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Over fifty businesses are bringing you discounts and specials in September when you flash your library card.
Here are a few:
Nominate a librarian in a:
Bulletin board & exhibit area policy.
Collection development policy.
Public access to records policy.
It is the policy of the library, as part of its information mission, to provide access to free materials/community information through the distribution of free handouts or the public posting of flyers, notices, and posters.
1. The library bulletin board is to be used for the posting of notices of either library business or activities, or public service items of educational, cultural, intellectual, charitable, or civic interest to the community.
2. Members of the public are not permitted to post notices. Only authorized library personnel may post notices on the library bulletin board. Any notice to be considered for posting must be submitted to library management for approval.
Note: Notices posted without authorization will be removed
3. The bulletin board is not to be used for advertising or for commercial notices. No printed matter soliciting membership or contributions for any group or individual will be posted. No materials endorsing or promoting a particular religion, party, or partisan issue will be accepted for display within the library.
Because the library does not have sufficient space to allow varying viewpoints to be exhibited on topics and institutions which are subjects to controversy, such as politics, sex, religion, gun control, etc. Posters, bulletins, newspaper clippings, etc. on these subjects shall not be permitted.
4. All notices intended for posting on the library bulletin board must contain the following:
a) name of sponsoring agency, and
b) address and telephone number of sponsoring agency or authorized
representative.
5. Notice size (physical dimensions) can be restricted if deemed necessary to maximize available space.
6. Notices may be removed after two weeks, when they are no longer timely or when space is required for more current items. The library will not be responsible for the return of posted materials.
7. The library does not necessarily advocate or endorse the viewpoints of organizations permitted to post notices on the library bulletin board. The library accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to any item accepted for posting.
Petitioning or Distribution of Literature in Library
In libraries: It is the policy of the library that petitioning, solicitation, distribution of literature or leaflets, canvassing, or similar types of appeals by members of the public are not allowed
On library grounds: In accordance with the US Constitution, groups or individuals who wish to petition, solicit, canvass or distribute literature to the public on library sidewalks, or other grounds surrounding the library building may do so if they do not impede access by the public to the building or interfere with use of the building.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in denial of future posting privileges.
(approved 8/12/02) Philosophy
An important component of the Monroe Free Library’s mission is to support formal as well as lifelong independent learning as well as to enrich the quality of life. In order to support these goals, the following guidelines will be adhered to in regard to cell phone and beeper use.
Policy
The use of cell phones in the Library can often prove disruptive to patrons and staff, therefore, on entry to the Library building, cell phone ringers and beepers must be either turned to “off” or “vibrate”. Anyone needing to make a cell phone call, must do so either in our lobby or outside of the building. Anyone receiving a cell phone call should move immediately to the lobby or outside of the building. Refusal to comply with this policy or its intent may result in expulsion from the Library.
Philosophy: In keeping with the mission statement of the Monroe Free Library, open and wide access to available material will be made to all current and potential library users in the community on an equal basis. The following sets policy for length of loan periods, renewals, reserves/interlibrary loans, overdue materials, damaged materials, and fines. The library will determine who is eligible to borrow materials and will provide for the return or replacement of such material. In order to borrow any material, a patron must present a valid library card. At no time may staff check out material by typing in a patron ID, patron barcode number, or a patron’s name.
To get a Monroe Free Library card one must:
In addition to the above, the Monroe Free Library reserves the right to institute, at the discretion of the director, any and all policies that are deemed necessary to the efficient, effective, day-to-day operation of the library.
(4/23/08)
(revised 2/13/09)
MATERIALS SELECTION POLICY
I. PHILOSOPHY and GOALS:
The mission of the Monroe Free Library is to make available a broad range of library materials, to provide up-to-date and accurate information, and to offer services and programs desired by the community of Monroe. The Library also acts as the most convenient point of access for the needed materials and information and actively seeks to make community members and organizations aware of library resources and services.
Because library materials and information come in a wide variety of formats, the Library fulfills its mission by buying materials in both print and non-print form. Cassettes, compact disks, DVDs and CD Roms are some formats being purchased.
The community which Monroe Free Library serves focuses on the Town and Village of Monroe, Village of Kiryas Joel, and the Village of Harriman. The Library also serves as a member of the Ramapo Catskill Library System which has 47 member libraries. The Library serves a wide geographical area with a diverse population.
The Monroe Free Library subscribes to principles of the intellectual freedom as stated in the "Library Bill of Rights" (see Appendix 1), a document issued by the American Library Association. Monroe Free Library is committed to honor the rights of an individual to use the library regardless of age, race, religion, national origin, or social or political views. The staff of the Library provides equal service to all Library users. Children and adults are equally free to use the entire library and to borrow all materials in the circulation collection.
II. SELECTION PROCESS:
Library materials are selected by members of the staff after consulting professional review media. Staff members consult with each other to review the needs of the community as documented in circulation and reference statistics and by requests of patrons.
III. STANDARDS OF SELECTION:
Selection of non-fiction material is considered by the librarians on the basis of the author’s competency, the information presented, and the potential usefulness to the Library’s collection. The Library staff attempts to meet the patrons’ demands as well as purchasing both pertinent and timely materials. Books that have current political and social significance are given high priority for selection. The Library makes a special effort to obtain material representing all sides of controversial issues.
The Library maintains an extensive collection of financial directories, updated laws, periodicals, and newspapers. The Library continuously updates materials in the areas of education, health, government, technology, science and current events to meet the informational needs of our patrons.
Local history, materials relating to Monroe and the surrounding villages of service are sought for the collection. Local newspapers, town reports, public documents, books by local authors and books about the area are collected.
The Library will consider whether or not the material under consideration duplicates materials already in the Library’s collection.
The Library attempts to purchase a wide variety of fiction to satisfy the needs of all our borrowers. The Library staff choose titles on the basis of reviews that consider, among other things, the appeal of a book for a specific audience, the artistic skill evident in its rendering, and the literary reputation of the author.
Gift books in good condition are welcomed by the Library. Once accepted, the donated material will be checked to see if they are in good condition, and if they meet the Library’s standards of selection. If donated items are not added to the Library’s collection, the Library reserves the right to either sell them at library book sales or to otherwise dispose of them.
The Library welcomes suggestions for the purchase of materials. Suggestions will be subject to the same standards of selection as other considered materials.
Due to the varied demands made upon the Library’s resources, the number of duplicate copies bought for reserves will be limited.
The Library will gladly accept recommendations for books that are to be given as memorials or gifts. The Library reserves the right to choose the material to be purchased should the donor not specify a title or subject matter.
The Library will maintain the collection by retaining or replacing essential materials and removing on a systematic and continuous basis those works that are worn, outdated, and/or inaccurate, or no longer in demand.
IV. OBJECTIONS TO LIBRARY MATERIALS:
Any individual who desires may express his or her objections to particular library materials by completing a "Reconsideration Form". After the form is completed, it will be brought to the attention of the Library Director who will evaluate the original reasons for the purchase of the material. The Library Director will then respond to the person making the objection. Any remaining objections will be addressed by the Board of Library Trustees.
V: POLICY DEFENSE:
The Monroe Free Library Collection Development Policy defends the principles of freedom to read, view or hear. The Library Board of Trustees has adopted and declared that it will adhere to and support:
A.) The Library Bill of Rights
B.) The Freedom to Read Statement adopted by the American Library Association
C.) The Free Access to Libraries for Minors Statement(All are attached to the Policy)
Philosophy:
The Monroe Free Library provides open and equal access to materials and information. Library patron's First Amendment rights to guaranteed freedom of speech, extend to a corresponding right to hear what is spoken and read what is written free from fear of intrusion, intimidation, or reprisal. New York State Statute s4509 also insures this freedom. Monroe Free Library also ascribes to the American Library Association's Code of Ethics, point #3 which states, "Librarians must protect each user's right to privacy with respect to information sought or received, and materials consulted, borrowed, or aquired." Only by strictly adhering to the following policy, can the confidentiality of patron records, information, and behavior be preserved to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Policy:
In the event that staff are approached to divulge confidential information, the following steps will be followed:
Record name, address, telephone number, and any other appropriate information available on the enquirer.
Report the incident immediately to the Library Director. Under no circumstances will staff divulge any confidential information regarding or including: Patron's name, address, telephone number
Library card holding status
General information regarding a patron's library habits including but not restricted to, number of visits, time of visits, number or type of questions asked, etc
Action Taken by Library Director:
All requests and orders will be reviewed in a timely manner. If necessary, the Director will consult with an attorney and respond in an appropriate manner. All requests for the release or disclosure of information will be denied unless the Director has received the named patron's written consent for said release (request form below).
Court Order for Release of Library Records:
The Library Director shall comply fully with a court order to release or disclose library records or information. Upon receipt of any process, order, or subpoena, the person named and/or served shall immediately report to and consult with the Library Director, Library Operating Committee, and legal counsel to determine if such process, order, or subpoena is proper and in full compliance with proper legal authority. If there is a reasonable basis to believe such records are necessary to the progress of an investigation or prosecution, the American judicial system provides the mechanism for seeking release of such confidential records. The issuance of a court order, following a showing of good cause based on specific facts, by a court of competenet jurisdiction, will be the only basis on which confidential information will be released.
I give the Monroe Free Library permission to release by library circulation records to the individual(s) listed below.
List the Name, Address, Telephone Number of the Authorized Individual(s):
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
Philosophy
It is the policy of the library, as part of its mission to enrich the quality of life, to provide space for exhibits and displays from the library's own collection and through those of other community agencies or individuals.
Rules for Use
The library display case is available for the use of beneficial or nonprofit associations or organizations, community, civic, or educational groups and/or individual artists for display of their collections or work.
Displays may not be used for advertising or for commercial purposes. Displays will not include prices of objects.
Displays may include but do not need to include names, addresses, telephone numbers or collection information.
Requests shall be considered by the Library Director in the order in which they are received. The library reserves the right to pre-empt such space for its own use upon three day's written notice to the exhibitor.
The library reserves the right to limit the size, number of items, schedule of any display, and the frequency with which an artist or organization may have a display.
The duration of any display or exhibit is one month, to begin on or about the first day of said month and to be removed on or about the last day of said month.
Installation and subsequent removal of displays are the responsibilities of the applicant.
Displays which are not removed on or prior to the date established by library management will be removed by the library. Any expense for such removal becomes the responsibility of the exhibitor.
Neither the library nor the library board accespts responsibility for loss or damage to any display.
The library does not necessarily advocate or endorse the viewpoints of parties permitted to utilize the display case.
A request for a display focusing on a public issue must indicate that all aspects of the issue will be presented in an equal manner. The Library Director will determine whether or not the proposed display is balanced.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in a denial of future exhibit/display privileges.
Gift Policy Philosophy:
Donations and contributions are indispensable to the Library's well-being. Gifts (as referred to below) can be in the form of library materials (books, magazines, tapes, etc.), personal property or equipment (computers, furniture, real estate, etc.), money, or bequests. All such are encouraged and accepted under the following conditions.
Gifts are accepted by the Library with the understanding that they are evaluated according to the same selection policy that governs purchased materials.
Gifts will be accepted with the understanding that they are freely given without conditions attached. The library reserves the right to add them to its collections, distribute them to other libraries, sell or discard them.
No gifts will be accepted on which the donor places restrictions or special conditions, unless those restrictions or conditions are specifically accepted by the Library Board of Trusteess.
Gifts will be formally acknowledged, if the donor wishes. The Library will not appraise or estimate the value of gifts for tax or other purposes. The Library will provide, on request, a pre-printed signed receipt acknowledging the amount of hard and/or soft covered books received.
The Library reserves the right to accept or discard, at its discretion, any unsolicited material sent to the Library.
Gifts to employees: Monetary gifts to employees are viewed as a goodwill gesture for service rendered, and as such must be given to the Library. Gifts to staff other than money (i.e. children's holiday gifts to Children's Librarian) are acceptable to receive. In all cases, however, the donor should not be led to believe that a gift will provide for special favors or services.
Philosophy
The Monroe Free Library provides library users with the best and most current resources available in part, by offering patrons access to the Internet from workstatihons in the library. The Internet will be managed in a manner consistent with the Monroe Free Library's User Behavior Policy, approved by the Board of Trustees on February 10, 1998.
Terms of Use
The Internet is available for use to all adults who both possess valid RCLS (Ramapo-Catskill Library System) library cards and have signed an Internet agreement. It is also available to all minors who possess valid RCLS library cards and who have the signed consent of a parent/guardian. (See point 4 below).
The library's Internet access is a library resource and is intended primarily as an information and research tool. It is not acceptable to use the Monroe Free Library's Internet so as to interfere with, or disrupt other users, services, or equipment. Such activities may result in the loss of Internet privileges and/or criminal prosecution. The library reserves the right to establish limitations on certain Internet activities, such as downloading.
Library computers are for information and communication purposes. Due to the extensive resources accessible via the Internet, some of which may be inappropriate, inaccurate, or offensive to some users, it is the individual user's responsibility to exercise discretion and to be responsible for his or her actions in navigating the network. The library in no way guarantees the privacy of the Internet user. Patrons may not change settings, damage or misuse equipment, download files, software, or other information, or engage in illegal activities on the Internet. Inappropriate use is not permitted. Patrons will only receive one verbal warning of inapproriate internet usage. Any subsequent violations of this policy will result in the loss of Internet access privileges for a period of one (1) year.
Minors (children under 18 years of age) desiring to use the library's Internet must provide written consent from their parents or legal guardian, and the parent/guardian will be responsible for setting and conveying the standards that should be followed by their children when utilizing the Internet. Parents/guardians should be aware that, upon consent, their children will have the same unlimited access to the Internet that all patrons would benefit from, and that the only way to monitor or control their children's search is for the parent/guardian to be present with their child. The library does not monitor users to ensure that they are not accessing inappropriate, lewd, and offensive materials, and therefore is not responsible for the Internet's content.
The library cannot guarantee the validity or accuracy of information found on the Internet. Library patrons are advised, as with all library materials, to exercise judgement and discrimination when evaluating the usefulness and reliability of information found on the Internet.
The library will establish procedures that will make Internet stations available on a first come, first served basis. The library reserves the right to limit the amount of time a patron, or a pair of patrons, may use the station per appointment and the number of appointments a patron may make per day or per week. Patrons should bear in mind that the appointment time includes printing time.
The library reserves the right to establish fees for online printing by patrons.
Due to the demands on staff time, staff assistance on computer functions will be very limited. Patrons with information needs that they cannot resolve on their own will be advised to attend one of the library's Internet workshop offerings. Furthermore, those patrons who are new to or uncomfortable with using the Internet and need special instruction must attend a scheduled Internet workshop.
Patrons use the computer at their own risk. Monroe Free Library is not responsible for damages that result from using the computers, the Internet, or other equipment of any kind.
Philosophy:
In keeping with the Monroe Free Library's mission to provide materials that support formal and lifelong independent learning as well as enrich the quality of life, the library strives to maintain a well-balanced and broad collection of materials for information, reference, research, and pleasure.
Definitions:
The word "materials" used for the specific forms of media, has the widest possible meaning. It may include (but is not limited to) books (hardbound and paper bound), pamphlets, maps, magazines and journals, newspapers, manuscripts, and video and audio recordings in any format.
General Principles:
1) The responsibility for book selection rests with the Director of the library who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Library Board of Trustees. The Director, in turn, may delegate this task to qualified professional staff, and acquire advice from individuals who possess expertise in various subject areas. The general public may recommend materials for consideration.
2) Selection may be based on a combination of various criteria including but not limited to:
A) Reviews from professional journals and newspapers
B) Advice from subject area experts
C) Popular demand
D) Professional expertise
3) The following are considerations employed in the selection process:
A) Current usefulness or permanent value
B) Authority and competence in presentation
C) Price, format, and ease of use
D) Accuracy
E) Relation of work to existing collection
4) Gift materials will be judged by the same standards that apply to purchased materials.
5) The collection is maintained by
1) retaining or replacing essential materials, 2) removing on a systematic and continuous basis those works that are worn, outdated and/or inaccurate, or no longer in demand, and 3) acquiring new materials.
6) No library materials shall be excluded based on expressions of race, religion, nationality, or political or social views.
7) The policy defends the principles of freedom to read, view or hear, and no material shall be removed from the collection save under the procedures for "Reconsideration of Library Materials" adopted by this Board of Trustees (see "Reconsideration Procedures").
8) The Library Board of Trustees has adopted and declared that it will adhere to and support:
A) The Library Bill of Rights
B) The Freedom to Read Statement adopted by the American Library Association ..
C) The Free access to Libraries for Minors Statement all of which are made a part hereof
Meetings must be held during regular library hours, except when library related meetings and programs are scheduled. Evening meetings may be held when the library is open until 9 p.m. The library reserves the right to revoke permission to use a multipurpose room if the room is needed for library purposes.
It is not the intent of the library to provide space on a permanent basis to support the primary activities of a group or organization.
Smoking, consumption of alcohol, and games of chance will not be permitted in the building.
The organization using the multipurpose room will be responsible for returning it to its original state before leaving. It will also be responsible for any damage to library equipment, books, or furniture.
The kitchen facilities will not be available unless approved by the library director.
Any request of the use of the multipurpose room must be reviewed by the library director or assistant director via a completed multipurpose room Application. Click here to download application.
The number of persons attending any function must not be in excess of Fire Safety provisions. ( Twenty-eight persons maximum.)
If any programs include children, an adult, 21 or over, must be present at all times.
multipurpose rooms may not be used for religious services, sales promotion, social meetings, or for the benefit of private individuals or commercial concerns engaged in marketing goods or services. Sale of merchandise is strictly prohibited. Exceptions shall be: Programs or sales conducted by non-profit Library Friends' groups, the proceeds of which shall go to the direct benefit of the library.
Monroe Free Library shall assume no responsibility whatever for personal injury to any member, affiliated person, guest, etc. who uses or participates in any program utilizing the multipurpose room. In addition, the library is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.
The Board of Trustees reserves the right to terminate the license for use of the multipurpose room for any reason at any time.
Note: No multipurpose room space may be booked more than three (3) months in advance. If a meeting must be canceled, the library director should be notified as far in advance of the date as possible. Failure to notify may result in cancellation of future reservations for the organization.
(Approved 1/11/99)
Monroe Free Library
Philosophy:
An important component of service to the public is that of programming. Programs, whether informational, educational, or for entertainment, provide a means to encourage library usage, promote information, and extend library service to all members of the community.
Definition:
Library initiated programming utilizes library staff, the library facility, and library resources. It can include library and community resource people, displays and media presentations. The program may occur inside or outside of the library building and may be presented by a staff member or other presenter. A program may be sponsored by the library, the Friends of the Library, the Board of Trustees, an outside agency, or combination of all these groups. As much as is possible, programming should be an extension of the information found in the library’s collection.
Programming Issues:
The content of the programming is to be non-commercial in nature. While in some programming business or professional people may be asked to speak at a program, their information must be generic in nature, however, authors would be allowed to discuss and present their works.
- Library programs must meet the information needs and interests of the public. They may respond to current topics and/or issues. They may, for a time, follow certain themes. Public input on programming ideas is always welcome.
- Local talent and support, in the form of assistance, is often utilized at the discretion of the programming coordinators and the Director of the Library.
- Programs are generally held in the library either during library hours or after hours if special arrangements are made. Special arrangements include permission from the Director as well as a check on space availability. Programs may also be held out of the library building as in outreach to schools or other facilities and areas.
- Programs are of various durations: one time, weekly, or monthly.
- Every effort is made to schedule programs at times convenient to the target audience.
- All programs offered by the library will be free of registration charge. In some instances, materials fees may be charged or registrants may be required to provide their own materials.
- All efforts will be made to comply with any requirements speakers/presenters may request. These may include, but not be limited to, overhead projectors, water, flip charts, blackboards, books, videos, special seating arrangements, etc. All filled requests must be approved by the Director.
- Under no circumstances may a speaker/presenter solicit personal information from program attendees.
- In the process of presenting a program, a speaker may include a business card in any informational material they may distribute, however, the material may contain only information that is generic in nature.
- All informational material that will be distributed at a program must be approved, in advance, by program coordinator and/or Director.
- Attached (Appendix A) is a broad, non-inclusive list of general programming ideas.
Registration:
Due to the nature of some programs, advanced registration is required. When advanced registration is required, the following rules and regulations must be adhered to unless special permission has been granted by the Director.
- Programs may require certain proofs of age or residency. In the case of a minor, a parent or legal guardian must present identification. Program participation will be denied to anyone not producing the required proof.
- In cases where program registration is limited, program registration rules and procedures will be followed ( for example, lottery system, first come first served etc.)
- Residency requirements may differ between programs. In cases where program registration is open to anyone, Town of Monroe residents will be given first consideration with out of district residents accommodated on a first come, first served basis.
- Children must be specified age by date of registration for tat particular program.
- Registration may be made by phone or in person depending on the specific requirements of each particular program.
- Registration for programs will occur at the reference desk unless otherwise specified.
- Grant funded programs will be subject to the regulations of the grantor.
- Any restrictions imposed by registration requirements are solely due to limitations in space, resources etc. A person’s right to attend a library initiated program “should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or view” (Article 5 of the Library Bill of Rights.)
- Every effort will be made to fulfill any special accommodations necessary for attendance at programs by person’s with disabilities.
Responsibility for Programming:
Responsibility and decisions in regard to all registration procedures for library initiated programming will be given to the Department Head under whose jurisdictions the program falls. The Department Head may assign some programs or responsibility for some part of a program to staff under their direction. Ultimate responsibility will rest with the Director.
- Implementation of programs must not interfere with other library services. Schedule and budget considerations will limit the amount of programming available throughout the year.
- Some programming may involve food or refreshments. Depending on the programs, either refreshments will be provided or participants will be requested to bring a certain type of food. Unless otherwise specified, refreshments for most programs will be provided by the Friends of the Monroe Free Library. Program directors may also solicit donations from outside sources for refreshments, in which case, some type of recognition will be made ( for example display of business card and/or public mention during program.)
- In order to best facilitate positive programming results, the following considerations should be implemented:
1. Consider when it would be best to hold the program. Check for conflicts with other activities in the area.
2. Plan as far in advance (see Appendix C) as possible to insure speaker availability and adequate publicity time.
3. Consider writing a letter of invitation to speakers with a confirmation sheet (see Appendix B) outlining all pertinent points such as : title and theme of program, when and where it will be held, the sponsoring group if any, a brief description of the target audience, the type of presentation desired and a general statement of what outcomes the program will effect, the length of time scheduled, the amount of honorarium if any, and a request for any special requirements the speaker may have. Request that a biographical sketch be provided as soon as possible.
- Unless otherwise specified, the Monroe Free Library will handle all publicity for programs ( See Public Relations manual.)
Funding:
Library initiated programs are funded in part by the operating budget with occasional additional support from grants, contributions from the Friends and/or other gifts and donations. Any speaker fee or honorarium must be approved by the Director as this may result in a program fee. Reading incentives shall be funded through gifts and donation.
Evaluation and Follow-Up:
Library initiated programs have quality presenters and content, both of which are regularly evaluated and, if necessary, changed to meet the needs of the public as well as to insure the effective administration of the facility. When appropriate, an evaluation form will be filled out by program participants. A letter of thanks and appreciation will be sent to the presenters.
Miscellaneous:
- The library does not endorse the statements or philosophies expressed in any program.
The library reserves the right to cancel any registered program that does not meet minimum registration requirements.
- All programs must be approved by the Library Director.
- Concerns, questions, or complaints about programs are handled according to the same written policy and procedures which govern reconsideration of other library resources.
APPENDIX A
EXAMPLES OF PROGRAMMING IDEAS
- Book discussion
- Storytime Programming
- Family Nights
- Craft Programs
- Children’s Reference Workshop
- Movies
- Parades
- Teen Programming
- Read-Ins
- Adult Interest Programs
- Summer Reading Program
- Special Children’s Programming ( example, American Girl Dolls Tea and Dinosaur Diorama)
- Outreach
1. Schools
2. Senior Citizen Center
3. Other
Approved May 14, 2001
The Monroe Free Library is a free association library chartered by the State of New York. As such it is subject to the Public Officers Law, Article 7- Open Meeting Law.
The Library will attempt to comply with request from members of the community for information concerning the operation of the library. The procedure for requesting a record(s) is as follows:
A formal request for information must be recorded on the Application for Public Access to Records and submitted to the Library Director. No verbal application will be accepted. Application on forms other than the Library form will not be accepted.
The application for a request of records will either be approved or denied at the discretion of the Director on the merits of the request.
If the request is for access to the Minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees, these shall be made available by the Director in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information law within two weeks from the date of the last meeting and within one week of all previous meetings.
The cost of photocopying shall be borne by the requestor and shall be accomplished in the Library. No documents may be removed from Library property.
No documents will be released which fit within the exemption clauses of Public Officers Law, Article 7, Open Meetings Law.
Approved 5/10/10
Purpose: In keeping with Monroe Free Library's mission to enrich the community's quality of life, to support formal and lifelong independent learning and to provide services necessary for supporting these ends.
1. Tutoring may be carried out by members of established and recognized institutions, groups and associations with educational, cultural or civic purposes.
2. Tutoring on the premises of the library may not be carried out for individual profit, salary or any other form of personal financial gain.
3. All tutors will be given a copy of the Multipurpose Room policy which shall serve as the required rules for use of the Multipurpose Room while tutoring.
4. The established guidelines for use of the facilities by tutors are to be observed:
a. All tutoring will be carried out in the library's Multipurpose Room. The main library areas are for research, reading and study and are not available for tutoring.
b. Tutors will obtain an application for use of the Multipurpose Room from library staff. A copy of the Multipurpose Room policy shall be attached to the application.
c. Minors, under the legal age of 18 years of age, must be accompanied by two adults for the tutoring session: one adult at least 18 years of age and one adult at least 21 years of age. A tutor of majority age will count as one of the two required adults.
d. Minor students are the responsibility of the tutor(s) while on the library premises until released to a parent/guardian or to transportation authorized in writing by the parent or guardian.
(approved 4/13/98)
Philosophy:
The Monroe Free Library strives to provide and maintain a safe environment for all patrons. It is with this goal in mind that the following policy in regard to unattended children is instituted. For reasons of safety and the well-being of young children, the following rules will be followed: Parents* of children under 18 are responsible for the behavior of their children.
Parents are responsible and are expected to be aware of the Library's hours of operation and to pick up their children prior to closing.
All children 6 years old or younger must at all times be attended and supervised by a responsible adult.
Further:
If it is determined that a parent is needed to remove a disruptive child or pick a child up for any reason, and the parent cannot be reached or located within 30 minutes, library staff may call the police or child protective services. A staff member should remain with the child until the authorities arrive.
Under no circumstances may a staff member drive a child home.
*includes parents, guardians, care-givers
Philosophy:
In order to maintain a safe and healthy environment in which library users as well as staff can engage in appropriate use of the library structure and materials, the following restrictions will be adhered to.
Patrons shall not:
Smoke or use tobacco or tobacco products.
Bring in or consume food or beverages.
Enter the library without shirt or shoes.
Use loud or offensive or abusive language (Disorderly Conduct).
Engage in lewd or indecent behavior or noisy/boisterous activities that disturb others.
Possess firearms or other weapons or explosives.
Play audio equipment so that others can hear it.
Bring pets or animals into the library (excepting animals required for guidance).
Use rollerblades, rollerskates, skateboards, or other sports equipment in the library or on library property.
Enter unauthorized work spaces or office areas.
Engage in aggressive or threatening behavior (Disorderly Conduct).
Use, possess, or distribute alcohol, narcotics or any other non-prescription drug (Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance).
Hold unauthorized or unscheduled group meetings or conversations.
Participate in any game which produces noise or conversation.
Run, fight, roughhouse, or display other disruptive behavior.
Leave children six (6) years and under unattended.
Tamper with, alter, or damage computer hardware and/or software (Computer Related Offenses).
Sleep or loiter.
Engage in any illegal activity.
Sit, or place feet, on tables.
Block or interfere with the free movement of individuals.
Solicit, sell, or distribute leaflets not specifically approved by the Director.
Use library telephones intended for library personnel.
Destroy, damage, or steal library books, materials, furniture, or other property (Criminal Mischief).
Sing or talk loudly to others or in monologues.
Stare at another person/s or follow another person/s with the intent to annoy that person/s.
Furthermore:
The Library reserves the right to examine all packages, briefcases and any other container before patrons exit the building. The Library accepts no liability for damage or loss to any patron's personal property. All Library users shall obey the reasonable requests of Library staff.
Note:
Failure to comply with any of the above may result in immediate suspension of Library privileges including access. Persons who persist in disapproved conduct or who refuse to leave the public library grounds or building when requested to do so will be held for violation of the adopted policies of the Library Board and subject to arrest and prosecution. A patron whose privileges have been denied may have the decision reviewed by the Board of Trustees.
(approved 8/10/98)
Philosophy:
Volunteers are a valuable asset to the Monroe Free Library, and individuals and groups are welcomed to perform service to their community through the library.
In order to provide a positive experience for both the volunteer and the library, the following policy will be followed for all volunteers, including those performing community service by court order. When performing library duties, volunteers must act in accordance with library policy and standards.
Volunteers must be age 12 or older. Volunteers under 16 years of age must have written permission from a parent or guardian.
Prospective volunteers must fill out and submit an application which will be reviewed by the Library Director or Supervising Staff member.
If no suitable job matches are available at time of application, prospective volunteers will be contacted and informed that his/her application will be kept on file for one year, and if within that time an appropriate position opens, he/she will be contacted.
If after application a job match exists, the prospective volunteer may be required to be interviewed by either the Library Director or Supervising Staff member.
Volunteers will not take the place of paid staff and will provide special, unusual, or supplemental services.
All volunteers shall have access to staff restrooms and kitchen during their work hours.
All volunteers must complete a time sheet.
Volunteers can be terminated for any of the same reasons as a paid staff member.
(approved 6/8/98)
Philosophy:
In order to best fulfill the Monroe Free Library's mission of providing material which supports formal and lifelong independent learning, the library strives to maintain a collection of material which is continually evaluated as to currency, balance, condition, and use. Having outdated or inaccurate materials in a collection discourages use, gives a false impression of the adequacy of the collection, wastes the time of the staff, and obstructs users in their search for useful materials.
Plan of Replacement:
In 1996, Monroe Free Library began a systematic plan of replacement and weeding, ensuring a collection of depth, relevancy, and scope based on proscribe methods of weeding. It should be noted that the purpose of this procedure is not to remove materials presumed to be controversial or disapproved of by segments of the community. Collection Maintenance involves:
Looking at material for age and condition.
Being aware of damage: torn plastic covers, split bindings, stains, etc.
Monitoring material for lack of interest and use.
Recommending titles for replacement.
Supplementing the cataloged collection with periodicals & paperbacks.
Recommending titles for purchase.
Keeping lists of subjects which need more materials.
Weeding is a valuable tool that provides the opportunity to:
Review the collection for content, keeping it updated and balanced.
Keep aware of the changes in the way the community uses the collection.
See what is being used or not used.
Become familiar with authors and their works.
Share knowledge by keeping other staff informed and submitting replacement requests and recommendations for subject collection development.
Identify gaps in the collection and fill them.
(approved June 2008)
The Monroe Free Library is pleased to provide free wireless Internet access for the use of our patrons. Agreement to abide by the following rules is a precondition for having access to the wireless network.
Patrons must accept the library’s basic Internet policy and rules for access to the Internet. Paper copies of this policy are available at the Reference desk. The library does not monitor the use of the Internet by laptop users. Parents need to be aware that wireless access for laptops is free and unrestricted. Violations of our policy will result in the loss of library and computer privileges.
Access to the library’s computers requires an authenticated barcode and password. Holders of the Ramapo Catskill Library System library cards may access the network by using their assigned barcode and PIN number.
The patron is responsible for setting up his or her laptop and software to permit wireless access through the library’s network.
Patrons may not use the library’s printers with their own laptop equipment.
The library does not assume responsibility for the safety and integrity of personal equipment, laptop configurations or data files. The library is not responsible for any damage to personal equipment, i.e., viruses, power surges, etc. Patrons are responsible for providing virus protection for personal equipment.
The library cannot vouch for the security of wireless communications. It is strongly advised that wireless communication not be used for the transmission of sensitive or personal information.
Library staff members are not permitted to configure a person’s personal laptop or to provide assistance with the installation of hardware or software.
The library cannot vouch for the reliability of any website nor the success of any given online transaction.
The library’s wireless network may require periodic maintenance, and the library cannot be held responsible for unforeseen downtime.
Patrons using personal laptops in a manner disturbing to others in the library will be asked to turn off the equipment. Repeated violation of this rule will result in suspension of user privileges.
