Acceptable Online Use Policy

The Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides public access to the Internet to assist Public Libraries of Shelby County patrons meet the basic information needs, facilitate life-long learning, and supply sources of information in all fields of knowledge. The Internet provides access to information far beyond the library’s resources. The Internet is a gateway to a diversity of information on a multitude of topics from all countries and cultures around the world. While most of the information accessed can be valuable and enlightening, the user may also find materials that are unreliable, personally offensive or illegal under U.S. Law.

The Public Libraries of Shelby County System follows and strictly enforces Alabama State Law 13A-12-200.3 that specifically prohibits the dissemination or display of obscene matter. Examples of prohibited use includes, but is not limited to: Attempt to view or download child pornography or inappropriate or obscene material in e-mail transmissions, via websites, or on thumb drives. Additional examples are provided on page seven (7) of this policy.

Public Libraries of Shelby County System complies with requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Technology protection measures are used on all public access computers connected to the Public Libraries of Shelby County wide area network. A filtering service is used to prevent access by minor children to inappropriate materials as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

Technology protection measures may be disabled, as necessary, for bona fide research or other lawful purposes by library computer users over the age of 18. Requests to by-pass the library’s filtering system will be reviewed by the Director of the Public Libraries of Shelby County System on a case by case basis to determine that the unfiltered access that is requested will not violate federal or Alabama State laws. Only the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library Director shall have the authority to approve any requests to by-pass these technology protection measures. The decision of the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library Director shall be final for all requests.

Internet Safety Policy

As part of this document an Internet Safety Policy is included to protect children under the age of 18 while using public access computers connected to the Internet and World Wide Web in the Public Libraries of Shelby County System. This policy is strictly enforced by the Public Libraries of Shelby County System. This policy addresses the following areas of concern:

Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web
Minor Children under the age of 18 must have the written permission of their parents or legal guardians to use the Public Libraries of Shelby County computers connected to the Internet.
Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System makes use of a filtering service on all library computers with Internet access to prevent minors from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography or (3) harmful to minors. The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex or excretion; depicts, describes or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
Children and teens under the age of 18 are not allowed an opportunity to by-pass the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s filtering service for any reason.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System maintains a special web site for children and teens.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides training on safe and effective Internet use and disseminates information to library patrons on Child Internet Safety.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System encourages library staff to guide children and teens under the age of 18 away from materials that may be inappropriate as defined by U.S., state, and local laws.
The safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communication.
To address the issue of the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communication the Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides training and also urges minors and their parents to keep in mind the following safety guidelines:

It is not acceptable for a minor to receive any material that is deemed harmful to minors under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) through a web site, email, chat room or other direct electronic communication.
Children and teens are instructed never to arrange a fact-to-face meeting with someone via the computer without parents’ or legal guardians’ approval.
Children and teens are instructed never to respond to messages that are suggestive, obscene, threatening or make one uncomfortable.
Children and teens are cautioned to remember that people online may not be who they say they are.
Children and teens are cautioned to remember that everything one reads may not be true.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System staff instruct parents and legal guardians to report any incident of the transmission of child pornography to local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5648 or https://report.cybertip.org.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System staff is required to report any incident of the transmission of child pornography to the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library System Director. The Director is required to report any incidents to local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online

To address the issue of unauthorized access, including “hacking”, and other unlawful activities by minors online, minors, their parents and all other library users are hereby advised that use of the library’s computers for hacking or any other unlawful activity is strictly prohibited. Violators will lose computer privileges and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors

To address the issue of the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors the Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides training programs and also urges minors and their parents to keep in mind the following safety guidelines:

Children and teens are instructed never to give out identifying information such as home address, school name, or telephone number.
Children and teens are instructed to let parents or guardians decide whether personal information should be revealed.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk to their children about the dangers of disclosing personal information.
Children and teens are instructed never to arrange a fact to face meeting with someone via the computer without parents or approval
Children and teens are cautioned that people online may not be who they say they are.
Any personal information gathered by the Public Libraries of Shelby County System for library card applications and entered into the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s computerized data base will not be shared and will remain strictly confidential.

Technology Protection Measures designed to restrict minors’ access to materials harmful to minors.

Minor children under the age of 18 must have the written permission of their parents or legal guardians to use the Public Libraries of Shelby County public access computers. The Public Libraries of Shelby County System has technology protection measures in place in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) that blocks or filters Internet access to web sites that have been determined to contain materials harmful to minors. Under no circumstances will a child under the age of 18 be allowed to circumvent the filtering mechanism in place. The only instance in which the technology protection measures may be disabled is to enable adult access to information that would be blocked by the filtering service. In order to receive unfiltered access adults must request access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. The Library Director has the authority to decide if an adult’s request for unfiltered access shall be allowed. Only under these circumstances will the Director of the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library disable the technology protection measures temporarily on specific computers for a specified session for an approved reason. Children under the age of 18 are not allowed to request that technology protection measures be disabled and will not receive approval.

Kid’s Rules for Online Safety

The following is a handout about online safety that is given to parents and children when applying for a library card:

I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number, or the name and location of my school with my parents’ permission.
I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.
I will never agree to get together with someone I “meet” online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring my mother or father along.
I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parents.
I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away.
I will not send any mean or bullying messages to classmates. If a classmate sends a mean or bullying message to me I will tell my parents immediately.
I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online, and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.
I will not give out my Internet password to anyone (even my best friends).
I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.
Rules Governing Use of Public Access Computers

Due to the limited resources available for provision of public access to the Internet, the Public Libraries of Shelby County System may set limits on the use of files of still or moving images or sound or on downloading files in any medium. The Library also reserves the right to limit the amount of time an individual patron can devote to a single session. The public must comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, including laws governing the transmission and dissemination of information while accessing the Internet.

Examples of Unacceptable Use

Unacceptable use includes but is not limited to the following:

Patrons may not:

Use the Public Libraries of Shelby County System network to make unauthorized entry into other computational, information or communication services or resources.
Distribute unsolicited advertising;
Invade the privacy of others;
Participate in cyber bullying;
Make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software;
Engage in any activity that is harassing or defamatory either in person or online;
Use the Internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other rights of third parties or in a manner inconsistent with the Library’s tax-exempt status or its proper operation;
Attempt to view or download child pornography or inappropriate or obscene material in e-mail transmissions, via websites, or on thumb drives;
Damage or destroy equipment, software, data belonging to the Public Libraries of Shelby County System or to other users including adding, altering or deleting files on workstations hard drives or other Public Libraries of Shelby County System computer equipment;
Make unauthorized copies of copyright protected material;
Violate software license agreements;
Violate computer system or network integrity including attempts to by-pass network security functions, obtain passwords or alter the configuration of Public Libraries of Shelby County System workstations in any way.
Participate in illegal gambling on the Internet; and
Waste finite resources including printing copies with paying.
Violations may result in loss of access. Unlawful activities will be dealt with in an appropriate manner and may involve contacting local law enforcement.

Patrons’ Security

Patrons should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. However, the Public Libraries of Shelby County System will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or necessary for the proper operation of the Public Libraries of Shelby County System.

Compliance

The patron’s access to the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A patron violates this policy by his or her own actions or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to their attention. Further, a patron violates this policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet. Failure to comply with this policy and its procedures will result in the forfeiture of the user’s right to access these computers.

The Public Libraries of Shelby County System reserves the right to take appropriate action to insure compliance with this policy.

The Public Libraries of Shelby County System reserves the right to determine what constitutes inappropriate behavior. The Public Libraries of Shelby County System reserves the right to terminate the Internet access privilege of any person abusing these policies.

Use of the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s Internet computers will be on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments will be taken. The Internet computers, however, may be reserved by library staff for library programs or training sessions.

Approved 04/06/2015

Animal Policy

The presence of animals in the library can pose a risk to the health and safety of library patrons and staff. To prevent damage to library facilities and property and possible injury to library users and staff, animals are not permitted in North Shelby Library or our branch Mt Laurel Library with the following exceptions:

Animals that are part of a library sponsored program or exhibit as determined by the Library Director or designee.
Service animals in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and accompanying regulations.
- The ADA defines a service animal “as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability.” (Q1, Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA, https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)
- A service animal must be under the control of its handler. A harness, leash, or other tether should be used unless it would interfere with the work of the service animal. (Q27, Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA, https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)
- The library may request that a service animal be removed from the facility and deny further access to the animal if it is a) out of control b) is not housebroken or c) poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others. The staff will be happy to assist the patron without the animal present. (Q23 & Q25, Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA, https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)
Service animals in training are allowed for training purposes. Under the Alabama Code (Section 21-7-4(c)(1)): The trainer of a service animal, while engaged in the training of the animal, has the same rights and privileges with respect to access to areas of public accommodation and the same liability for damage as is provided for an individual with a disability who is accompanied by a service animal. (http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/alison/CodeOfAlabama/1975/Coatoc.htm)

Patrons and staff can refer to the full U.S. Department of Justice Frequently Asked Questions on Service Animals and the ADA at: https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html

Patrons and staff can refer to the full Code of Alabama concerning the Right of a person with a disability to be accompanied by service animal; liability for damages; violations (Title 21, Section 21-7-4) at: http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/alison/CodeOfAlabama/1975/Coatoc.htm

Board Meeting Public Comments

Any resident whose North Shelby Library District assessment is paid in full may speak for a maximum of two (2) minutes on any Library related subject at any regular Board meeting during the public comments portion of the agenda. A resident with assessments owed or any other attendee may leave written comments to be attached to the minutes.

Anyone who wishes to speak must notify the Library Services Director at nsdirector@shelbycounty-al.org at least four days prior to the meeting so your residence and assessment status may be determined and your name added to the agenda.

Eff. July 17, 2023

Circulation Policy

I. Standard Registration Rules

1. Library cards are initially available to all Shelby County residents free of charge. An application must be completed for every person wishing to obtain a card and use Shelby County Public Libraries’ services. One card per person.

2. All applications must be completed and all cards issued at a Shelby County library during normal operating hours.

3. All applicants and responsible parties must be present for a card to be issued.

4. Identification and proof of residence are required for all patrons before a card can be issued. A photo ID such as driver’s license, non-driver’s id, passport, student ID, military ID, or work badge is preferred. A patron without a photo ID must provide two (2) alternate forms of identification such as social security card, insurance card, credit card, etc. Patrons providing a PO Box as a mailing address must also provide proof of their physical street address.

5. Applications for minors who are younger than 18 must have a parent or legal guardian’s signature. The adult who signs for the minor will be held liable for any and all charges or damages associated with the minor’s card. Upon the minor’s 18^th birthday all present fines and fees will be assumed by the signing responsible party and all future fines will be the responsibility of the applicant.

6. If the parent/guardian signing for a minor’s card, has a card that is not in good standing, then a card cannot be issued to the minor until the issues on the adult’s card have been cleared.

7. If a minor has a card that is not in good standing and the parent/guardian who signed the minor’s application wishes to apply for an adult card, then the charges on the minor’s card must be paid before the parent/guardian may be issued a card.

8. The use of VIP library cards is at the discretion of each individual library. Cards with VIP patron codes must only be assigned by the library director at each library and only for patrons of their library.

9. Students who attend school within Shelby County may obtain a card free of charge for one year if they present verification of enrollment and proof of current and permanent residence.

10. Non-resident adults, 18 years and older, who are working for business located in Shelby County are eligible to receive a free library card for one year with proof of employment such as a paycheck stub and/or employer ID card or badge.

11. Non-resident cards can be issued to adults, 18 years and older, for an annual $30 registration fee. Non-resident adults wishing only to gain access to databases or digital collections may apply for an electronic resources card for an annual $10 registration fee.

12. The library also offers cards to adults, 18 years and older, who are residing within impermanent and/or transient housing situations. Temporary 6 month cards can be given to those who are staying in temporary housing with proof either through rent payments or letter from their host. A temporary card may also be issued to those residing in transient housing such as a shelter, group home, center, institution, or organization with a letter from the administration of the organization.

13. If an individual’s library card is lost or stolen, then the patron must report the loss immediately. The patron is responsible for all activity relating to the lost card until the library has been notified and the card made invalid.

14. Replacement cards can be issued for old, damaged, unreadable, stolen or lost cards. All items must be returned, holds cancelled, all fines/fees paid, and lost or claimed items must be resolved on the current card before a new card can be issued. A card which has been replaced is no longer valid and should be destroyed if later found.

15. Stolen cards will be replaced free of charge. If the card is old, damaged or unreadable, then the patron may apply for a new card free of charge if the old card(s) is attached to the application. When an individual’s library card is lost, the patron may apply for a new replacement card and pay a nonrefundable fee of $3.

16. The length of terms for library cards is dependent on the Patron Registration Code. Each can be renewed upon expiration after any charges have been resolved, identification and contact information has been verified, and any registration fees paid.

Patron Registration Codes

Adult 3 Years

Shelby County resident who is 18 years or over. Expires every 3 years.

Juvenile 3 Years

Shelby County resident who is a minor (under age 18). Juvenile cards require adult parent/guardian’s signature. The signed adult is responsible for any charges associated with minor’s card. Expires every 3 years.

VIP 3 years

Examples: City/County/State officials, board/friends of the library/guild/staff members.

Assigned only by library directors for patrons of their library. Expire every 3 years. No late fines.

Books-By-Mail 3 years

Home bound individuals. Expires every 3 years. No late fines.

Student 1 Year

Student cards issued to students with enrollment verification and proof of current and permanent residence. Expires every year.

Electronic Resources 1 Year $5 library / $5 HRL

Non-resident adults 18 years or older who only wish access databases/digital collections. Annual $10 fee.

Expires every year. Cannot checkout any items.

Non-Resident 1 Year $15 library/ $15 HRL

Adult who is 18 years or older who does not live in Shelby County.

Annual $30 fee. Expires every year.

Non-Resident (In-County Employee) 1 Year

Adult who is 18 years or older who does not live but works within Shelby County. Expires every year.

Temporary 6 months

Adults, 18 years and older, who are residing within impermanent and/or transient housing situations. Must provide proof either through rent payments or letter from their host or the administration of the organization at which they are residing.

Expires in 6 months. Restricted to 5 non-print and 15 print items.

II. Standard Loan Rules

1. Patrons must present their own unexpired library card in good standing to check out library materials. Good standing is defined as: Non-permanently stopped cards with complete data and without long overdue items, without excessive fines/fees ($10 & more), and without noted problems restricting library privileges.

2. Materials are loaned by the library with the understanding that the borrower will return them in the same condition and by the due date established by the library.

3. Patrons are responsible for materials checked out on their library cards. The parent/guardian is responsible for materials checked out on the juvenile’s card.

4. Books borrowed through out-of-county interlibrary loan will be dealt with as determined by the interlibrary loan policy.

5. The ability to place a hold or renew an item is dependent on the owning library’s policy.

6. Most items auto-renew to the limit of the renewals set by the owning library. As a courtesy, Patrons are notified of renewals via text or email. Items that have holds are not auto-renewed. Auto-renewal will not happen if the patron has a block or blocks on their card due to fines, lost items, expired registration, or other reasons. Patrons are responsible for overdue fines if an item that is not auto-renewed is returned late. Failure to receive notifications or does not absolve the patron from the overdue fines for an item. Therefore, patrons are encouraged to keep their contact information up-to-date.

7. Holdable items can be reserved at any Shelby County library, through the online catalog at http://catalog.shelbycounty-al.org/polaris and/or through the mobile PAC at http://catalog.shelbycounty-al.org/mobile

8. Renewable items can be renewed at any Shelby County library, by calling the telephone renewal line at 205.669.3928, through the online catalog at http://catalog.shelbycounty-al.org/polaris and/or through the mobile PAC at http://catalog.shelbycounty-al.org/mobile

9. Most items can be returned to any Shelby County public library without penalty unless restricted by the owning library.

10. Media materials circulate and are fined according to the policies set at the owning library. Acceptable return policies of these items are determined by the owning library.

11. Shelby County Public Libraries’ materials must be returned to a Shelby County Public Library.

III. Fines, Fees, and Charges

1. If materials are returned damaged or with pieces missing, the owning library can choose to charge for the repair and/or retrieval of missing pieces or the complete replacement costs of the item. The owning library shall have the discretion to determine if materials returned are in the same condition as when they were checked out.

2. If materials are returned later than the due date specified at checkout, overdue fines will accrue daily but will not be applied to the patron’s account until the item is returned, renewed, or deemed lost.

3. Materials which are long overdue and for which the patron has been issued a bill are considered by the library to be lost and the patron is responsible for paying for the replacement cost of the item. As a courtesy, the library issues a reminder for almost overdue items and three overdue notices prior to charging the patron’s account with the replacement cost of an item. Failure to receive overdue notifications or bills does not absolve the patron from the overdue fines or replacement costs for an item. Therefore, patrons are encouraged to keep their contact information up-to-date.

4. Other fines, fees, or charges may be assessed and applied according to the issuing library’s policy.

5. Fines and other outstanding charges will be brought to the patron’s attention at the checkout desk.

6. Only the owning library can waive fines.

7. Fines not associated with lost or damaged items collected cumulatively in amounts lower than $25 will be retained at the library collecting the fine. When collecting cumulative fine amounts of $25 or more the entire amount should be routed to the owning library along with a copy of the printed receipt.

8. Undisputed payments for lost materials may be made at any library without first contacting the owning library. The library handling an undisputed payment must issue a receipt verifying payment of the material. All payments for lost or damaged materials must be routed to the owning library – regardless of the amount along with a copy of the receipt.

9. Disputes in payments for overdue, lost, or damaged materials must be resolved at the owning library. Replacement copies in lieu of replacement costs for lost items should only be offered and accepted by the owning library.

10. If a patron finds and returns the materials for which they have paid the replacement costs, the owning library will reimburse the patron as defined by the owning library’s local replacement policy. Each library must issue a receipt for lost material payments. Reimbursement of payments for lost materials will only be made upon presentation of a valid receipt issued in the last 30 days.

IV. Suspension of Privileges

1. Borrowing privileges will be suspended after a patron has accrued a total of $10 worth of fines/fees or have more than $10 worth of items deemed lost on their library account. The account will be cleared and privileges reinstated upon the return of lost items and/or fines paid.

2. An associated adult card will be blocked and borrowing privileges suspended when the juvenile card for which an adult has signed accrues $10 or has more than $10 worth of items deemed lost. Both accounts will be cleared and privileges reinstated upon the return of lost items and/or fines/fees paid.

3. Borrowing privileges can be suspended for unacceptable behavior including but not limited to physical abuse of facilities or resources, physical or verbal abuse of staff or other patrons, stealing, vandalism, computer agreement violations, and/or any criminal activities on library property.

4. If an individual has committed illegal activity in one library, the library card will be suspended and the individual

can be banned from the property. The director will notify the system libraries and a vote will determine if the

ban will be countywide. Appeals will be directed to the Harrison Regional Library Board which shall be the final

authority in the matter.

V. Confidentiality of Patrons Records

All information retained in patron records is for the purpose of conducting daily library business. This information is confidential in nature and cannot be given out to unauthorized individuals or for any other purpose than to carry out normal procedures of the library.

Any requests for patron records or circulation records generated by the integrated library system must be presented to the director of the Harrison Regional Library. The Board of the Harrison Regional Library in consultation with the county’s attorney will determine the process in which information is released or information is refused. Any request for information may be refused. Any request for information must be accompanied by a subpoena signed by a judge.

for the Countywide Circulation Policy

Revised July 2021

Mt Laurel Library is a branch of North Shelby Library and, as such, also follows these policies.

II. Standard Loan Rules

Holds:

New adult fiction and non-fiction books, new movies, video games, and hotspots can be held but must be picked up at the owning library.
Puzzles and board games cannot be held.
Holds for special collection items such as kits or passes are determined on a case-by-case basis and indicated on the item label, patron use agreements, and/or advertising.
Most other circulating items can be placed on hold and can be sent to other libraries in Shelby County for patron pick-up. This includes books and media in any format.
In order to pick up a hold, the person checking it out must have the library card or driver’s license of the person it was requested for. Alternately, circulation staff may take permission over the phone after verifying the person’s identity.

Renewals:

New adult fiction and non-fiction books and new movies are not renewable.
Video games and hotspots are not renewable.
Renewals for special collection items such as kits or passes are determined on a case-by-case basis and indicated on the item label, patron use agreements, and/or advertising.
All other books, older DVDs & Blu-rays, audiobooks, and music CDs are able to be renewed three times if there are no holds on them.
If there are no more renewals left, then the items must be turned in and cannot be checked out on the same library card again until the next business day.

9. Media materials circulate and are fined according to the policies set at the owning library. Acceptable return policies of these items are determined by the owning library.

Movies in any format can be returned to any Shelby County public library without penalty.
Audiobooks and music CDs can be returned to any Shelby County public library without penalty.
Hotspots, board games, puzzles, and special collection items must be returned to the library the item originated from. These items must be returned inside and handed to an employee at the circulation desk.
There is no limit on the number of books, movies in any format, audiobooks, or music CDs that can be checked out on a card.
There is a limit of three video games per library card.
There is a limit of one hotspot per family/address.
There is a limit of one Citizen Science kit per family/address.
Other special collection items have the limits as indicated on the item label, patron use agreements, and/or advertising.

III. Fines, Fees, and Charges

4. Other fines, fees, or charges may be assessed and applied according to the issuing library’s policy.

Fines:

New books, movies in any format, and video games……………………. $1.00/day
Hotspots……………………………………………………………………………. $2.00/day
Telescopes…………………………………………………………………………. $5.00/day
Other science kits………………………………………………………………… $2.00/day
All other books, board games, puzzles, & audiobooks…………………. $0.10/day
Other special collection items range from $0.10-$5.00 per day as indicated on their label.

North Shelby Library and Mt Laurel Library do not accept replacement copies of lost materials in lieu of replacement costs.

Collection Development Policy

Collection Development Policy 2024

Section 3: Library Collections – 9/17/2024

3.01 Collection Development Policy

Responsibility for Selection

Although the North Shelby Library Board of Trustees is legally responsible for the operation of the library, the responsibility for the selection of library materials is delegated to the Director of Library Services who authorizes collection development staff members who are library professionals and are knowledgeable in their areas of selection to purchase for their departments. Decisions made by the Director of Library Services must be fully compliant with the NSL Policy Manual and may be reviewed by the Board of Trustees to determine compliance with NSL policies.

Selection Process

Most of the materials selection process is done online through vendor sites. These vendors provide thorough product descriptions which can include cover art, reviews, excerpts, release dates, and sales, print run, or box office figures, all of which facilitate the selection process. Additional materials are selected from review journals, print and online catalogs, awards lists, best seller lists, and promotional mailers. The Library also accepts patron requests which are considered based on the criteria for selection found below. Librarians are encouraged to evaluate vendor-recommended materials in light of the unique needs of the North Shelby Library and the community served.

In general, selection is an ongoing process which includes the following steps:

Evaluate the existing collection and assess needs;
Consult reputable, professionally prepared selection aids and vendor sites;
Keep abreast of high interest titles reviewed in popular media as well as best seller and awards lists;
Solicit and consider recommendations for acquisitions from patrons;
Judge gift materials by the criteria listed in the “Policy on Gifts to North Shelby Library” accepting or rejecting them on the basis of those criteria;
Remove obsolete materials from the collection [see “Collection Maintenance /Weeding Policy”].

Examples of Sources Used during the Selection Process

The staff members in charge of collection development use a variety of resources to assist them in selection. These include:

Professional journals (e.g. School Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher’s Weekly, Kirkus)
Popular media (e.g. People Magazine, Oprah’s Book Club, Book Riot website)
Best seller lists (e.g. New York Times, USA Today, Amazon)
Vendor catalogs/selection lists (e.g. Baker & Taylor, Ingram, Midwest Tape, Overdrive)
Award lists (e.g. National Book Awards, ALA Youth Media Awards, Pulitzers)
Social reviewing sites (e.g. Goodreads, Common Sense Media, YouTube, TikTok)
Patron requests and usage statistics

Objectives of Selection

To assure that the library is a place where information, ideas and resources are available to all patrons the following selection objectives are adopted:

To provide materials that will enrich and support the personal needs of the users, taking into consideration their varied interests, abilities, and learning styles;
To provide materials that will stimulate growth in knowledge, literary appreciation, aesthetic values, and ethical standards in a pluralistic society;
To provide a background of information which will enable patrons to make intelligent judgments in their daily

lives;

To provide materials on opposing sides of controversial issues so that no one viewpoint is unduly represented.
To place principle above opinion and reason above prejudice in the selection of materials of the highest quality in order to assure a comprehensive media collection appropriate for the users.
To benefit the community by supplying classic, enduring, and quality works in addition to new materials
To uniquely represent the community of patrons by curating a collection based on their preferences and uses

Criteria for Selection

The public library is the institution in our society that attempts to provide a diversity of viewpoints on a wide range of topics of interest including political, social, and religious ones – no matter how controversial or objectionable those ideas may be to some people. Selection of books or other library materials shall be made based on their value of interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community. No book or library material shall be excluded because of the race, nationality, religion, sexuality, or the political or social views of the author. A balanced collection reflects a diversity of materials, not an equality of numbers. Materials are chosen representing different points of view, limited by our selection criteria, applicable policies, budget, and space available in our facilities. The Board of Directors will uphold the principle that censorship is largely an individual matter and declares that while anyone is free to reject for oneself books which do not meet with the individual’s approval, one cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrict the freedom to read of others. Determinations of age-appropriateness do not constitute censorship, and the Board of Directors will fully comply with NSL Polices.

Selecting Materials for Minors

The staff in charge of selecting materials for minors follow the guidelines outlined below in addition to guidelines provided to other selectors. Selectors for books provided to minors must consider age, developmental appropriateness, and quality of content when acquiring materials and deciding where to place said materials in the collection. The decision must fully comply with NSL Policies and may be subject to review by the Board of Directors. Selectors use their professional training, read reviews and publisher descriptions, and follow the guidelines listed below when considering purchases. Selectors review ordered books when they arrive before being processed. Library staff also spot check materials to determine if items meet library policies and are shelved in the correct department/location. Materials found out of compliance with library policies must be removed or reshelved in appropriate areas.

North Shelby Library District will not purchase or shelve materials which would meet the legal definitions of obscene nor shelve materials “harmful to minors” in areas designated for minors. North Shelby Library District will also fully comply with the standards and definitions delineated in the NSL Collection Development Policy. Materials that have been purchased in the past that do not comply with NSL policies must be relocated or removed by librarians. The definitions of “Harmful to Minors,” “Obscene,” and “Sexual Conduct” as stated in Alabama Code Title 13A. Criminal Code § 13A-12-200.1 are:

(11) HARMFUL TO MINORS. The term means:

a. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a

whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors; and

b. The material depicts or describes sexual conduct, breast nudity or genital nudity, in a way which is patently

offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community with respect to what is suitable for minors; and

c. A reasonable person would find that the material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors.

(17) OBSCENE. The term means that:

a. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a

whole, appeals to the prurient interest; and

b. The material depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct, actual or simulated, normal or

perverted; and

c. A reasonable person would find that the material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.

(22) SEXUAL CONDUCT. The term means:

a. Any act of sexual intercourse, masturbation, urination, defecation, lewd exhibition of the genitals, sadomasochistic abuse, bestiality, or the fondling of the sex organs of animals; or

b. Any other physical contact with a person’s unclothed genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or the breast or breasts of a female, whether alone or between members of the same or opposite sex or between a human and an animal, in an act of sexual stimulation, gratification or perversion.

Materials with content that includes depictions of sexually explicit conduct will not be purchased for or located in the Children’s Department (generally ages birth – 12) or Teen Department (generally ages 13-17). Age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy may not be construed to be against this rule, however these may be subject to review by the Review Committee and Board of Directors and may be moved if determined to be suitable for a different audience. This policy recognized two categories of materials for children: sexually explicit materials, which are not permitted, and “parental guidance” materials which are not required to be removed, but must be shelved in a separate section of the Children’s Department.

Materials for children that contain nudity, or a discussion of sexuality must be shelved in a separate area of the Children’s Department to be accessible only with parental guidance, even if the text is regarding religion, history, biology, human anatomy, or human sexuality. The term and phrase “Human Sexuality” and “discussion of sexuality” include topics related to sexual orientation, gender identity, consent, and sexual ethics. Librarians may not direct children (birth to 12 years) to these selections without parental consent. Materials that do not contain sexually explicit material but do require parental guidance must be separated from the selection of other children’s books but may remain in the Children’s Department. Materials containing sexually explicit material in violation of NSL Policy may not remain in the Children’s Department and must be removed or reshelved in a different department.

The following may constitute sexually explicit content and/or parental guidance content for the Children’s Department:

The use of words describing a sex act
Descriptions of sexual abuse, sexual assault, and consent
Nudity, even nonsexual, displaying a person’s unclothed genitals, pubic area, or breast(s)
Sexual education materials which are medically correct but have not been placed in a separate area for parental discretion
Topics related to sexual orientation, gender identity, consent, and sexual ethics that are not placed in a separate area for parental discretion

The above list is not exhaustive and is subject to library policy, and review committee decisions.

The following may constitute sexually explicit content for the Teen Department:

Detailed scenes of sexual touching over clothing
Detailed discussions of sexual acts or the use of words describing a sex act
Detailed or explicit descriptions of sexual abuse, sexual assault, and consent
Nudity displaying a person’s unclothed genitals, pubic area, or breast(s)
Sexual content, nudity, or sex acts depicted in images, graphics, or illustrations in content or cover art

The above list is not exhaustive and is subject to NSL Library policy, and review committee decisions. The above criteria for the Children’s and Teen Departments apply to all material and resources offered in the department. Patrons residing in the North Shelby Library District who are in good standing with the Library and are concerned that specific material is in violation of the above policy may contact the Library Director and/or the Board of Trustees and will be provided with materials to submit a Reconsideration Request.

Safeguarding of Minors

The North Shelby Library District makes every effort to provide a safe place for patrons of all ages and has policies for Unattended Children and Patron Behavior in place to ensure every patron’s visit to the library meets their needs. Additional policies safeguarding minors include the Internet Acceptable Use Policy and the Privacy Policy. The North Shelby Library District fully complies with NSL Library Policy to ensure that selections are age-appropriate for minors.

The North Shelby Library District will offer a restricted Juvenile library card for patrons under 18 years of age. This card will be issued to all juvenile patrons at the request of their parent or legal guardian. The Juvenile Library card will only be authorized to check out materials from the Children’s and Teen departments of the library and will not be authorized to check out materials from the adult department. The library card functions by alerting librarians and staff that the holder is a juvenile. Librarians and staff will then ensure that no materials from adult (18+) collections are released to the minor. If a parent is concerned that adult materials have been checked out on a Juvenile card, they may contact the Library Director for more information.

A parent or legal guardian wishing to provide unrestricted access may request an all-departments juvenile card for their minor child. If a parent or legal guardian wants to convert a restricted juvenile card to an all-departments juvenile card for their minor child, they must come to the library and present photo ID as the parent or legal guardian of the minor child, then complete an application and sign an authorization form agreeing to give their minor child authorization to check out materials from the adult department. The parent or legal guardian must also be a library-card holder at North Shelby Library, either as a resident or through a paid membership. All juvenile library cards will be subject to the Standard Registration Rules outlined in section 4 (4.01) of the NSL Policy Manual.

The parent or legal guardian of any minors issued juvenile cards will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that the “restricted access” juvenile applies only to physical and eBook materials provided by North Shelby Library. The Harrison Regional Library does not recognize “restricted access” cards and other libraries in the system may or may not allow juveniles to check out materials from all sections of the library including the adult sections. Parental guidance is recommended for parents or legal guardians wishing to restrict access at other libraries in the system. While some eBook platforms are completely restricted for juvenile cards, other platforms offer “kid’s mode”, which filters for age appropriate material. Parents and legal guardians wishing to give unrestricted access to eBooks must sign an authorization form as described above. Parents and legal guardians who wish to restrict access to e-materials may still need to offer some parental guidance, depending on the policies of each unique eBook platform. Librarians and staff may provide information about the procedures for the various platforms available, if assistance is needed.

The Library is unable to act in loco parentis. Responsibility for the choice of library material for minors rests with their parent(s) or legal guardian. Conversely, the library and staff will not act in loco parentis, circumventing parental authority, by facilitating or recommending resources that parents have indicated (by choosing the restricted access juvenile card) their minor child(ren) should not have access to. Patrons will not be stigmatized by their usage of or preference not to use materials provided by the library for themselves or their minor children. Librarians may not check out material from the adult section to minors unless they have an “unrestricted” Juvenile card. At North Shelby Library, the departments are physically separate as well as having distinctive spine labels. At Mt Laurel Library, materials have distinctive labels and are shelved separately but each department is within reach of the other departments. All books are shelved on open shelves.

Library Departments

Children’s (generally ages birth-12)
Pre-Teen/Young Teen (Generally ages 12-14)
Teen (generally ages 13-17)
Adult (18+; including Young Adult (generally 18-25))

North Shelby Library District will not purchase or shelve materials which would meet the legal definitions of obscene nor shelve materials “harmful to minors” in areas designated for minors and will relocate or remove any books or materials that violate the NSL Policy Manual, or the standards listed in this Collection Development Policy. The District may purchase or acquire any materials requested by adults regardless of the advertised target audience if the material meets other selection standards for adults. These items will be labeled as adult, shelved in the adult sections of the libraries, and will not be marketed, suggested, or recommended to minors.

The Teen Department will be separated by Pre-Teen/Young Teen and Teen Collections based the age group recommended by the book publisher so that patrons may more easily determine which materials are recommended for different ages. The Pre-Teen/Young Teen books will be available in a designated portion of the teen section, and they will have a spine label indicating the applicable age group. The juvenile card does not prevent young teens from selecting books in all portions of the Teen Department, but it may be a useful tool for parents and juveniles seeking age-appropriate materials.

Patrons residing in the North Shelby Library District who are in good standing with the library and current on District Assessments may request materials be withdrawn or reconsidered through the process described in the Reconsideration Procedures section.

Guidelines for Evaluation and Selection of Library Resources

Reputation and qualifications of the creator(s), publisher(s), or producer(s)
Community needs, interests, and demand
Present and potential relevance to community needs
Relevant to establishing a well-rounded and educated background on a variety of subjects, past and present
Representative of differing viewpoints on controversial subjects
Clear and accurate with the scope of text or audiovisual presentation appropriate to the needs of the users
Quality format and value, commensurate with cost and/or need
Authenticity of voice
Representative of diverse points of view
Judgment of the work as a whole
Compliance with Collection Development policy

Types of Materials Not Generally Purchased by the Library

Textbooks or curriculum materials
Workbooks or journals
Collector’s Editions
Non-fiction books published more than 5 years ago or that are no longer factually accurate
Out of print materials
Items not available through library vendors

Items requested by patrons that fit into these categories or that cannot be purchased due to budget constraints or other considerations will be requested for the patron through ILL (interlibrary loan).

Policy for Gifts to North Shelby Library

The North Shelby Library welcomes gifts of books, periodical subscriptions, works of art, media, other educational materials and equipment, and money for the purchase of library media materials and equipment.

Materials and equipment are accepted with the understanding that the item(s) meet(s) the standards in the library’s Collection Development Policy.

Gifts are irrevocable; those weeded from or not added to the collection may be disposed of as the Director of Library Services deems appropriate.

The Director of Library Services under the guidance of the Board of Trustees reserves the right to determine appropriate use, housing, and maintenance of gifts or to delegate that determination to the appropriate staff member.

The Library will not appraise gifts. A donor may request a receipt for the number of items donated.

North Shelby Library hereby states it is currently in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service as a charitable organization under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and contributions to the North Shelby Library are deductible charitable contributions to the donor. We have also received sales tax exemption from the State of Alabama Department of Revenue.

Donors will be supplied with an appropriate statement regarding any monitory donation which is tax deductible.

Collection Maintenance/ Weeding Policy for North Shelby Library

Both print and non-print materials should be reviewed and evaluated at regular intervals to determine if they are to remain in the current collection. This final step in the selection process ensures the library collection will contain materials that are factual, undamaged, and in-demand. Staff members in charge of collections should consider space, budget, and user needs when deciding how much and how often to weed. Staff members also actively search for replacement items for dated materials. Staff members should prioritize objective measures such as Record of Use or Physical Condition over subjective measures such as relevance or reliability.

Depending on the condition, materials withdrawn from the collections may be offered for sale through the Friends of the Library groups. Donations and other items not added to the collection may also be included in these sales. Damaged or factually inaccurate materials may be disposed of.

Suggested Criteria for Weeding

Record of use- the item has not circulated for an appropriate amount of time for its collection, generally 1-5 years.

Technical Quality- non-print materials with poor visuals, faded or off-color visuals, faulty or inferior sound reproductions.

Dispensability- duplicate copies no longer needed in the collection.

Physical Condition- the item is torn, soiled, or worn; pages or parts are missing.

Poor Purchases- materials purchased that were not quality items and/or items not appropriate.

Compliance- the material’s presence in the department does not jeopardize compliance with library policy

Dewey Decimal Balance- the item is unneeded to balance the collection.

Careful consideration should be practiced in weeding an item that:

is a work of historical significance in the field of literature.
has unusual illustrations or the illustrations are by a well-known artist.
is a work by a local author or illustrator.
describes local history or personalities.
is a memorial gift.
has a strong record of use by the community

However, North Shelby Library is not an archive or research library, and no items are kept indefinitely when they meet criteria for weeding.

Reconsideration Procedures

The North Shelby Library complies with all relevant federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to the First Amendment contained in the Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the United States, or final judgments or rulings by a court of competent jurisdiction. However, patrons residing in the North Shelby Library District who are in good standing with the library and current on District Assessments may request materials be withdrawn or reconsidered and should be afforded every opportunity to express their concerns. Concerns from patrons may be directed to the Director of Library Services and/or the Library Review Committee.

Materials reflecting diverse viewpoints and opinions are included in the collection through the library’s commitment to provide a broad base of information upon which individuals can formulate intelligent, well-researched decisions. An item in the collection will not be removed at the request of anyone who disagrees with the content or format unless it can be proved that it is in violation of the North Shelby Library collection development policy. A work is evaluated as a whole, not by excerpts taken out of context. Both the work itself and the location of the item in the library may be reviewed.

If a complaint is made, the following procedures shall be followed:

If possible, the patron should be referred immediately to the department head or Director of Library Services. The department head or director should then have a discussion with the patron about the material in question informing the patron of the selection policies and the procedures for questioning materials.
The Staff or Director of Library services will notify the patron that if they wish to pursue the complaint further, they may submit a request for reconsideration form to the Director of Library Services. The patron will be provided with a written copy of the collection development policy (3.01), the and a copy of the reconsideration form (3.01a).
Staff should inform the Director of Library Services when a form is given out.
Each request form will be limited to a single title. Multiple requests may be submitted by the same patron, but the Review Committee will determine which material will be reviewed first and will generally conduct only one review at a time. If multiple requests are submitted for the same material, or a material already reviewed, the documentation of the final decision will be sent to each individual requesting review. At that time, the individual may accept the decision as it stands or appeal the decision to the Board of Trustees. The Review Committee will only review the same book once every 3 years, then appeals on the review may go to the Board of Trustees for the remainder of the 3-year period. A maximum of four book complaints is allowed per resident per 12 months.
The challenged materials will remain in circulation during the reconsideration process, unless they have been shown to be in violation of NSL Library policies related to minors. In that case the book will be temporarily removed or relocated to the adult section pending a final decision. The library will not purchase additional copies until the library review policy is completed.
Upon receipt of the completed complaint form, the Director of Library Services will respond to the patron within 2 business days to confirm receipt and will forward the form within 2 business days to the Review Committee.
The Review Committee will commence review of the challenged material within fifteen business days.
The Review Committee, facilitated by the committee Chair, will meet once all members have been able to review the material in its entirety, not more than 45 days after receipt of the request.
The Director informs the patron and the Board of Trustees of the decision made by the Review Committee within 2 business days of the decision.
The patron may make a written appeal to the Board of Trustees at least 14 days in advance of a scheduled Board meeting.
The decision of the Board of Trustees is final.
Reconsideration committee decisions are reported to appropriate agencies and archived in Board Meeting Documents.

Review Committee

The Review Committee is appointed and approved by the Board of Trustees. The Review Committee consists of two board members and up to five at-large members. The committee Chair serves as the facilitator. The Director of Library services may advise the committee but is not a committee member and does not vote. Committee members may be removed or replaced by a majority vote of the Board of Trustees. A numerical majority of committee members must, for the entirety of their service, be residential or commercial dues-paying members in the North Shelby Library District. All members must be in good standing with the library and current on District Assessments. In the instance a member’s residential or commercial status changes or status standing on District Assessments changes, they must notify the Board and may be removed by a vote of the Board if necessary to maintain a dues-paying majority.

The Review Committee responsibilities include:

Reading, viewing, or listening to the material in its entirety
Meeting with the other members of the Review Committee and determining the extent to which the material supports the collection development policy
Meeting with the other members of the Review Committee and determining the material’s compliance with NSL library policies

At the conclusion of their meeting, the Review Committee will make one of the following decisions:

Retain the material as is
Move to a different collection in the library
Withdraw from circulation

3.01a Collection Development Policy Appendix A: Request for Reconsideration Form

Reconsideration of Library Resources

The Board of Trustees of the North Shelby Library has established reconsideration procedures to address concerns about library resources. Completion of this form is the first step in those procedures.

If you wish to request reconsideration of library resources, please return the completed form to Director of Library Services, North Shelby Library, 5521 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, AL 35242. All requests will be forwarded to the book review committee within 2 business days.

Date ________________

Name ________________________________________________________________________________

Signature ____________________________________________________________________________

Address ______________________________________________________________________________

City _________________________________________________ State __________ Zip _____________

Email _________________________________ Phone _________________________________________

Resource on which you are commenting:

Book o Audio

DVD/Blu-Ray o Newspaper

Game o Digital

Magazine o Other (please specify): _______________________________

Location of the resource: __________________________________________________________________

Did the staff or Director of Library Services provide you with a printed copy of the Collection Development Policy?

Yes___ No___

Did the library staff or Director of Library Services notify you of the Reconsideration Request forms and offer to provide you with one when you presented your complaint? Yes ____ No_____

Have you examined (read/heard/seen) the material in its entirety? ____ Yes ____ No

Author _______________________________________________________________________________

Title _________________________________________________________________________________

Publisher/Producer _____________________________________________________________________

What brought this resource to your attention? _______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

What concerns you about the resource? Please cite specific passages, pages, etc. (use other side or additional pages if necessary)

Are there resources you recommend that provide additional information and/or other viewpoints on this topic?

How is the material contrary to the collection development policy?

Please attach any professional reviews of the material.

3.01b Collection Development Policy Appendix B: Review Committee North Shelby Library Review Committee Instructions

Guidelines

Under the best professional standards, reconsideration policies ask those charged with reviewing a challenged book or other resource to set aside their personal beliefs and evaluate the work considering the objective standards outlined in the library’s collection development policy. Listed below are some best practices for Reconsideration Committee members:

Bear in mind the principles of the freedom to read and base your decision on these broad principles rather than in defense of individual materials.
Bear in mind that determinations of age-appropriateness do not violate the freedom to read
The North Shelby Library District complies with the First Amendment, Bill of Rights, and other applicable federal, state, and local laws
Requests for clarification on policies or codes may be submitted to the Board of Trustees by the chair of the Book Review Committee
Read or view all materials referred to you including the full text of the material in question, available reviews, and notices of awards, if applicable.
Review the library mission statement, collection development policies, and reconsideration policies.
The general acceptance of the materials should be checked by consulting standard evaluation aids and your institution’s selection policies.
Challenged materials should not be removed from the collection while under reconsideration unless they are shown to be in violation of NSL Library Policies in which case they may not be shelved in the Children’s or Teen departments until after a final decision is made.
Passages or parts of the work in question should not be pulled out of context. The values and faults should be weighed against each other and the opinions based on the materials as a whole.
The committee’s decision is to be an objective evaluation of the material within the scope of the library’s collection development policy.
Compliance with NSL Library Policies for materials available to minors is mandatory. If the book is not in compliance, it must be relocated and is subject to being removed by the Review Committee process.

Review Committee Discussion Guide

Review Committee members should read, view, or listen to the contested material in its entirety then meet with other members of the Committee at the designated time to determine if the material should be retained, moved, or withdrawn. This guide is designed to help in that discussion.

Title:

Author:

Purpose/theme:

Does the work meet one or more selection criteria from the Collection Development Policy?

Reputation and qualifications of the creator(s), publisher(s), or producer(s)
Community needs, interests, and demand
Classic, enduring, and quality works that should be available to the community
Present and potential relevance to community needs
Relevant to today’s world, reflecting problems, aspirations, attitudes, and ideals of society
Representative of differing viewpoints on controversial subjects from both past and present
Clear and accurate with the scope of text or audiovisual presentation appropriate to the needs of the users
Quality format and value, commensurate with cost and/or need
Authenticity of voice
Representative of diverse points of view
Judgment of the work as a whole
In compliance with applicable policies in the content and location of the material

Reviews and lists

The Library will supply reviews of this material and the name of selection lists it appeared on.

Review committee members can also check for additional sources. Please be able to discuss:

The source of the review or list
Whether the review was favorable or unfavorable
Any biases the review or list might contain

Decision

At the conclusion of their meeting, the Review Committee will vote by secret ballot to make one of the following decisions:

Retain the material
Move to a different collection in the library
Withdraw from circulation

Internet Acceptable Use Policy

Internet Acceptable Use Policy 4/16/15

Internet Safety Policy

Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web

Minor Children under the age of 18 must have the written permission of their parents or legal guardians to use the Public Libraries of Shelby County computers connected to the Internet.
Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System makes use of a filtering service on all library computers with Internet access to prevent minors from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography or (3) harmful to minors. The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex or excretion; depicts, describes or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
Children and teens under the age of 18 are not allowed an opportunity to by-pass the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s filtering service for any reason.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System maintains a special web site for children and teens.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides training on safe and effective Internet use and disseminates information to library patrons on Child Internet Safety.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System encourages library staff to guide children and teens under the age of 18 away from materials that may be inappropriate as defined by U.S., state, and local laws.

The safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communication.

To address the issue of the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communication the Public Libraries of Shelby County System provides training and also urges minors and their parents to keep in mind the following safety guidelines:

It is not acceptable for a minor to receive any material that is deemed harmful to minors under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) through a web site, email, chat room or other direct electronic communication.
Children and teens are instructed never to arrange a fact-to-face meeting with someone via the computer without parents’ or legal guardians’ approval.
Children and teens are instructed never to respond to messages that are suggestive, obscene, threatening or make one uncomfortable.
Children and teens are cautioned to remember that people online may not be who they say they are.
Children and teens are cautioned to remember that everything one reads may not be true.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System staff instruct parents and legal guardians to report any incident of the transmission of child pornography to local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5648 or https://report.cybertip.org.
Public Libraries of Shelby County System staff is required to report any incident of the transmission of child pornography to the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library System Director. The Director is required to report any incidents to local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

3. Unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online

4. Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors

Children and teens are instructed never to give out identifying information such as home address, school name, or telephone number.
Children and teens are instructed to let parents or guardians decide whether personal information should be revealed.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk to their children about the dangers of disclosing personal information.
Children and teens are instructed never to arrange a fact to face meeting with someone via the computer without parents or approval
Children and teens are cautioned that people online may not be who they say they are.
Any personal information gathered by the Public Libraries of Shelby County System for library card applications and entered into the Public Libraries of Shelby County System’s computerized data base will not be shared and will remain strictly confidential.

5. Technology Protection Measures designed to restrict minors’ access to materials harmful to minors.

Kid’s Rules for Online Safety

The following is a handout about online safety that is given to parents and children when applying for a library card:

I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number, or the name and location of my school with my parents’ permission.
I will tell my parents right away if I come across any information that makes me feel uncomfortable.
I will never agree to get together with someone I “meet” online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring my mother or father along.
I will never send a person my picture or anything else without first checking with my parents.
I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away.
I will not send any mean or bullying messages to classmates. If a classmate sends a mean or bullying message to me I will tell my parents immediately.
I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online, and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.
I will not give out my Internet password to anyone (even my best friends).
I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law.

Rules Governing Use of Public Access Computers

Examples of Unacceptable Use

Unacceptable use includes but is not limited to the following:

Patrons may not:

Use the Public Libraries of Shelby County System network to make unauthorized entry into other computational, information or communication services or resources.
Distribute unsolicited advertising;
Invade the privacy of others;
Participate in cyber bullying;
Make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software;
Engage in any activity that is harassing or defamatory either in person or online;
Use the Internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other rights of third parties or in a manner inconsistent with the Library’s tax-exempt status or its proper operation;
Attempt to view or download child pornography or inappropriate or obscene material in e-mail transmissions, via websites, or on thumb drives;
Damage or destroy equipment, software, data belonging to the Public Libraries of Shelby County System or to other users including adding, altering or deleting files on workstations hard drives or other Public Libraries of Shelby County System computer equipment;
Make unauthorized copies of copyright protected material;
Violate software license agreements;
Violate computer system or network integrity including attempts to by-pass network security functions, obtain passwords or alter the configuration of Public Libraries of Shelby County System workstations in any way.
Participate in illegal gambling on the Internet; and
Waste finite resources including printing copies with paying.

Violations may result in loss of access. Unlawful activities will be dealt with in an appropriate manner and may involve contacting local law enforcement.

Patrons’ Security

Compliance

The Public Libraries of Shelby County System reserves the right to take appropriate action to insure compliance with this policy.

Approved 04/16/15

Media Relations Policy

7.03 Media Relations Policy

Library Spokesperson

In order to provide the most current and consistent information about the library, all contact with news media will be carried out through the Director of Library Services or Board President, although at times individuals occupying such positions may refer the media to specific staff members. The Board President is the spokesperson for the Library Board of Trustees. All inquiries from reporters or other media persons should be reported immediately to the Director of Library Services.

When asked by the public for information related to library business or policy, staff should respond in accordance with library guidelines regarding such requests and, in the case of doubt, should consult with the Director of Library Services.

Employees who represent the library as media spokespersons should avoid speculation on any topic and refrain from offering personal opinions about library policies or programs, even when asked to do so by a reporter.

Questions from the public regarding the general operations or direction of the library should be referred to the Director of Library Services. Inquiries related to the underlying principles of a policy that are open to interpretation from a political, constitutional, and/or legal perspective should be referred to the Director of Library Services who may refer questions to the Board of Trustees. Examples of such policies include but are not limited to those covering Internet Access, Filtering, Intellectual Freedom, and Meeting Room issues.

Inquiries regarding the library budget should be referred to the Director, Business Manager, and/or Board of Trustees.

Newsgathering in the Library

Members of the media who wish to conduct newsgathering in the library in any manner disruptive to, or interfering with, the operation of the library or its use by other customers or be inconsistent with its mission, must make themselves known to either the Director of Library Services, or to the staff member in charge of the building in the Director’s absence. Examples of behavior that can be disruptive, or interfere with, the operation of the library or its use by other customers or be inconsistent with the library’s mission, include (but are not limited to) interviewing at other than normal conversational voice level, photographing, video recording, or audio recording customers or staff. (See Photography or recording by members of the public or media below.) Staff members witnessing members of the media engaged in such activity must inform them of the policy and ask that they request and gain permission from the Director of Library Services before further conducting newsgathering in the library. This policy does not apply to a member of the media in his or her capacity as a customer using the library’s resources.

Photography and Video or Audio Recording in The Library

Photography or recording by the library

Library staff has the right to photograph, film, and record library events and customers for promotional use. Visitors to the library, or participants in any library event being captured on film or by photograph, will be advised in advance, verbally or through signage, that their participation in the event acts as consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded, unless they otherwise clearly indicate to the contrary to library staff. To ensure the privacy of all individuals, their images will not be identified using full names or personal identifying information without written approval from the photographed subject, parent, or legal guardian.

The above policy applies only to open, public events. Closed events such as class visits would require releases and/or permissions from the supervisor of the visiting organization.

Photography or recording by members of the public or the media

While the library is a public place, it is considered a “limited public forum” under federal law. Public libraries may reasonably restrict the exercise of free speech rights in their buildings, particularly when the conduct would be disruptive to, or interfere with, the other customers or staff or be inconsistent with the library’s mission.

Subject to the preceding paragraph: photography and video or audio recording by visitors to the library are generally permitted if it is strictly for personal use. Photography and video or audio recording for commercial purposes are permitted only if the activity has been expressly approved by the Director. In order to ensure that such activity would not be disruptive to, or interfere with, the library staff or customers, or be inconsistent with the library’s mission, all individuals proposing to engage in such commercial activities must request approval in writing and in advance.

All requests to use a library facility as a setting for photography, video or audio recording are to be referred to the Director of Library Services, who has the responsibility and authority to evaluate the requests and to monitor the recording. Requests will be evaluated in terms of their impact on library operations and services. The Director will seek approval and make arrangements with specific library departments and personnel in advance of the approved photography or recording.

In order to protect the rights of individual customers and to prevent disruptions, or interference with, staff or customers, or conduct inconsistent with the library’s mission, photographing and video or audio recording on library property are restricted as follows:

Under no circumstances may the public or members of the media take photographs or record video or audio without the express permission of any library customer who would be included within the composition. In the case of minors, permission must come from the parent or legal guardian.

Media are subject to the provisions of the Code of Conduct policy and may not disturb the normal operations of the library.

In the event of a critical incident or emergency requiring police or fire response, public and media access may be limited to allow emergency personnel to ensure safety and security.

The terms above apply to the media as well as to amateur photographers and audio/video creators.

Patron Behavior Policy

The North Shelby Library Board of Trustees has adopted the Patron Behavior Policy to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone, including patrons and staff. This policy applies to the use of Library facilities at the North Shelby and Mt Laurel Libraries, resources and services in any form, including but not limited to in-person, phone and virtual, as well as the participation in Library-sponsored activities on or away from Library property.

As a community for the sharing of information to all persons, Library users are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is courteous, respectful and cooperative at all times. Any Library user whose behavior, in the opinion of Library staff, is disrespectful to others, disruptive, inhibits access to or the delivery of services or resources to others, or otherwise violates this policy or local, state or federal laws may be asked to immediately discontinue such behavior, to leave Library property, have Library privileges suspended, be subject to legal action, and/or be subject to reporting to the Pelham Police Department with or without warning or notice.

Examples of unacceptable activities and behaviors include, but are not limited to:

Lack of respect for others

Demonstrating disruptive, disturbing or potentially unsafe behavior or actions, including but not limited to:
Talking or laughing loudly, yelling, screaming or engaging in other noisy or boisterous activities
Running, jumping or throwing things
Hitting, pushing, shoving, challenging to fight or provoking violence
Interfering with the free movement of and use of the Library by others, or with Library staff members’ performance of their duties
Harassing any person in the Library, including but not limited to:
- Staring, following, stalking or lurking
- Initiating repeated unwanted personal and/or embarrassing questions or communication
- Threatening, taunting or inflicting physical, verbal or written abuse
Using obscene, derogatory, abusive, insulting, threatening, humiliating or otherwise offensive language, gestures or acts toward others
Engaging in public displays of physical affection or in lewd behavior including, but not limited to, petting, indecent exposure or sexual acts
Refusing to vacate the building at closing time or upon Library staff request
Using personal or Library devices for entertainment, conversation or other activities at a volume that disturbs other patrons
Soliciting, surveying, petitioning, campaigning, selling of any kind, distributing materials, posting flyers or otherwise engaging in activities for promotion or profit without specific authorization from Library staff
Displaying material which is inconsistent with the Library’s Internet Access and Use Policy or otherwise inappropriate for the surroundings, including potential passersby
Entering a Library facility without footwear and a covering of the upper and lower body, such as shoes, shirt and pants
Offensive odor of the body or personal property to a degree that constitutes a nuisance to others
Obstructing or blocking access to the Library or any part of the Library facility or grounds, including bringing oversized items that may be a hazard, take up an excessive amount of space, or impede Library use
Using a Library facility for childcare purposes; leaving children under the age of 11 unaccompanied or unsupervised by a responsible caregiver, or otherwise violating the Library’s Unattended Children Policy
Smoking, chewing or otherwise using tobacco products or e-cigarettes
Using photographic, video, audio or other recording devices without prior authorization

Misuse of property

Entering or attempting to enter non-public areas
Consuming food and/or beverages outside of designated areas
Monopolizing Library furniture, equipment, materials or other property that prevents others from using them for an unreasonably extended period of time
Sleeping, loitering or remaining on Library property in a manner inconsistent with the Library’s intended use
Unauthorized use of another person’s Library card for any purpose
Carrying or displaying a weapon or other item of a type or in a manner deemed by Library staff to be threatening or potentially dangerous to others
Using sports equipment, including but not limited to skateboards, roller skates, scooters or bicycles on Library property except as appropriately used for transportation to a Library facility
Misusing public restrooms, including shaving, bathing, washing clothes, soliciting, meeting, loitering, using drugs or engaging in sexual acts
Bringing animals into Library facilities, with the exceptions of service animals or animals which are part of a Library-sponsored activity
Damaging, destroying, relocating, stealing, altering or attempting to alter, or otherwise improperly using any property of the Library, patrons or staff
Taking Library materials or other property outside Library facilities without following established loan procedures or other authorization
Leaving personal property unattended on Library property
Defecating and/or urinating on Library property, other than in a toilet in a restroom

Other

Any acts or conduct in violation of federal, state, or local laws, ordinances or regulations, including but not limited to littering, theft, vandalism, sexual misconduct or possession of illegal weapons or substances
Possessing, consuming or exhibiting signs of being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances
Failure to follow Library policies and/or procedures
Failure to follow the reasonable direction of Library staff regarding potential policy violations, emergency situations or other Library business

Exceptions to the policy may be made at the discretion of the Director of Library Services, a Department Head, a Branch Manager or their representative.

Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other policy or provision of policy, Library employees may report to appropriate management, law enforcement, public health or other authority any circumstance, behavior or conduct that, in their reasonable judgment, may constitute a threat, danger or risk to themselves, the public, any individual on Library property or to property.

Appeals Process

Patrons receiving a written notice of suspension of Library privileges due to a violation of the Patron Behavioral Policy may within ten (10) days appeal the ruling by written petition to the Director of Library Services. If not satisfied by the Director’s response to the appeal, the patron may appeal the decision by a written petition to the Library Board of Trustees within ten (10) days of receiving the Director’s response.

Approved 05/03/2021

In accordance with state law, employees of the North Shelby Public Library and Mt Laurel Library shall maintain confidentiality concerning library use by any individual patron, including registration and circulation records of that patron and information concerning the use of the libraries by that patron. Consequently, employees should not make registration and circulation records open for inspection except as provided by Section 41-8-10 of the Code of Alabama, 1975 . Employees may permit inspection of registration and circulation records of a minor child to the parent of the minor child. Any comment or release of information to the public should be made only upon approval from the Director.

This Privacy Statement was last revised on May 3, 2021. We may change this Privacy Statement at any time and for any reason.

If we make a significant change to our Privacy Statement, we will post a notice on the homepage of our web site for a period of time after the change is made.

Program Policy

Library Program Policy

Library Program Policy – updated 8/29/2024

North Shelby Library District programs are events, displays, or exhibits that promote the use of library materials, services, and/or offers the community informational, entertaining, or cultural experiences.

Programs are planned for the interest and enlightenment of the residents of our district as well as to increase and diversify the visibility of the library within the community. Programs are intended to serve groups of people, not individuals. The Library strives to offer a variety of programs that reflect the interests of our growing and diverse population and as such, programs will not be canceled because of the ideas or topics of the program or the views expressed by the participants or speakers.

Library programs shall generally be voluntary, free, and open to the public. However, nominal materials fees may be charged for certain types of Library initiated programs. The Library’s philosophy of open access to information extends to programming. The Library does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or any other characteristics protected by local, state, and federal law. However, some library programs may be restricted by age to ensure the content is age-appropriate and appealing to the intended audience. Please refer to standards and content guidelines in Collection Development Policy for assistance in determining age-appropriateness.

Library programs must be non-commercial in nature. Although a professional expert may present a program, the information should always be generic in nature. Library programs must have a special entertainment, informational, or cultural value to the community. Library programs may address religious themes to educate or inform, not to promote or observe a religion. No individual or organization shall use a library-initiated program at the Library to advertise or recruit members or customers. Programs are not used for commercial, religious, or partisan purposes or for the solicitation of business.

Programs initiated by the Friends of the Library groups are usually designed for library fund-raising and may include an admission fee or be for members only. Programs put on by paying renters of the library meeting rooms are not considered public or library-initiated programs and are not subject to the library programming policy.

Library programs are primarily funded through the Library’s budget. Staff members in charge of programming are designated a budget by the Director of Library Services. Additional program funding may come from the Friends of the Library groups, unsolicited donations, or from sponsorships.

Sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants. Sponsorship is defined as the Library working with another agency, presenter, or business to provide a program as defined above for Library patrons. Priority sponsorship is given to local government agencies. Agencies, businesses, or organizations that participate in sponsoring a program receive acknowledgement on the library website, in local publications, and on social media. Staff members in charge of programming reserve the right to accept or deny potential program collaborations based on the needs of the Library.

Program presenters are chosen for their expertise and performance experience. While due diligence is practiced when booking programs, the Library and its employees will not be liable for the content of any program presented by a third party. Professional performers or presenters will be permitted to sell their creative products (CDs, books, etc.) following the completion of their program.

Timely and adequate public announcement shall be made of all programs. Organizations or individuals partnering with the Library must coordinate marketing efforts with the Library. Press releases, public notifications, and marketing publicities must be approved by the staff member in charge of the program.

Registration may be required for planning purposes and when space is limited. When registration is required it must by handled by the library unless other arrangements are made with the staff members in charge of programming. Program participants’ personal information is confidential and will not be shared with program presenters who are not library staff members.

Program evaluation forms may be distributed to the participants of select programs so that staff may know what has been successful and receive ideas for new programs from patrons. Recurring programs such as storytimes, book discussions, and regularly scheduled programs with repeat attendees may receive a program evaluation annually.

The Library will endeavor to offer an equitable number of programs throughout the community for a variety of demographics and interests. However, factors such as staffing levels, program space, budget concerns, and other demands upon the staff will influence the number and types of programs able to be offered. Library staff who present programs do so as part of their regular job and are not hired as outside contractors for programming.

Library programs may be held online and require participants to download software to their personal computer or device. The library is not responsible for loss of data or damage to the participant’s personal equipment that may result from use of this software. Library staff will make every effort to prevent disruptive intrusions; however, the Library is not responsible for actions of others which are outside of its control.

Library programs are recorded only with the permission of the presenters. Participants will be notified if a program is to be recorded and given the opportunity to opt out of participation. Photos may be taken by staff during programs for promotional use. Individuals in images will not be identified by name or with identifying information without written approval from the subject or their parent or legal guardian.

Responsibility for programming at the Library rests with the Director of Library Services, with some selections subject to review and approval by the Board of Trustees. The Director may delegate the authority for program management to staff members who program for their departments and/or branches. These staff members keep the Director informed of the status of all programs, and the Board of Trustees may review any programs for compliance with library policies.

The Library welcomes expressions of opinion from any library patron concerning programming. If a patron questions a library program, they may first address the concern with a Library staff member. Patrons who wish to continue their request for review of Library programs must follow the procedure outlined below.

Displays

The North Shelby Library District will offer displays of library materials and/or resources that appeal to a range of ages, interests, and informational needs of the community. Consideration will be given to the age and intended audience of the display. For example, displays of children’s books in the children’s department; displays of books for adults in the adult department. Displays will be determined based on the suitability of the subject and style for the intended audience.

Displays of materials and resources in the library are intended to illustrate the width and breadth of available content in the library. The library will not display materials that violate applicable laws or library policies

The Board of Trustees holds the final approval for the display of library materials and/or resources, but the Director of Library Services and librarians may choose display topics for the area of the collection they are responsible for. Additionally, employees throughout the library share day-to-day responsibilities of keeping displays filled. Library staff uses the following criteria in making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources:

• Community needs and interest or relation to current events

• Availability of display space

• Holidays, celebrations, and nationally recognized days/months of recognition

• Historical, cultural, or educational significance

• Connection to other community or national programs, exhibitions, or events

• Relation to library collections, resources, and programs

• The North Shelby Library District may partner with other community agencies, organizations, educational institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored displays.

• Content and topics prohibited by the Collection Development policy for safeguarding minors may not be featured in programs in the Children’s or Teen’s Departments

• Content and topics related to subjects requiring parental discretion in the Collection Development policy for safeguarding minors may not be featured in programs or displays in the Children’s or Teen’s Departments

Reader’s Advisory

Reader’s Advisory is the act of a library employee assisting a patron to find materials that they are interested in. This can be done through displays, book lists, or through conversation with a patron. Under the guidance of the Library Director, all staff share responsibility for providing this integral library service by virtue of their employment.

When directly assisting a patron with reader’s advisory, the staff member will ask lots of questions to help discern what might be a good recommendation.

Consideration will be given but not limited to:

• Patron’s age and status of restricted or unrestricted library card for minors

• Reading level

• Stated interests and/or requested topics

• Type of material

• Stated limitations (no romance books, only nonfiction, large print or audio book only, no graphic violence, etc.)

Library staff will present the patron with options that meet the patron’s requests and comply with all policies for adults and minors based on restricted or unrestricted library cards. However, staff cannot have read every book in the library or be able to discern every nuance of a patron’s likes and dislikes. It is up to the patron to choose what, if any, materials to check out for themselves or for their minor children. Final selection lies with the patron or the patron’s guardian if that patron is a minor.

Items provided to patrons through readers’ advisory does not constitute an endorsement by the North Shelby Library District or library staff of the content or views expressed in said items.

Procedures for handling a statement of concern regarding library-initiated programs

To receive consideration by the Library, all concerns regarding library-initiated programs must be made by fully completing this form. This includes concerns brought up by members of the Board or staff.
The library-initiated program about which a concern has been made will not be canceled, nor be restricted in any way, before final action is taken by the Board of Trustees on the complaint, unless the Director of Library Services finds substantive justification for the program to be delayed or canceled until further investigation can be completed.
Within two (2) business days of the filing of the written statement, the applicable staff member will confer with the Director, then send a written response to the patron, explaining in detail their decision regarding the statement of concern. The patron concern and the Director’s response will be forwarded to the Board of Trustees. The response will also inform the patron that they may appeal the decision within ten (10) business days.
The Board of Trustees will review the appeal at their next scheduled board meeting and take final action on it. In making its decision regarding the concern, the Board of Trustees will employ all of the

Criteria for Selection of Library-Initiated Programs listed above, along with the any other relevant laws or policies.

The patron will be notified in writing of the Library Board’s decision in the matter.

Statement of Concern for Library-Initiated Programs

North Shelby Library programs are events, displays, or exhibits that promote the use of library materials, services, and/or offers the community informational, entertaining, or cultural experiences. This form allows community members to voice concerns they may have about a program.

Title of event, display, or exhibit: _________________________________________________________

Location: ___________________________________________________________________________

Department: o Children’s o Teen o Adult Services o General

Request initiated by (Name): ____________________________________________________________

Phone: _____________________________________

Email: ______________________________________

Address (Street/ZIP): __________________________________________________________________

What specifically causes you to be concerned about this program or display?

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Did you attend this event or view the exhibit in its entirety? o Yes o No

What do you think would be the result of a patron viewing this material or attending this program?

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Is there an age for which you would recommend this program? ________________________________

Are there any positive aspects to this program? _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

What would you say the theme or purpose of the program is? Did it meet that purpose in your opinion?

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Is there a program you would recommend in place of this material? _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

What specific action would you recommend to library leadership? _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Did the staff or Director of Library Services notify you of this form and offer a copy to you when you presented your concern? Yes ____ No ____

Did the staff or Director of Library Services offer you with a written copy of the program policy when you presented your concern? Yes ____ No_____

Signature _____________________________________________________

Date _____________________

Social Media Policy

5.02 Social Media Policy

The Library uses social software tools as a limited public forum to share ideas, opinions, and information about Library-related subjects and issues for educational, cultural, civic, and recreational purposes. Social software is defined as any web application, site or account offered by the Library that facilitates the sharing of opinions and information about Library related subjects and issues including blogs, listservs, websites, social network pages like Facebook and Twitter, and patron ratings and lists of Library materials.

What You Can Expect of Us

Library staff exercises editorial control on our social media platforms to create a safe and welcoming environment, and to support our aim to create online communities around the Library and its services. We moderate comments and the Library reserves the right to remove content that is unlawful, is off topic, or otherwise does not comply with our expectations below. We strive to keep our Library communities like our Library locations: safe and welcoming.

Postings by users do not indicate Library endorsement of the ideas, issues, links, or commentary posted. Additionally, endorsement is not implied via “following,” “friending,” or otherwise linking to other online entities.

What We Expect of You

When you choose to share comments, lists, or other information in the Library’s social software, you agree to do so with responsibility and respect for the Library’s communities and purpose.
Always communicate with respect. Be considerate of others. Obscene, harassing, or abusive language is not tolerated.
Act legally and ethically. Acting or attempting to act in violation of state, federal, or local law, ordinance, or regulation, or Library policy, is prohibited.
Protect your privacy. Do not post personally identifying information. Young people under age 18, especially, should not post information such as last name, school, age, phone number, address.

The Library reserves the right to remove posts that include:

Copyright violations
Off topic comments
Commercial material/spam
Duplicated posts from the same individual
Obscene language
Specific and imminent threats
Libelous comments
Images

By choosing to comment on the Library’s social software you agree to these expectations. Violation of the Social Media Expectations may result in warnings or exclusions from our social software tools.

Unattended Child Policy

CHILDREN

The North Shelby Library and its branch, the Mt Laurel Library, welcome patrons of all ages to use its public facilities in a manner consistent with the Patron Behavior Policy.

Children left unattended may become anxious, restless, or disruptive, and they may encounter situations or hazards that put them at risk. Their safety is a serious concern for the Library Board of Trustees and employees. Library employees cannot monitor each child’s location, safety or behavior, and the Library has neither the staff nor legal authority to supervise children in the library. Library employees cannot accept caregiving responsibilities for patrons of any age.

Parents and/or legal guardians are fully responsible for their minor children/charges at all times and are expected to comply at all times with Library policies. Any patron whose behavior is disruptive or otherwise violates the Library’s Code of Conduct is subject to reporting to the Pelham Police Department at North Shelby or the Shelby County Sheriff at Mt Laurel with or without warning or notice.

Children from birth through 5^th grade must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible caregiver. In this instance, “Responsible Caregiver” is an individual designated by the parent or legal guardian who is responsible for monitoring or caring for a child or vulnerable adult and who must be at least 18 years old. The Library assumes that an adult with a child is either a parent, legal guardian, or parent-assigned responsible caregiver and staff will not question their decisions unless a child is in immediate physical danger.

The responsible caregiver accepts full responsibility for the child’s behavior and safety, including staying in the immediate vicinity of and in visual contact with the child. The only exception to this policy would be for children in grades K through 5 who are attending specified programs in one of the Library’s programming rooms. The parent, legal guardian, or responsible caregiver may wait for their child outside of the programming room as long as they remain on the library’s premises and return to pick their child up immediately after the program ends.

Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other policy or provision of policy, Library employees may report to appropriate management, law enforcement, public health, or other authority any circumstance, behavior or conduct that may, in their reasonable judgment, constitute a threat, danger or risk to themselves, the public, any individual on Library property or to property. The Pelham Police (non-emergency number 205-620-6550) will be asked to assume responsibility for any child left alone at the North Shelby Library at closing time. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency number 205-670-6000) will be asked to assume responsibility for any child left alone at the Mt Laurel Library at closing time

In regards to checking out material, the Library is not responsible for the choice of library materials for children’s use. The responsibility for the choice of library material for children rests with their parents or legal guardians.

TEENS

The North Shelby Library Teen Department and its programming are designed for young adults who are in or entering grades 6 through 12 (typically ages 11-18). The Library recognizes that many young adults are responsible enough to be in the library without adult supervision. As such, these teens are treated as adult customers by the Library and are supervised minimally even during scheduled programs. Teens may come and go as they please during programs without asking permission or advising librarians of their intended whereabouts. Parents or guardians are not required to stay in the building during teen programs.

In the event that teens are engaging in behavior that is disturbing or harmful to others or the operation of the library, the problem may be discussed with them at the time. If the behavior persists, the teen may be asked to leave.

Parents, legal guardians, and responsible caregivers should be aware of the library’s closing times and make arrangements for their teen to have a ride. At closing time or in the event of an emergency (closing for weather or a power outage), staff will assist young adults in calling a parent, legal guardian, or responsible caregiver to pick them up. The Pelham Police (non-emergency number 205-620-6550) will be asked to assume responsibility for the teen if they are not picked up when the staff leaves at North Shelby Library. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency number 205-670-6000) will be asked to assume responsibility for the teen if they are not picked up when the staff leaves Mt Laurel Library.

In regards to checking out material, the Library is not responsible for the choice of library materials for teen use. The responsibility for the choice of library material for minors rests with their parents or legal guardians.

Revised 7/17/2023

Library Forms

Tween/Teen Council Application

Reconsideration of Library Resources

Statement of Concern for Library-Initiated Programs