Wautoma Public Library Board Bylaws
Article I
Identification
This organization is the Board of Trustees of the Wautoma Public Library, located in Wautoma Wisconsin, established by the Wisconsin municipality of Wautoma, according to the provisions of Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin Statutes, and exercising the powers and assuming the duties granted to it under said statute.
Article II
Membership
Section 1. Appointments and Terms of Office. Appointments and terms of office are as provided by the relevant subsections of Wisconsin Statutes Sections 43.54 and 43.60.
Section 2. Meeting Attendance. Members are granted up to 3 absences in a calendar year, unless approved by the board for extenuating circumstances. The library board has the authority to remove a member who does not abide by this bylaw.
Article III
Officers
Section 1. The officers shall be a president, a vice president, a secretary, and a treasurer elected from among the appointed trustees at the annual meeting of the Board. No member shall hold more than one office at a time. Vacancies in office shall be filled by recommendation to the city, the Mayor makes the appointment and the city council approves after the vacancy occurs.
Section 2. Nominations will be made from the floor at the annual meeting of the board.
Section 3. Officers shall serve a term of one year from the annual meeting at which they are elected and until their successors are duly elected.
Section 4. The president shall preside at meetings of the Board, authorize calls for special meetings, appoint all committees, execute all documents authorized by the Board, serve as an ex-officio voting member of all committees and generally perform all duties associated with the office of president.
Section 5. The vice president, in the event of the absence or disability of the president, or of a vacancy in that office, shall assume and perform the duties and functions of the president.
Section 6. The secretary shall keep true and accurate minutes of all meetings of the Board, and shall perform such other duties as are generally associated with the office of secretary. The library director or a member of the staff may be designated by the Board to perform any or all of the above duties.
Section 7. Three signers, including the treasurer, will be selected by the Library Board from its members to sign checks drawn on funds held by the library. Two signers are required to sign checks at time of disbursement. The treasurer shall oversee the donation bank account by verifying funds to be deposited, make deposits, and reconcile with bank statement.
Article IV
Meetings
Section 1. Regular Meetings. The regular meetings shall be held each month, the date and hour to be set by the Board.
Section 2. Annual Meeting. The annual meeting, which shall be for the purpose of the election of officers, shall be held at the time of the regular meeting in January of each year.
Section 3. Agendas and Notices. Meeting agendas and notices shall indicate the time, date, and place of the meeting and indicate all subject matters intended for consideration at the meeting.
Section 4. Minutes. Minutes of all meetings shall, at a minimum, indicate board members present, all items of business, all motions (except those that were withdrawn), and the result of all votes taken. Current board minutes shall be posted on a bulletin board in the library.
Section 5. Special Meetings. Special meetings may be called at the direction of any board member with approval of the president or vice president, for the transaction of business as stated in the call for the meeting. Except in cases of emergency, at least 48 hours notice shall be given. In no case may less than two hours notice be given.
Section 6. Quorum. A quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting shall consist of five members of the Board.
Section 7. Open Meetings Law Compliance. All Board meetings and all committee meetings shall be held in compliance with Wisconsin’s open meetings law (Wisconsin Statutes Sections 19.81 to 19.98).
Section 8. Parliamentary Authority. The rules contained in Robert’s Rules of Order, latest revised edition [or The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure by Alice F. Sturgis], shall govern the parliamentary procedure of the meetings, in all cases in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws and any statutes applicable to this Board.
Article V
Committees
Section 1. Standing Committees. The following committees: Policy, Technology, Historical Board, Fundraising, Personnel, shall be appointed by the president after the annual meeting and shall make recommendations to the Board as pertinent to Board meeting agenda items.
Section 2. Ad Hoc Committees. Ad hoc committees shall be appointed by the president, with the approval of the Board, to serve until the final report of the work for which they were appointed has been filed. These committees may also include staff and public representatives, as well as outside experts.
Section 3. No committee shall have other than advisory powers.
Article VI
Duties of the Board of Trustees
Section 1. Legal responsibility for the operation of the Wautoma Public Library is vested in the Board of Trustees. Subject to state and federal law, the Board has the power and duty to determine rules and regulations governing library operations and services.
Section 2. The Board shall select, appoint and supervise a properly certified and competent library director, and determine the duties and compensation of all library employees.
Section 3. The Board shall approve the budget and make sure that adequate funds are provided to finance the approved budget.
Section 4. The Board shall have exclusive control of the expenditure of all moneys collected, donated or appropriated for the library fund and shall audit and approve all library expenditures.
Section 5. The Board shall supervise and maintain buildings and grounds, as well as regularly review various physical and building needs to see that they meet the requirements of the total library program.
Section 6. The Board shall study and support legislation that will bring about the greatest good to the greatest number of library users.
Section 7. The Board shall cooperate with other public officials and boards and maintain vital public relations.
Section 8. The Board shall approve and submit the required annual report to the Division for Libraries and Technology, and the city council.
Article VII
Library Director
The board of trustees shall recommend the library director to the city council for appointment. The library director shall be responsible to the Board and 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 director shall act as technical advisor to the Board. The director shall be invited to attend all Board meetings (but may be excused from closed sessions) and shall have no vote.
Article VIII
Conflict of Interest
Section 1. Board members may not in their private capacity negotiate, bid for, or enter into a contract with the Wautoma Public Library in which they have a direct or indirect financial interest.
Section 2. 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 member is associated has a substantial financial interest.
Section 3. A board member may not receive anything of value that could reasonably be expected to influence his or her vote or other official action.
Article IX
General
Section 1. An affirmative vote of the majority of all members of the Board present at the time shall be necessary to approve any action before the Board. The president may vote upon and may move or second a proposal before the Board.
Section 2. Any rule or resolution of the Board, whether contained in these bylaws or otherwise, may be suspended temporarily in connection with business at hand, but such suspension, to be valid, may be taken only at a meeting at which two-thirds of the members of the Board are present and two-thirds of those present so approve.
Section 3. These bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting of the Board by majority vote of all members of the Board, provided written notice of the proposed amendment shall have been mailed to all members at least ten days prior to the meeting at which such action is proposed to be taken.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Wautoma Public Library on the 29th day of June, 2016.
Reviewed and accepted without change May 2, 2018
Circulation Procedure:
COVID-19 Re-Opening Policy
The Wautoma Public Library is opening Monday, June 15 at 9am with patron behavior expectations:
1. Be symptom free
2. Wear a mask
3. No more than 6 patrons in the library at a time
4. If under 16, be accompanied by an adult
5. Practice social distancing
6. No loitering
7. Call (920) 787-2988 to make an appointment for public computer use.
· We welcome our patrons who wish to use the library, with the understanding that being in this public space carries some level of risk.
· No one is to enter the library if they are feeling unwell or have symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste and smell.)
· Our library is small and it is difficult to maintain social distancing, to protect our staff and other patrons, we require that you wear a mask. One will be provided for you if you do not have one. Upon entering, please use the hand sanitizer provided for you at the entrance and practice social distancing by keeping a cow’s length distance from other patrons and library staff.
· The floor will be marked to indicate the 6 feet distance for checkout. Please do not lean around the sneeze guard to talk to staff at checkout.
· 6 Patrons will be allowed in the library at a time. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied/supervised by an adult. The doors will be locked to help us enforce this policy, so please be patient and wait your turn.
· Computer time will be prioritized for job search, business, homework, etc. Please call to schedule computer time. There will be no gaming on the computers.
· Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9-10 will be reserved for high risk patrons (seniors, expecting mothers, etc.) We ask that you respect this time.
· While this policy is in effect, we regret to say that the Library is not considered a Gathering Place as it usually is for so many people. Our Children’s Room will be closed off for playing. Loitering is discouraged and patrons and staff are asked to transact business as quickly and efficiently as possible.
· Many of you are anxious to browse the shelves, so we ask that you look and don’t touch unless necessary. If you touch something and then decide not to take it, leave it in the designated bin to be quarantined for 3 days.
· Placing holds is encouraged so we can have your items ready (and even check them out prior to your arrival with notice) to make your visit as quick as possible.
· All returned/touched materials will be quarantined for 72 hours. You may see these items still on your account but will not be charged any overdue fines for the 3-4 days they are in quarantine. As all of the libraries in Winnefox are following this practice, you will see a delay in shared materials.
· To limit contact with germs, we will have a jar for you to place money for fines/copies/donations. Please have exact change, write a check, or give extra to the library, as we will not be dealing with change at this time.
· Cooperation with this policy keeps the library available to the public.
LIBRARY CARDS
Cards are issued free of charge to patrons with Id and proof of your local mailing address: a driver’s license, a checkbook, a utility bill, a lease agreement.
Youth under the age of 18 need a parent’s or guardian’s signature on the application card.
There is no charge for the first library card. The replacement charge for a lost or damaged card is 1.00.
Do NOT let others use your card! You are responsible for all the materials checked out on your library card, unless you report it lost or stolen.
You will need your library card number and your PIN number to search our on-line catalog. Your PIN number is the last four (4) numbers of your phone number
LOAN PERIODS
Books, audio tapes, books on CDs, musical cassettes and CDs, musical cassettes and CDs and magazines may be borrowed for three (3) weeks.
Videos and DVDs may be borrowed for one (1) week. Patrons are limited to 2 new movies (generally materials that are 3 months or newer). Overall movie limit is 30 items.
Current magazines, newspapers and some reference materials are for in-library use only.
RETURNS & RENEWALS
Materials may be returned to the Wautoma Public Library, or to any library that is part of the Winnefox Library System.
If you return videos, DVDs or CDs in the book drop, please put a rubber band around them so that the materials do not fall out of their cases.
You may renew library materials over the phone, on on-line at home, as long as no other patron has put a reserve on them.
There are no grace periods on materials that are checked out on your card. They are due back the day that is printed on your receipt.
FINES & RESTRICTIONS
Fines are .10 per day for books, magazines, books on tape, books on CD, CD-ROMs, music CDs and cassettes.
Fines are .25 per day on videos and DVDs and $1 a day for ILL items and equipment like baking pans.
The maximum overdue fine for any one item is 5.00
If you have 5.00 or more in fines on your card, you will not be allowed to check out any more materials, until the fine is under 5.00.
Overdue notices will be mailed to you from Oshkosh when your materials are 10 days overdue.
You will be sent a bill for overdue or lost materials when they are thirty (30) days overdue. If materials are not returned or paid for within fifty (50) days, the library board may refer the problem to the city attorney or police for further action.
Users of library materials are responsible for damage to the materials. If an item is irreparably damaged, the user will be charged the cost of the item.
Users responsible for minor damage to library materials will be assessed the cost of repairs as follows:
Missing barcode .50
Minor water damage .50/page
Torn pages .50/page
Book jacket .50
Movie cassette case 1.00
CD book album 3.00-500
CD jewel case 1.00
Other charges will be determined as necessary.
Waiving Fines or Reducing Fines
Wautoma Procedure: Food for Fines is held twice a year for a month long. For every food item brought in $2 is waived from overdue fines. Food for Fines cannot be used to pay for lost or damaged items.
Director and staff have the authority to waive fines for individuals with extenuating circumstances. Director and staff can work with patrons who are having trouble paying off their fines by negotiating fine payment schedules and looking up current replacement costs to make appropriate adjustments.
Bulletin Board Policy
Bulletin board materials may be submitted for posting by non-profit organizations for civic, educational, recreational or cultural purposes. Such organizations may submit literature publicizing a special event. Exhibits of a commercial nature and those purporting political or controversial issues in a biased or inflammatory manner are prohibited. Limited space generally allows only short-term notices.
The library director must approve all postings and may prohibit postings which do not meet the above standards. Library staff will be responsible for displaying and removing postings promptly. If owners wish to have materials returned after they have been removed from the bulletin board, the name and telephone number of the person to be contacted must be printed on the back of the material. Otherwise, the library will not be responsible for returning materials.
Approved by the Wautoma Library Board 01/2005
Challenged Materials Procedures
Potential Problems or Challenges
The Wautoma Public 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 in this policy.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their 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 be 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.
In the event that a patron of the Wautoma Public Library requests that material which is a part of the permanent collection be withdrawn or restricted, the following procedure is to be followed.
The patron will be asked to complete the Statement of Concern about Library Resources form and submit it to a library staff member. The staff member will also give the complainant a copy of the Wautoma Public Library Selection Policy.
The staff member must immediately sign and date the form. The staff member must then save the original for the Director and give a photocopy of the form to the patron.
The Director of the Wautoma Public Library will then arrange an interview with the patron who filed the complaint as soon as possible.
If the patron is not satisfied with the interview with the Director, he/she may request a public hearing with the Board of Trustees of the Wautoma Public Library.
Any decision made by the Board of Trustees following the interviews and/or hearing will be final.
Approved by the Wautoma Public Library Board: 11/16/11
Form: Statement of Concern about Library Resources
Wautoma Public Library
STATEMENT OF CONCERN ABOUT LIBRARY RESOURCES
Name________________________Date_____________
Address______________________Phone___________
City_________________________State______ZIP_______
Resource on which you are commenting:
_____Book
_____Audio-visual Resource
_____Magazine
_____Content of Library Program
_____Newspaper
_____Other
Title:_________________________________________
Author/Publisher or Producer/Date:___________________
Please answer the following questions, if you need more room you may use the back of this form and/or attach additional sheets.
What brought this resource to your attention?
To what do you object? Please be as specific as possible.
Have you read or listened or viewed the entire content? If not, what parts?
What do you feel the effect of the material might be?
For what age group would you recommend this material?
In its place, what material of equal or better quality would you recommend?
What do you want the library to do with this material?
Additional comments:
Privacy of Library Records and Library Use
The Wautoma Public Library protects the privacy of library records and the confidentiality of patron use of the library as required by relevant laws. In addition, the Wautoma Public Library Board supports the principle of inquiry for library patrons and has adopted this policy to protect against the unwarranted invasion of the personal privacy of library users.
Legal Requirements
The relevant Wisconsin laws concerning the confidentiality of library records are Wisconsin Statutes Section 43.30 and the Wisconsin Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80)
Under Section 43.30, library records which indicate the identity of any individual who borrows or uses the library’s documents or other materials, resources or services may only be disclosed:
With the consent of the individual library user
By court order
To persons acting with the scope of their duties in the administration of the library or library system, or
To other libraries (under certain circumstances) for interlibrary loan purposes [see 43.30 (2) and (3).
Wisconsin’s Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80) requires all state and local government organizations (including public libraries) to develop procedures to protect the privacy of personal information kept by the organization. Libraries (and all other government organizations) are required to develop rules of conduct for employees involved in collecting, maintaining, using, and providing access to personally identifiable information. Libraries are also required to ensure that employees handling such records "know their duties and responsibilities relating to protecting personal privacy, including applicable state and federal laws."
Records indicating the identity of library users include a library users name, physical image, library card number, social security number, telephone number, street address, post-office box number or 9-digit extended zip code.
Records held by the library that include personally identifiable information about library users may also contain information that must be provided to those who request that information, as required by Wisconsin’s public records law. Personally identifiable information about library users must be redacted from any records that are publicly disclosed, except as the records are disclosed under one of the four exceptions provided by Section 43.30 (see above).
Rules to be followed by library staff
As required by state law, library staff may only disclose library records indicating the identity of library users under the following conditions:
disclosure to staff members of the Wautoma Public Library, and the staff of other libraries and library systems only according to written procedures that comply with the laws cited above and that are approved by the director.
disclosure as authorized by the individual library user.
disclosure to custodial parents or guardians of children under the age of 16 [ss. 43.30(4)]
disclosure pursuant to court order (see below for handling of different types of court orders)
if someone’s life or safety is at risk, library records may be released to appropriate individuals or officials without a court order[1]
Library staff must refer all requests for library records and all requests for information about particular library users to the library director or the library director’s designee.
Library staff are not allowed to share information about use of library resources and services by identified library patrons except as necessary for the performance of their job duties and in accordance with procedures approved by the library director and/or board.
Handling of court orders
[Note: All search warrants are court orders, but not all subpoenas are court orders. Library staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order if those records indicate the identity of library users.]
If a law enforcement officer (or anyone else) brings a subpoena[2] directing library staff to produce library records:
Notify the library director, or if the director is not available, notify the highest-ranking staff person on duty.
The library director or the highest-ranking staff person should ask the municipal attorney (or library counsel) to review the subpoena.
If the subpoena has any legal defects, require that the defects be cured before records are released.
If appropriate, ask legal counsel to draft a protective order to be submitted to the court keeping the requested information confidential and limiting its use to the particular case.
Follow legal counsel’s advice for compliance with the subpoena.
If law enforcement officers bring a court order in the form of a search warrant[3]:
A search warrant is executable immediately, unlike a subpoena. The law enforcement officers may begin a search of library records as soon as they enter the library.
Request that the law enforcement officers wait until the municipal attorney (or library counsel) is present before the search begins in order to allow counsel an opportunity to examine the search warrant and to assure that the search conforms to the terms of the search warrant. (The law enforcement officials are not required to accede to your request to delay the search.)
Cooperate with the search to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are disclosed.
If FBI agents bring a court order in the form of a search warrant issued under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)[4]:
A search warrant is executable immediately, unlike a subpoena. The law enforcement officers may begin a search of library records as soon as they enter the library.
Request that the law enforcement officers wait until the municipal attorney (or library counsel) is present before the search begins in order to allow counsel an opportunity to examine the search warrant and to assure that the search conforms to the terms of the search warrant. (The law enforcement officials are not required to accede to your request.)
Cooperate with the search to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are disclosed.
It is illegal to disclose to any other person (other than those persons necessary to produce the tangible things sought in the warrant) that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has sought or obtained records or other items under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
[1]The Attorney General’s office opined, in a response dated November 27, 2006 to questions submitted by State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster, that “…if someone’s life or safety is at risk, for example, if there was a child abduction at the library, the law would not require the police to obtain a court order before being allowed to view any relevant [surveillance] tapes.”
[2] A subpoena is a call to come before a court, and may include a direction to bring specified records. Not all subpoenas are court orders. Your municipal attorney (or library counsel) can determine if a particular subpoena is a court order. A subpoena normally indicates that a response is required within a certain number of days. Library staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order if those records indicate the identity of library users
[3] A search warrant is a is an order signed by a judge directing a law enforcement officer to conduct a search of a designated person, a designated object or a designated place for the purpose of seizing designated property or kinds of property.
[4]The USA Patriot Act amended the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to allow the FBI to apply for a court order requiring the "production of any tangible things (including books, records, papers, documents and other items) for an investigation to protect against international terrorism or clandestine intelligence activities, provided that such investigation of a United States person is not conducted solely upon the basis of activities protected by the first amendment..."
Credit Card Policy
The purpose of Credit Card use is to allow for the purchase of business expenses in an efficient and cost effective manner, especially for online ordering. The use of the Credit Card should be limited to $1,000 in a month’s time. Purchases should be for material orders (books, e-books, movies, etc) or supplies (ink, incentives, paper, etc). Invoices/documentation must be submitted monthly to city clerk supporting purchases and reported to the Library Board as part of the monthly financial report.
Updated by Library Board 4/2017
Disaster Policy
Tornado:
In the event that the tornado warning siren sounds, calmly announce to any patrons present in the library that they should move to the men’s bathroom, located in the back hallway. If there are too many patrons for the men’s bathroom, remaining patrons may find shelter in the women’s bathroom, preferably in the bathroom stall itself. Patrons and staff should remain in the bathroom(s) until the danger has passed. DO NOT allow any children to leave the library unattended, once the siren has sounded. Any adult patrons, with or without children, should be allowed to leave if they so desire.
Fire:
Do not panic, but do not under-estimate the potential danger to customers or staff represented by a fire. At the first indication of smoke or flame, investigate the situation to determine location and extent of the fire. If the fire can obviously be contained and extinguished quickly and safely by staff, proceed to do so. However, if there is any doubt about whether the fire can be controlled, immediately call 911 or the fire department and then clear the building.
The time to think about fires is before they happen. Familiarize yourself with the type, location, and application of the fire extinguisher(s) in the building. Orient all staff and volunteers to this information. If you share a building with another agency and it occasionally initiates fire drills, library staff should respect those training exercises and respond as they would in the case of a real fire.
Health emergencies:
Staff members should exercise caution when administering first aid of even a minor nature because of the safety of the injured individual and the potential liability of the staff member. Without specialized training it is not advisable for staff to undertake more than keeping the sick or injured patron comfortable and protected from needless disturbance until medical help can be obtained. Since each case is unique, staff members should use their own judgement to do what is prudent and reasonable.
The Rescue Squad/Police (911 if available) should be called immediately in the event of any serious problem.
No medication, including aspirin, should ever be dispensed to the public.
Bomb threats:
Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask the caller to repeat the message and try to write down every word spoken by the person.
If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ASK FOR THIS INFORMATION.
Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises such as motors running, background music and any other sounds which may indicate where the location from which the call is originating.
Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents and speech impediments.
Immediately after the caller hangs up, call the police. Clear the building. The police will handle the actual bomb search.
Snow storms:
The Library will follow the recommendation and actions of the city (or village) between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Closing during other days and hours will be at the discretion of the Library Director.
Display Waiver
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA, WI 54982
Group name: __________________________________________________
Artist/Owner: ____________________________ Phone: ________
Address: ______________________________________________________
Date(s) art/collection to be displayed: _______________________
Date(s) art/collection will be taken off display: _______________
I, the undersigned, agree and understand that the Wautoma Public Library cannot be held liable for the loss, theft, or damage of the artwork or other materials I’ve requested be displayed at the library. I understand that the Library has the right to choose not to display items or ask that items be removed from display. I understand that the Library will not sell or collect money for displayed items but will refer patrons to the artist/owner about possible purchase and I give my permission for the Library to give my contact information in such instances.
Date: ____________ Signature: _________________________
I approve this display.
Date: ____________ Library Director: ______________________________
Fax Machine Policy
Fax machine service is available at the Wautoma Public Library. Staff will fax papers for a patron at the following rates per dialed/connected fax:
Local & Toll-free numbers – Free of charge
Long Distance - $1 for the first page, $1 for each additional page.
Faxes to out of country numbers are not allowed. Staff has the right to ask a patron to wait for faxing service due to time constraints when other patrons are waiting for library service and other staff is not available to help (for example: a fax over 50 sheets, multiple faxes in a row). Not all faxes are guaranteed to go through. The Library has no control over busy lines or bad connections. A patron is encouraged to wait for his/her fax to be successfully connected/received.
A transmission report will be printed on request. A fax cover sheet is available upon request.
When receiving faxes for a patron the following fees apply: 15 cents per sheet.
Approved November 2010
Wautoma Public Library’s Internet Use Policy
The Wautoma Public Library provides public access computers at no charge to promote computer literacy for all age groups.
Internet Computer Use Policy
The Wautoma Public Library establishes this Internet Policy to ensure appropriate use of internet resources within the library.
The library believes that as part of its mission to enhance the cultural, educational, informational, and recreational needs of the community, access to the internet for library users should be provided.
While the ability to access information on the internet provides a wealth of material that is personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to individuals, the internet also enables access to materials that may be offensive, disturbing, illegal, inaccurate, or incomplete.
Library staff are happy to assist you in accessing the internet and, as our experience grows, attempt to get you to the right place on the “net.” The staff cannot: however, teach individual programs, but will try to get you in the right direction.
The internet is an open, worldwide communications forum. In this respect, the library cannot control or monitor material on the internet. Individuals must accept responsibility to use them in a safe and ethical manner that includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Using resources for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only.
Respecting the privacy of others by not pretending to be another user; by not attempting to modify, gain access to files, passwords or data belonging to others; by not seeking unauthorized access to any one computer system, or damaging/altering software components of any network or database. The cost of damage to software or hardware is the responsibility of the patron using the same.
Respecting the privacy of others using public access computers at the library by not interfering with their use (may it be loud videos or disturbing images, etc.)
Making only authorized copies of copyrighted or licensed software or material.
Not sending, receiving, or displaying graphics that may be obscene, or harmful to minors, as defined by law i.e.- graphic scenes of violence and/or sexual content and scenes that depict nudity.
Not making unauthorized changes to the setup or configuration of the computer’s software or hardware.
Patrons must use their own storage device. The computers have anti-virus software, but may not completely protect users or the library from contracting a virus.
Being cautious with personal information as the library’s network is an unsecured one.
Violations of the Internet Use Policy and Guidelines will result in suspension or revocation of internet access privileges, and may result in denial of general library services.
U.S Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by principles of fair use. Users may not copy or distribute electronical materials (including email, text, images, programs, or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement lies with the user. The Wautoma Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.
Internet Computer Procedures
Adult patrons will receive a copy of the library’s internet policies and regulations when applying for a library card.
Parents or guardians of minor children will receive a copy of the library’s internet policies and regulations when applying for a library card of a minor.
Guests will be allowed to use the library’s Internet computers after reading the library’s internet policies.
Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult or caregiver over the age of 13 when using an internet computer.
A patron may not use the computer if they owe more than $5 on their card unless at the discretion of a librarian.
Use of the internet is on a first come, first served basis. Time slots are automatically 60 minutes. If no one else is waiting to use a computer, the session may be extended.
Computer printing cost of 15¢ per page for black and white and 25¢ per page color copy may be paid at the circulation desk.
Copies must be paid for when they are made. Can only be put on a library card under special circumstances.
Children’s Use of the Internet Policy
The Wautoma Public Library upholds and affirms the right and responsibility of the parent or guardian to determine and monitor the children’s use of all library materials and resources, including the internet. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to determine what is appropriate for children under their supervision.
A parent or guardian may request their minor child be denied the use of the library’s internet computers. All reasonable efforts will be made to enforce the restriction, but the library cannot guarantee compliance by the child. The parent or guardian remains responsible for monitoring the child’s use of the internet and other electronic resources at the library.
Wireless Internet Policy
The Wautoma Public Library provides a free wireless connection to its users. It is the same unsecured network and subject to the same internet policies as listed above.
Staff can only give general information about connecting your laptop or device to the internet and cannot guarantee the wireless connection will work with your device.
Printing is not available over the wireless connection.
Updated and approved by the Library Board June 6, 2018
Ipad Use
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA, WI 54982
Name: __________________________________________________
Phone: ______________
Address: ________________________________________________
The Wautoma Public Library Ipad is available for up to four hours. The Ipad is for in library use only. A library card is required and the item must be checked out even though use is in-house. Individuals must be 12 or older to use the Ipad. The user agrees to follow the Wautoma Public Library’s Internet Policy, especially as it pertains to acceptable use in a public setting.
Signature: ___________________________________Date: ________
Time Checked-Out:________ Time Returned:________
Ipad condition ok after use? (staff initals: )
LapTop Use
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA, WI 54982
Name: __________________________________________________
Phone: ______________
Address: ________________________________________________
The Wautoma Public Library laptop is available for up to four hours. The laptop is for in library use only. A photo id is required and will be held until the laptop is returned to the front desk. Individuals must be 18 or older to use the laptop. The user agrees to follow the Wautoma Public Library’s Internet Policy, especially as it pertains to acceptable use in a public setting.
Signature: ___________________________________Date: ________
Time Checked-Out:________ Time Returned:________
Laptop condition ok after use? (staff initals: )
Wautoma Public Library’s Library Card Policy
All borrowers must be registered with a library in the Winnefox System and have a library card to checkout items.
To sign up for a library card, bring proper photo identification and proof of your local mailing address. i.e.- driver’s license, checkbook, utility bill, or lease agreement.
Temporarily, a restricted library card may be issued with photo identification only.
The patron must show another form of identification with their current address for restrictions within 3 months to be removed.
Youth under the age of 18 need a parent or guardian’s signature on the library card application. Staff may require the parent or guardian be present to issue a card and also have identification.
The Wautoma Public Library requires that children are able to write their name and they must be present in order to get their own library card.
A parent or caregiver of a child may use their own adult card for checking out child materials.
If a parent/legal guardian’s card is in collection status or has fines of over $20.00, their child’s card will be limited to check out 3 juvenile items.
Only the cardholder has the right to use the card issued to them unless the library is notified otherwise.
The cardholder is responsible for all use made of their card until it is reported lost or stolen including replacement cost of lost or damaged material.
Unusual circumstances may be handled at the Library Director’s discretion.
Library cards will be issued free of charge, but replacement of lost or damaged cards will be $1.00.
Library cards expire after 16 months. At that time, you may call the library or stop in to confirm or updated current address, phone number, and email. All fines and charges over $5.00 must be settled before a new card will be renewed.
Approved by the Wautoma Library Board May 2018
Limited Card Policy
Limited cards are available to:
An adult living in temporary housing who cannot furnish proof of a permanent address, e.g., residents of transitional housing such as Naomi House.
An adult who is temporarily living or working in the area, but whose permanent address is outside of the Winnefox system, e.g., business consultants, workers on exchange programs, etc. Proof of permanent address must be given.
An adult who is living in the area but does not yet have proof of local address, e.g., family members moving in with other family members, patrons with secondary homes in the area that do not have mail delivered to their secondary home. The “limited” profile will be changed to “public” when the patron has brought in proof of local address. Proof of secondary residence and/or Id must be given.
A borrower who has required police or collection agency intervention to return long-overdue, marked lost items or a borrower who has recently had delinquent library account discharged in bankruptcy. The “limited” profile may be changed to “public” when the borrower has established a record of returning items for 18 months. These loans will be made at the director’s discretion.
Holders of limited cards may only check out three items at a time.
Approved 8/24/2011
Meeting Room Policy
The Meeting Room may be reserved upon availability for educational, community, or literary purposes. It may also be reserved for social and commercial gatherings.
Library sponsored programs, government meetings, or meetings held by elected officials may reserve the room free of charge.
Nonprofit entities may reserve the room for a $5.00 fee.
For profit groups will be assessed a prepaid usage fee at a rate of $25.00 for half a day or less and $50.00 for a full day.
Private parties (showers, graduations, gift openings, dances, etc.) will be assessed a prepaid usage fee at a rate of $25.00 for half a day and $50.00 for a full day. Also, a refundable security deposit of $50.00 may be required. The deposit will be refunded once the library staff has inspected the room and determined nothing was damaged and the room was left as it was found.
Once the library has received the fee, your reservation will be confirmed.
If you need to cancel your reservation, your fee will be refunded to you.
Repeatedly failing to notify library staff of cancelation may result in suspension of meeting room privileges.
There is a limit to five reservations a month for reoccurring events and meetings.
On rare occasions, public reservations may be canceled due to library needs.
Request for use of the Meeting Room will be reviewed and approved/disapproved by the Library Director. The Meeting Room Application must be signed by a responsible member of the group. Groups requesting a regular meeting schedule should contact the director at the beginning of each year. Requests that restrict the availability of the Meeting Room to other groups may be denied. The Director has the option of deferring any questionable request to the Library Board.
Groups using the Meeting Room will designate one person to be responsible for signing the Meeting Room agreement; paying the fee (and deposit); obtaining the key; scheduling; preparation; clean-up; ensuring policies and procedures are followed; and acting as a liaison with the Library Director.
If the key is lost, the group will be responsible for the cost of re-keying the locks and replacing the keys.
Programs which would interfere with the library’s operation by causing excessive noise, a safety hazard, security risk, etc. are not permitted.
The meeting room may not be used for activities prohibited under local, state, or federal law.
The Meeting Room must be left in the same condition in which it was found.
The user shall be responsible and pay for any damage to the Meeting room and/or its contents excepting normal wear and tear.
A fee will be charged starting at $25.00 and up according to damage repairs and the amount of cleaning that needs to be done.
Security deposits will be put towards damage repairs and cleaning costs. If the amount is greater than the deposit, a fee of the remaining balance will be charged.
The director may deny future use of the room to individuals or groups that damage or leave the room in an untidy state.
The Meeting Room has a hospitality area and coffee makers available for use.
Dishes and consumable products must be provided by the group.
Coffeemakers must be washed, dried, and stored and the hospitality area left clean and tidy.
The Meeting Room has a 70” TV for use as well.
Whether the TV is used or not, all groups using the meeting room are liable for any damages to the TV and its components during use of the meeting room.
If groups would like to use the TV, the supervisor must sign the TV use policy form and pick up instructions and the remotes for use.
During Library Hours, a projector is available for use as well.
No alcoholic beverages, smoking, illegal drugs, or red colored drinks are permitted in the library or meeting room.
No tape of any kind may be used on the carpet, no nails, push-pins, or tacks may be used on the walls. Tape that strips paint from the walls cannot be used.
Any audio-visual materials brought into the library to be shown and/or heard must have “Public Performance” rights in accordance with federal copyright law.
The Library will not provide supplies, additional equipment, or personnel for those who use the room.
The library will not store any materials or equipment belonging to groups or individuals using the Meeting Room, unless otherwise approved by the Library Board.
During library hours, please park in the west end of the parking lot.
The Library assumes no responsibility for personal belongings, organizational materials, or equipment used in the meeting room.
The fact the library permits a group to use its meeting room does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies or beliefs by Library staff or Board.
Failure to comply with these rules, misrepresentation by the applicant(s), or disorderly conduct will result in forfeiture of the deposit and of future rights to use the meeting room.
Updated and approved by the Library Board April 2018
MEETING ROOM USE APPLICATION
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Group name: __________________________________________________
Designated supervisor: ____________________________ Phone: ________
Address: ______________________________________________________
Date(s) room to be used: _______________________ Time: ____________
Purpose: ______________________________________________________
Fee received: ________________________________________
I, the undersigned, have read and agree to the Meeting Room Rental Policy of the Wautoma Public Library. I agree to replace or repair any damage to the room and its contents and/or pay for any needed cleaning. I also acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Meeting Room Policy and a copy of this Meeting Room Use Application.
Date: ____________ Designated supervisor: _________________________
I approve this application for use of the meeting room.
Date: ____________ Library Director: ______________________________
Meeting Room Checklist
Chairs and tables are clean and orderly
Lights are turned off
Trash bins are empty
Sink is clean
Coffeemakers are clean and stored away
Floors are clean i.e. no confetti, crumbs, frosting, gum, etc.
Nothing stuck or hanging on the walls or ceiling that doesn’t belong
Bathrooms are clean- no overflowing trash bins, toilets, sinks, etc.
No damage to TV and its components
Remotes are accounted for
Nothing left behind
Room condition ok after use? (date: staff: )
Patron Policy and Procedures
Patron Responsibilities and Conduct Policy:
The Wautoma Public Library is dedicated to providing the resources to meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of our diverse community in a safe, welcoming atmosphere that ensures equitable access to these resources. Consequently, it is a patron’s responsibility to maintain necessary and proper standards of behavior in the library in order to protect his/her individual rights and the rights and privileges of other patrons. No individual may engage in inappropriate conduct in the Wautoma Public Library. Patrons shall be engaged in normal activities associated with the use of a public library while in the building. Patrons not engaged in reading, studying, or using library materials or computers may be asked to leave the building.
Inappropriate conduct includes any individual or group activity which is unreasonably disturbing to other individuals lawfully using the library facilities, materials and or premises. When possible, staff will first educate individuals about our behavior policy before taking stronger measures. Repeat misconduct or severe offenses (even a single event) may result in individuals being banned from the library from a day to a week to a year, to permanently. An incident report will be filled out by staff and filed. When a child is banned, staff will send a letter home to the child’s guardian.
Young children:
The Wautoma Public Library encourages visits by young children and it is our desire to make this important visit both memorable and enjoyable for the child. Library staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the library.
Therefore, it is library policy that all children under age 10 must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.
Disruptive children:
Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier at busy times and that children by nature can cause more commotion. However, children (whether with parents or not) who are being continually disruptive will be given a warning that he/she must settle down or will be asked to leave the library. If after warning/s the child continues to be disruptive, he/she will be asked to leave the library. If the child needs to contact a parent, they may do so and then wait with a staff person until the parent arrives.
In cases where:
the child appears to be a danger to herself/himself or others
the child appears to be threatened by others
the child appears to be ill or upset
Library staff will attempt to contact the parent or guardian of the child. In the event that the parent or guardian cannot be located, staff will contact the Wautoma Police Department or Waushara County Sheriff’s Department. In the case of an emergency staff will call 911. An incident report will be filled out by staff.
Disciplinary Procedure:
Inappropriate conduct will be addressed with a response proportionate to the severity of the conduct.
Staff members are expected to deal with problems they encounter or alert other staff. Any staff member has the right to ask other staff for assistance and should provide assistance when requested.
The staff person in charge is expected to have a greater awareness of policy and willingness to step in and serve as a resource in helping other staff deal with problems.
Library staff that follow policy and act in their best judgment in confronting a person who violates board approved policies and rules will be supported by the staff person in charge.
Response to problems, proportionate to the severity of behavior:
Any staff member may issue a verbal warning or may refer a problem to the staff person in charge.
The staff person in charge may evict a patron for violations of library rules or policies. Eviction will be from the library building as a whole, not just an area, and is for the balance of the day.
Any staff member may stop someone from using equipment if the use violates rules or policy. The staff person in charge may bar patrons from using the equipment for a period of time or permanently.
Any staff member observing serious criminal behavior should contact the staff person in charge who will contact the police.
The Library Board delegates authority to the Director and Assistant Director to ban people from the Library for a period of time. If that person is unavailable, the staff person in charge may temporarily ban an individual until the supervisor can reach a decision. As a result of this decision, individuals may be banned for a limited time, indefinitely, or permanently. The length of the ban, rendered within 30 days of the offense, will depend on the following factors:
Severity of offense
Repeated offenses
Safety of staff and patrons
Pending legal charges
When an individual is banned they will receive formal notification which will be shared with the Wautoma Police Department, the Library Board and the parents of the offender, if a minor. Should a banned individual return to the library in violation of the ban, they will be asked to leave. If the individual becomes disruptive staff will contact the Police. Formal notification will include reasons and the time period for the ban.
If the banned individual disagrees with the ban, they may submit a written appeal to the Library Director for reconsideration. If the banned individual is a minor the written appeal must include their parent or guardian’s signature. After receiving the written appeal the Director will address the appeal within 30 days and may modify the ban. Modification may include changing the length or conditions of the ban.
If the banned individual is not satisfied with the Library Directors decision after the written appeal was reviewed and acted on, they may submit a written appeal to the Library Board to be reviewed at the next scheduled Board meeting. After the Board has reviewed their written appeal, the individual and/or parent (if minor) will be allowed five minutes to speak on their behalf to the Board. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or guardian. The Library Board will issue a written decision within ten days after the meeting. The Library Board has the power to affirm, reverse or modify the banning period or conditions.
The Library staff will communicate disciplinary actions with all staff by filing a written incident report and communicating through electronic resources. Disciplinary actions beyond verbal warnings will be documented by library staff.
Library Board Approved 5/19/2015
Petty Cash Policy Statement
The purpose of a Petty Cash Fund is to allow for the reimbursement of minor business expenses in an efficient and cost effective manner. The use of Petty Cash Funds should be limited to reimbursement of staff and visitors for small expenses, generally not to accumulatively exceed $250 in a month’s time (office/program supplies, book refunds, postage, etc).
A Custodian will keep petty cash separate and secure from all other monies. The Custodian is responsible for distributing reimbursement from the fund.
A receipt or other explanatory/supportive documentation of purchase should be collected upon reimbursement from the petty cash fund by the fund’s Custodian.
Monthly, the Custodian will submit receipts to the City Clerk as properly coded expenditures and the City Clerk will issue a check/monies to replenish petty cash to the $250 maximum.
Petty cash funds should not be used to cash personal checks, make change, or be used for items that can easily be paid for by billing.
Reader Board Policy
The Library Reader Board is for promoting Library use, which takes precedence over any other events requested to be promoted. City or County or State sponsored events may be promoted as approved by the library director.
Approved by the Wautoma Library Board 7/20/2011
Renewal Policy
Items that belong to the Wautoma Public Library may be renewed up to 2 times, as long as there is no hold on the item.
If there is a hold on the item, no renewals are allowed. If the user keeps the item past the due date, the library has the option of forgiving the fine.
We will not do more than 2 renewals on any item.
If an item is needed for long-term use, for example, a school project, change the check-out date to reflect the longer loan period. That way, a renewal will not be necessary.
Items that do not belong to the Wautoma Public Library may only be renewed once, whether there is a hold on the item or not. If the patron is not finished with the item, put a hold on another copy for them, if more than one copy exists in the system. If there is only one copy, don’t put another hold on it until it has been back at the loaning library at least two weeks.
Renewals may be done using the library’s online catalog at home or at the library. Items may also be renewed over the phone or in person at the library.
Updated and approved by the Wautoma Library Board May 2018
Reserve Policy
We are happy to help you find the items you need if they are not located in our library. To make sure you receive the materials you have put on hold, we have put together a reserve calling policy as follows:
Not all library materials are eligible to be reserved. i.e.- laptops, e-readers, Dash.
Patrons may place their own holds using the Library’s online catalog either at home or at the library. Library staff may also place hold for patrons either over the phone or in person at the library.
Patrons may place up to 50 items on hold.
If an item is reserved for you, please make sure the library has your current phone number or email.
When items arrive at our library from the Winnefox delivery van, they are routed in and given a date when they will be returned on the van. A notification email will automatically be sent, or one phone call will be made to notify your item is available and needs to be picked up by the “send back date.”
Items may only be checked out to the card on which the hold was placed.
If an item is not claimed, it will be offered to the next person on the hold list or, if no one else is waiting, returned to the circulating collection.
We have no control over the order that items on reserve come to the library.
New items are placed on Local Hold at most libraries and do not circulate outside of their library until it is not locally in demand. As such, it may take a long time for new items to come in.
If you don’t want the item after it has been reserved, let the library know so it can be sent to the next person who wants it or returned to its library.
Updated and approved by the Library Board June 6, 2018
Volunteer Policy
Volunteers are an important extension of the Library’s staff. Volunteers perform a wide variety of tasks that are important to the library. As important members of the community, volunteers are expected to act in accordance with library policies and to reflect positive customer service attitudes to all library patrons. The following policy is designed to promote a maximum degree of excellence.
Definition of a Volunteer:
A volunteer shall be considered as any individual 14 years or older, who assists with work done at the Wautoma Public Library, without remuneration. Exceptions to the age requirement may be made by the Library Director.
Selection of Volunteers:
All volunteers are selected based on their qualifications in relation to the needs of the library and based on their ability to commit to a consistent schedule of volunteer hours. All prospective volunteers are asked to complete an application and have a brief interview with the Library Director or Volunteer Coordinator. For the sake of the general public and specifically children, a background check will be required. If there are no volunteer opportunities available, application forms will be kept on file for a period of one year and the applicant will be called when, and if, a project arises that fits their interests and qualifications.
Statement of Purpose:
The Wautoma Public Library shall use the services of volunteers to:
Supplement the efforts of paid library staff in meeting demands for quality public service.
Serve as a method for encouraging citizens to become familiar with their library and the services being offered.
Serve as a way for citizens to gain meaningful experience, meet new people and make a difference in their community.
Wautoma Public Library shall make use of the services of interested volunteers to supplement and not replace the work done by staff.
General Provisions:
Nothing in this policy shall be deemed to create a contract between the volunteer and the Wautoma Public Library. Both the volunteer and the Library have the right to terminate the volunteer’s association with the Library at any time, for any reason, with or without cause.
The Wautoma Public Library will not provide any medical, health, or worker’s compensation benefits for any volunteer. Volunteers will not be eligible to receive any worker’s compensation benefits for injuries sustained while functioning as a volunteer.
Hours of volunteer service will be determined by the Director or Volunteer Coordinator in discussion with the volunteer. For the most part, volunteers work a two-three hour time slot a week. Volunteers are supervised by the Library Director, but are under the direction of the staff members on duty.
Traditionally, the library recognizes its weekly volunteers on a yearly basis at a small appreciative gathering. Volunteers truly make a difference at the Wautoma Public Library and the Library cannot thank its volunteers enough.
Qualifications and Skills:
Flexibility: willingness to perform a variety of projects and tasks.
Communication and listening skills: willingness to ask questions if projects/tasks are unclear.
Dependability: willingness to complete assigned projects/tasks and fulfill volunteer commitment.
Ability to follow instructions, work independently and focus on fairly detailed tasks.
Ability to work cooperatively as a team with other volunteers and staff members.
Respect for diverse lifestyles, cultures, religions and values.
Guidelines for Volunteers:
The Library depends on its volunteers for a wide variety of tasks which otherwise need to be assigned to library staff. We therefore ask volunteers to be reliable in their commitment to the library and to notify the library in advance if they are unable to work their regularly scheduled time slot. In turn, volunteers will be notified immediately on any given day when the library opens late or closes early for any reason.
Volunteers will be required to undergo a training session if needed, as needed.
Volunteers are responsible for maintaining confidentiality of ALL library information. Failure to maintain confidentiality will result in immediate termination of the volunteer.
Should a volunteer have a grievance with a staff person, another volunteer, or library patron, every attempt will be made to handle the situation through the Library Director.
Volunteers may be used to increase the Library’s services.
Volunteers may not be used to establish and maintain new library services.
Volunteers will not be used to replace or reduce the number of paid staff.
Volunteers should expect to fulfill a commitment agreed upon with the Library.
Volunteers are recognized as contributors to the goals and services of the library.
The Library will, upon request, provide letters of reference for the volunteer, if deemed appropriate.
Procedures and requirements for the volunteer will vary with the age of the volunteer.
All personal information about the volunteer is for internal use only.
Written permission will be needed for any volunteer under the age of 18.
Volunteers will not be expected to do anything the staff would not do.
Tasks That May Be Performed by a Volunteer:
Shelf reading (mandatory)
Shelving materials (mandatory)
Monitoring library facilities (mandatory)
Helping with library programs or projects
Light cleaning assignments
Special events
Helping with delivery boxes (previous employees only)
Placing “holds calls”
Creating displays and bulletin boards
Public relation activities
Discarding materials
Approved by the Wautoma Library Board July 5, 2018
Staff Positions
Library Aide
Nature of the job:
Under policies established by the Common Council and the Wautoma Library Board and direction of the Library Director; ensures smooth and efficient operation of the Library; and sets daily priorities based on knowledge of the overall function of the library and performs work as required or assigned.
Job Responsibilities & Duties:
Performs simple duties of the circulation desk including checking items in and out.
Organizes collections by shelving, reading shelves, and assisting in weeding.
Assists librarians with library programs (simple crafts, monitoring and guiding of children in activities).
Provides information and recommendations that can be used for material selection.
Assists patrons with mechanical operations of library equipment and provides rudimentary internet instruction and guidance in searching the library’s catalog; using the library’s research tools; other online resources; and checking out eBooks on Overdrive or Libby.
Performs light housekeeping: taking out full trash bins and recycle bins; wiping down keyboards and counters; and picking up fallen scraps.
Performs other related work as needed.
Knowledge and Abilities:
Knows the alphabet and understands decimals.
Abilities to clearly present information to patrons.
Shows courtesy toward all patrons.
Operates library equipment properly. i.e.- copier, fax machine, telephone, computers, etc.
Demonstrates accurate typing skills.
Uses basic software and Internet search methods.
Utilizes computer software, such as Workflows, Microsoft Office, after training, if necessary.
Carries out duties correctly, when working independently.
Dependably works when scheduled, as arranged by director.
Demonstrates ability to work cooperatively with library staff and director.
Follows privacy policy and all other library policies.
Working Conditions:
Standing for long periods of time at the circulation desk and walking around the library for shelving purposes.
Ability to lift and carry a maximum of 50 pounds and push or pull carts weighing 50 pounds or more.
Work also includes cutting out items for crafts; hearing little voices; speaking loudly for a myriad of children to hear, bending, twisting, crouching, reaching, and stooping; sitting on the floor and in chairs; typing and writing; and filing, sorting, and shelving books.
Assistant Director
Nature of the job:
Under general supervision, performs paraprofessional work serving library patrons directly or indirectly. May have supervisory and decision-making responsibilities.
Job Responsibilities & Duties:
Promotes library services and its resources to patrons, non-library users, and officials of the community.
Plans, organizes, and conducts library services, programs, and projects for the community and surrounding areas.
Supervises staff, volunteers, and operations in absence of Library Director with a willingness to act as interim director if necessary.
Contributes input in the hiring, training, scheduling, directing, and evaluating of the support staff and volunteers.
Acts as a liaison for city board, county board, library board, library support groups such as the Friends, and other groups as needed.
Creates and maintains special interest displays and/or bulletin boards for the library.
Works with the rest of the library staff to prepare materials for crafts, to monitor the young patrons of the library, and to keep the library clean and tidy.
Performs all the duties of regular clerical work when necessary, such as checking items in and out, registering new patrons, answering reference questions, placing holds, collecting fines, shelving, and light housekeeping.
Provides patrons with information and recommendations that can be used for materials selection.
Assists patrons with the mechanical operations of the library equipment and provides rudimentary instruction for internet use and guidance in searching the library’s catalog, using research tools, and checking out books on Overdrive or Libby.
Willingness to continue library education including seminars, webinars, and workshops.
Maintains adherence to privacy policy and all other library policies and procedures.
Assists in keeping library procedures and policies current.
Performs other related work as necessary.
Knowledge and Abilities:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree and 2 or more years of progressively responsible public library experience or its equivalent, preferred.
Experience working with children and teens.
Considerable knowledge of the functions and practices of a public library; youths’ needs and abilities; and services and materials that are available in or through the library.
Good interpersonal skills with an ability to maintain and encourage cooperative and courteous working relationships with the public, peers, and the director.
Familiarity with devices such as tablets, laptops, smart phones, mp3 players, and e-readers.
Sizeable knowledge of Office programs such as Word, Excel, and Publisher; library programs such as Workflows and Pharos; and basic software and internet websites.
Competency in English grammar and spelling.
Knows the alphabet, understands decimals, and can calculate basic arithmetic problems (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) without the aid of a calculator when necessary.
Abilities to clearly present information to patrons and respond to questions from patrons.
Operates library equipment properly. i.e.- copier, fax machine, telephone, computers, projector, TV, gaming console, etc.
Carries out duties correctly, when working independently, and organizes and prioritizes work tasks to meet deadlines.
Dependably works when scheduled, as arranged by director.
Working Conditions:
Standing for long periods of time at the circulation desk and walking around the library for shelving purposes.
Ability to lift and carry a maximum of 50 pounds and push or pull carts weighing 50 pounds or more.
Work also includes cutting out items for crafts; hearing little voices; speaking loudly for a myriad of children to hear, bending, twisting, crouching, reaching, and stooping; sitting on the floor and in chairs; typing and writing; and filing, sorting, and shelving books.
Salary & Employment Benefits:
Salary to be set by the library board upon experience, education, qualifications, and abilities.
Library Clerk
Nature of the job:
Under policies established by the Common Council and the Wautoma Library Board and direction of the Library Director; recommends library policies, services, and facilities; administers library programs and services to meet community needs; and promotes library services to all potential users.
Job Responsibilities & Duties:
Performs all the duties of the circulation desk, such as checking items in and out, registering new patrons, answering reference questions, placing holds, collecting fines, etc.
Shelves items, reads shelves to make sure everything is in order, and weeds library materials when necessary.
Prepares materials for pickup by system delivery truck and is able to check in deliveries of interlibrary loan materials.
Provides information and recommendations that can be used for materials selection.
Plans, organizes, and conducts library services and programs in own area of responsibility, such as interlibrary loan; technical services; homebound services; children’s service; volunteer coordination; cataloging materials; creating and maintaining displays; adult programming; youth programming; changing the outside sign and bulletin boards; or advertising and marketing.
Assists patrons with mechanical operations of library equipment and provides rudimentary internet instruction and guidance in searching the library’s catalog; using the library’s research tools; other online resources; and checking out eBooks on Overdrive or Libby.
Works with the rest of the library staff to monitor young patrons of the library, prepare materials for crafts, and keep the library clean and tidy.
Performs light housekeeping: taking out full trash bins and recycle bins; wiping down keyboards and counters; dusting and vacuuming; and picking up fallen scraps.
Knowledge and Abilities:
Knows the alphabet, understands decimals, and can calculate basic arithmetic problems (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) without the aid of a calculator when necessary.
Abilities to clearly present information to patrons and respond to questions from patrons.
Shows courtesy toward all patrons and fellow staff members.
Operates library equipment properly. i.e.- copier, fax machine, telephone, computers, etc.
Demonstrates accurate typing skills in Office programs and search engines.
Uses Internet search methods to find out information for patrons.
Utilizes computer software, such as Workflows and Microsoft Office, after training, if necessary.
Carries out duties correctly, when working independently.
Dependably works when scheduled, as arranged by director.
Possesses good interpersonal skills with an ability to maintain and encourage cooperative and courteous working relationships with the public, peers, and the director.
Follows privacy policy and all other library policies
Working Conditions:
Standing for long periods of time at the circulation desk and walking around the library for shelving purposes.
Ability to lift and carry a maximum of 50 pounds and push or pull carts weighing 50 pounds or more.
Work also includes cutting out items for crafts; hearing little voices; speaking loudly for a myriad of children to hear, bending, twisting, crouching, reaching, and stooping; sitting on the floor and in chairs; typing and writing; and filing, sorting, and shelving books.
Job Title: Public Library Director
General Function: Serve as chief executive officer of the library, implement library policies and projects, and provide leadership for improving public library service to the community.
Qualifications:
Commitment to the mission and philosophy of public library service.
Excellent leadership skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively with library trustees, elected officials, and community groups.
Ability to supervise and motivate library staff and volunteers.
Principal Activities:
1. Work with the library board
As the library’s director, you report to the library’s board of trustees which has the legal responsibility for governing the library and hiring the library’s director (See AE 5: Who Runs the Library). You will provide administrative support to the library board. You will normally assist the library board president in preparing the agenda for board meetings by preparing an initial draft of the agenda (See AE 7: Effective Library Board Meetings). You will compile and distribute background materials for items on the agenda. You will have a responsibility for keeping the library board informed of issues and problems relating to the library, for assisting in and promoting the continuing education of board members, and for orienting new board members (See AE 4: Working with the Library Board). You will assist the library board in the development of the library’s annual budget and in justifying the budget to municipal or county officials. You will assist the library board in the development of library policies. You will bring issues facing the library to the attention of the board and present options and recommendations for dealing with those issues.
2. Public Services
You will help develop and oversee a variety of services designed to meet the needs of a diverse public. You are expected to operate the library under a philosophy of service which puts the needs of library users first and responds to those needs in a positive, helpful, and friendly manner. In addition to the lending of a wide variety of materials to users of all ages, the library provides reference and information services, public programming, and access to electronic information. Library services are designed to be accessible to everyone in the community including individuals with various types of disabilities. (See AE 8: Public Services and AE 9: Accessible Library Services)
3. Collection Development and Technical Services
You will be expected to select or direct the selection of a collection of library materials that meets the needs of a diverse public. Selection of library materials should be based on a collection development policy which has been approved by the library’s board of trustees. It is important that you and the library board review the collection development policy regularly and make sure that it is consistent with current practice and otherwise up to date. After decisions have been made about which materials to add to the library’s collection, you will be expected to oversee and participate in the acquisition, processing, and cataloging of these library materials. The nature of these processes will vary from library to library. You will also oversee and participate in the circulation of library materials. The nature of this activity will depend to a large extent on whether the library participates in a shared automated library system or has its own automated library system. Your library, as a member of a public library system, will be expected to share materials with other libraries in the system and in the state through interlibrary loan. The nature of this activity will also depend on whether your library participates in a shared automated library system and will require knowledge of a variety of tools. (See AE 10: Technical Services)
4. Supervise staff and volunteers and implement personnel policies
You will be responsible for the hiring and supervision of library employees and the enforcement of personnel policies established by the library board. This includes the evaluation and disciplining of employees if necessary. You will be expected to carry out tasks related to personnel in conformity with state and federal laws. You will also be responsible for training other staff members and for facilitating their continuing library education. In some libraries you may also need to be aware of the provisions of a union contract covering the library’s employees and to operate within that contract. (See AE 11 & 12: Personnel Issues)
5. Develop the library budget and manage the library’s money
Each year the library must develop a budget for the next fiscal year (January 1- December 31) and present that budget to the library’s governing body. It will be your responsibility to prepare the initial budget for consideration by the library board (See AE 13: Developing the Library Budget). You will also be expected to assist in the presentation of the library’s budget to the library’s governing body. Once the library has an approved budget, it will be your responsibility to manage the library’s finances so that expenditures stay within the approved budget (See AE 14: Managing the Library’s Money). Bills to the library must be submitted each month for approval by the library board. You will be required to maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records and to report on the library’s financial position in the library’s annual report to the state Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning.
6. Develop policies and procedures for the library
Day-to-day library services and operations are carried under policies approved by the library board and under procedures which have been developed by the staff to implement those policies. Effective policies and procedures ensure that library services are consistent, fair, in compliance with local, state, and federal laws, and in the public’s interest. You will be responsible for the initial development of policies for consideration by the library board and for creating procedures to administer these policies effectively and efficiently. You will be responsible for making sure that both policies and procedures are kept up to date. (See AE 15: Policies and Procedures)
7. Plan for the library’s future
Your library and its services will be constantly changing and evolving. To ensure that these changes are occurring in a way that services to the public are improving, it is essential that the library plan for the future. Every public library should have a long range and/or strategic plan. You and the library board are responsible for developing that plan in conjunction with the library community. There are various models for developing the plan which you and the library board can follow. An important planning tool, and one you will need to be familiar with, is the publication Wisconsin Public Library Standards issued by the Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning. Because of its special nature, there also needs to be a technology plan for the library. (See AE 16: Planning for the Library’s Future)
8. Advocate and promote the library
The effectiveness of the library and the way the library is viewed by the community are significantly influenced by the way you and others advocate and promote the library in the community. To effectively advocate and promote the library you need to stay informed of what is happening in your community and you need to be active in your community. Effective library advocacy and public relations require a coordinated effort by the library director, the library staff, the library board, the library’s Friends of the Library organization, and library users. There are a wide variety of proven advocacy and public relations techniques that you and others can utilize to promote the library. Support for your efforts can be provided by the public library system, the Division for Libraries, Technology, and Community Learning, and the Wisconsin Library Association, and the American Library Association. (See AE 18: Library Advocacy, Public Relations and Marketing)
9. Manage the library facility
You will be expected to oversee the care and maintenance of the library facility in which the library is located and the grounds on which it is located. The exact nature of your duties in this regard will depend on whether the library shares a facility with other governmental entities or is a stand alone facility. Your duties will also be impacted by the role the municipal or county government plays in maintaining the facility and its grounds. You may or may not be required to supervise custodial staff. In any case, it will be your responsibility to determine problems and needs relating to the library facility and its grounds and to bring these to the attention of the library board and the municipality or county. If there is a deficiency in the amount of space that is available to the library, you will need to initiate a formal space needs assessment in conjunction with the library board. The space needs assessment may result in the need to pursue a remodeled, expanded, or even a new library facility. You will need to be aware of requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as they relate to the library’s facility and make any deficiencies known to your library board. (See AE 22: Library Building Accessibility and AE 23: Facilities Management)
