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.
BULLETIN BOARD POLICY
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
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
Wautoma Library Circulation Procedure:
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.
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
INTERNET USE POLICY
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA, WISCONSIN 54982
The Wautoma Public Library is providing access to the Internet as a means to enhance the educational, informational, and recreational needs of our service area. The Internet is a decentralized, unregulated global network; the Wautoma Library has no control over the content found there and is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the Internet. Likewise the library cannot protect users from information they may find offensive. Use of the Internet and email is not guaranteed to be private. Ours is an unsecured network and all users should use caution about giving out personal information including identification information.
Each patron using the internet will have to log on to the computer, using his/her library card number and pin. If the person is a one-time user, we will use a visitor library card to log him/her on to the computer. Patrons may bring in their own computers and use our wireless network, but they may not plug their computer into our internet system.
By signing a library application form, a patron gains access to all of the Library’s resources including Internet access and likewise agrees to follow our policies. When a parent or guardian signs for a child, that child has been granted Internet access. The library supports the right and responsibility of parents/guardians to monitor a child’s use of the Internet. If a parent or guardian does not wish his or her child to have Internet access, a request to one of our librarians must be made or noted on the library card application form. All reasonable efforts will be made to block that child’s access to the Internet, but the library cannot guarantee that absolute compliance to the restriction will be upheld by the child. The ultimate responsibility rests with the parent/guardian.
The library does have filtering software installed on its public computers to help block the following: pornography, malicious code/spyware, obscene/tasteless, and R rated content. Filters can be turned off at a patron’s request for legitimate use. This is at the librarian’s discretion. Filters cannot take the place of parent supervision and does not guarantee that all of the Internet’s questionable/undesirable content will be blocked including the above categories. For instance, Facebook and Youtube are allowed on our computers although some R content could be accessed.
All children under the age of 8 must have an adult working with them on the computer.
Our scheduling software automatically logs the patron off the internet after 60 minutes. If no one else is waiting, patrons may log on again for an additional 30 minutes. If more time is needed, a librarian can adjust the time for the patron; i.e. if patron is doing a school project, resume, etc.
No more than two people may be on the same internet computer at one time.
Use of the internet-accessible computers is on a first come/first serve basis. Those using the internet will be guaranteed 60 minutes on the computer, but after that, will have to relinquish the computer if someone else is waiting.
Copies made from the computers will cost fifteen cents per copy. However, students using the internet for school work will not be charged for the first ten copies. Patrons are responsible for following state and federal Copyright law.
Internet users may bring their own disks or files to use on our computers without compromising our system’s security. This is due to security software that has been installed on our computers. The library will not take responsibility for lost data or damage to patron devices (such as digital cameras, mp3 players, flash drives, electronic readers, storage devices, etc) resulting during use of our computers. The computer use is provided as is.
The library does not offer electronic mail accounts; however users may access their private e-mail accounts on the library computers.
Internet users will be responsible for damage done to the library’s hardware/software. In the case damage is done by a minor, the parent(s) is (are) responsible.
Use of chat rooms or accessing pornographic websites on the internet is strictly forbidden. Similarly, any illegal or unethical use is prohibited. Any display of threatening, harassing, or abusive language or images is prohibited.
The Wautoma Public Library disclaims any responsibility or liability for problems arising from access to or use of information obtained from the internet.
The library staff can provide only limited start-up assistance and cannot teach individual programs. Answers to specific questions about the internet can be found in reference books available at the library.
Failure to comply with these rules will result in the suspension of internet privileges, at the discretion of the library director.
The Wautoma Public Library Board and staff reserve the right to change this policy at any time.
Wireless Policy
Wireless use of the Internet is provided over the same unsecured network and subject to same Internet policies as listed above.
Be aware:
As with most public wireless "hot spots," the library's wireless connection is not secure. There can be untrusted parties between you and anybody with whom you communicate with, and any information being transmitted could potentially be intercepted by another wireless user. Cautious and informed wireless users should choose not to transmit personal information (credit card numbers, passwords and any other sensitive information) while using any wireless "hot spot." Please take appropriate precautions when using this service.
Library staff can only give general information or handouts about connecting your laptop with our service. We cannot guarantee that your device will work with our network. Printing is not available over the wireless connection. Information can be saved to a disk or flashdrive and then printed out via one of our public computers.
Approved November 1998 Revised January 12, 2011
Confidentiality Procedure:
Wautoma Public Library follows these procedures found at : pld.dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/pld/doc/privacypolicy.doc
Privacy of Library Records and Library Use
Wautoma Public Library
Wautoma, Wisconsin
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..."
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
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: ______________________________
MEETING ROOM POLICY
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA WI
TYPES OF USE: The meeting room may be used for programs sponsored for educational and library-related activities, for community service groups, and for non-profit groups. Private groups and for-profit groups may use it as well. The room capacity is limited to 65.
SCHEDULING:
The meeting room may be scheduled for meetings during library hours, or after the library is closed. The room may be reserved for any day of the week.
The meeting room will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Your reservation will be put on the calendar as soon as we have received your fee. If you need to cancel your reservation, your fee will be refunded to you. Repeatedly failing to notify library staff (as soon as possible) of cancellation may result in suspension of meeting room privileges. For those that wish to hold reoccurring events/multiple meetings there is a limit of five reservations a month.
Library-sponsored activities shall always take precedence in scheduling meeting room use. The library reserves the right to take photographs or video of library-sponsored events and post it on the library’s web site or in other publicity such as newspaper articles or newsletters or Friends of the Library scrapbooks.
FEES & REFUNDS:
There is a $5.00 charge for nonprofit groups and community organizations conducting educational and/or business meetings where no fee is charged for attending, no donation or free will offerings are requested and nothing is sold. The amount will be paid each time the room is used. There will be a $20 fee for all private parties (showers, graduations, gift openings, etc.), any reservation by a business or for profit enterprise as well as any meeting by any group where a fee is charged for attending, free will offering or donation is requested or a solicitation or sale is made. A rate discount may be negotiated by the director or library board in cases where:
An event is reoccurring and the library is making a considerable profit by the room’s use
And/or when the event provides a needed service to the community where loss of that service might create a hardship for citizens of the community.
There is no fee for library sponsored programs or for government meetings or meetings held by elected officials. This amount will be paid each time the room is used. If the meeting room is not left in the same condition in which it was found a fee for damages or cleaning will be charged starting at $25 and up according to the damages that need to be repaired or the amount of cleaning that needs to be done . The director may also deny future use of the room to individuals/groups that damage or otherwise leave the room in an untidy state.
GENERAL RULES:
Refreshments may be served in the room. NO alcoholic beverages, smoking and/or illegal drugs may be used in the meeting room or in the restrooms. NO red-colored drinks are permitted, as they contain dye that cannot be removed from the carpet. For patrons with Food Allergies, please note that groups may bring in items you are allergic to, for example peanuts. Please take caution and be aware that the library cleans the room once a week, but multiple events may take place between these cleanings.
Groups using the meeting room will designate one person from their group who will be responsible for obtaining the key from the library staff in order to unlock the doors at the beginning of the meeting, and the locking of them again at the end. If the key is lost, the group will be responsible for the cost of not only replacing the key, but for the cost of re-keying the locks as well.
No programs are permitted which would interfere with the library’s operation by causing excessive noise, a safety hazard, security risk, etc. The meeting room may not be used for activities prohibited under local, state, and/or federal law.
The meeting room and restroom facilities must be left in a neat and orderly condition. All clean-up must be done immediately after the meeting. The room will be inspected by library staff the morning after it has been used by any group. No deposit will be refunded to a group until the staff has determined that the meeting room was left as it was found.
The library will NOT provide supplies for groups or individuals who use the room.
The library will NOT store any materials or equipment belonging to the groups or individuals who use the meeting room, unless otherwise approved by the Library Board.
The fact that the library permits a group to use its meeting room does in no way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies or beliefs. In any advertisement or public announcement the meeting room user must not use the name of the Library in such a way that it could be construed that the Library is host or sponsor of the group or event.
NO tape of any kind may be used on the carpet in the meeting room. NO nails, push-pins, tacks may be used on the walls. Tape that strips the paint from the walls or in other ways damage the walls cannot be used.
Do Not stack meeting room chairs 1 or more chairs high. To do so risks damaging the chairs. To stack properly, the seat of the top chair is resting upside down on the seat of the bottom chair.
Use of the meeting room does not include use of any other rooms in the library, with the exception of the restrooms.
When scheduling the meeting room for use during library hours, please park in the west end of the parking lot, so that spaces closer to the library may be used by library patrons.
The library assumes no responsibility for personal belongings or organizational materials or equipment used in connection with the use of the meeting room.
There must be an adult over 18 years of age supervising the use of the room at the time of use.
Failure to comply with these rules, misrepresentation by the applicant(s) or disorderly conduct will result in forfeiture of the fee and of the right to use the meeting room in the future.
SUPERVISOR:
Each group that requests the use of the library’s meeting room shall designate one member of the group to be directly responsible for the group’s use of the room. This person shall meet with the library staff to obtain the key, and sign the meeting room agreement. The responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to: scheduling, preparation, clean-up; ensuring that all policies and procedures are adhered to, and acting as a liaison with the library director. The library assumes no responsibility for preparation of the room for the meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting, the room must left in the same condition in which it was found. Violation of the rules will result in the loss of meeting room privileges for the offending group. Any damages done to the meeting room or restrooms will be assessed for the responsible parties.
Revised and approved by the Wautoma Library Board 2/24/2016
MEETING ROOM USE APPLICATION
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
WAUTOMA, WI 54982
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/or to do or to pay for any needed cleaning. I also acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Meeting Room Rental 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: ______________________________
Room condition ok after use? (date: staff: )
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: )
Fax Machine Policy
Wautoma Public Library
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
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: )
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.
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 $400 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.
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:
Volunteer Policy
Volunteers are a vital part of the Wautoma Public Library helping staff to serve the public. Generally, volunteers provide support to paid staff and work on special projects. As important members of the library community, volunteers are expected to follow library policies and to present a positive customer service attitude to all patrons.
Selection of volunteers is based on a volunteer’s qualifications in relations to the changing needs of the library and upon a volunteer’s ability to commit to a consistent schedule of volunteer hours. Interested individuals will be asked to fill out a volunteer application and may be interviewed by the volunteer coordinator or library director or assistant library director. For the sake of the general public and children in specific, a background check will be required. Selection of volunteers is the responsibility of the director and/or volunteer coordinator. If there are no suitable volunteer positions available the application will be kept on file for a year and the applicant will be called when and if a need or project arises that fits an applicant’s interests and qualifications.
The volunteer coordinator will arrange training of new volunteers and scheduling of hours. For the most part, volunteers work a two to three hour time-slot a week. Scheduling will be arranged in advance and mutually agreed upon by the volunteer coordinator and individual volunteers.
Traditionally, the library recognizes its weekly volunteers on a yearly basis at a small appreciative gathering. Other forms of recognition and appreciation may take place. The Wautoma Library can’t thank its volunteers enough. Volunteers truly make a difference at the Wautoma Public Library.
Approved October 2010
Staff Positions
Title: Library Aid
Characteristic Work:
Nature:
Under policies established by the Common Council and the Wautoma Library Board; recommends library policies, services and facilities; administers library programs and services to meet community needs; and promotes library services to all potential users.
Duties and Responsibilities:
May perform simple duties of the circulation desk including checking items in and out.
Organize 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 materials selection.
Assists patrons with mechanical operations of library equipment and provide rudimentary internet instruction and instruction in searching the library’s catalog or using the library’s research tools and other online tools.
Perform light housekeeping.
Performs other related work as needed.
Knowledge and Abilities:
1. Clearly present information to patrons.
2. Demonstrate courtesy toward all patrons.
3. Operate library equipment properly.
4. Demonstrate accurate keyboarding skills.
5. Use basic software and Internet search methods.
6. Utilize computer software, such as Workflows, Microsoft Office, after training, if necessary.
7. Carry out duties correctly, when working independently.
8. Dependably work schedule, as arranged by staff.
9. Demonstrate ability to work cooperatively with library staff.
10. Follow privacy policy and all other library policies.
Physical Demands of Position:
Bending, twisting, and reaching
Far vision at 20 feet or further; near vision at 20 inches or less.
Fingering, keyboarding, writing, filing, sorting, shelving and processing books.
Lifting/carrying 50 pounds or less.
Pushing and pulling objects weighting 60-80 pounds on wheels.
Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, and stooping.
Talking and hearing; use of the telephone.
Equipment Used:
Computer work station, book truck, calculator, copy machine, printers, telephone, e-reading devices, laptop, projector, telephone, and typewriter.
Title: Library Assistant Director
Characteristic Work:
Nature:
Under general supervision, performs paraprofessional work serving library patrons directly or indirectly. May have supervisory and decision-making responsibilities.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Plan, organize, and conduct library services and programs.
Supervise staff, volunteers and operations in absence of Library Director-willingness to act as interim director if necessary.
Provide patrons with information and assistance to meet patron needs.
Accurately complete check-out and discharge of library items.
Plan and carry out special displays, programs and projects.
Provide input in the hiring, training, scheduling, directing and evaluating support staff and volunteers.
Promote library services and resources.
Participate in continuing education and skill development opportunities.
Maintain adherence to library policies and procedures.
Perform light housekeeping.
Perform other related work as needed.
Act as a liaison for city board, county board, library board, library support groups such as the Friends, and other groups as needed.
Knowledge and Abilities:
1. Display professional courtesy and friendliness to all patrons.
2. Competency in use of the library computer software after training.
3. Competency in assisting patrons using library personal computers.
4. Competency in social media and credible information sources such as library databases.
5. Competency in changing popular media/communication/technology devices such as e-readers, tablets, mp3 players, smart phones after training.
6. Complete basic math calculations correctly.
7. Display knowledge of library shelving sections and correctly shelve books and other library resources, after training.
8. Develop and maintain cooperative and courteous working relationships with library employees and Director.
9. Organize and prioritize work tasks.
10. Work independently.
11. Competency in English grammar and spelling.
Physical Demands of Position:
Bending, twisting, and reaching
Fingering and keyboarding.
Lifting/carrying 50 pounds or less.
Pushing and pulling objects weighting 60-80 pounds on wheels.
Equipment Used:
Computers, book trucks, calculator, copy machine, fax, printers, telephone, typewriter, scanner, ipad/tablets/mp3 players/e-readers, laptop, projector, other equipment as necessary.
Education and Experience:
High school diploma or equivalent
54 college semester credits, half of which must be in the liberal arts and sciences, at a college or university approved by an accrediting association of more than statewide standing, preferred.
Two or more years of progressively responsible public library experience or its equivalent, preferred.
Salary & Employment Benefits:
Salary to be set by the library board upon experience, education, qualifications, and abilities
Benefits for part-time staff in accordance to city manual. Vacation pay proportionate to part time hours in accordance to city manual.
Title: Library Clerk
Characteristic Work:
Nature:
Under policies established by the Common Council and the Wautoma Library Board; recommends library policies, services and facilities; administers library programs and services to meet community needs; and promotes library services to all potential users.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Performs all the duties of the circulation desk including checking items in and out, registering new patrons, answering reference questions, placing holds, etc.
Organize collections for efficient use by cataloging, classifying, and processing.
Plans, organizes and conducts library services and programs in own area of responsibility, such as interlibrary loan, technical services, homebound, volunteer or children’s services.
Provides information and recommendations that can be used for materials selection.
Assists patrons with mechanical operations of library equipment and provide rudimentary internet instruction and instruction in searching the library’s catalog or using the library’s research tools and other online tools.
Perform light housekeeping.
Performs other related work as needed.
Knowledge and Abilities:
1. Clearly present information to patrons.
2. Demonstrate courtesy toward all patrons.
3. Operate library equipment properly.
4. Demonstrate accurate keyboarding skills.
5. Use basic software and Internet search methods.
6. Utilize computer software, such as Workflows, Microsoft Office, after training, if necessary.
7. Carry out duties correctly, when working independently.
8. Dependably work schedule, as arranged by staff.
9. Demonstrate ability to work cooperatively with library staff.
Physical Demands of Position:
Bending, twisting, and reaching
Far vision at 20 feet or further; near vision at 20 inches or less.
Fingering, keyboarding, writing, filing, sorting, shelving and processing books.
Lifting/carrying 50 pounds or less.
Pushing and pulling objects weighting 60-80 pounds on wheels.
Sitting, standing, walking, climbing, and stooping.
Talking and hearing; use of the telephone.
Equipment Used:
Computer work station, book truck, calculator, copy machine, printers, telephone, e-reading devices, laptop, projector, telephone, and typewriter.
Wautoma Public Library
The Director's Job Description
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)
The board voted in May of 2013 the following: “If an employee drops their hours below 20 hours per week, vacation time will be pro-rated based on prior year’s history, to be used within 12 months of employee status change.”
Board voted in December 2012: “Members decided to keep holiday pay for only the full time and 20 hour staff.”
Wautoma Library
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
READER BOARD POLICY
WAUTOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY
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
