and community agencies and organizations to help them with program materials.
    d. The library will supplement, but cannot perform, the functions of school and other institutional libraries that are designed to meet curricular needs.
    e. The library board recognizes that no single library can meet all demands in its community. Because of this, full advantage shall be taken of interlibrary loan services available. 

Gifts, Bequests, Memorials: 

  

  1. The Library accepts gifts of books, pamphlets, periodicals, media, and the like with the understanding that they will be added to the library collections only when needed. The same principles of selection that are applied to purchases are applied to gifts. Some gifts may not be able to be used to full advantage because of reasons such as these:
    1. Books may be duplicates of an item of which the library already has a sufficient number.
    2. Books may be interesting, but not of sufficient present reference or circulation value to the library which must scrutinize every book with shelf space in mind.
    3. Books may be in poor physical condition – would not justify the expense of preparing it for circulation.
    4. If a person wishes to donate items to the Library, the rules of accepting gifts should be explained and the person should be asked if the Library may use its discretion as to whether the gift is usable. The person should also be asked if they wish the item returned if the Library cannot use it or may the Library dispose of it. If this is not acceptable the item should be refused. Information contained in these items maybe outdated or obsolete and, as such, are unacceptable. The person donating the items should be aware that items placed in the collection may become damaged, outdated, or the community may lose interest in the topic. At such time, the item may be removed from the collection. 

 

                                               Tax Receipt for Book Donation Policy 

For those donors who wish to receive a tax receipt for donated books, we will utilize the following standards:  

Books in good condition will be assessed for the following amounts: 

$1.00 per each soft cover 

$2.00 per each hardcover book 

Tax receipts will be sent to donors after all books have been assessed.  

 

Unattended Children Policy 

  

For the protection and well being of children who use and enjoy our Library, the following policy has been established: 

  1. While in the Library, children age nine years or younger shall, at all times, be attended and adequately supervised by a responsible person (parent, guardian, caregiver, or mature adolescent). Preschoolers must be accompanied by that person when in the restroom and while on the computers. 
  2. Children who are ten years or older may be unaccompanied for a reasonable period of time provided they observe library rules. Children must have the telephone numbers of their parent, guardian, or other caregiver so that a responsible person may be contacted to come pick up the child in case of a health emergency or other special circumstance such as an unexpected closing or a child unaccompanied at closing time.
  3. Parents, not library staff, are responsible for the behavior of their children. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
  4. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, the library staff will attempt to contact the parents. If the parents are unavailable, the staff will contact the Sherman County Police.
  5. Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges.

Definitions: 

Unattended Child 

– A child from preschool through age nine left in the Library unaccompanied by a responsible person (parent, guardian, caregiver, or mature adolescent) 

Disruptive Behavior 

– Behavior that represents physical danger to the child or others, or behavior that interferes with other library users or staff. Disruptive behavior is behavior that is inappropriate in a library setting. Types of inappropriate behavior may be (but are not limited to): running, throwing, eating, loud or abusive talking, excessive socializing, moving furniture, abusing or defacing library materials (including library owned hardware and software). 

Employment 

  

  1. One librarian is appointed by the Library Board (Board of Trustees) and employed by the County Board of Commissioners.
    2. A substitute librarian will be employed at such times as the librarian is attending a workshop or training session. The librarian will receive regular salary for time spent at training or meetings, and will compensated for mileage and expenses.
    3. Selection of staff members is based solely upon merit, with due consideration of personal, educational, and physical qualifications of training and aptitudes for the positions, regardless of race, color, creed or sex.
    4. All appointments are made for a probationary period of six months. An employee may be released by the librarian at any time during this probationary period, after being given two weeks notice if services are unsatisfactory.
    5. All employees will be directly responsible to the librarian for their work requirements and conduct while on duty for the library. 

Salaries 

  

  1. All salaries paid to employees of the library shall be set with the approval of the Loup City Library Board and with budget approval of the Sherman County Commissioners.
    2. All salaries will be commensurate with the duties of each employee.
    3. All personnel will be paid monthly with deductions made according to the County payroll policy.
    4. Salary increments are at no time automatic. Salaries may be adjusted at the discretion of the board in consideration of qualifications, tenure and quality of service rendered by the person being considered.
    The librarian has the right and authority to recommend to the board dismissal from the staff of any employee whose attitude, professional ethics and conduct or performance of duties warrant such action. In every case, the employee shall have the right to present his case both to the librarian and to the board. No staff member under permanent appointment shall have his/her services terminated without cause, except in cases of unavoidable financial retrenchment. 

Board of Trustees 

  

The Board of Trustees of the Loup City Library shall exercise the powers and authority and assume the responsibilities delegated to it by the Laws of the State of Nebraska. It shall work with the County Commissioners in accordance with Nebraska State Laws and Regulations and Rules for Trustees as set forth by the Nebraska Library Commission.
The Board shall consist of five members including a chairperson and Secretary. These shall be elected, when necessary, from nominations made by current board members.
The chair shall preside at all meetings, if in attendance. The Chair shall also have the power to call special meetings when necessary, appoint committees and perform all duties associated with the office.
The Secretary shall keep a true and accurate record of all meetings, shall answer any correspondence as necessary and perform any other duties associated with that office.
Officers shall serve 5 years from the time they are elected until their successors are duly elected.
The Board shall hold regular meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 4:30p.m. 

Bills must be presented to the County office prior to the 20th of each month. 

The Board shall be responsible for hiring the Librarian, but he/she is paid by the County Commissioners.
No member of the Loup City Library Board shall use his or her position as a Loup City Library trustee to obtain financial or other gain for the private benefit of the trustee or for the trustee’s immediate family, or for an organization with which the trustee is associated.
In the event of a conflict of interest, the trustee should abstain from the discussion or voting on the issue of issues at hand. If necessary, the Board should discuss and decide whether a conflict of interest is actually at issue.
Two members of the Board are required to sign the vouchers of bills, as approved by the Board, to be submitted to the County Commissioners for payment. 

Policy for Dealing With Complaints 

 Patrons wishing to make a complaint, other than a book challenge, should write out their complaint, sign, and date the form and provide contact information. Complaint will be addressed at the next Board meeting and written follow up will be provided to the Patron utilizing the contact information they provided at the time of the complaint.

Book Challenges:  

The Library Board recognizes that the library may become a target of pressure from various groups and individuals who wish to use the library’s name and services as instruments of their own tastes and views. These groups or individuals may wish to have the library disregard its professional responsibilities to the whole community and, instead, promote the ideas and interests of a portion of the community. To deal with the pressure to censor—or to proselytize—the Loup City Library Board needs to be supportive of the Library Director in his/her efforts to select materials, as well as turn away gifts of materials, so that the widest possible range of expression regarding the ideas and issues of our time can be heard.  

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 at large.  

If a Patron/Community Member wishes to make a formal request for reconsideration of library materials, Library Staff should provide the “Request for Reconsideration” form. Receipt of this form should be acknowledged and the process for reconsideration outlined. Selection, Deselection, and Book Challenge policy should be made available to the person requesting the reconsideration. Challenged materials will not be removed from the collection while under reconsideration. 

The Library Board and School Board members will be notified when a Request for Reconsideration has been received.  

The Reconsideration Committee will review the material, reviews of the material from professional sources, and whether the material fits with the library’s collection as well as how many times the material has been checked out from the library (utilizing OPALS or current digital Library system). The Reconsideration Committee will be familiar with the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights. The Reconsideration Committee will have an odd number of participants to prevent a tie and will be made up of members from the school faculty and the public library. The Reconsideration Committee Report will be made to the Library Board and School Board at the next month’s meeting.  

Once the information has been received by the Board and a decision has been made, a personal letter to the individual requesting the Reconsideration should be sent. If indicated, this letter should include the process for appealing a decision if they so desire with the understanding the appeal will appear on the publicized Library Board and/or School Board Agenda.  

All written documentation should be kept for purposes of Public Records and the Challenge and its results should be sent to the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom.  

Request for Reconsideration of Material Form: Loup City Library  

The Loup City Library Board have established a policy for requests for reconsideration of library materials. Completion of this form is the first step in that procedure. If you wish to request a reconsideration of library material, please return the completed form to the Library Director. You will be notified by written correspondence of the outcome of your request. Material under reconsideration will not be removed from circulation until a determination has been made.  

Loup City Library: 800 N 8th St, Loup City, NE 68853 

Date                                 Name:                                                                                                                                

Address                                                                  City                                                 Zip                                        

Phone                                                           Email                                                                                                     

Do you represent (  ) Self (  ) Organization:                                                                                                          

  1. Resource on which you are commenting: 

              (  ) Book or e-book (   ) Magazine (  )Digital Resource (  )Newspaper 

              (  )Movie (   )Audio Recording (  )Other                                        

Title:                                                                                                                                                                                 

Author/Producer:                                                                                                                                                          

  1. What brought this Material to your attention? 

                                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                                           

  1. Have you examined the entire resource? If not, what sections did you review? 

                                                                                                                                                                                            

  1. What concerns do you have about the resource? 

                                                                                                                                                                                            

                                                                                                                                                                                            

  1. Are there resources you suggest to provide additional information and/or viewpoints on this topic? 

                                                                                                                                                                                            

  1.  What action are you requesting the committee consider?  

                                                                                                                                                                                            Rev.3/9/2022 

Loup City Library Reconsideration Committee Report 

Title:                                                                                                                             

Author:                                                                                                                        

 

Has every member of the committee read the material entirely? If not, why? 

                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Resources consulted: (Include policies, articles, reviews, etc)*Please link or print information and attach to form 

                                                                                                                                                                                             

                                                                                                                                                                                            

Reconsideration Committee Recommends: 

                                                                                                                                                                                             Justification and Comments: (include majority and minority positions) 

                                                                                                                                                                                             

                                                                                                                                                                                            Signatures of Reconsideration Committee Members: 

                                                                                                    

                                                                                                    

                                                                                                      

                                                                                                      

                                                                                                       

Date:                                   

Rev. Form 3/10/2022 

The Librarian 

The first duty of the Librarian/staff is to serve the public. The purpose of the Library is to offer prompt, efficient, impartial, courteous and friendly service. To attain this goal, the Librarian agrees to: 

  1. Comply with Nebraska Library Commission rules for certification.
  2. Take further courses in Library Science.
  3. Attend workshops and meetings held for librarians. The Librarian is to receive an allowance for mileage and registration. The County will pay fees and other expenses for these workshops.
  4. Read library periodicals on library procedures.
  5. Wisely select material, catalog books, and shelve those returned.
  6. At this time, since book selection is made by the librarian it is important that: 
    1. A librarian should have the ability to evaluate materials
    2. Understand people and their needs
    3. Appreciate the best of the world’s literature
    4. Have a knowledge of the community
    5. Have a knowledge of standard works in many subject areas
    6. Have a background of personal reading.
  7. Prepare and submit an annual budget to the Library Board for approval at the June Library Board Meeting.
  8. Attend the Library Board meetings and act as its secretary and be responsible for making all reports.

Additional Librarian duties: 

  1. Keep all desk records current.
  2. Be able to take criticism and directions.
  3. Be well groomed at all times.
  4. Serve adults and children on a “first come, first served” basis with equal consideration.
  5. Have a story hour for children.
  6. Work with community projects.
  7. Publicize the library at every opportunity.
  8. Agree to prepare and present a yearly report to the County Commissioners, Library Board and Loup City School Board.
  9. The Librarian will be computer literate.
  10. Maintain/Update online services such as the library’s facebook page and website. 

As a further service to the community the Librarian shall offer a Summer Reading Program for the children during the vacation months. A theme should be chosen to make it more interesting and fun for the children. Prizes may be offered and games played. This may also incorporate with the Story Hour. 

The Librarian may refuse service to any patron who is disruptive of destructive to Library property. 

The Librarian is also responsible for training and observation of any clerk in training/under employment of the library. 

                                              Professional Development Policy 

 

The Library Director may participate in three days of learning opportunities with pay per budgetary year to maintain Library Accreditation.  Library Director may be required to share information from these sessions with the Library Board or County Board officers. 

 

Library Clerk 

Employee performs duties, including use of library database, associated with the functions of a library. Work often involves initial contact with patrons and is performed according to well defined procedures and includes occasional administrative work. 

Duties of the Job: 

  1. Sorts and shelves library materials.
  2. Searches and maintains library files and patron records using various databases.
  3. Provides routine information and assistance to community users.
  4. Opens and closes library building and maintains security during these times.
  5. Issues, renews and discharges library materials.
  6. Operates standard library equipment.
  7. Physically locates library materials within the collection.
  8. Maintains photocopy supplies and equipment.

Electronic Book Policy 

Electronic books (ebooks) are available for checkout through Libby following acquisition of a library card.  The Librarian can offer basic assistance on how to navigate Libby through your e-reader, a computer, smartphone, mp3 player, or ipod. 

Due to the fact that multiple libraries use Libby, it may be necessary to be placed on a waiting list for ebooks. 

They’ve created detailed help videos and troubleshooting guides to get patrons started on any major platform or device and support their reading habits 

 

                                                                Weeding 

Weeding 

The Library shall subscribe to a strict policy of weeding using the CREW Method (Continuous Review, Evaluation, and Weeding). The Crew Method weeds based on MUSTIE criteria: M = Misleading—factually inaccurate U = Ugly – worn beyond mending or rebinding S = Superceded – by a new edition of/or by a much better book on the subject T = Trivial – of no discernible literary or scientific merit I = Irrelevant to the needs and interests of the library’s community E = Elsewhere – the material is easily obtainable from another library. Material which has not been checked out in over five years may be considered for weeding. Weeded items may be made available to the public, traded at the used bookstore for other material, or disposed of should the material be in bad physical condition.  

                                                                Classes 

On occasion, classes may be made available to public in cooperation with local community colleges and other entities.  The library is not responsible for the content of the classes and classes are available on a first come, first serve basis. 

                                                               Meetings 

Any public groups meeting in library will be respectful of the academic atmosphere and follow no drink/food rules.  Groups meeting in library are not endorsed by or discriminated against by the library. 

                                                          Computer Use Policy 

The Internet, a worldwide network of computer networks, is an essential medium for obtaining and transmitting information of all types. However, the Internet is an unregulated medium. The Library has implemented and maintains Internet filters that are compliant with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. 

Internet filters are not perfect and may block access to inoffensive and useful information. 

This policy includes all computer equipment maintained by the library, patron owned equipment, and all equipment using the library’s Internet connection. The user’s access to the library’s computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. Failure to comply with this policy and its procedures will result in the forfeiture of the user’s right to access the library’s network and computer resources 

Unacceptable Uses of Computers/Internet Access 

Among the uses that are considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation of this policy are the following: 

Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. 

  

Transmitting of offensive or harassing messages; offering for sale or use any substance, the possession or use of which is prohibited by law; viewing, transmitting or downloading pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; downloading or transmitting confidential, trade secret information or copyrighted materials. 

Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. 

  

Engaging in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); uploading a worm, virus, “trojan horse”, “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participating in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems. 

Uses that jeopardize the security of access to the computer network or other networks on the Internet. 

  

Disclosing or sharing the user’s password with others; impersonating another user; damaging or modifying computer equipment or software. 

Uses that compromise the safety and security of minors (people under 18) when using e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications. 

Viewing obscene matter. 

  

The State of Nebraska defines “obscene matter or performance” as follows: 

A matter or performance is obscene for purposes of this article if: 

the average person, applying contemporary community standards, finds that the dominant theme of the matter or performance, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest in sex; 

the matter or performance depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct; and 

the matter or performance, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. 

Disclaimers 

Information/data on all computer workstations is the property of LCPL; this includes information collected on patron Internet browsing history. LCPL staff reserves the right to check all workstations for suspicious/inappropriate activity. 

LCPL will maintain the confidentiality of patrons using its computer resources. Requests for disclosure of information will be honored only when required by law. 

The library reserves the right to terminate a computer session or network access that disrupts library services or that involves user behavior that violates the library’s policies. 

As with all library resources, the library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT library staff, to determine and monitor their minor children’s use of computer equipment. 

While the library endeavors to provide access to information of the highest quality, the library specifically disclaims any warrant as to the information’s accuracy, timeliness, authoritativeness, usefulness, or fitness for a particular purpose. 

The library will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the Library’s network and Internet service. 

The library, having installed and enforced the operation of filtering software in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, will have no liability for damages related to the operation of, or failure of, the filtering software or for its circumvention by users. 

The library is not responsible for damage to users’ equipment or computers or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from use of the library’s computers and network. 

Adult Computer Usage 

Residents of Sherman County must use their own valid library card in good standing to use the public computers. Library cards are non-transferable. Visitors to LCPL and those who reside outside of Sherman County will need to present a photo ID. 

LCPL will use a computer time management system, to manage adult public computer usage with the exception of Library programs and special class times. 

The total amount of time a patron can use the computers during one day will be 120 minutes. Noncard holders will be limited to 60 minutes per day. Sessions may be extended at the discretion of the library staff. Computers will be asked to shut down 5 minutes before closing time. 

Laptop computers are available for checkout and use inside the library on a first come first serve basis. Reservations cannot be placed on laptop computers. A valid photo ID and a library card in good standing are required to checkout a laptop. Standard time limits apply. Users/Patrons are financially responsible for all equipment and accessories checked out to their library card. 

Staff will be available to answer questions, but patrons are expected to search independently. Patrons are encouraged to get additional help by signing up for classes conducted by library staff. 

Classes will be offered to educate patrons on computer use. LCPL has the right to reserve all computers for educational purposes. 

Personal media with documents (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.) are permitted. Program files of any type are not permitted. At no time shall any user files be saved to the hard drive of the computer. 

Black and white printing is available from library computers LCPL is not liable for printing errors with the exception of equipment malfunction. 

Children Computer Usage 

As with all library resources, the library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/ guardians, NOT library staff, to determine and monitor their children’s use of the computer equipment. 

The user, or the parent/guardian of a child, is responsible for his or her computer use or Internet session at all times. 

Children under the age of 8 must be supervised by their parent/guardians in the children’s area. 

Parents/guardians are to stay at the computer with their young children (under 5) or those of any age with little computer experience. 

The computers allow access to games and filtered Internet. 

During the school year, children are not allowed to play games on school days (Monday through Thursday typically).  Children may play games on Friday and Saturday; however, unless children are working on a school project, their time will be limited to one hour.  If the noise level is unacceptable, children may lose their computer privileges for the day.  The Loup City Library and Loup City Schools utilize a filtering system through our internet provider; however, we do not censor viewing activity.  If there are certain games, videos, or sites which parents do not want their children to visit, then it is up to the parents to communicate this with the children. 

Children may sign up for a one-hour session which can be increased as long as patrons are not waiting to use the computers. Sessions may be extended at the discretion of the library staff. 

Laptop Loan Policy 

Patrons that are going to use one of the three library laptops will read and sign the following agreement 

: 

  1. I understand that by borrowing a laptop computer from the Loup City Library that I am responsible for the computer and all accessories. I will reimburse the library for any damages if the laptop or any software installed thereon is damaged, lost or stolen while checked out to me.
  2. I agree to go to the public librarian’s desk immediately if the laptop or any of its components are damaged, missing or malfunctioning.
  3. I understand that laptop loans are for in-facility use only, and cannot be removed from the facility.
  4. I understand that the loan period for borrowing a laptop is 1 hour. I also understand that laptops must be returned to library staff at least 30 minutes prior to library closing, even if this does not allow me to use the laptop for the entire 1-hour loan period.
  5. I understand that when the loan period has elapsed I must return the laptop to a staff member at the circulation desk. Until the laptop has been placed in the hands of a library staff member and checked in, it is my responsibility. Otherwise, I will be subject to a $10 fine and my laptop privileges will be revoked.
  6. I understand that the library will not be held responsible for any damage or loss of data or media due to any cause while using a library computer.                                                   
  7. I understand that Library wireless connections are not secure, and I will take appropriate caution with personal information while using library computers

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                                           Reserving Books or Placing them on hold 

A patron placing a reserve or hold on an item should confirm phone number and email. After a message has been left for the patron. Patron will have three days to pick up the book.  If the patron does not pick up the book in that time, the next person on the list will have the option to check out the book or it will be returned to the bookshelves to be accessible to other patrons. 

  

Financial Policy 

  1. Budget

The Fiscal Year of the library is the first of July through the thirtieth of June. Each year the Librarian along with the Library Board will prepare a budget to be presented to the Sherman County Board of Supervisors for Approval.  Due consideration will be given to the amount the Library plans to spend on each of several categories.  Because of our inter-local agreement with the Loup City Public Schools, we are not required to budget for maintenance or utilities.  The School also shares with us in providing personnel, materials, furnishings and computers for use by both entities. 

After the County officials deliberate, we will be given notification of their approval, or we will be called to appear at the Board of Supervisor’s session to justify increases in expenses.  The Librarian will make this presentation.  After this our budget will be either approved or adjusted.  When the final decision is made, this will become our spending guide for the current fiscal year. 

The Librarian then decides which purchases to make based on the approved budget.  At each month’s Library Board meeting, the bills will be presented to the Library Board in the form of a County Warrant along with documentation of the expense.  After the Library Board signs off on these expenses, the Librarian will then see that a copy of the Board Minutes along with the Warrants are presented to the County Clerk in a timely matter so that they will be included in that month’s County Board Meeting.  The County will then make payments to the various vendors. 

                                                                   Foundation Funds 

If the Library receives bequests and/or memorials of money those funds in amounts greater than $100.00 will be placed with the Sherman County Foundation for safekeeping unless these monies have been specified for certain projects or books per donor’s request.  These funds will then only be accessible after the Librarian, with the Library Board approval, submits a grant proposal, which will include the purpose of the funds required as well as a detailed description of their amounts.  When these funds are released by the Foundation, they will be transferred to the Sherman County Treasurer for dispersal after the submitting of a warrant prepared by the Librarian and approved by the Library Board.  The payments will then be made by Sherman County. 

The Loup City Public Library follows the Intellectual Freedom Standards set forth by the American Library Association. They are as follows:  

 

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services. 

  1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
  2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment. 

  1. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
  2. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
  3. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996. 

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                                                                  Library Advocacy 

The library administration, staff, and board will advocate for the library when they have the opportunity whether locally or at a state or federal level utilizing the step by step process laid out by the American Library Association.  

                                                                 Emergency and Safety 

Library patrons will follow the Emergency procedures set forth in the Loup City Public Schools Emergency Procedures Guide. The fire extinguisher and tornado evacuation plan are located by the double door entryway to the school.  The fire pull station is by the south side exit door. The librarian will keep a small first aid kit on hand. 

                                                            Posting Community Flyers 

The library does allow Sherman County residents to post advertisements and notices of events within Sherman County area in the windows of the library entry room. Materials will not be excluded due to origin, background, or views of those contributing to the item or distributing them. Items will be left in place for two weeks or until the date of the event has passed as stated in the Library Bill of Rights set forth by the American Library Association. 

                                                       Confidentiality of Patron Records 

The Loup City Library follows the ALA Code of Ethics, Article III, which states: “We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received, and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted”.  No librarian or library employee shall make available to any agency of state, federal, or local government the records or information of any patron except in the case where an order or subpoena may be obtained by the pertinent authorities. Paper records with patron information on them will be shredded at the time of disposal. 

                                                                 Marketing 

The Loup City Library administration will utilize social media, newspapers, radio, and newsletters as well as community outreach activities to market the services and programming provided by Loup City Library in a positive way.    

Makerspace Policy           

Guidelines for Use of Makerspace: 

LCPL (Loup City Public Library) Makerspace equipment is intended for education and prototyping purposes. LCPL staff reserve the right to refuse the creation or manipulation of certain objects including those which are: 

*Weaponry or parts of weaponry            

* Prohibited by Local, State, or Federal Law 

*Unsafe, harmful, dangerous items which pose an immediate threat to others’ well-being 

*Deemed to be offensive or inappropriate in a public setting as determined by LCPL staff 

*In violation of Copyright, Patent, Trademark, or Intellectual Property Rights 

*Supplies used must be of the appropriate type and size of materials. Certain items cannot be utilized on Makerspace Equipment. Please check handbook at Makerspace station or check with LCPL staff.           

Library policies and LCPS behavioral policies apply to patrons using the Makerspace. LCPL staff reserves the right to deny access to the Makerspace if a patron violates any part of the LCPL/LCPS policies or misuses Makerspace Equipment. No food or drink in the Makerspace area. Users will follow the safety guidelines set forth during training and available for review in the Makerspace. Makerspace users must clean up after themselves or this could negatively impact their future usage of the Makerspace.  

Each piece of equipment may be used for a two-hour period per certified user one time per day.  

Times on Makerspace equipment must be reserved in advance. A reservation book/calendar is kept in the Makerspace for this purpose. Reservations can be made by telephone. 

Reservations will be held for 15 minutes. Once this time elapses, the LCPL staff may reassign the reserved time to someone else.  

Makers must sign the waiver and complete any required machine-specific training prior to using Makerspace equipment. LCPS students/Patrons age 14-17 may use the Makerspace alone after having a parent or guardian sign a waiver with them. Younger patrons may use the Makerspace but must have a Parent, Teacher, or other Adult Certified Maker in attendance.   

LCPL staff members are not responsible or liable for lost or damaged files, data, software, or hardware errors. Patrons are responsible for obtaining and keeping their own method of external storage (USB or Cloud) for digital creations. 

Some materials supplied by the Makerspace user must be approved for use by a Makerspace Librarian/Trainer or Janet Kuszak (LCPS Director of Technology). Check with Makerspace Librarian for current costs/fees of items available through LCPL. Items must be paid for at time of purchase. 

LCPL staff is not responsible for providing Makerspace users with a finished product and imperfect items may be the outcome of the Makerspace experience. It is a learning experience. LCPL staff is not responsible for producing items for patrons in the Makerspace or for replacing items used in the Makerspace.  

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Library Innovation Studios” Makerspace Liability Waiver 

 

You are required to read the following information very carefully and make sure that you understand it fully and sign it prior to participating in this activity or program. 

I, _________________________________________, agree to abide by the Loup City Library “Library Innovation Studios Policy.  I am fully aware that participation in the “Library Innovation Studios Makerspace” may result in risk of personal injury or harm.  In consideration of being granted the opportunity to participate, I hereby agree to release and hold harmless the Loup City Library, Loup City Public Schools, Sherman County, and the Nebraska Library Commission, as well as their officers, employees, volunteers, committees and boards, from and against any and all liability, loss, damages, claims, or actions (including costs and attorney fees) for bodily injury and/or property damage, to the extent permissible by law.  

This indemnification and hold harmless, agreement shall include indemnity against all costs (including without limitation, reasonable attorney’s fees and court costs), expenses and liabilities incurred in or in connection with any such claim or proceeding brought thereon and in defense thereof.  

I have read and understand this release, indemnification and hold harmless form and I voluntarily sign it.  By signing this form, I am stating that I have been trained on the equipment in use and will abide by the policies regarding use of said equipment.  I hereby give permission to the Loup City Library for emergency transportation and/or treatment in the event of illness or injury and this release extends to any liability arising in connection with such transportation and/or treatment. I hereby accept responsibility for payment of any emergency transportation and/or treatment.  I further certify that I am in good physical condition and have no medical or physical conditions that would restrict my participation in this activity or program. 

_____________________________________________________         _____________________ 

Name                                                                                                                  Date 

_______________________________________________________________ 

Parent/Guardian (for participant under 18 years of age) 

______________________________________________ 

Address 

____________________________________________________ 

Email address/Phone number 

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PODCAST Waiver Form 

 

I, ______________________________________________, agree to abide by the terms set forth by the Loup City Library.  I will be consistent and organized in the planning for and recording and editing of the podcast.   I will not eat or drink near the recording equipment and I will not damage the recording equipment in any way.  

I will not speak in a detrimental fashion about any person. I will not give personal information (last name, mailing address, or handles on social media, etc.) on the podcast.   

The podcast will be available to the public on multiple social media sites, so please take your safety and privacy seriously.  

_____________________________________________                              ________________________________   

Name                                                                                                             Date 

 

___________________________________________________________________ 

Parent/Guardian 

__________________________________________ 

Email/Phone number 

 **Reviewed March 16, 2022

 

 Posted by at 3:31 pm

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