Library Policies

General Purpose

The library seeks to have as few restrictions on the flow of information as possible while protecting library resources. Service will be provided equally to all patrons without regard to age, sex, status, lifestyle, philosophy, human condition, creed or race.

Personal attitudes and philosophies of library staff will not be reflected in the service given to library patrons.

Patron Registration

All applicants must complete the Plum Creek Library System form.

Residents and landowners of any member county or municipality of the Plum Creek Library System are eligible to receive a library card at no cost.

Minnesota residents with a valid card from his or her home library living in an area that participates in the Minnesota Reciprocal Borrowing Compact may register and borrow at no cost. Residents of the Pioneerland and Traverse des Sioux regions may be issued a card without a card from their home library.

Photo identification, and/or proof of current address, is required from anyone who applies for a card.  Identification may be a valid driver’s license or state identification card, tribal identification card, passport or immigration identification with a photograph. If the address on the identification is not current, proof of current address must be provided by showing a check, piece of business mail or other item with current address.

Children under the age of sixteen (16) may receive a card at no cost if the application is signed by a parent or legal guardian.   The parent or guardian is the applicant on behalf of any minor child.  By signing the application, the parent or guardian acknowledges and accepts responsibility for all materials checked out using the child’s card.

A resident library card expires after three years. The patron will be asked to update contact information, pay any outstanding charges and resolve any blocks before the card will be renewed.

Businesses, institutions, and organizations may receive a card under the same terms as individuals. The card application must be signed by the owner, president, treasurer, or other signatory eligible to take responsibility for the materials borrowed on the card.  The individual responsible for materials borrowed using the business, institution or organization’s card is responsible for providing updated information to the library if there is a change in who should be responsible for charges incurred to the card. Group cards are used to checkout material for the institution, not for personal use.

A temporary library card is available to individuals who cannot provide address verification or are in temporary housing. Patrons with a temporary library card may check out two physical items at a time and are limited to books, audio materials, and DVDs. Temporary library cards may also be used to access all online collections owned by PCLS. Temporary library cards expire after 90 days and can be renewed in person.

Individuals and families may receive a non-resident card good for three years at a charge of $5.00. This includes residents of other states and residents of communities in Minnesota that do not participate in the Minnesota Reciprocal Borrowing compact. To receive a nonresident card the patron does not need to present a valid card from his or her home library.

Library Cards

The library strongly discourages the practice of loaning a library card to others to use. The owner of the library card will be responsible for any lost, damaged or overdue materials.

The library charges $1.00 to replace lost or damaged cards.

If the library is notified that a card is lost, the library will not hold the patron responsible for items checked out after the date notified. The patron is responsible for all materials checked out on the card prior to the date the library is notified of its loss or theft.

If a card has worn out from normal use, the worn card will be replaced free of charge.

Circulation of Materials

All patrons are required to present their library card each time they wish to borrow materials. Library users are responsible for all items checked out on their card. If a patron is less than sixteen (16) years of age, the parents or guardians are financially responsible for materials borrowed or charges incurred.

Loan Periods

Special consideration may be given for extended loan periods upon request.

Reference items may not be checked out of the library.

Overdue Material

Borrowers are responsible for returning or renewing materials by the due date.

Patrons will not be allowed to check out or renew materials until overdue items are returned. This includes items from the OverDrive Digital Library.

Limits

Patrons are limited to ten (10) DVD’s per card.

Patrons are limited to four (4) e-books or audio books checked out at a time through the OverDrive Digital Library with no more than twelve (12) returned in one (1) week. If more than twelve (12) items are returned in one (1) week, patrons will be blocked for seven (7) days from the first return.

No limit will be placed on the number of other items borrowed by a patron provided that materials are returned promptly. Library staff reserves the right to limit items on special displays or under special circumstances.

Renewals

Most items may be renewed two (2) times. Each renewal will extend the due date of an item one (1) loan period. Renewals may be made over the phone during regular business hours, through the Plum Creek Library System online catalog or at the circulation desk. Online renewals may be restricted if the patron has overdue items.

Items borrowed from outside the Plum Creek Library System cannot be renewed unless approval is granted from the Plum Creek interlibrary loan staff.

No renewals may be made on items with holds, items which are long overdue or have been renewed two (2) times.

No renewals will be allowed on any multimedia equipment.

Special consideration may be given in certain circumstances.

Holds

Patrons may reserve materials through the PCLS online catalog, by phone, or at the circulation desk. The patron will be notified when the material becomes available by either email or phone call. If items are not picked up within seven (7) days of notification the item will be returned to circulation.

Patrons may place up to four (4) titles on hold at a time through OverDrive. The patron will be notified by email when the item becomes available. Patrons have forty–eight (48) hours to borrow the title. If not retrieved in forty-eight (48) hours the title will be made available to the next user.

Multi-media equipment may be reserved in person or over the phone. Holds on these items are not available through the online catalog.

Interlibrary Loan Items  

A patron may request material through interlibrary loan if the material is not available locally. Materials borrowed will be subject to the rules stated in this policy.

Multi-media Equipment Loan Policy

Multi-media equipment may be borrowed by Jackson County residents, who are eighteen (18) years old or older, and have been a cardholder at one of the Jackson County Libraries for at least thirty (30) days. Patrons must show a valid photo id and proof of current address when checking out a device.

A  Multi-Media Equipment Borrowing Agreement must be completed with each checkout, acknowledging financial responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged devices.

Equipment must be returned to library staff at the circulation desk. The replacement cost will be charged on lost or broken accessories. Replacement accessories will not be accepted.

Digital Resources

The library provides access to digital resources through the digital library service. These resources are accessed by entering the member’s library barcode number and a personal identification number (PIN). Some of these resources can only be accessed by visiting the library.

Some loan periods and limits are unique to the digital resource and therefore are not listed in the circulation provisions of the policy.  Whenever possible, circulation policies that apply to print resources will also apply to digital resources.

Lost or Damaged Items

Patrons are responsible for all materials checked out on their library card.  If an item is damaged, lost, or not returned, the patron is responsible to pay the replacement cost of the material, plus a nonrefundable processing fee of $2.00.   If materials are not returned within sixty (60) days of being due the patron is in violation of Minnesota Statute § 609.541 Protection of library property.  

Subd. 3.    Detention of library materials.  A person who detains a book, periodical, pamphlet, film, or other  property belonging to any public library, or to a library  belonging to the state or any political subdivision, for more  than 60 days after notice in writing to return it, given after  the expiration of the library's stated loan period for the material, is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.  The written notice   shall be sent by mail to the last known address of the person detaining the material.  The notice shall state the type of  material borrowed, the title of the material, the author's name, the library from which the material was borrowed, and the date  by which the material was to have been returned to the library.   The notice shall include a statement indicating that if the material is not returned within 60 days after the written notice the borrower will be in violation of this section.  

Referrals for violations of Minnesota Statue § 609.541 will be made to law enforcement and the County Attorney at the sole discretion of the library director.  In the case of materials checked out on a patron’s card that is less than sixteen (16) years of age, the parent or guardian who signed the application shall be the person held responsible for the missing materials.  This includes that failure to return the materials may result in the parent or guardian being referred to law enforcement or the County Attorney for charges pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 609.541 if the parent or guardian does not ensure that materials are properly returned to the library within sixty (60) days of being due.

A $2.00 fee will be charged for damaged or missing DVD/CD cases and inserts.

Patrons will receive a receipt for payment when paying for a lost item. No refunds will be given thirty (30) days after receipt of payment.

Suspension of Check-Out Privileges

Checkout privileges are suspended (blocked) when a patron has lost material, overdue materials, fines or unpaid charges of $5.00 or more. Privileges will be resumed when all lost or overdue materials are returned, fines or charges are paid or under $5.00.  This includes suspension of checkout through the PCLS Digital Library. 

Overdue Notices 

In order to remind users that they have outstanding overdue material, two notices will be sent. The written or email notices will be sent to the last known address of the person detaining the material. The notice shall state the type of material borrowed, the title of the material, the author’s name, the library from which the material was borrowed, and the date by which the material was to have been returned to the library. The final notice will also include a statement indicating that the material was not returned within 60 days after the written notice and the borrower is in violation of MN Statue 609.541 Subd. 3 Detention of Library Materials.

The first notice will be sent seven (7) days after the material is due; a second notice will be sent when the material is twenty-one (21) days overdue. After sixty (60) days, the material will be assumed lost, and the patron will be charged the replacement cost of the item.  A bill will be sent for the replacement cost of the material plus a $2.00 reprocessing fee for each item. If the replacement cost of the material(s) is $100.00 or more, the matter may be turned over to the Jackson County Sheriff for violation of MN Statute 609.541 Subd. 3 Detention of Library Materials.

Purpose or Intent
The Jackson County Libraries provide free use of computers and access to the Internet to all users, with the understanding that it is the individual user’s responsibility to demonstrate judgment, respect for others, and appropriate conduct while using Public Library resources. The purpose of the Computer and Internet Use Policy is to insure the best use of computers and access to the Internet by the greatest number of people.

Internet User Guidelines
Library workstations may not be used to view sexually explicit material, illegal drug-related, gang related, hate group related or violent materials. Library computers may be used to visit chat sites or other forms of electronic communications. Users will not disclose, use or disseminate personal information regarding minors without authorization of the parent or legal guardian of the minors involved. Users will obey copyright laws & licensing agreements. Users may not change the settings and configuration, use non-library software, or save anything to the hard drive of a library workstation. It is not acceptable to use the Library’s computers for any purpose, which violates U.S. or state laws, to transmit, obscene or harassing materials, or to interfere with or disrupt network users. The Library’s Rules of Behavior on Library Premises Policy # 180 applies to the behavior of patrons using library equipment. Failure to follow this policy could result in suspension of library privileges as stated in the Patron Suspension Policy #185. Library employees are authorized to terminate any users access session, or to prohibit a user from access given cause that the user has failed to comply with the policies of the library. 

Time Limits
Computer workstations are available on a first come basis whenever the library is open. Workstations may be reserved by signing up at the circulation desk, or by telephone. Workstations may be reserved up to one week in advance. 

The privilege of reserving a computer may be denied in the future if a person does not show up for the reserved time. The workstation will be available for other persons use 15 minutes after the originally scheduled time. 

Use of the Internet is limited to a single one-hour session per day. It is recommended to sign up at the top of the hour to be guaranteed a full hour. Use of a computer workstation for word processing will be limited to a single two-hour session per day. If no one is waiting to use a computer/Internet workstation, use may continue until it is needed for another person. 

Two persons may share one access session as long as their behavior or conversation does not disturb other users or library staff.  Use of and time limit on a computer workstation is up to the discretion of the librarian on duty.

Charges and Fees
Charges and fees for printing are the same as those stated in the Jackson County Library Photocopying and Other Services Policy #140. All fees must be paid at the time of service..

Minors
 Parents and legal guardians have responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet, including e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of electronic communications. Parents should caution their minor children, which personal facts are not to be shared on the Internet. Parents are strongly encouraged to work with their children to develop acceptable family rules of the Internet. 

Filters
To comply with Federal and State laws, the Board of Library Trustees has approved installation of software designed to filter sexually explicit content on all computers. The blocking software filter is inherently imprecise and flawed. It inevitably will block access to a vast array of constitutionally protected material on the Internet. Because of its technological limitations, the filter is also incapable of protecting against all access to Internet material that is obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors. The library can unblock individual websites that have been blocked by the filter. The library will disable the entire filter for adult users 17 and over upon request. The requesting user will not have to explain why he or she is asking that the site be unlocked or the entire filter be turned-off. The library encourages users to request that the filter be disabled as needed. 

Privacy
The library avoids collecting or maintaining records that could compromise the privacy of patrons. Sign-up sheets are maintained on paper locally to manage access to computer workstations. Those lists are shredded daily. There is no electronic tracking of workstation use that would enable the library to determine who that user is or what they did on a library computer after the customer logs off. Users must also exercise caution when using the Internet to avoid unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identifiable information. Users are encouraged to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing information that may reasonably be offensive to someone else. Absolute privacy for people using electronic resources in the library cannot be guaranteed. 

Wi-fi Access
The Jackson County Library Computer and Internet Use Policy #230 applies to any laptop used to access the Internet through the library’s Wi-fi connection. As a result, your Internet connection will be filtered and prohibited websites are blocked. Users are responsible for making sure their computer has the correct settings and necessary hardware Library staff will provide limited instruction for access. The library cannot guarantee that user’s hardware will work with the library’s wireless connection

Responsibility of the Library
The library is obligated to comply with federal and state law regarding the use of computer resources in the prevention of exposure to certain explicit images and material. 

Library staff is available to introduce Internet access and provide limited instruction only. 

Disclaimer
The Internet and its available resources contain a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. The user is the selector in using the Internet with individual choices and decisions. Users may encounter material that could be considered inappropriate. Parents of minor children assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet through the Library’s connection. The Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibilities arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic information systems or any consequences thereof. 

Laptops and other devices should never be left unattended in the library. The library assumes no responsibility for damage, theft or loss of any kind to a user’s equipment, software, or data files.

Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to specify the type of donations that the Library will accept and how the Library will handle the donations.

The Jackson County Library System gratefully accepts gifts and donations. 

Donations are accepted in honor of or in memory of a person. Acknowledgment of such a donation will be sent to family members upon request. A plaque may be placed in material purchased in honor of or in memory of a person.

Library staff will acknowledge all monetary donations and significant donations of materials accepted by the library.

The Library reserves the right to decline, discard, or sell any item donated to the library. 

Library staff will provide a letter acknowledging the receipt of a donation upon request. 

The Library does not provide appraisals of donations of materials. 

Donations of Money

• The Library accepts donations of money in any amount.                                                
• The donor may indicate how the money is to be spent.
• The money may be specified for a particular type of material, furniture, equipment, service or activity.
• The money may be specified for a particular library location.
• The Library reserves the right of final selection on furniture or equipment in order to meet the space, utilization and design of the building
• The Library will make selection if nothing is specified. 

Donations of Books and Other Material

• The Library accepts donations of used books and other materials with the understanding that the items will be added to the collection only if appropriate and/or needed.
• Donated material is generally assigned to the library where it was received but the library reserves the right to assign any donation of material to the library where the need is greatest.
• The Library has the right to decline any donation of used material based on duplication, condition, copyright date or lack of storage space. 
• Items not accepted for inclusion to the collection may be donated to the Friends of the Jackson County Library for the book sale. 

Donations of Memorabilia:

• The Library does not collect plaques, artifacts or other museum-type pieces, unless they pertain directly to the collection of the library or they have value for ongoing display.
• Donations of memorabilia accepted by the library become the exclusive property of the library.

Donations of Artwork

• The Library retains the right to accept or reject any work of art for the Library.
• Donations of artwork accepted by the library become the exclusive property of the library.

Gifts of Furniture and Equipment

• The Library retains the right to accept or reject any donation of furniture or equipment for the Library.
• Donations of furniture and equipment accepted by the library become exclusive property of the library.

Adopt Program

• Materials may be donated to the library through the Adopt program.
• Items requested for purchase will contain a plaque to acknowledge the purchase.

Purpose:
The Library Board authorizes the setting of fees for certain library services. It is a goal to provide these services at minimal charge to be affordable to as many as possible.

The Director will maintain a fee schedule for all such fees, specifying amount which will be collected by library staff.

Purpose: 
The purpose of this policy is to guide in the selection of books and other materials that will aid in the pursuit of education, information, research, pleasure, and the creative use of leisure time.

Because of the volume of publishing, as well as the limitations of budget and space, the library must have a selection policy with which to meet community interests and needs.

The materials selection policy is used by the library staff in the selection of materials and also serves to acquaint the general public with the principles of selection. 

Responsibility for Selection: 
The ultimate responsibility for selection of library materials rests with the library director who operates within the framework of the policies determined by the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees. This responsibility may be shared with other members of the library staff. Individual requests are welcome but the Library Director has the authority to reject or select any item contrary to the recommendations of the general public. The Library Bill of Rights has been endorsed by the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees and is an integral part of the policy. 

Criteria for Selection 
The main points considered in the selection of materials are: 

1. Popular appeal/demand 
2. Local interest
3. Existing library holdings 
4. Budget 
5. Reputation of publisher
6. Suitability of material for intended audience
7. Date of publication
8. Favorable reviews
9. Individual merit of item

Reviews are a major source of information about materials. The primary sources of reviews are Booklist, Library Journal, National Book Awards lists, and published lists of bestsellers. 

The lack of a review or an unfavorable review shall not be the sole reason for rejecting a title, which is in demand. Consideration is, therefore, given to requests from library patrons and books discussed on public media. Materials are judged on the basis of the work as a whole, not on a part taken out of context.

Interlibrary Loan:
Because of limited budget and space, the library cannot purchase all materials that are requested. Therefore, interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of this library's collection. 

In return for utilizing interlibrary loan to satisfy the needs of our patrons, the Jackson County Library agrees to lend its materials to other libraries through the same interlibrary loan network. 

Gifts and Donations:
The library accepts gifts of used books and other materials with the understanding that they will be added to the collection only if appropriate and needed. In most instances, the books or materials are assigned to the library where they are received but the library reserves the right to assign any gift material where the need is greatest. If items are not needed because of duplication, condition, dated information, or lack of storage to house the used material prior to a sale, staff has the right to decline the donation. 

Monetary gifts are encouraged.  Specific titles for memorial gifts can be ordered for the library by request of the patron.

Choose to adopt a book, magazine, DVD or any other material for the library through the Adopt Program. With a donation, the library will purchase a book or any other material to be placed in the library, with a book label indicating both the donor and honoree. It is desirable for gifts of specific titles to be offered after consultation with the library director. The director will make item selection if no specific item is requested. (See Gift/Memorial Policy 160)

Weeding: 
The Jackson County Libraries strives to maintain a collection that meets the needs of the communities. In doing so, a regular and systematic weeding of the library materials is conducted and will improve the efficiency and vitality of the libraries resources. Due to space limitations, judgments of priority often need to be made in the discarding of library materials. In terms of use, for example, staff may need to discard materials that are used but used less frequently than other materials. 

 Weeding has been shown to increase the quality and use of library collections. (See Weeding Policy #170)

Potential Problems or Challenges: 
The Jackson County Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons. Selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the basis of the principles stated in this policy. 

The Library is committed to complete access of all materials to patrons who are in good standing with the Library. It is the individual’s responsibility to decide what they will or will not find appropriate for their needs. In terms of access to materials by minor children, it is the parent’s or guardians legal and moral responsibility to monitor this activity.  Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children. 

Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of their contents, and no library material will be on restricted access shelves except to protect it from damage or theft. 

Challenged Materials: 
Although materials are carefully selected, differences of opinion regarding suitable materials can arise. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection may complete a "Statement of Concern About Library Resources" form. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees. Materials will be removed from circulation while under challenge until a decision to remove them from the collection is made. The decision of the Library Board is final. The Library Director will respond to the patron who initiated the complaint after a decision has been made. (See Patron Grievance Policy #190)

Purpose

The Jackson County Libraries provide meeting rooms for civic, cultural, educational and public informational meetings. 

Policy for Use

The meeting room is provided on a first come first serve basis. Library sponsored programs have priority use.

The meeting room may be reserved up to 6 months in advance. Other recurrent use of meeting rooms (e.g. monthly or multiple meetings/month) will be handled on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration the frequency, duration, availability of space and so on. 

Meeting rooms may not be used for events such as parties, showers, family reunions, etc. 

The Library’s “Rules of Behavior on Library Premise” policy applies to the use of the meeting room. Noise levels from meeting rooms must not disturb library patrons or staff. 

Individuals attending meetings are responsible for supervision of their children.

Meeting room users are responsible for their own supplies, room arrangement, and returning the room to its original order. 

Private for-profit businesses may be permitted to use the Library meeting room, but shall not be permitted to make direct sales during such meetings. 

The use of the library’s meeting rooms does not constitute an endorsement of any organizations policies or beliefs.

No alcoholic beverages or smoking are allowed on the premises.

Anyone using the library meeting room must complete the Meeting Room Agreement Form. The library must be notified of any change in the contact person. Anyone under the age of 18 must have an adult complete the meeting room form and adult supervision must be provided during meeting room use. 

It is the responsibility of the contact person to inform the library of any change in contacts or persons responsible for the organization. If the group intends to continue meeting at the library the responsible party should submit a new agreement form. If there is a lapse of six months between meeting room use a new agreement form should be submitted.

Arrangements can be made with library staff to obtain a key for using the meeting room when the library is not open.

Any reservation may be cancelled or rescheduled if the room is needed for library business. 

The Library reserves the right to revoke permission to any group who violate the rules of this policy.

Purpose: The Patron Grievance Policy addresses patron complaints regarding library services, materials, procedures, policies, and staff conduct. Library policies and procedures have been developed to provide fair and efficient service to all individuals. Persons who have experienced difficulties with a library service, policy or staff member are encouraged to discuss those concerns with library staff.  Library staff will attempt to resolve issues as quickly and fairly as possible. A patron may request to file a formal grievance if the issue cannot be resolved. Formal grievances are filed as follows.

Patron Grievance Procedure

1. A patron who wishes to file a formal grievance about a library policy, procedure, or service should submit a written complaint to the Library Director. The written complaint should include the date of the complaint, the name, address, email address and telephone number of the individual making the complaint and a detailed explanation of the issue. 

2. If a patron finds the behavior of any employee of the library to be unacceptable they are encouraged to relay the incident to the Library Director and to fill out a “Patron Grievance Form”.  The staff member involved will be required to fill out the same form. The Library Director will review both sides of the issue and will determine what action, if any, should be taken. The Library Director will determine if the complaint should be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees. The patron will be informed of the decision and what action was taken about the incident.

3. A patron expressing concern over library materials are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the library director or circulation staff. If a patron wishes to challenge the material further it is requested the patron fill out the Statement of Concern about Library Resources form.

The director and staff members will review the material and file written comments regarding the appropriateness, literary merits, and adherence of the material to the library's mission. All the information will be shared with the patron, along with the director's written decision as to the disposition of the challenged material. If concerns still remain, the patron may request in writing that the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees review the information. The decision of the Board shall be final.

Suspension of Library patrons is an option used when patrons exhibit or engage in behavior that violates the Rules of Behavior on Library Premises Policy #180, Computer and Internet Use Policy #230 or any other library policy. Suspension of Library patrons is a procedure that is used as a last resort.

• Library staff will exercise their judgment and discretion to suspend an individual’s library privileges for a period up to 30 days for violation of a library policy.
• Library staff will further exercise their judgment and discretion to suspend an individual’s library privileges for a period of up to one year, including suspending privileges from any Jackson County Library depending upon the seriousness and frequency of the infraction(s).
• If a violation is particularly egregious or dangerous or a customer engages in the same activity repeatedly, the Library may permanently ban that customer from either a service (such as using the public computers) or from the Library premises.
• All incidences resulting in a warning or suspension will be documented on the Rules of Behavior Incident Form.
• If the individual is under eighteen (18) years of age and the behavior warrants suspension from the library for more than one day, a parent/guardian will be notified in writing of the suspension from the library.
• Individual’s have the right to appeal, within 5 days of the occurrence, any action by a staff member, by contacting the Library Director. The appeal will be made to the Library Board of Trustees who will make the final decision.
• Failure by an individual to file an appeal within 5 days of the suspension will be considered a waiver of the right to appeal.

In an effort to support the goal of lifelong learning and as a public service, the Jackson County Libraries provide proctoring services during Library hours. Exams are proctored subject to the availability of authorized staff and resources.

• Library staff will proctor written, emailed or online exams as their schedule permits
• Students must make arrangements for exam proctoring in advance. When making appointments, students must supply a name, telephone number, and the date and time of the exam. Library computers need to be reserved for online exams.
• The librarian who monitors the exam will be the head librarian or designee.
• Professor must notify the proctor in advance with the student’s name and requirements of the exam.
• If the exam is written, it will be the student’s responsibility to arrange for the exam to be delivered to the library. It is the responsibility of the student to schedule the date and time of the exam.
• Students are expected to come prepared with the necessary or required supplies to take the exam.
• Proctors will NOT monitor a student continuously during an exam with the exception of Class D Driver’s Knowledge Tests. Proctors will be within sight of those students taking the permit tests. Proctors will enforce any time limits that are placed on the exam, as well as other rules set forth in the examination materials.
• The use of cell phones or visiting with others while taking a test is prohibited.
• The Library will keep tests until the test’s stated deadline. The test will be destroyed after the deadline. Library staff will not copy finished exams or keep exams past the deadline date.
• In the case of a technical difficulty it is the students’ responsibility to contact the college for assistance.
• Completed exams will be returned to the testing institution only via the envelopes or packaging provided by the student or institution.
• Students are responsible for cost of photocopies, postage costs or any other costs associated with the exam.
• Students taking the Class D Driver’s Permit test will be charged $10.00 per test payable at the time of the scheduled test.
• The Library is not responsible for any delayed tests, or for any completed tests once they have been mailed back to the educational institution.

Testing accommodations vary among Library facilities. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the physical facility is adequate for their test taking requirements. Quiet study areas may not be available at all locations. Proctoring tests is a service provided as a courtesy and scheduling exams is at the Library’s discretion.

Purpose:  

The purpose of these rules is to ensure that patrons of the Jackson County Libraries have access to and use of library facilities and grounds in a quiet, orderly, safe atmosphere, and undisturbed by the disruptive actions and behavior of others. These rules are intended to protect the rights and safety of library staff members and patrons, to preserve and protect library’s materials and facilities, to ensure the orderly management of the Public Library, and to ensure that library facilities and materials are available for the use for which the facilities and materials are intended. Failure to comply with these rules may result in the loss of Library use privileges.

Grounds for loss of Library privilege: 

Whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that an individual has committed any of the following acts he or she will be warned to cease the behavior and may be told to leave the library building and property for the remainder of the day. Any subsequent violations may result in the loss of library privileges.

1. Engaging in disorderly conduct, harassment, or behavior that causes or creates an interference with the quiet, peaceful, or orderly use and management of the library by patrons and employees.
2. Audible use of audio equipment.
3. Making noise, loud talking or shouting, engaging in boisterous behavior, running, throwing things, pushing, shoving, all in a manner that causes or creates interference with the quiet, peaceful, or orderly use and management of the Library by patrons and employees.
4. Bringing any dangerous weapon into the library, unless otherwise permitted by law.
5. Engaging in behavior, which creates an unsafe environment for patrons or employees of library facilities.
6. Theft, vandalism, and mutilation of library property.
7. Making long distance phone calls on the library phone.
8. Smoking, vaping, consumption, or any other use of tobacco, nicotine, electronic smoking devices or alcohol on the premises.
9. Making use of the restrooms for purpose for which the restrooms were not intended, including but not limited to, bathing, shaving, washing hair, or washing clothing.
10. Cell phone ringers or other audible signals must be turned off or set to vibrate when entering the building. Loud conversations must be moved to the lobby or outside the library.
11. Using furniture, materials, or equipment in a manner inconsistent with its proper and intended use.
12. Interfering with, obstructing, or blocking open spaces on all library property. This includes restricting passage with bicycles, skateboards, carts, backpacks, or anything that creates obstacles or takes up seating or table space.
13. Failing to safeguard personal belongings. The Library is not responsible for lost or stolen property and library premises shall not be used for storage of personal belongings.
14. Soliciting, petitioning, or distributing written materials, or canvassing for business, political, charitable, or religious purposes without prior approval from library staff.
15. Shirts and shoes must be worn in the library. Skates must be carried in the Library. Face masks or coverings may be required during pandemic outbreaks.
16. Interfering with others’ use of Library facilities because of poor personal hygiene.
17. Willfully disregarding the instruction and/or requests of library staff.
18. Bringing animals into the library except for service animals necessary for those with disabilities, as defined under local, state and federal laws.
19. Parents or other legal guardians are responsible for the behavior of their minor children in the Library.

It is against library policy to leave children age six (6) or younger unattended at the library. For purposes of this policy “unattended” means that the person responsible for the child is not within sight of the child. Library staff will not assume responsibility for the safety and security of unattended children. Exceptions may be made when a child is attending a library children’s program.

Parents are responsible for picking up their children by closing time. All patrons are asked to leave the building at closing. 

Any child who is considered to be disruptive or unsafe by the library staff will be asked by the library staff to stop the behavior.  A second request by the librarian for the child to stop the disruptive behavior will be directed to the responsible parent, legal guardian or childcare provider to correct.  If a parent or legal guardian is not on the library premises a child may be asked to leave the building. If the child needs to contact a parent or guardian, they may do so. If a problem involving an unattended child still remains and library staff feels the child may be unsafe, library staff has the right to call the police or child protective services.

All incidences of unacceptable behavior resulting in a warning or the suspension of service will be documented on the Rules of Behavior Incident form.

Library staff will determine the length of time of loss of library privileges. Decisions will be based on the violation, the number of warnings or other violations documented about the library patron.

If library staff has fear of or feels threatened by a library patron they are directed to call the local police or sheriff’s department.

Any person who is asked to leave the Library as a result of a violation of these guidelines and refuses to do so shall be considered to be trespassing and may be subject to permanent exclusion from the Library.

Any patron whose privileges have been denied may appeal the decision to the Jackson County Library Board of Trustees within five days of the occurrence as stated in policy #185 Patron Suspension.

Purpose: To establish rules, procedures and best practices for the use of social media websites and social media resources for the Jackson County Libraries. Social Media refers to community created content sites including but not limited to blogs, forums, social networks and other content sharing sites.  It includes:

- Material created by the library and maintained by library staff

- Material created by library staff on sites hosted and created by the library

- Material created on other social media sites when acting as a library employee

The use of Social media tools are meant to augment communication, collaboration, and information exchange between the Jackson County Libraries and the public. Thus, the primary purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for a professional and inviting social media presence. This policy complements, rather than overrides any existing requirements that staff act professionally and respectfully. This policy applies to all staff and patrons, whether registered with the Jackson County Library or not.

 Procedures:

• The Library Administrator and/or Assistant Administrator will be the managing authority. All social media accounts are created only with permission from the Library Administrator. Similarly, changing the name, passwords, and settings of the social media accounts must be approved by the Library Administrator or Assistant Administrator.
• All content is subject to being edited or deleted by the Administrative Librarian or Assistant Administrator. The Administrative Librarian or Assistant Administrator may also remove any tags or links to other accounts at their discretion.
• Each Jackson County Library social media page should clearly indicate it is maintained by the Jackson County Library.
• If possible, each social media page should link to the Jackson County Library official website and an online version of this policy, including the Public Terms of Use.
• All social media sites and content shall be monitored and updated as time allows by appointed library staff. Daily monitoring of social media sites is expected in order to preserve the professionalism and integrity of the sites.

Staff Responsibilities:  When posting material and comments on the Jackson County Library social media accounts, staff will:

• Always conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity as an online representative of the Jackson County Library;
• Not represent any posting or statement as official policy unless it has been explicitly approved by the Library Administrator;
• Observe and abide by all copyright, trademark, and service mark restrictions in posting materials;
• Not make statements about patrons or post, transmit, or otherwise disseminate confidential information in violation of Minnesota Statutes or the Jackson County Library confidentiality policy;
• Not conduct personal business or activities on library social media accounts;
• Staff will not spend an inordinate amount of time on social media resources. This will be monitored by the Library Administrator and/or direct supervisor.
• Library staff may not link material from employee personal social media accounts to the library social media accounts.

Appropriate content for staff to post:

• Notices of upcoming meetings, programs or events;
• Information about library services, trends or technologies;
• Press Releases;
• Library Policies and Procedures or a change thereof;
• Notice of program cancellations or service disruptions;
• Training and educational opportunities for the public;
• Promotion of Jackson County Libraries, the Plum Creek Library System, associations or other professional bodies related to Jackson County Library activities;
• Discussion of books, book reviews or a virtual book club; patrons may post opinions in these online discussions however library staff may only summarize book content on library social media accounts;
• All other content is to be pre-approved by the Jackson County Library Administrator or Assistant Administrator.

 Public Terms of Use:

• Public users should have no expectation of privacy in postings on Library sponsored social media sites, and by utilizing these sites, users consent to the Library’s right to access, monitor and read any postings on the sites;
• The Library’s social media resources may be considered public records. If copies are requested the library will disclose the contents of its social media sites to the requestor(s) and fees will be charged per the fee schedule;
• By choosing to comment on the Jackson County Library social media sites, public users agree to these terms:
  1. Postings which the Library, in its sole discretion, deems unpermitted under this policy, or inappropriate, may be removed in whole or in part by the Library without prior notice.
  2. The Library reserves the right to terminate accounts, ban or block users who have posted in violation of this policy.
  3. By posting on the Library’s social media sites public users give the Library permission to use the content of any posting you make without compensation or liability on the part of the Library. This permission ends when the posting is deleted.
  4. The Library will only use the personal information stored on any third party social media site to communicate with users on that site.

Postings that will not be permitted: Postings inconsistent with the stated purpose of the social media policy, as determined by the Library, in its sole discretion. The following examples of postings not permitted include, but are not limited to:

1. Advertisements;
2. Spam;
3. Postings which contain obscene matter, cursing or of a sexual nature.  Postings must be appropriate for audiences of all ages to read or see as Library clients ages vary greatly;
4. Disparaging, harassing, abusive, profane or offensive postings;
5. Postings that are hateful, threatening, pornographic, that contain graphic or gratuitous violence;
6. Potentially libelous or defamatory postings;
7. Postings which contain privileged, proprietary, or confidential information about any person, business, or entity;
8. Postings which violate or potentially violate local, state, or federal laws, including, without limitation, intellectual property and copyright laws;
9. Postings which discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, handicap, age, sexual orientation, creed, or ancestry;
10. Postings which are sexually harassing, including, without limitation, epithets, slurs, negative stereotyping, sexual rumors that show hostility toward individuals based on gender, derogatory comments about individuals’ body or appearance, unwelcome sexual compliments, innuendos, suggestions or jokes.
11. Postings shall not include contact information for people, businesses or agencies other than the library.  Postings shall not be linked to any other account unless pre-approved by the Library Administrator.

Photo/Video

The library is a public space. All library programs occur in public venues. Attendees to library programs do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Photographs/video may be taken during library program. These photographs and video may be posted on library maintained social media accounts or on city cable channels.

• As a courtesy, if a close-up photo is taken of one or two particular person(s) a signed Photograph Release form will be required before the photo is posted or used by the library.

Reporting Violations: Library staff and users may report violations of this policy to the Library Administrator.

A patron or public user who feels he/she has been unfairly banned or his/her content has been unfairly removed from the Jackson County Libraries social media resources may file an appeal in writing with the library board. Appeals will be reviewed at the next regular meeting of the board, provided the appeal has been received seven days prior to the meeting.

Disclaimer: Jackson County Library is not responsible or liable for the content of postings by third parties on any Library sponsored social media site, and postings do not reflect the opinions or positions of the Jackson County Library, its employees, or its board of trustees.

Purpose

The Jackson County Libraries utilizes volunteers to enhance public service to the community.  Volunteers provide support services to staff and/or work on special projects. The services of volunteers are used to supplement the work of paid library staff.  The Jackson County Library believes its volunteers are valued partners in helping to achieve the mission of the library. We encourage and support volunteers by providing fulfilling experiences that are of mutual benefit to the library, library users and volunteers.

General Guidelines

1. To provide a safe environment, criminal background shall be done on all volunteers.  Volunteers must authorize and cooperate with such checks in order to volunteer for the Jackson County Library. A volunteer may be denied the opportunity to volunteer based on findings of a background check. This decision will be made by the Library Director and/or Jackson County Library Board based on the nature of the offense and assignments assigned to a volunteer.

2. Volunteers will work with and be trained by staff. Volunteers are expected to take directions from the staff person who is responsible for their work. 

3. Volunteers will work during the hours when adequate supervision is available. Each volunteer and the staff person responsible for their work will arrange work schedules and time commitments.

4. Volunteers must complete a Volunteer Application Form. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian signature on the Volunteer Application Form.   

5. Volunteers will be called when a project is identified which matches their interests or qualifications. 

6. Volunteers must be familiar with and agree to abide by the library’s confidentiality policies, as well as all other library rules and policies.

7. Volunteers will notify library staff if they will be absent or tardy.  A record of a volunteer’s attendance and performance will be kept.  Performance problems will be addressed immediately.

8. Volunteers will be expected to present a clean, neat and tasteful appearance.

9. Volunteers with duties that include driving must possess a valid drivers' license and current automobile insurance. Said volunteers must complete the Driving and Vehicle Information Form and provide current copies of their valid driver’s license and proof of insurance to the library.

10. If a volunteer is driving in the course of their duties as a volunteer for the Jackson County Library seatbelts must be worn by drivers and all passengers, have valid insurance on their vehicle, and follow all traffic laws. Volunteers driving for the library must not be under the influence of any controlled substances or have any alcohol in their system when driving for the library. Volunteers shall only operate their personal vehicles in the course of their volunteer duties if the vehicle has been properly maintained and the vehicle is safe for travel.  Volunteers will be responsible for all physical damage losses to their own vehicles.  Volunteers shall document time volunteering on documentation forms provided by Library staff. 

11. Volunteers are responsible for their own personal property.  The library is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal property belonging to volunteers.

The library volunteer and the Jackson County Library have the right to terminate the volunteer’s association with the Library at any time, for any reason, with or without cause.

Requirements

1. Willingness to work in the public library environment.
2. Ability to interact with staff and the public in a positive and pleasant manner
3. Dependability

Skills

1. Ability to follow directions
2. Knowledge of alphabetical order
3. Manual dexterity
4. Typing proficiency
5. Organization ability

Duties

1. Assisting with programs for adults and children
2. Delivery of materials to homebound patrons and nursing homes
3. Shelf reading and organizing materials on shelves
4. Assisting with bulletin boards and displays
5. Assisting with book sales
6. Carrying out special projects
7. Other duties as needed

The Jackson County Library maintains a strong equal opportunity policy. Volunteers are recruited, placed, trained, recognized and dismissed on the basis of competence and job performance without regard to race, creed, religion, gender, sex orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability or political affiliation.