Loudonville Public Library Policies

Behavior and Conduct in the Library
The Board of Trustees of the Loudonville Public Library has the responsibility to provide a pleasant, orderly facility conducive to effective use of library materials and services. In an effort to provide a library environment that allows patrons of all ages to utilize the library without being disturbed and impeded by other library users, the following conduct policy has been established. The library staff is authorized by the Board of Trustees to courteously, but firmly, bring to an individual’s attention any act or omission, which violates these rules and detract from the decorum of the library. It is the policy of the Loudonville Public Library to protect the safety of persons within the building, as well as the property of the library. 

Any behavior that hinders use of library materials or services is prohibited. Such inappropriate behavior includes, but are not limited to: 

• Disrespect of staff.
• Loud or boisterous behavior.
• Abusive, vulgar, threatening or excessively loud language.
• Aimless, restless roaming.
• Abusing and/or destruction of library furniture, equipment, or materials.
• Fighting, wrestling, pushing, hitting on library property.
• Loitering.
• Running in the library.
• Theft.
• Playing in the elevator, or on the stairways.
• Possession, sale, or use of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, illegal substances, or weapons on library property.
• Eating and drinking in the library except for groups using the meeting room(s) and designated areas.
• Buying, selling, or soliciting for personal or commercial gain.
• Using emergency exits at times other than during an emergency.
• Bringing animals, other than guide dogs, into the library.
• Obstructing aisles or doorways.
• Not wearing a shirt or shoes.
• Using roller blades, roller skates, skate boards in the library or on library property; these items may be stored in the outside bike rake.
• Entering unauthorized workspaces or office areas.
• Personal communication items such as cell phones, pagers, personal computers, and portable listening devices kept at a volume that disturbs others in the library.
• Violating the library Internet policy.
• Harassment, either verbal or physical. Harassment may include initiating unwanted conversations with other individuals or employees, impeding access to the building or an area of the building, or other actions another individual reasonably perceives to be hostile, threatening, or offensive.
• Distributing literature, taking surveys, or asking individuals or employees to sign petitions or similar activities.

The violation of any federal or state statutes or local ordinances will also be regarded as a violation of Library rules.

 Patrons who are behaving inappropriately or disruptively will be warned that the behavior must stop. If the behavior is not immediately corrected, the person will be told to leave the premises. Anyone who does not leave after being told to do so will be considered a trespasser, and will be treated accordingly, including involving the police. Any staff member involved with patrons who, because of the severity of their infraction of the above rules, has been asked to leave the building must complete an incident report form. Habitual abusers of library rules may be banned from the premises for a period ranging from one day to several months, depending upon the circumstances. A minor (under the age of eighteen) who creates chronic problems may be required to bring a parent with him/her, and given approval by the Director, before being permitted back in the library.

A public telephone is provided in the library for short and necessary local calls. Only one person may be at the telephone; others must wait at nearby seating until the phone becomes available. Crowds should not gather in the telephone area. Abuse of the telephone may result in revoking phone privileges. 

The Library reserves the right to limit the number of individuals who may sit together. 

The Library does not assume responsibility or liability resulting from any personal property left on library premises. 

The Library reserves the right to inspect all bags, purses, briefcases, packs, personal listening equipment, etc. for library materials. 

This policy is subject to change without notice. The above rules are based on powers granted to a public library board of trustees under the Ohio Revised Code, Section 3375.40(H). They will be posted prominently in the Library building.

Board Approved 8/30/00

Community Room Policy
“The purpose of the Loudonville Public Library is to select, make available, and maintain resources, in a variety of formats, meeting the educational, informational, and recreational needs of our customers.  The Loudonville Public Library offers this service to all persons and exists to stimulate ideas and learning, and to enhance the quality of life for those we serve.” 

As a community service, the Loudonville Public Library makes its meeting rooms available for use by community groups when they are not being used for library related activities. Meeting rooms are available to the public for business, civic, cultural, charitable or educational programs.  

The community meeting rooms may be utilized by non-profit groups at no cost.  For profit and commercial organizations may use the community rooms for a fee established by the library Board of Trustees. The library administration will provide staff support during the posted community meeting room hours.  Groups needing to utilize the community rooms during weekend times outside the posted hours may do so by paying a fee to offset the cost to the library for providing a staff member in the building.  If the library administration is unable to provide a staff member in the building for a requested time the meeting cannot be held.  The fee will be an amount as established by the library Board of Trustees.  

All meeting rooms are subject to availability and adherence to the following policies and guidelines: 

1. General Policies

• The library administration recognizes the rights of individuals or groups to express their views so long as they abide by the guidelines covering the use of the library’s meeting rooms. It is understood that views expressed by individuals or groups using the meeting rooms are not necessarily those of the Board of Trustees, the administration, or staff.

2. Reserving and Scheduling a Meeting Room

• The person scheduling a meeting room must be over 18 years of age. A room reservation for individuals under the age of 18 must be made by a supervising adult.
• Reservations are made on a first come, first served basis, and must be made in person. The Loudonville Public Library meeting room agreement form is available at the main circulation desk and needs to be properly filled in before a room reservation is complete.
• When scheduling a room, the applicant will be asked to state the name of the group, purpose of meeting, approximate number of persons expected to attend, date and time of the meeting, how long the meeting or program will last, and complete contact name, address and phone number.
• Reservations cannot be transferred to other people or groups.
• Reservations for meeting room use may not be made more than one year in advance, operating on a calendar year calendar. Groups meeting on a continuing basis must renew and/or update their ‘meeting room agreement’ form every six (6) months. *
• The library administration will not accept or honor any mail-in letters requesting meeting room use.
• All meetings will begin no earlier than 9am and will end by no later than 10pm; exceptions may be made depending upon custodial presence in the library, however this must be arranged and approved through the Director.
• Rooms may be reserved for times when the library is closed with a paid fee.
• Attendance is limited to maximum room capacity; occupancy signs are posted in all community rooms.
• Library programs will take precedence over all scheduled meeting room events. The library administration reserves the right to change or cancel meeting room reservations when necessary, however, every effort will be made to avoid such conflicts.

3. Meeting Room Rules

• Announcements or publicity about a program or meeting must include an address or telephone number other than the library as contact for information. Meetings shall not be publicized in such a way as to imply library sponsorship, unless the library is co-sponsoring the event.
• Meetings shall be conducted with respect for the right of other library users, library staff, and the safety of persons, equipment, and library property.
• The group using the meeting room is responsible for setting up chairs, tables, etc. and for returning these items to their original position at the conclusion of the meeting.
• Groups are responsible for notifying the library of cancellation of a meeting in addition to notifying group members and/or the audience. The library administration does not assume the responsibility for posting signs about such cancellations.
• An adult leader shall be present at all times and be responsible for the supervision of any groups of children under the age of eighteen (18) using the meeting rooms.
• Alcoholic beverages, smoking, and the use of candles are not permitted.
• No tape, thumbtacks, or related adhesives are to be used on library walls or equipment. Some display and/or decorations may be permitted, with prior communication and approval of the Director.
• Storage of personal property, equipment and/or supplies is not permitted in the library, unless the Director has given prior approval. The library administration will not incur any liability as result of materials or equipment that may be damaged or missing.
• Accidents must be immediately reported to a library staff member who will document the incident according to library procedures.
• Groups and individuals are responsible for leaving the meeting room in good condition. A vacuum will be provided for use after the meeting. Groups serving refreshments are responsible for providing all serving utensils, and for cleaning up following their meeting. If refreshments are served, food and/or beverages are not to be taken into other library areas.
• Groups using a meeting room for more than a few hours and those staying all day are encouraged to park offsite. Library parking space is primarily for short-term users.
• Child care for children of adults attending meetings in library meeting rooms is the responsibility of those adults.
• The library administration assumes no responsibility for any hats, coats, book bags, musical instruments, or any personal belongings left behind.
• The library administration will attempt to reach the contact person for the group if the building closes due to an emergency. If there is inclement weather, and the library is forced to close, all scheduled meetings will be cancelled. Unscheduled closings are reported to local radio stations.

4. Responsibilities

• The library administration is not liable for injuries to people, damage to their property, or loss of property to those using the meeting rooms.
• The group using the meeting room is responsible for setting up chairs, tables, etc. and for returning them to their original spot, as well as general pick up, lights turned off, etc.
• Any person making a reservation to use a meeting room must agree to assume full responsibility for any damages to the facility or equipment, which may occur as a result of the group’s activities.
• Failure to abide by the preceding rules for meeting room use may be justification for denying a group or individual further use of the meeting rooms.
• The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time. For good cause, the Director may waive any meeting room regulation and may deny or cancel any application for reservation of meeting room space.

5. Refund Request

• Prompt notification to the library of a meeting cancellation is required. A completed Community Room Refund Request form must be signed by the original individual reserving the community room(s). All Community Room Refund Request forms should be submitted to the Director. Fees will be refundable provided the library has been given at least seventy-two (72) hours notice of the meeting’s cancellation.
• It is the group leader’s responsibility to notify its members/audience if the scheduled meeting or public program is to be canceled. The library does not post signs about such cancellations.
• Any exemptions to these guidelines for community room refund requests may be made at the discretion of the Director.

Board Approved 8/27/03

Display
Display cases, and the display window (glass enclosed and secured) are available at the library. As a part of its information mission, the Loudonville Public Library welcomes nonprofit community groups, organizations and individuals to utilize these exhibit areas. The goals for the display areas include but are not limited to: 

• Visually and mentally stimulate by presenting a wide range of collection, and subject matter;
• Support community artistic and cultural activities in the local area;
• Nourish creative and intellectual growth;
• Reach the traditional and non-traditional library user.

All display, whether generated by library staff or the public, will be considered in terms of the goals listed above. 

Conditions for display: 

• Scheduling a display is on a first come, first serve basis.
• Children under the age of eighteen (18) must be supervised by an adult when setting up and taking down a display.
• Display reservations are not transferable to another person.
• Displays will not exceed 14 days in length, unless there is prior approval by the Director.
• For-profit groups, organizations, companies, or individuals may not use library display space.
• Display space cannot be used for individuals seeking political office.
• Preference is given to local organizations and events.
• Reasonable precautions will be taken to secure and protect all displays and exhibits. However, the Library cannot be held responsible for reimbursement or replacement of lost, damaged, or stolen items.
• Display of materials at the library does not imply endorsement by the library.
• The Library Director, who administers under the Board of Trustees, has the final determination as to whether materials comply with the guidelines for displays.
• The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.

Board Approved 8/30/00

Distribution and Posting of Community Information Materials
The Library is frequently asked to post and/or distribute posters, flyers, brochures and other miscellaneous announcements of community events. As part of its information mission, the Loudonville Public Library distributes to the public, literature from charitable, civic, cultural, educational, recreational, non-profit and governmental agencies. Based on local interest, contents, and general suitability, the Director approves the distribution and posting of such items. Preference is given to local organizations and events. Unauthorized items will be discarded.

Guidelines: 

• Items announcing and promoting library programs and activities will take precedence over other community information.
• The Director must approve all items, and they will be initialed and dated. All items will be removed on a timely basis.
• Each item is approved on a case-by-case basis; approved items will be initialed and dated.
• Items may be refused because of their size if at that time there is no available space to distribute or post them. Other considerations may include timelines, and geographic impact.
• No signs can be posted on library entrance doors.
• Community information materials cannot be returned once given to the library.
• Library staff shall discard any material left in the library after the specific advertised event has occurred.
• Materials promoting an ongoing service may be displayed indefinitely, or removed after one month by library staff, according to space limitations.
• Materials promoting a political candidate or issue(s) are not permitted.
• The bulletin board may not be used to buy or sell items.
• The display and distribution of non-library materials does not constitute endorsement by the library.
• Final authority for all materials displayed and distributed on library property rests with the Director, who administers under the Board of Trustees.
• The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.

Note: During tourist season, the Loudonville Public Library may have brochures available, which may include ‘for profit’ attractions. This is a service provided to the public, in order to provide information, while visiting the area. The library does not endorse or promote any business or recreational area.

Board Approved 8/30/00

Donation/Gift Materials
 The Library accepts gifts of books, periodical subscriptions, audiovisual materials, or any other gift item with the provision that qualified staff will decided the disposition of them as deemed appropriate. Gift items will be acceptable for the collection when (and if) they meet the same standards as the Library’s original purchases, require no special conditions, and may be disposed of in any way the Library deems necessary. Under no circumstances will an item be added to the collection solely because it is a gift.

Periodical subscriptions will be accepted for the library by designated, qualified staff, in conjunction with the Director. They will be evaluated to determine their suitability for adding to the collection. Those magazines that are approved will be handled in one of the following ways. Subscriptions added to the permanent Library collection will be displayed with other titles, and will circulate in the same manner. Back issues will be kept for a period of one year, depending upon storage space and public use/interest in the magazine. Unsolicited subscriptions, or other miscellaneous gift magazines may be displayed for a brief period of time. This will depend upon public interest, content, and space considerations. Only the current copy will be available. 

Library personnel will select titles from donated materials to be added to the Library collection. Materials not added to the Library collection will become property of the Friends of the Loudonville Public Library for a book sale or otherwise handled at the discretion of the library staff. Once the Library accepts a gift, it cannot be returned. 

The Library cannot make any monetary appraisal of gift materials. Persons wishing verification of their donation for tax purposes are solely responsible for reporting the number of items and must place their own value on the donated material. Upon request, a Library acknowledgement of the donated material is available from the Clerk Treasurer’s office. 

The Library is pleased to accept monetary contributions for the purchase of one or more items in memory or honor of a person, event, or organization. Donors are encouraged to suggest titles or subject areas that they feel would be appropriate, but the Library retains the right to select material that meets the standards set in the materials selection policy. A bookplate (or similar type identifying tag) will be placed in or on the item. Under certain conditions, contributions of books or other materials will be accepted as memorial items. The material must meet the selection criteria of the Library, and contact must be made with the Director for final approval. Each item must be in excellent condition. An acknowledgement will be sent to the family of the person, event, or organization being commemorated or honored, notifying them of the gift to the Library. 

Large gifts of money in the form of outright donations or bequests are always appreciated and welcomed. Individuals considering such gifts are encouraged to speak to the Director, or any Library Trustee. 

Gifts of a more specific nature, such as pieces of furniture, equipment, artwork, and real property, shall be referred to the Director for acceptance or refusal, in consultation with the Board of Trustees. When funds are donated for specific purposes, the Board of Trustees must approve the amount and nature of the expenditure in advance of acceptance. This ensures compatibility with library policies, the donor’s intent, and any applicable laws. 

The Library reserves the right to revise or amend this policy without notice.  

Used Book Donations 

The Loudonville Public Library accepts donations of used books and audiovisual materials during regular library hours. Books must be in bags or boxes and be delivered to the library by the donor. Donations are not to be put in the outside book drop. Persons interested in donating large quantities of materials are asked to call the library and speak with library staff or the Director before bringing in donations. 

Books and other items are accepted without any conditions attached to them. Materials will either be added to the Library collection or given to the Friends of the Library for a book sale, and/or otherwise handled at the discretion of the library staff. All book sale proceeds directly benefit the Friends of the Loudonville Public Library. 

The following items are discouraged for donation:  

• Textbooks that are more than five years old.
• Encyclopedias
• Reader’s Digest condensed books
• Any items that are dirty, musty or damaged.

The Library does not accept donations of used magazines. 

Board Approved 8/30/00

LOUDONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY INTERNET WORKSTATION/WIRELESS ACCESS GUIDELINES
Welcome to Loudonville Public Library’s Internet access via OPLIN. The purpose of these guidelines is to insure the best use of and access to the Internet for the greatest number of our patrons:

• Individuals will be registered borrowers of the Loudonville Public Library, complete with current address and phone number (or a phone number at which you may be reached First time users will receive a copy of the Library’s policy and user guidelines.
• Individuals must have read, understood, and agreed to follow the “Loudonville Public Library Internet Access Policy Guidelines for Use and Disclaimer” information. Your signature acknowledges acceptance of the Library’s Internet policy, and procedures.
• Our Internet workstations are available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Reservations will not be accepted.
• Time on a library workstation is limited to 30 minutes when others are waiting; additional time may be obtained. We ask patrons to be considerate of others. Users agree to make the workstation available within 5 minutes after being notified by Library staff that another person is waiting. Computer use will end fifteen minutes before the Library closes. Individuals should use the Internet in a courteous, reasonable, and responsible manner.
• Children under the age of 18 must have their parent or legal guardian give written permission to access the Library's Internet computer(s) and/or wireless network through the completion of all relevant portions of the Library's Application for Juvenile Borrower's Card.
• Only two people at a time may use the Internet workstation unless otherwise authorized by Library staff on duty. All people viewing the Internet are considered users and must also have signed off on all applicable policy and procedures that govern their use.
• The Library reserves the right to charge for all printing.
• If you wish to download files from the Internet, it is at your own risk. You may use your own disk(s), or purchase one at the main circulation desk. Disks should be formatted for IBM. The Library is not responsible for damage to a user’s disk or computer, or for any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from an individual’s use of the Library’s Internet services.
• Each computer workstation is set up to run pre-installed library software only. Do not attempt to run your own software, customize files, or change configurations on Library owned computers.
• The library does not provide e-mail accounts or training in e-mail procedures.
• Library staff will offer basic instruction in the use of the sites directly linked to the Library’s and OPLIN’s Homepage, as time and knowledge permit. Individuals should have minimal computer knowledge, and be able to use a mouse.
• Be aware that the Internet is unregulated and materials accessible through it may be inaccurate, incomplete, outdated, biased, inappropriate, or offensive. Since the Library has no control over the content, individuals use it at their own risk.
• The sending of any information, including name, address, and credit card numbers, via the Library’s Internet computer(s) and/or wireless network is at the sole risk of the user.
• The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material. Responsibility for any possible copyright infringement lies solely with the user; patrons are responsible for compliance with all international, national and state laws governing copyrighted materials. The Library disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting thereof.
• The Internet workstations owned and operated by the Loudonville Public Library will be used for educational, informational, and recreational purposes only. Internet workstations and/or wireless access may not be used for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. Patrons may not send, receive, or display text or graphics that may be construed as obscene under Section 2907 Et seq. of the Ohio Revised Code, or be in violation of any federal, state, or local laws.
• Any patron accruing fines of $50.00 or more shall have their Internet privileges suspended until the fines are paid below the $5.00 threshold.
• Individuals will be given one warning when in violation of the above guidelines. Library employees will document the date(s) and time(s) of the alleged violation of the LPL Internet agreement and the web site(s) accessed by the patron. At the second documented incident, the patron will forfeit his/her privileges to use the Library’s Internet. An appeal may be made in writing to the Director for reconsideration of the loss of Internet privileges. The Director will review the case and respond to the patron in a timely manner.
• The Library reserves the right to end an Internet session at any time.
• This policy is subject to change without notice.

 Board revision approved 10-29-09

OPLIN/Internet Access Policy
In response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, the Loudonville Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources and services that meet the cultural, information, recreational, and educational needs of its constituents. The Library offers access to the Internet through the services of the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN), wireless network and library owned PC's. Access to the Internet is compatible with the Library's endorsement of the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read, and the Freedom to View documents as well as with the Library's materials selection policy and mission statement. The Loudonville Public Library will not deny or abridge access to information available via electronic resources because of the possible controversial content, varying perceptions of the value of the material, or because of the age or background of the user. The Library has a policy of open access to all parts of its collections, including access to the Internet.

The Library seeks to protect the First Amendment rights of its patrons and their individual right to privacy. However, Internet users must be sensitive to the fact the workstations and wireless access to the Internet are in public areas and, therefore, images on the screen are subject to view by a wide audience.

It is the parent and/or legal guardian who sets family standards and values and therefore, the Library cannot take away that right nor assume that responsibility. The Internet, since it should be no different that TV and movies, books and magazines, is a wonderful opportunity for parents and/or legal guardians to hold discussions with their children about their family's standards. We strongly recommend that parents and/or legal guardians work with their children when they are using the Internet (it is required for children in the 4th grade or younger). We also acknowledge that it is the responsibility of the parent and/or legal guardian to monitor the information accessed by his or her child(ren) under the age of 18. Library staff cannot control the databases that minors may select. Be aware that the Internet is unregulated and materials accessible through it may be inaccurate, incomplete, outdated, biased, inappropriate or offensive. Since the Library has no control over the content, individuals use it at their own risk.

Through OPLIN, the Library provides access to reference databases of general and special periodical materials, readers' advisory services, homework centers to assist students with research assignments, as well as legislative, historical, and archival materials and information. It is understood by the users of OPLIN and the Internet that the information available is not generated by the Loudonville Public Library or OPLIN.

Information available through OPLIN and the Internet is not warranted by the Loudonville Public Library to be accurate, authoritative, factual or complete. Its available resources may contain material of a controversial nature.  The availability of networked information via the Loudonville Public Library does not constitute any endorsement or ratification of that information. The Loudonville Public Library and OPLIN are not responsible for the content of networked information available. Users are responsible for determining that the information they access is acceptable, reliable, and suitable for their needs. The use of OPLIN and the Internet to engage in any activity, which constitutes violation of local, state and/or federal laws, is strictly prohibited.

Because the patron is the selector in using the Internet by making individual choices and decisions, patrons shall comply with all age restrictions governing the access to specific sites, as limited by the content provider, to usage by persons 18 or 21 years of age or older.

All users of this service agree to hold the Loudonville Public Library and OPLIN harmless from any and all claims, losses, damages, obligations, or liabilities directly or indirectly related to the use of OPLIN and the Internet, caused thereby or there from. In no event shall the Loudonville Public Library or OPLIN have any liability to a third party, even if the Loudonville Public Library or OPLIN is advised of the possibility of such damages.

Library staff will assist patrons with Internet use as time permits, but cannot provide in-depth training.

ACCEPTABLE AND PROHIBITED USE as defined by the Loudonville Public Library Board of Trustees includes, but are not limited to, the following:

• All Internet resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all Loudonville Public Library cardholders.

• The Library's Internet computers will be used for educational, and information purposes. Internet workstations and/or wireless access will not for unauthorized, illegal or unethical purposes. You are prohibited from sending, receiving, or displaying text, sound or graphics that may reasonably be construed as obscene (i.e. Themes sexually explicit in text or graphics, the glorification of drugs, violence, hateful messages, and/or themes, etc.) See Section 2907 ET seq. of the Ohio Revised Code.

• It is not acceptable to use the Library's Internet access so as to interfere or disrupt any other services or equipment. You shall respect the privacy of others by not misrepresenting yourself as another user; by not attempting to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data computer systems, or damaging or modify any library screens or programs.

• Individuals shall not be involved in the unauthorized copying of copyright-protected materials.

• Individuals shall not be involved in the disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications.

• Individuals may not use their own software programs on the Library's computers.

• Software downloaded from the Library's computer(s) and/or wireless network may contain a virus. Individuals should have virus checking software of their home computer. The Loudonville Public Library is not responsible for damage to a patron's disk or computer, or for any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from use of the Library's computers and/or wireless Internet access.

• Individuals may not use the Library's computer(s) and Internet resources for profit, illegal activity, or political lobbying.

Misuse of the electronic resources of the Loudonville Public Library, or of Internet access, shall result in the loss of computer privileges.

This policy is subject to change without notice.

Board Approved 10/25/05

Kitchen Guidelines
The kitchen facility is available free of charge to all non-profit organizations and events held in a library meeting room. There will be a nominal charge for use of the kitchen facility by for-profit organizations. Persons must have properly filled out the ‘Loudonville Public Library Meeting Room’ form, indicating their wish to use the kitchen. Guidelines for use of the kitchen include but are not limited to: 

• The kitchen is to be shared with other designated meetings held at the same time.
• The kitchen contains a refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Groups are required to bring their own dishes, flatware, utensils, dishcloths and towels, small appliances, cleaning supplies and/or any other materials with which to entertain.
• Groups are required to leave the kitchen clean and orderly.
• Groups are required to properly bag their refuse for easy disposal.
• Groups are required to clean out the refrigerator and freezer of any beverages of foodstuffs not used. Any food or beverages left behind will be immediately thrown out.
• Groups are required to check that appliances are properly turned off.
• All lights are to be turned off after use.
• A vacuum will be provided for use after the meeting.
• Decorative candles and open flame kitchen items are prohibited. The very brief use of candles on a cake will be permitted.
• The Library is not responsible for any injuries incurred while in the kitchen.
• The Library is not responsible for any equipment left behind in the meeting room and/or kitchen.

These kitchen guidelines are subject to review and change without notice.

Board Approved 8/30/00

Unattended Children in the Library 
The Loudonville Public Library welcomes and encourages children of all ages to visit and use the library. We are concerned about the safety of all library users, especially children. We make every effort to make the library an enjoyable place to visit. However, library staff members cannot be responsible for children left unattended, nor can we function as substitute babysitters. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the library rests with the parent/caregiver and not with library personnel. Library personnel are not licensed or authorized to stand in place of parents or caregivers. Parents and caregivers need to be as careful concerning their child’s safety in the library as they would in any other public place. In the interest of all children’s safety, the Board of Trustees of the Loudonville Public Library has established the following policy: 

Children shall be considered “attended” as long as they are within sight of the parent or caregiver. An exception would be children attending a story time or other library program without a parent/caregiver in the room. 

An unattended child is defined as:

• Any child who is unable to care for him/her self or who may need assistance after having been left unattended in the library, even though a parent or caregiver may be in the building;
• Any child who is unaccompanied in the library for prolonged periods of time or on a repetitive daily or weekly visit;
• One who is not picked up by closing time.

A parent and/or caregiver must supervise children under the age of six (6) in all areas of the library. Parents/caregivers are responsible for their child’s behavior while at the library. If a child in this age group is left unattended, staff members will try and locate the parent/caregiver and inform him/her of the policy. If a parent or caregiver cannot be located in the library, a staff member will attempt to locate them at home. If a parent/caregiver cannot be located in the library or by phone within twenty (20) minutes, or within ten (10) minutes after the library is closed, the police department will be called. Two staff people will wait in the library that additional time until the parent/caregiver or the police arrive. An incident report will be written up. Under no circumstances will library staff transport a child or take a child off library property. 

Children between the ages of (6) and ten (10) may be left unattended in areas of the library provided they are capable of being left alone. However, they should be accompanied to the library by a parent/caregiver in the event the child needs assistance, or is unable to manage his environment. If an unattended child in this group becomes unruly, or is in distress, a staff member will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver. If the staff member is unable to locate the parent/caregiver in the library, staff will attempt to call them at home.* If the parent/caregiver cannot be reached within twenty (20) minutes, or within ten (10) minutes after the library is closed, the police department will be called. Two staff people will wait in the library that additional time until the parent/caregiver or the police arrive. An incident report will be written up. Under no circumstances will library staff transport a child or take a child off library property. 

Over the age of ten (10) may use the library on their own. However, parents are still responsible for the actions of their child(ren). Children using inappropriate behavior will be informed of the rules, and should the behavior continue, the child may be asked to leave the library. If a child over ten (10) years of age is not able to leave the library without an adult, he/she should not be in the library without a parent/caregiver. 

Due to the close proximity of the McMullen and Budd schools, many students come to the library after school hours unaccompanied by a parent/caregiver. These children may remain in the library provided they adhere to the “behavior and conduct in the library” policy. We encourage all children to have a telephone number of a person who can assist them in an emergency.  

The Library reserves the right to amend or change this policy. 

Board Approved 8/30/00

Cell Phone Use in the Library

Ringing phones and loud conversations make library use difficult for many people.

While libraries do understand and tolerate minimal noise levels, it is our desire to maintain a quiet and pleasant environment that is conducive to reading, studying, research, consultation and quiet collaboration. To provide this environment for our community of users we ask that you observe the following courtesies:

 1. Turn your cell phone off or switch it to vibrate mode before entering the library building.

 2. Anyone receiving a call must immediately put the call on hold and move to a study room or one of the library foyers.

 3.  If making a call, we ask that you move to a study room or one of the library foyers.

Approved by the Board
November  29, 2006

Loudonville Public Library
Severe Weather Policy

At times, due to inclement weather, the library may need to close. The decision to close the library will be determined by the Director. The Snow Level Advisory and the Roadway Level Advisory will be taken into consideration when making a closing decision.

*NO FINES WILL BE CHARGED WHEN THE LIBRARY IS CLOSED.

** No fines will be charged for an additional 3 days after a closing.

 IF THERE IS SNOW OR ICE ON THE ROADS, PLEASE CALL AHEAD TO SEE IF WE ARE OPEN

The following is listed for your information:

Snow Advisory Levels

 Level 1 – Snow Advisory: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy, drive carefully.

Level 2 – Snow Advisory:  Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the
                                                         roadways. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work.

Level 3 – Snow Advisory:  All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel.

No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roadways may subject themselves to arrest.

 Please listen to the following radio and TV stations for library closings: WNCO, WVNO, WQKT, WZLP, WKLM, WQIO and Channel 68 (WMFD).

 Board approved 11-29-06