Item C29
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
C ounty of M onroe
Mayor David Rice, District 4
Mayor Pro Tem Craig Cates, District 1
The Florida Keys
Michelle Coldiron, District 2
Vacant, District 3
Holly Merrill Raschein, District 5
County Commission Meeting
April 20, 2022
Agenda Item Number: C.29
Agenda Item Summary #10474
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: Public Libraries
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Kimberly Matthews (305) 292-4540
NA
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Approval of revisions to the Monroe County Public Library system
policy manual
ITEM BACKGROUND:
The Monroe County Public Library system regularly updates its Policy Manual to ensure the system
is following professional best practices and meeting the needs of the community.
Various parts of the Library Policy have been reviewed, revised, and approved since the 1990 BOCC
resolution instituting the official operating policies of the Monroe County Public Library.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
5/20/2020- The BOCC approved revisions to sections: Library Policy 2.03A Obtaining a Library
Card and Borrowing Materials to update current procedures for distributing library cards to
qualified Monroe County residents who have difficulty providing documentation of permanent
address with the addition of the availability of an Easy Access library card; adding retired military
to the list of eligible free card-holders; and Library Policy 2.04A Schedule of fines/fees completely
reworking the schedules of fines and fees for overdue circulating materials.
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
NA
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve
DOCUMENTATION:
Library Policy Appendix
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MCPL Policy Manual-current outdated
MCPL Policy Manual DRAFT for BOCC Approval 4-2022
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Effective Date:
Expiration Date:
Total Dollar Value of Contract:
Total Cost to County:
Current Year Portion:
Budgeted:
Source of Funds:
CPI:
Indirect Costs:
Estimated Ongoing Costs Not Included in above dollar amounts:
Revenue Producing: If yes, amount:
Grant:
County Match:
Insurance Required: No
Additional Details:
none
REVIEWED BY:
Kimberly Matthews Completed 04/05/2022 11:17 AM
Kimberly Matthews Skipped 04/04/2022 11:38 PM
James Molenaar Completed 04/05/2022 1:14 PM
Purchasing Completed 04/05/2022 1:18 PM
Budget and Finance Completed 04/05/2022 1:29 PM
Brian Bradley Completed 04/05/2022 1:31 PM
Lindsey Ballard Completed 04/05/2022 2:43 PM
Board of County Commissioners Pending 04/20/2022 9:00 AM
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Statement of Purpose
Policy Adoption Statement
Public Access to Policy Materials
Preamble: Code of Ethics
SECTION 1 – LIBRARY BOARD
1.01 Legal Establishment of Library Board
1.02 Location of Library Board Meetings
1.03 Library Board Meeting Proceedings
1.04 Scheduling of Agenda Items
SECTION 2 – GUIDELINES FOR PATRONS
2.01 Library Hours of Operation
2.02 Rules Governing the use of the Library
2.03 Obtaining a Library Card and Borrowing Materials
2.04 Schedule of Fines/Fees
2.05 Unattended Children
2.06 Use of Personal Electrical/Electronic Equipment
SECTION 3 – USE OF LIBRARY FACILITIES
3.01 Use of Conference and Multi-Purpose Room and Audiovisual Equipment
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3.02 Application for Use of Multi-Purpose Room and Audiovisual Equipment
3.03 Display Facilities
3.04 Application for the Use of Display Facilities
3.05 Collection/Selling Activities
SECTION 4 – USE OF COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
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4.01 Computer Technology
SECTION 5 – LIBRARY MATERIALS
5.01 Materials Selection
5.02 Complaints about Library Materials
5.03 Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials
5.04 Free Publications
5.05 Florida History Department Photographs
SECTION 6 – GIFTS AND DONATIONS POLICY
6.01 Acceptance of Plaques, Gifts, and Donations
6.02 Gift Materials Receipt Form
6.03 Cash Donation Receipt Form
SECTION 7 – FRIENDS GROUPS
7.01 Friends Organizations and Activities
APPENDIX
A. Library Bill of Rights
B. Freedom to Read
C. Free Access to Libraries for Minors Buubdinfou;!NDQM!Qpmjdz!Nbovbm.dvssfou!pvuebufe!!)Mjcsbsz!Efqu!Qpmjdz!Nbovbm!vqebuf*
D. Access for children and Young People to Videotapes and Other Nonprint Formats
E. Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks
F. Statement of confidentiality
G. Rules of Patron Conduct
H. Monroe County Code. Article IV. Public Libraries (English)
I. Monroe County Code. Article IV. Public Libraries (Spanish)
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J. Application/Request for Use of Multi-Purpose Conference Room of the Monroe
County Public Library System (3.02)
K. Application for the Use of Library Materials (5.03)
L.Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials (5.03)
M. Gift Materials Receipt Form (6.02)
N. Cash donation Receipt Form (6.03)
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STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
The Monroe County Library Advisory Board has established as its objective the promotion of the
best possible library service for the people of Monroe County. The Library Board supports the
mission and the goals of the Monroe County Public Library System as stated in the Library’s
Annual Plan of Service.
MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE POLICY
The Monroe County Public Library system strives to offer excellent library service to all. While
quality of library collections and facilities is important, a consistently high degree of service to
the public is the core of the Library’s mission.
Library users are entitled to courteous, knowledgeable, and helpful service from well-trained
staff. This Public Service Policy affirms our guarantee to library users. All other library policies
should be interpreted in light of the following principles.
1. Library users are provided the same quality of service without discrimination, regardless
of any criteria. Users’ needs and requests are considered with equal importance and
respect.
2. Library users are the most important aspect of our work. This means serving a library
user takes precedence over any managerial or clerical function.
3. Judgment calls are always made in the library user’s favor. Library staff will never be
disciplined for errors made in good faith pursuant to this policy.
4. Library users requesting assistance via telephone, fax and internet receive the same level
of service as walk-in users.
5. When staff member is unable to comply with a library user’s request, every attempt is
made to offer an alternative.
6. Library policies exist to ensure equitable service and access to library resources.
Therefore, all staff members are familiar with library policies and are able to articulate
the rationale behind them
(09/20/2000)
POLICY ADOPTION STATEMENT
The following policies were adopted or revised by the Library Board of December 12, 1989, and
adopted on March 27, 1990. On April 18, 1990, the Board of County Commissioners adopted
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Resolution No 240-1990, making these the official policies of the Monroe County Public Library
System.
Reviewed and revised periodically, 1992-1996.
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These policies shall be reviewed annually and revisions made as deemed advisable at the time of
the annual review.
PUBLIC ACCESS TO POLICY MATERIALS
A complete and up-to-date copy of these policies, along with the Monroe County Personnel
Policies and Procedures Manual and the Monroe County Safety Policies and Procedures Manual,
will be kept available for convenient public access at each branch of the Monroe County Public
Library. The Monroe county Public Library System is a Department of the Monroe County
Government, under the jurisdiction of the Board of County Commissioners and the County
Administrator.
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PREAMBLE
CODE OF ETHICS; the Library provides the highest level of service through appropriate and
usefully organized resources; equitable service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased,
and courteous responses to all requests.
We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources.
We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information
sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.
We recognize and respect intellectual property rights
We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness and good faith, and advocate
conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees of our
institutions.
We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users, colleagues, or our employing
institutions.
We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties and do not allow our
personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of the aims of our institutions or the
provision of access to their information resources.
We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and
skills, by encouraging the professional of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of
potential members of the profession.
From the American Library Association Code of Ethics, Adopted by the ALA Council June 28,
1995.
SECTION 1 – LIBRARY BOARD
1.01 LEGAL ESTABLISHMENT OF LIBRARY BOARD
MONROE COUNTY CODE: ARTICLE III. LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD
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SEC. 10-38. Declaration of legislative intent.
It is hereby declared that the purpose and intent of the board of county
commissioners through this article is to create and establish a library advisory
board for the purpose of obtaining the benefits for accurate, comprehensive
information, advice and counsel concerning all matters relating to public libraries.
This article shall not be construed as delegating to such advisory board or its
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members any power or authority of a governmental, legislative or administrative
nature. (Ord. No.6-1981, s 1)
SEC. 10-39. Creation.
There is hereby created and established in Monroe County, Florida, an advisory
board to be known as the Monroe County Library Advisory Board. (Ord. No.
61981, s 2)
SEC. 10-40. Membership, qualifications and terms.
The Monroe County Library Advisory Board shall consist of five (5) members to
be appointed by the board of County commissioners of Monroe County. The five
(5) commissioners shall appoint a representative of that commissioner’s district,
regardless of the residence of the appointee. Each member shall be a resident and
elector of Monroe County; shall possess a reputation for integrity, responsibility,
civil accomplishment and professional or business ability; shall have
demonstrated an active interest in public library facilities and services; and shall
not be employed by a library.
__________________________
Editor’s note-
Sections 1-6 of ord. No. 6-1981, adopted June 16, 1981, filed with the Secretary of State June 26,
1981, have been included as ch. 10, art. III, ss 10-38 – 10-43.
Supp. No. 7
1.02 LOCATION OF LIBRARY BOARD MEETINGS
A. ANNUAL MEETING: An annual meeting of the Monroe County Library Board
will be held each year.
B. LOCATION OF MEETINGS: Meetings each year will be held at each of the
branch libraries that will be consistent with the goal of Sec. 10-42, “organization,
Quorum and Meetings” of Article III, “ Library Advisory Board,” Monroe
County Code, which states:
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“…The Advisory Board will meet normally at the Headquarters Library,
but should schedule meetings at the branches as appropriate to provide an input
for middle and upper keys residents…”
Specifics of such meetings shall be in accordance with the by-laws
established by the Monroe County Library Board.
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C. MEETING DATES: The dates set for these meetings are at the discretion of the
Monroe County Library Board.
1.03 LIBRARY BOARD MEETING PROCEEDINGS
A. RETENTION: Proceedings of the board will be electronically taped, such
recorded tapes to be retained for four (4) years from date of meeting.
1.04 SCHEDULING OF AGENDA ITEMS
A. DEADLINE FOR INCLUSION: A request to appear on the agenda of a Library
Board meeting must be received at the Headquarters Library at least one week
prior to the scheduled meeting date.
SECTION 2 – GUIDELINES FOR PATRONS
2.01 LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION
The Monroe County Public Library will observe the following hours of operation:
MAY HILL RUSSELL LIBRARY
700 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040
ph.305-292-3595 fax: 305-295-3626
Open 9:30am—6pm
Except Wed. until 8pm, Sat. open at 10am
BIG PINE KEY BRANCH
213 Key Deer Blvd. Big Pine Key ,FL 33043
ph. 289-6303 fax 289-6304
Open 9:30am—6pm
Except Tues. until 8pm, Sat. open at 10am
GEORGE DOLEZAL BRANCH
3251 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
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ph. 743-5156 fax 289-6093
Open 9:30am—6pm
Except Wed. until 8pm, Sat. open at 10am
HELEN WADLEY BRANCH
81830 Overseas Highway
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lslamorada, Fl 33036
ph. 305-664-4645 fax 305-853-7312
Open 9:30am—6pm
Except Tues. until 8pm, Sat. open at 10am
KEY LARGO BRANCH
101485 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
ph. 305-451-2396 fax 305-853-7311
Open 9:30am—6pm
Except Wed. until 8pm, Sat. open at 10am
Libraries are closed on Sundays and on the following holidays observed by all Monroe County
offices:
New Year’s Day Labor Day President’s Day Columbus Day
Martin L. King’s Birthday Veterans Day
Good Friday Thanksgiving Day
Memorial Day Thanksgiving Friday
Independence Day Christmas Day
In addition to the above-designated holidays the board of commissioners, in its sole discretion,
may grant other special holidays during the course of a year to some, or all, County employees
2.02 RULES GOVERNING THE USE OF THE LIBRARY
The Library has the right to maintain each of its facilities in a clean, pleasant, and safe
manner. Every individual has the right to use the Library undisturbed and every library
employee has the right to work without undue interference. To guarantee these rights,
rules of conduct have been outlined in Monroe county code, Article IV, Sec. 10-51 and
10-52 (See APPENDIX H and APPENDIX I), which apply to behavior on the premises
of all Library property. These rules will be posted in English and in Spanish, in all
County Libraries. In addition to the rules of conduct listed therein, patrons are to be
reminded of the following:
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Smoking, eating, and drinking are not permitted in the Library.
Alcohol is not permitted on the premises.
Sleeping and/or loitering are not permitted on the premises.
Pre-school aged children are not to be left unattended.
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Feet are to be kept off tables and/or chairs.
Bed rolls, back packs, and/or parcels are not permitted in the materials collection
areas.
2.03 OBTAINING A LIBRARY CARD AND BORROWING MATERIALS
A. LIBRARY CARDS.
1. ADULT CARDS: Library cards, which may be used at all County
libraries, are available at no cost to all persons who are residents of the
Monroe county 1. ADULT CARDS. Library cards are free of charge to
residents of the Library taxing district and to persons who pay property
taxes or license a business in Monroe County but reside elsewhere.
Military personnel and family on active duty or retired in Monroe County
are also eligible for a free resident card.
To receive a free library card, applicants typically provide a valid Florida
Driver’s License or Florida ID card displaying their current Monroe
County address. If these forms of identification are not available, or if the
address is not current or local, an applicant may provide a valid,
government-issued photo ID card with one of the following:
• Monroe County Property Tax Receipt or Business License
• Pay stub, IRS return or printed bank checks showing applicant’s
name and local address
• A current residential lease of at least 6 months
• Monroe County School or Employer ID
• Current Monroe County Utility Bills
• Monroe County Voter’s Registration Card
• Current Monroe County Vehicle or Vessel Registration
Library card holders agree to be responsible for materials borrowed and for
all overdue fines and fees incurred for lost or damaged materials. Library
registration and circulation records identifying individual readers are
considered confidential, as described in Florida Statute 257.261 (See
Statement of Confidentiality, Appendix F.)
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2. RECIPROCITY AGREEMENT: The Monroe County Public
Library System has an agreement with the Florida Keys Community
College for reciprocal use of library cards and the ensuing borrowing
privileges.
3. CHILDREN'S CARDS: Children who reside in Monroe County, as
evidenced by parental address given at the time of registration, may apply
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for a library card as soon as they can print their name. If the child is under
fourteen (14) years of age, the application must be signed by a parent or
guardian, who will be held responsible for library materials borrowed, as
well as for any fines or fees accrued on that card. The adult also accepts all
responsibility for theselection of materials made by the child. The Monroe
County Public Library System does not act in loco parentis, i.e., in the
place of a parent. Any restrictions placed on a child's use of the Library are
the responsibility of the child's parent or guardian, and the Library is not
responsible for enforcing such restrictions. All library circulating materials,
regardless of format, may be checked out to children upon compliance with
required registration procedures.
4. EASY ACCESS CARD: An Easy Access Library card is available to
Monroe residents who have picture ID but cannot provide address
verification. Patrons with this type of card may use library Internet
computers and have full access to all online databases and services. Easy
Access cards also allow for the checkout of up to three physical items. Up
to three holds may be placed with Easy Access cards. Easy Access cards
may be renewed in accordance with library circulation procedures.
5. INSTITUTIONAL CARDS: Institutions located in Monroe County
which offer services to persons who cannot take advantage of library
service through the regular channels are eligible to register as Institutional
Patrons. To do so, proof of the legal name and address of the institution is
required. Such proof consists of a letter placed on file with the Branch
Manager, on the institution's letterhead, signed by the director or other
authorized person, requesting institutional patron status, and stating that the
institution will be responsible for all activities associated with card use
(damages, losses, penalties, fines, etc.)
6. NON-RESIDENTS: Individuals who are not Monroe County residents
may pay a $30.00 annual non-refundable fee for a library card which
entitles them to borrowing privileges at all Monroe County Library
branches.
7. EXPIRATION OF LIBRARY CARDS: All library cards must be
renewed annually, including Institutional Patron cards, which require a
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new letter of request to be placed on file. There is no charge for card
renewal upon its expiration.
8. LOST LIBRARY CARDS: Lost or stolen library cards should be
reported immediately. Timely reporting of the loss prevents the library
patron from being held responsible for materials checked out on his/her
lost or stolen card. Some proof of identity must be presented when
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applying for a library card replacement. If there are any charges against the
patron's record, over the set threshold (see SEC. 2.04.C), they must be
cleared before a replacement card can be issued.
9. LOSS OF PRIVILEGES: All rightful fees must be paid to maintain
borrowing privileges. Failure to pay for lost/damaged materials, or a failure
to return library materials may result in the loss of the patron's library
borrowing privileges. (See thresholds for blocks on borrowing privileges in
SEC. 2.04.C.) It is the Library's practice to provide notification of and to
bill for overdue materials, but failure to receive notification or overdues or
of fees accrued does not abrogate the patron's obligation to return such
materials and/or to pay such rightful fees. (05/20/2020)
B. BORROWING LIBRARY MATERIALS
1. CARD USAGE: All valid Monroe County Public Library cardholders are
eligible to check our circulating items from any Monroe County Library location.
If a customer’s card is not readily available, a valid I.D. may be presented for
checkout of library materials. Library cards are only transferable when the
cardholder has provided permission directly to the library. (Exception: a parent
who has signed as being responsible for a juvenile’s card may use that card for
borrowing library materials.) If a cardholder chooses to allow other persons to
use his/her card, the cardholder remains responsible for all items checked out on
that card, as well as for any fees or fines that may accrue as a result of that use.
(01/16/2013)
2. READERS’ RIGHT TO PRIVACY: reaffirming the Library’s concern
for readers’ rights of privacy, the library will not disclose to anyone the names of,
or other information regarding, readers and will not identify materials called for
or examined by them. (See APPENDIX F: STATEMENT OF
CONFIDENTIALITY.)
3. RESERVING MATERIALS: If a patron wishes to obtain a book or nonbook
item(s) not currently on the library’s shelves but listed in the library catalog,
he/she may place a reserve request for the item(s). As the requested material
becomes available, the patron will be notified. Materials not picked up by the
given date will be made available to the next person on the reserve list, or
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returned to the library shelves. All normally circulating materials at all
branches are loanable throughout the system, regardless of the length of time
the item has been in the lending library’s possession. The requesting agency is
responsible for determining if demand necessitates purchasing an additional
copy of the requested title.
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4. INTER-LIBRARY LOANS: Every effort is made, through an inter-library
loan network, to obtain materials which are needed, but are not available in the
Monroe County Library System.
5. MATERIALS AVAILABLE FOR LOAN: A valid library card entitles the
patron to the full range of circulating library materials throughout the system’s
collection. These include, but are not limited to: books, periodicals, vertical
file material, audiocassettes, video materials, and compact disks. Use of any
available materials within the library building does not require a library card.
6. BORROWING LIMITS: Generally there are no limits on the number of
library materials that may be checked out at any one time. There are, however,
some materials that are limited to use in the library exclusively, such as
reference materials. Additional limits may be set by a particular branch
depending on availability of materials. Temporary limits may be placed on
materials in high demand at a particular time, e.g., holiday materials or
materials needed for school reports by a number of patrons at one time.
7. STANDARD LOAN PERIOD: The Library reserves the right to manage loan
periods to meet urgent demands on the collection. It is the Library’s right to
recall materials after the first basic loan period. The standard loan periods are
as follows:
a. BOOKS, MAGAZINES, AUDIOCASSETTES: Two (2) weeks
with five renewals if no other patron has requested these materials. A
block will be placed on requested materials and their loan period cannot
be renewed. Available materials may be renewed by telephone and/or by
the on-line public access catalog.
b. REFERENCE MATERIALS: In-library use only. Exceptions
may be taken under consideration by the Reference Librarian or the
Branch Manager. Under the reciprocal agreement with the Florida Keys
Community college, a longer circulation period may be arranged by
permission of the Reference Librarian or the Branch Manager.
8. EXTENDED LOAN PERIOD: Patrons may be granted extended loan periods
for special need, or to cover times when they will be out of town. The
individual library, at the discretion of the Branch Manager, will determine
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which books or materials it will lend for extended loans. (For example, books
in heavy demand may be excluded.)
9. VIDEO MATERIALS BORROWING POLICY:
a. FREEDOM TO VIEW: The Monroe County Public Library
supports the American Library Association interpretation of the Bill of
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Rights, which affirms that librarians have a responsibility to ensure access
for all, including children and young people, to videotapes and other
nonprint formats, and to all materials and services that reflect diversity
sufficient to meet their needs. As with books and other materials, the
Library cannot act in loco parentis, but does acknowledge and support the
exercise by parents of their responsibility to guide their own children’s
reading and
viewing. (See APPENDIX C: FREE ACCESS TO LIBRAIES FOR
MINOR, and APPENDIX D; ACCESS FOR CHILDREN AND
YOUNG PEOPLE TO VIDEOTAPES AND OTHER NONPRINT
FORMATS.)
b. ELIGIBILITY: It is understood that those rules which govern the
borrowing of all other library materials, also apply to video materials.
c. CIRCULATION OF VIDEO MATERIALS: Video materials shall
circulate for one (1) week, with one renewal allowed. Renewal may be
made by telephone and/or by the online public access catalog. Video
materials may be reserved, following the same procedures as with other
reserve materials (See Sec. 2.03.B.3).
d. RETURNING VIDEO MATERIALS: Video materials may not be
returned to the library via the book drop. The borrower is responsible for
any and all damages incurred as a result of using the book drop for video
return. In addition, a patron who uses the book drop for video return may
forfeit video material borrowing privileges.
e. VIDEO MATERIALS BORROWER RESPONSIBILITY:
I. DAMAGES: Borrowers are held responsible for the safe
return of video materials and for the cost of repair or replacement,
should the materials be lost or damaged. Evidence of tampering
with video material will result in the forfeiture of video borrowing
privileges.
II. COPYRIGHT LAW: All of the video materials in the
library’s circulating collection are protected by the copyright laws
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of the United States, which must be strictly observed. The
materials are available for private home use only, unless otherwise
indicated.
III. RESTRICTIONS ON VIDEO USAGE: Admission fees
are not permitted at any film, filmstrip, video, or DVD showing,
nor may these materials be used for fundraising purposes.
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10. RETURNING MATERIALS: Regular circulating materials
may be returned to any branch in the system. Book drops may
be used for book materials, but due to the likelihood of
damage to the material, not for any audio-visual items,
including, but not limited to, audio cassettes, video materials,
and CD’s. Such materials must be returned inside the library
during the open hours.
11. USE OF STATE AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS: The
patron’s library card permits use of the State of Florida film
and video collection, available to individuals and to groups. A
catalog of State materials is available at each branch. The
circulation staff will explain regulations and procedures for
obtaining the using of these materials.
12. AUDIOVISIUAL EQUIPMENT: In addition to the materials
described above, the Library has various audiovisual
equipment, such as film projectors, VCR’s, TV’s, overhead
projectors and other types of equipment. These items do not
circulate, but are available for use within the library for
library-sponsored programs or for programs presented by
groups who are registered to use the meeting/conference room
and have a signed designee to accept responsibility for their
use. In-library use of these items is also available to
individuals, at the discretion of the Branch Manager.
2.04 SCHEDULE OF FINES/FEES
A. FINES: Overdue materials are not charged a daily fine. Following a 10-day grace
period past due date, the patron’s account is blocked from further renewals, checkouts,
and access to certain online resources. After 28 days past due date, overdue items are
considered lost and the patron is billed for replacement value. When overdue items are
returned, replaced, or paid, all blocks are resolved and lost item fees waived.
(05/20/2020)
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B. REPLACEMENT FEES: A “replacement fee” is charged when library materials
are lost or damaged to the extent that they can no longer be used. This fee covers the
current purchase price of the same or a similar item.
Alternative replacement of lost or damaged material is acceptable, at the discretion of the
Branch Manager.
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The fees to be charged for lost or damaged materials are determined as follows:
BOOKS: the cost of replacement of a work of fiction or non-fiction, whether
adult or juvenile, is to be taken from a current ordering source, catalog, listing,
etc. If the exact edition is no longer available in print, the cost of a comparable
edition is charged, i.e., a hardcover book is to be replaced only by a hardcover,
and a paperback only by a paperback. If the book is no longer available in any
comparable edition, a flat fee system will be used, based on the most recent
pricing information available. Current flat fees are:
CHILDREN’S BOOKS (Hardcover) 15.50
CHILDREN’S BOOKS (Paperback) 4.50
YOUNG ADULT FICTION (Hardcover) 16.00
YOUNG ADULT FICTION (Paperback) 4.50
YOUNG ADULT NON-FICTION (Hardcover) 21.00
YOUNG ADULT NON-FICTION (Paperback) 7.00
ADULT FICTION (Hardcover) 23.50
ADULT FICTION (Paperback)
6.50
ADULT NON-FICTION (Hardcover) 30.00
ADULT NON-FICTION (Paperback)
21.00
NON-BOOK MATERIALS: Replacement cost is to be taken from a current
ordering source, catalog, listing, etc. If the material is no longer available, and
nothing comparable is found for a price estimate, the following flat fees are used:
AUDIO CASSETTES (Single tape) 12.95
AUDIO CASSETTES (Multiple tape set)
Fee for each tape in set (unless a replacement can be
found for the individual lost or damaged
tape) 12.9
5
The whole set must be paid for even if only a part is lost or
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damaged, unless that part can be replaced individually.
VIDEO MATERIALS (Single
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unit) 29.9
5
VIDEO MATERIALS (Multiple unit set)
Fee for each tape in set (unless a replacement can be
found for the individual lost or damaged
tape) 5 29.9
The total replacement cost for multiple sets is not to exceed the
actual value of the set.
COMPACT DISCS 14.95
Other material is priced at CURRENT REPLACEMENT COST.
Membership card for a non-resident (annually) 30.00
(06/17/09)
2.05 UNATTENDED CHILDREN:
A. STATEMENT: In order to prevent undue disruption of normal library activities, to
provide for the general welfare of all persons using the library, and to provide for the
general safety of children using the Monroe county Public Library, the following
rules and regulations shall be and are made a matter of policy at the Monroe County
Public Library.
B. RESPONIBILITY: THE MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY ASSUMES
NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR CHILDREN LEFT UNATTENDED ON
LIBRARY PREMISES.
C. CHILDREN FIVE YEARS OR YOUNGER: All children aged five years or younger
shall, at all times, be attended and adequately supervised by a responsible person,
e.g., an adult or a mature adolescent. If a child is left unattended, the staff on duty
shall attempt to identify and locate the parents or responsible adult.
1. IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICY:
a. When the parent is located, the Library policy on unattended children will be
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firmly explained.
b. If the parent is not found in the building, a staff member should stay with the
child until the parent can be found.
c. If the parent has not been located within an hour, or if the library is closing, a
staff member shall call the police.
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d. Under no circumstances shall a staff member take a child out of the building.
D. CHILDREN FIVE TO EIGHT YEARS: Children who exceed five years in age but
who are less than eight years in age may be left unattended for up to one-half hour in
the library, except during scheduled children’s library programs, at which time that
person responsible for the supervision of said child or children may elect to be absent
for the duration of the program. If that person who is responsible for the supervision
of said child or children intends to leave the building while the child remains at the
library, then that person shall leave word at the Circulation desk as to his/her
whereabouts. However, persons responsible for children who have special problems,
incomplete social skills, etc., which may require special individual attention, shall
remain with those children at all times, and the above mentioned exception or absence
during supervised children’s library programs shall not apply in these instances.
E. CHILDREN EIGHT AND OLDER: Children from the age of eight and older may
use the library unattended, subject, of course, to other rules and regulations
promulgated by the Monroe County Public Library concerning behavior, conduct and
demeanor.
F. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR:
1. Children who are being disruptive will be asked by staff to correct their behavior.
2. If the parents refuse or are unable to control the child, the family will be asked to
leave.
3. If the child is unattended and parents cannot be located within the building, a staff
member will attempt to contact a parent.
4. An older unattended child will be told that he/she is causing a disturbance, and
that this is a warning. The next time he/she will be asked to leave.
5. If the disruptive behavior continues, the child will be asked to leave. Staff will
ensure that he/she does leave the building.
2.06 USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
A. RESTRICTIONS: Personal electrical/electronic equipment may be used only in
designated library areas, as determined by the Branch Manager.
SECTION 3 – USE OF LIBRARY FACILITIES
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3.01 USE OF CONFERENCE AND MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM AND AUDIO-VISUAL
EQUIPMENT
A. LIMITATIONS: Use of Library facilities is open to programs sponsored or
cosponsored by the Library, to Monroe county or state governmental agencies, and to
public meetings held by groups headquartered in Monroe County which are civic,
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cultural, educational, intellectual, or charitable in nature. Such use does not imply
Library endorsement of the aims, policies, or activities of any group. Application for
the use of any meeting room will be made with the respective Branch concerned.
However, final authority for use of space will rest with the Senior Library
Administrator.
B. REGULATIONS: The following regulations apply to all programs scheduled in
Library facilities:
1. All programs must be free of charge and open to the public as space permits. No
collections may be taken or sales made. Written exceptions may be submitted to the
Director of Libraries in advance for sales during author book signings, public
performance or exhibits, or for non-profit agencies or groups to cover costs incurred
for class supplies or speaker fees. Library facilities shall not be used for personal or
private profit, aggrandizement, or advertising. (11/20/2012)
2. In case of exhibits, the Library shall not be held responsible for loss or damage,
and any insurance arrangements will be THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE
EXHIBITOR. Exhibitors will be required to sign waiver forms and follow
Display Policy.
3. Sponsors may be required to execute a “hold-harmless” agreement and/or furnish
appropriate insurance naming Monroe County as additional insured for certain
types of programs, in compliance with the “Use of County Property” policy and
procedures.
4. Monroe County government agencies take preference over outside groups when
scheduling the use of meeting rooms. Once an outside group has booked the
room, however, every effort shall be made to avoid a forced cancellation in favor
of the County agency.
5. Refreshments may be served only by permission and special arrangement.
Smoking and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
6. The Library reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any program or exhibit
when necessary.
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7. A key is available for meeting room use outside of regular Library hours; Library
staff will explain the procedures for such use to interested applicants. A
registered designee of the group must be present at any such meeting, to be
responsible for the key and adherence to the procedures.
8. Maintenance employees are not available to organizations at any time.
Organizations using the meeting room are responsible for any needed
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arrangement of furniture before their meeting as well as rearranging and cleaning
of the meeting room at the conclusion of the meeting. Monroe County
governmental agencies are responsible for making their own arrangement with the
Public Works Department for such duties and are required to restore the meeting
room to its original condition within a reasonable amount of time following the
meeting.
9. Rooms may be booked up to one year in advance, on a first come/first served
basis. If available, community and civic organizations may reserve library
meeting rooms for a maximum of two successive days. (03/18/2015)
10. The audio-visual equipment owned by the Monroe County Public Library may be
used within the library facilities, with a signed designee of the group to accept
responsibility, but may not be loaned to leave the facilities.
3.02 APPLICATION/REQUEST FOR USE OF MULTI-PURPOSE OR CONFERENCE
ROOM OF THE MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM (See
APPENDIX J)
3.03 DISPLAY FACILITIES
A. STATEMENT: The Monroe County Public Library provides display facilities where
available and whenever possible. These facilities may include locked glass display
cases, limited bulletin board space, and limited wall space. The Library provides
display space as a means of attracting community attention and promoting the
Library, its materials, collections, and services. Groups, organizations, assemblies,
collectors, specialists, institutions, industries, and individuals may use these facilities
for displays of educational, cultural, or recreational interest. However, use of these
facilities does not imply library endorsement of the display or of the aims, policies, or
activities of the sponsoring agent. All exhibitors must complete an Application for
the Use of Library Display Facilities for approval by the Branch Manager.
B. PRIORITY: FIRST PRIORITY FOR USE OF MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY
DISPLAY FACILITIES IS RESERVED FOR THOSE DISPLAYS SPONSORED
OR CO-SPONSORED BY THE LIBRARY.
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C. POLICY: Before a display is accepted, it must be previewed by the Branch Manager
or a designated representative for originality, professional quality (where
appropriate), and condition. Items suitable for hanging must be properly outfitted
with the necessary hardware. Temporary art displays and/or collections will be
subject to the same criteria as permanent collections. (See SEC. 6.02.E.1.)
D. PRICES: NO SALE PRICES MAY BE VISIBLE WITH THE OBJECTS
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DISPLAYED. A list of persons participating in the display, and their local phone
numbers, may be made available to inquiring patrons. Prices are not to bequoted
verbally, and under no circumstances may staff accept money for the sale of any
display item.
E. INSURANCE: If insurance is desired, it must be obtained by the individual or group
responsible for a given display. The Library has no responsibility to provide liability
coverage of any kind – including fire, theft, or vandalism. In those rare instances
where the Library may itself solicit or sponsor a display, it may also provide
insurance, but is not under obligation to do so.
F. TRANSPORTTION: Individuals or the official representative of the displaying
groups are responsible for transporting the display, arranging it, and removing it at
the end of its allotted schedule. Individual items within a display may not be
withdrawn prior to the conclusion of the display time and removal of the entire
display may not be done without permission of the Branch Manger.
G. RESPONSIBILITY: The Library shall not be held responsible for loss or damage to
exhibits, special equipment, or any other materials owned by an individual or group
and displayed or used in such a display in the Library.
H. GLASS CASES: The time limits for displaying in the glass cases are determined by
mutual agreement between the Branch Manager and the displaying individual or
group. A 30-day time limit is recommended. The glass cases may be reserved in
advance: when this is done, the dates agreed on should be adhered to strictly.
I. AGREEMENT: Individuals or the official representative of the displaying group will
sign a statement indicating their understanding of the above and concurrence with it.
The Branch Manager will sign the agreement to indicate approval of the display on
behalf of the library.
J. TIME LIMIT: Time limits for displays are to be determined by mutual agreement
between the Branch Manager and the displaying individual or group.
K. AUTHORITY: The Branch Manager or a designated representative has the authority
to accept or reject a display based on the stated policy. Appeals to the decision must
be made in writing to the Senior Library Administrator.
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L. APPLICATION FOR DISPLAY: The Branch Manager or designee provides the
Application for the Use of the Display Facilities. Applications should be filled as
early in advance of installation as scheduling requires, up to one year in advance.
The Branch Manager shall maintain a calendar of these bookings and a two-year file
of the applications.
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M. POSTERS AND FLIERS: Libraries having space available are encouraged to have a
library bulletin board and a community bulletin board for displaying items of
community interest. Where only one bulletin board is feasible, library material will
have first priority.
Commercial advertisements are not accepted for the bulletin boards. The Library
does understand that for some community activities, such as recreational programs or
adult educational programs, a fee is required. The Library will post fliers for such
events if they meet the other requirements.
All items for the bulletin board must be approved by the Branch Manager; no formal
application is required. Fliers and/or posters from recognized educational facilities
will be accepted and displayed as space is available.
Display of fliers or posters for events, other than Library-sponsored ones, on the
bulletin board does not imply Library endorsement of the aims, policies, or activities
of the event or the sponsoring agent.
3.04 APPLICATION FOR THE USE OF DISPLAY FACILITIES (See APPENDIX K)
3.05 COLLECTING/SELLING ACTIVITIES
A. RESTRICTIONS: No employee of the Monroe County Public Library, while on
official duty or on library premises, shall engage in collecting or selling activities for
personal profit.
3.06 POWER FAILURE
A. POLICY: All library uses, with the exception of staff, will vacate library premises in
the event of a power failure. Users may return when power is restored.
SECTION 4 – USE OF COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
4.01 COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
A. STATEMENT: In order to meet the changing needs of the residents of Monroe
County and in response to advances in communications technology, the Monroe
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County Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that
meet the cultural, informational, lifestyle, and educational needs of Monroe County’s
diverse, multicultural community.
The Monroe County Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the
information infrastructure accessed through the internet and cannot be held
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responsible for its content. As with other library materials, restriction of a child’s
access to the internet is the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian. All users of
the internet, as well as other library resources, should use judgment in evaluating the
value and accuracy of information found.
The Monroe County Public Library supports the American Library Association’s
Library Bill of Rights (for which see APPENDIX A) as well as the specific
interpretations of that document concerning “Access to Electronic Information,
Services, and Networks” (APPENDIX E) and “Access for Children and Young
People to Videotapes and other Nonprint Formats” (APPENDIX D).
SECTION 5 – LIBRARY MATERIALS
5.01 MATERIALS SELECTION
A. STATEMENT: This policy for the selection of books and all other library materials
(including internet access and other electronic media) for the use of the public has
been developed as a flexible guide for all those concerned with the selection process
for the Monroe county Library System. It is intended as a broad guide and not as a
procedure manual.
B. POLICY ON LIBRARY MATERIALS SELECTION: The Library Advisory Board
and the staff of the Monroe County Public Library system recognize that within
Monroe County there are groups and individuals with widely separate and diverse
interest, background and needs. They further recognize that the library was created to
serve all of the people within the Monroe County Library’s service area, regardless of
race, age, lifestyle, creed, or political persuasion, and therefore declare as a matter of
library materials selection policy that:
1. Library material selection is and shall be vested in the Senior Administrator of the
Monroe County Public Library, and, under the Senior Administrator’s direction,
qualified members of the professional staff. Any such material or internet access
selection shall be held to be selected by the Board
2. Selection of library material shall be made on the basis of its value to all of the
people of the community. No library material access shall be excluded because of
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race, nationality, or the political or social views of the author or others
contributing to their creation. The Library must be responsible to public
suggestion of items and subjects to be included in the library collection. It is up
to the library staff under Advisory Board guidelines to determine what should be
excluded, removed, or weeded from the collection.
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3. The Advisory Board believes that censorship is a purely individual matter and
declares that while an individual is free to reject books and other information
sources of which he or she does not approve, the individual cannot exercise this
right of censorship to restrict the freedom of others to read, view, or hear. Parents
have the responsibility to guide and direct the reading/viewing/listening of their
own minor children. The Library does not stand in loco parentis.
4. The library staff and Advisory Board defends the principles of the freedom to
read, view or hear and declares that all materials selected under this policy are
considered constitutionally protected until such time as they are determined
unprotected by jurisdictional action and after appeals, if any, have been heard.
Only then will the Board and staff take action which may result in removal of
challenged materials from the collection.
5. The Advisory Board and staff adopt and declare that they will adhere to and
support:
(a) The Library Bill of Rights
(b) The Freedom to Read Statement adopted by the American Library
Association, both of which are made a part hereof. (See APPENDIX A and
APPENDIX B)
C. SELECTION STANDARDS: While all staff members, as well as the general public,
may recommend materials to be considered for purchase, all recommendations are
channeled through regular processes and considered in the light of regular selection
standards. To build collections of merit and significance, materials will be considered
according to objective guidelines. All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated,
are considered in terms of the following standards:
1. Suitability of physical form for library use.
2. Suitability of subject and style for intended audience.
3. Present and potential relevance to community needs.
4. Appropriateness and effectiveness of medium to content.
5. Insight into human and social conditions.
6. Importance as a document of the times.
7. Relation to existing collection and other material on subject.
8. Reputation to existing collection and other material on subject.
9. Skill, competence, and purpose of the author.
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10. Attention of critics, reviewers, and public.
Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of
the contents, and no material will be sequestered except for the purpose of protecting
it from injury or theft.
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D. LIMITATION IN SELECTION: Since the Library is limited in its selection of
materials by its financial resources and available space, certain limitations are
necessary; e.g., in the fields of law and medicine, only the more general works of
community interest and use are selected; in the field of religion, a representative
collection of beliefs and practices of the world’s principal faiths and religions is
maintained—purely devotional materials are not generally selected for inclusion. In
all areas, selection is based on the merits of the work as well as serving the needs and
interests of the community.
The Library acknowledges a particular interest in local and state history. It therefore
takes a broad view of works by and about Florida and/or Florida Keys authors, as
well as general works related to the State of Florida and/or the Florida Keys, but is
under no obligation to add to its collection any such materials if it does not seem in
the public interest to do so.
E. CHILDREN’S MATERIALS: The Library is deeply committed to the conviction
that a public library should provide all children with the freedom to select books and
materials without being limited to an artificial grouping by age or grade level. The
Library will not restrict children’s access to available materials, and bears no
responsibility for a child’s selection of such. Supervision of children’s selection and
use of materials rests with their parents or legal guardians. Library selection of adult
materials for its collection will not be inhibited by the possibility that such materials
may come into the possession of children.
F. SERVICE TO STUDENTS: The Library selects materials to serve students but does
not duplicate material which should be provided by school libraries. Textbooks are
purchased only when they provide the best coverage of a subject and are useful to the
general public. They will not be duplicated to satisfy the demands of a specific
school course. The Library assumes its responsibility to be that of providing books
which will broaden the student’s interest in a particular subject that may stem from
the use of a textbook, rather than in providing the textbook itself.
G. GIFT MATERIALS: The library system welcomes the donation of books and other
library materials from individuals, corporations, and other sources. Such gifts are
accepted only with the understanding that they may be retained, relocated, or
discarded at the discretion of the library staff. Such gifts as are retained cannot
normally be given special housing but will be integrated into the general library
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collection. Material may not be accepted until clearance is received from the Senior
Library Administrator and the Library Advisory Board, if the donor insists that it be
retained in a special outlet or that its use be restricted in any way.
The same standards of selection are applied to gift materials as to materials purchased
from library funds. Replacement and duplicate copies are added to the collection if
needed. The costs of processing and the availability of shelving space are also factors
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in determining the acceptance of gifts. Gifts which do not meet the Library’s
standards for the collection will be placed in the Friends of the Library book sale.
Unneeded duplicate copies may be placed in the book sale or given to another branch
where they are not yet in the collection. The Library does not provide valuations of
gifts for tax deductions or other purposes.
Choice of memorial books or other materials may be left to the library staff, or the
donor may indicate a particular book or subject desired. Often the library selection
will reflect the special interests of the person being commemorated.
Memorial materials are shelved with the regular collection, according to subject
classification, so that they will be available and useful to persons seeking materials on
a particular subject. Book plates will be placed in each item if requested by the
donor.
H. WITHDRAWAL OF MATERIALS FROM LIBRARY COLLECTION: Outdated,
seldom used, or shabby items can weaken a collection as surely as insufficient
acquisitions. Weeding the collection and selection of items for discard are the
ultimate responsibilities of the Senior Library Administrator and/or his/her designee,
but each manager is regularly responsible for the upkeep of his/her branch collection.
Continuous appraisal of the book collection, the pamphlet files, the periodical files,
and the audio-visual materials is as essential as their initial selection for the library.
In general, the same criteria apply to weeding as are used in the selection of new
materials and are largely based on the following consideration:
1. Materials which contain outdated or inaccurate information
2. Superseded editions
3. Worn or badly marked items
4. Seldom used titles
5. Availability of the material elsewhere in the system collection and/or convenient
access to the material through the inter-library loan system.
I. REPLACEMENT OF MATERIALS: The Library will not automatically replace all
materials withdrawn because of loss, damage, or wear. The same criteria that apply
in original selection will apply to replacement with particular attention given to the
following:
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1. Continued value of the particular title
2. Demand for the specific title
3. Extent of adequate coverage of the field in the existing collection
4. Availability of newer or better material in the field
5. Number of copies in the unit and/or system
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6. Availability of the item in another format and/or through the inter-library loan
system
J.DEACCESSIONING MATERIALS: Materials which are replaced or, are outdated,
obsolete, beyond their useful service life or which are no longer needed as determined
by the Library Board may be offered for sale or donation to other governmental units
or, if no other governmental unit desires the materials, to a non-profit agency as
defined in Florida Statute 273.01(3). The cost of transferring the property shall be
paid by the governmental unit or the private nonprofit agency purchasing or receiving
the donation of surplus property. If the materials are offered for sale or donation and
no other governmental unit or non-profit agency expresses an interest in the materials,
the value of which the Library Board determines to be $5,001 or higher, shall be sold
by public auction to the highest responsible bidder, after publication of notice not less
than 1 week nor more than 2 weeks prior to sale in a newspaper having general
circulation in Monroe County. Materials, the value of which is known to be or the
board determines to be under $5,000, or materials which have been offered for sale at
public auction and which have received no bids may be disposed of in the most
efficient and cost effective means available as determined by the Library Board.
(11/20/2013)
5.02 COMPLAINTS ABOUT LIBRARY MATERIALS
A. PROCEDURE: All complainants will be allowed to voice their opinions verbally, but
before any action concerning the material in question is taken, a written, specific
report must be prepared by the complainant. This report will be placed before the
library staff committee, which will make a recommendation of action and so notify
the complainant. If the complainant wishes to pursue the matter further, the
complaint will be forwarded to the Senior Library Administrator for a further
recommendation. If the complainant is stall not satisfied, the matter will be presented
for final disposition to the Library Board at their next regularly scheduled meeting.
The complainant will be notified when the Board will meet to act on this report, so
that he/she may attend.
5.03 REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS (See
APPENDIX L) 5.04 FREE PUBLICATIONS
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A. STATEMENT: Materials produced by the Library or other local, state, or federal
governmental agencies will be distributed in the library as space allows. The Library
will make every effort to make available current County-generated information such
as Board of County Commission meeting agendas, Land Use material, and other
similar information relevant to County activities and interests, but it cannot be
considered a depository for such materials.
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Materials promoting general awareness of, or the philosophy of, local non-profit
organizations as well as those described above, in addition to educational institutions
and recognized community groups, will be displayed as space allows, with the
approval of the Branch Manager or a designee.
5.05 FLORIDA HISTORY DEPARTMENT PHOTOGRAPHS
Monroe County Public Library provides its customers with access to most of the original
items in its Florida History archival collections. Library staff, however, reserves the right
to restrict handling or copying of materials which may jeopardize the records’ continued
preservation.
Customers may duplicate archival materials using their own digital capture or
photographic equipment. Some archival material may also be available in digital format.
Downloads of low-resolution, archival images or audio files from the library’s websites
are available free of charge. High-resolution reproductions (generally, uncompressed,
full-size master files) can be provided on removable storage media (such as compact
disc) at a cost of $10.00 per image. Non-profit and research organizations may be granted
a waiver of this fee, at the discretion of Library staff.
Monroe County does not hold copyright over the original images in the archival
collections. Responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright claims to the
original images must be assumed by those wishing to reproduce the images.
For non-county residents unable to visit the archives, basic look-up and copying services
(such as obituaries and city directory listings) are provided at a cost of $5.00 for each
search. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. Materials from the Library
archives will not be loaned to customers for the purpose of outside copying. (06/17/09)
SECTION 6 – GIFTS AND DONATIONS POLICY
6.01 ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS, PLAQUES, AND DONATIONS
A. POLICY: Donations to the Monroe County Public Library System will general be
accepted only when there are no conditions imposed by the donor with regards to
their use, location, rebinding, or disposal.
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B. RESTRICTIONS: Should a donor wish to place any restrictions(s) on a gift, all
details with regard to that specific gift and the restriction(s) shall be referred to the
Library Advisory Board for a determination as to its acceptability at the next
regularly scheduled Library Board meeting following notification of the donor’s
intent.
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C. PLAQUES. In accordance with the Board of County Commissioners’ direction, on 22
April 1992, permitting the presentation of plaques, the Library Advisory Board has
limited the size of interior plaques in the Monroe County Public Library facilities to 8
½” x 18”. Any and all such presentations must be referred to the Library Advisory
Board for written approval prior to formal acceptance by the Library. Specific
approval by the Senior Library Administrator must also be received in advance of
acceptance.
D. GIFTS AND CASH DONATIONS: Any donated gifts purchased for the Monroe
County Public Library System, or cash donations given to the library for any purpose
other than the purchase of library materials, with a value equal to, or in excess of,
$500.00, must be presented to and approved by the Library Advisory Board prior to
formal acceptance of the specified purchased gift or cash donation by the Monroe
County Public Library System. The gift-giver should first approach the Manager of
the Library concerned, who will discuss the offer with the Senior Library
Administrator to determine need and feasibility, as well as any maintenance or other
possible long-term obligations that may be incurred by acceptance of the offer. The
Administrator then approaches the Library Advisory Board for approval and reports
back to the Manager and/or the gift giver for implementation. Such approval is also
required for any gift project affecting the library structure proper. Cash donations of
this nature, that have no undue restrictions placed on them, may be accepted
conditionally prior to this formal acceptance procedure.
This procedure is in keeping with the standard Monroe County protocol for handling
any unanticipated funds, including grant moneys, which can be formally accepted
only upon approval by the County Attorney and the Board of County Commissioners.
1. POLICY: Any offering to the library of non-library material, such as framed
art, sculpture, etc., for permanent display as library property, will be approved
by the Senior Library Administrator and Library Board prior to its acceptance.
Both original works of art and reproductions may be chosen. Care will be
used to select items of special interest to the community. The following
general criteria will be taken into account in the selection of all items of this
type:
a. Artistic merit of the original work of art.
b. Artistic reputation of the artist.
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c. Importance of the artist historically, or in the contemporary or local
scene.
d. The contribution the item will make to the institution.
e. The suitability of the item for general viewing.
6.02 GIFT MATERIALS RECEPT FORM (See APPENDIX M)
6.03 CASH DONATIONS RECEIPT FORM (See APPENDIX N)
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SECTION 7 – FRIENDS GROUPS
7.01 FRIENDS ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
A. STATEMENT: Concerned citizens who are members of the Friends of the
Library system provide invaluable assistance with public relations, fundraising,
advocacy, and cultural programs. Their interest, volunteer time, and support
contribute significantly to responsive public service and library development for
the people of Monroe County.
Friends of the Library are non-profit groups organized on the local library level
and governed according to specific organizational by-laws. Local Friends groups
represent their communities and the entire Monroe County Library system by
serving as support groups to the Library Advisory Board, Senior Library
Administrator, and Library Managers.
As representatives of the Monroe County System, all Friends activities should be
in accordance with the policies and procedures of the library system, and follow
local, state, and national public library laws. Activities should also conform to
any state regulations administered through the Division of Library and
Information Services, Florida Department of State. The Senior Library
Administrator or designee should be informed in advance of plans and activities
of local Friends groups.
In order to coordinate Friends activities, assist, and advise individual Friends
organizations, promote cooperation and maintain communication, at least one
joint meeting of the Library Advisory Board and local Friends groups shall be
held annually.
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Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas,
and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and
enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be
excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on
current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan
or doctrinal disapproval.
III.Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide
information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting
abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age,
background, or views.
VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve
should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or
affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and
confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect
people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948;
February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.
Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.
The Freedom to Read Statement
The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups
and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to
reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists
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of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a
view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and
suppression are needed to counter threats tosafety or national security, as well as to avoid the
subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as
librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in
the preservation of the freedom to read.
Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the
ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We
trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions
about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage
of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We
believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.
These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against
education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not
only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an
even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or
unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.
Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet
suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the
United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative
solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement
of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able
to deal with controversy and difference.
Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and
write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression
that can initially command only a small audience. The written word isthe natural medium for the
new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is
essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of
knowledge and ideas into organized collections.
We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a
creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of
limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture
depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish
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and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and
librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it
possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.
The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand
firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities
that accompany these rights.
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We therefore affirm these propositions:
1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest
diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or
considered dangerous by the majority.
Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every
new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to
maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges
the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly
strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting
opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark
the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of
weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times
like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it.
2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation
they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their
own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be
published or circulated.
Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available
knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning.
They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought.
The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than
those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is
wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper.
3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings
on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private
lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to
whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say.
4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults
to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to
achieve artistic expression.
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To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking?
We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life.
Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of
experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help
them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to
be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet
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prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can
machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the
freedom of others.
5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label
characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.
The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to
determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals
must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans
do not need others to do their thinking for them.
6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom
to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to
impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government
whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.
It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral,
or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of
another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for
themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will
recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law
into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other
members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the
accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and
creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental
prerogative or self-censorship.
7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to
read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression.
By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to
a "bad" book is a good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one.
The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for
that reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive
provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said.
Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and
the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires
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of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans
the fullest of their support.
We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty
claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of
enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the
application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression
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that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief
that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply
important; that ideas can be dangerous; butthat the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic
society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.
This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the
American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970
consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of
American Publishers.
Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read
Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.
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Monroe County Public Library Policy Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preamble: Code of Ethics
SECTION 1 – LIBRARY BOARD
SECTION 2 – GUIDELINES FOR PATRONS
2.01 Library Hours of Operation
2.02 Rules Governing the use of the Library
2.03 Obtaining a Library Card and Borrowing Materials
2.04 Schedule of Fines/Fees
2.05 Unattended Children
2.06 Use of Personal Electrical/Electronic Equipment
SECTION 3 – USE OF LIBRARY FACILITIES
3.01 Use of Conference and Multi-Purpose Room and Audiovisual Equipment
3.02 Application for Use of Multi-Purpose Room and Audiovisual Equipment
3.03 Display Facilities
3.04 Application for the Use of Display Facilities
3.05 Collection/Selling Activities
SECTION 4 – USE OF COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
4.01 Computer Technology
SECTION 5 – LIBRARY MATERIALS
5.01 Materials Selection
5.02 Complaints about Library Materials
5.03 Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials
5.04 Free Publications
5.05 Florida History Department Photographs
SECTION 6 – GIFTS AND DONATIONS POLICY
6.01 Acceptance of Plaques, Gifts, and Donations
6.02 Gift Materials Receipt Form
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6.03 Cash Donation Receipt Form
SECTION 7 – FRIENDS GROUPS
7.01 Friends Organizations and Activities
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APPENDIX
A. Library Bill of Rights
B. Freedom to Read
C. Free Access to Libraries for Minors
D. Access to Library Resources and Services for Minors
E. Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks
F. Statement of confidentiality
G. Rules of Patron Conduct
H. Monroe County Code. Article IV. Public Libraries (English)
I. Monroe County Code. Article IV. Public Libraries (Spanish)
J. Application/Request for Use of Multi-Purpose Conference Room of the Monroe
County Public Library System (3.02)
K. Application for the Use of Library Materials (5.03)
L. Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials (5.03)
M. Gift Materials Receipt Form (6.02)
N. Cash donation Receipt Form (6.03)
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MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE POLICY
The Monroe County Public Library system strives to offer excellent library service to all. While
quality of library collections and facilities is important, a consistently high degree of service to
the public is the core of the Library’s mission.
Library users are entitled to courteous, knowledgeable, and helpful service from well-trained
staff. This Public Service Policy affirms our guarantee to library users. All other library policies
should be interpreted in light of the following principles.
1. Library users are provided the same quality of service without discrimination, regardless
of any criteria. Users’ needs and requests are considered with equal importance and
respect.
2. Library users are the most important aspect of our work. This means serving a library
user takes precedence over any managerial or clerical function.
3. Judgment calls are always made in the library user’s favor. Library staff will never be
disciplined for errors made in good faith pursuant to this policy.
4. Library users requesting assistance via telephone, fax and internet receive the same level
of service as walk-in users.
5. When staff member is unable to comply with a library user’s request, every attempt is
made to offer an alternative.
6. Library policies exist to ensure equitable service and access to library resources.
Therefore, all staff members are familiar with library policies and are able to articulate
the rationale behind them
(09/20/2000)
PUBLIC ACCESS TO POLICY MATERIALS
A complete and up-to-date copy of these policies, along with the Monroe County Personnel
Policies and Procedures Manual and the Monroe County Safety Policies and Procedures Manual,
will be kept available for convenient public access at each branch of the Monroe County Public
Library. The Monroe County Public Library System is a Department of the Monroe County
Government, under the jurisdiction of the Board of County Commissioners and the County
Administrator.
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PREAMBLE
CODE OF ETHICS; the Library provides the highest level of service through appropriate and
usefully organized resources; equitable service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased,
and courteous responses to all requests.
We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources.
We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information
sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.
We recognize and respect intellectual property rights.
We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness and good faith, and advocate
conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees of our
institutions.
We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users, colleagues, or our employing
institutions.
We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties and do not allow our
personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of the aims of our institutions or the
provision of access to their information resources.
We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and
skills, by encouraging the professional of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of
potential members of the profession.
From the American Library Association Code of Ethics, Adopted by the ALA Council June 28,
1995.
SECTION 1 – LIBRARY BOARD
1.01 LEGAL ESTABLISHMENT OF LIBRARY BOARD
The Monroe County Public Library Advisory Board is established, governed, and maintained in
accordance with Monroe County Ordinance 6-1981 and its revisions.
SECTION 2 – GUIDELINES FOR PATRONS Buubdinfou;!NDQM!Qpmjdz!Nbovbm!ESBGU!gps!CPDD!Bqqspwbm!5.3133!!)Mjcsbsz!Efqu!Qpmjdz!Nbovbm!vqebuf*
2.01 LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION
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The Monroe County Public Library maintains regular hours of operation as posted on the library
website and physical doors. In accordance with national and state requirements, the libraries are
open a minimum of 40 hours per week. Operating hours may change in response to customer
needs, emergency actions, and other extenuating circumstances.
Libraries are closed on Sundays and on the BOCC approved holidays in accordance with Monroe
County Personnel Policy.
In addition to the above-designated holidays the board of commissioners, in its sole discretion,
may grant other special holidays during the course of a year to some, or all, County employees
2.02 RULES GOVERNING THE USE OF THE LIBRARY
The Library has the responsibility to maintain each of its facilities in a clean, pleasant,
and safe manner. Every individual has the right to use the Library undisturbed and every
library employee has the right to work without undue interference. To guarantee these
rights, rules of conduct have been outlined in Monroe county code, Article IV, Sec. 10-51
and 10-52 (See APPENDIX H and APPENDIX I), which apply to behavior on the
premises of all Library property. These rules will be posted in English and in Spanish, in
all County Libraries. In addition to the rules of conduct listed therein, patrons are to be
reminded of the following:
Smoking, eating, and drinking are not permitted in the Library.
Alcohol is not permitted on the premises.
Sleeping and/or loitering are not permitted on the premises.
Pre-school aged children are not to be left unattended.
Feet are to be kept off tables and chairs.
Bed rolls, back packs, and parcels are not permitted in the materials collection
areas.
2.03 OBTAINING A LIBRARY CARD AND BORROWING MATERIALS
A. LIBRARY CARDS.
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Library cards may be used at all County libraries and are available at no cost to residents
of Monroe County.
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1. ADULT CARDS. Library cards are free of charge to residents of the Monroe
County and to persons who pay property taxes or license a business in Monroe
County but reside elsewhere. Military personnel and family on active duty or
retired in Monroe County are also eligible for a free resident card.
To receive a free library card, applicants typically provide a valid Florida
Driver’s License or Florida ID card displaying their current Monroe
County address. If these forms of identification are not available, or if the
address is not current or local, an applicant may provide a valid,
government-issued photo ID card with one of the following:
Monroe County Property Tax Receipt or Business License
Pay stub, IRS return or printed bank checks showing applicant’s
name and local address
A current residential lease of at least 6 months
Monroe County College, School or Employer ID
Current Monroe County Utility Bills
Monroe County Voter’s Registration Card
Current Monroe County Vehicle or Vessel Registration
Library card holders agree to be responsible for materials borrowed and for
all fees incurred for lost or damaged materials. Library registration and
circulation records identifying individual readers are considered
confidential, as described in Florida Statute 257.261 (See Statement of
Confidentiality, Appendix F.)
2. RECIPROCITY AGREEMENT: The Monroe County Public Library System
has an agreement with the Southeast Florida Library Information Network for
reciprocal use of library cards and the ensuing borrowing privileges.
3. CHILDREN'S CARDS: Children who reside in Monroe County may be issued
a library card upon request of parent/caregiver. If the child is twelve (12) or under
years of age, a library card application form must be signed by a parent/caregiver,
who will be held responsible for library materials borrowed, as well as for fees
accrued on that card. The adult also accepts all responsibility for the selection of
materials made by the child. Unaccompanied juveniles thirteen (13) or older may
present a school ID or signed application form for issuance of a library card.
The Monroe County Public Library System does not act in loco parentis, i.e., in
the place of a parent. Any restrictions placed on a child's use of the Library arethe
responsibility of the child's parent/caregiver, and the Library is not responsible for
enforcing such restrictions. All circulating materials, regardless of format, may be
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checked out to children upon compliance with required registration procedures.
4. EASY ACCESS CARD: An Easy Access Library card is available to Monroe
residents who have picture ID but cannot provide address verification. Patrons
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with this type of card may use library Internet computers and have full access to
all online databases and services. Easy Access cards also allow for the checkout of
up to three physical items. Up to three holds may be placed with Easy Access
cards. Easy Access cards may be renewed in accordance with library circulation
procedures.
5. INSTITUTIONAL CARDS: Institutions located in Monroe County which offer
services to persons who cannot take advantage of library service through the
regular channels are eligible to register as Institutional Patrons. To do so, proof of
the legal name and address of the institution is required. Such proof consists of a
letter placed on file with the Branch Manager, on the institution's letterhead,
signed by the director or other authorized person, requesting institutional patron
status, and stating that the institution will be responsible for all activities
associated with card use (damages, losses, penalties, fines, etc.)
6. NON-RESIDENTS: Individuals who are not Monroe County residents may pay
a $30.00 annual non-refundable fee for a library card which entitles them to
borrowing privileges at all Monroe County Library branches.
7. EXPIRATION OF LIBRARY CARDS: All library cards must be renewed
every two years, including Institutional Patron cards, which require a new letter of
request tobe placed on file. There is no charge for card renewal upon its
expiration.
8. LOST LIBRARY CARDS: Lost or stolen library cards should be reported
immediately. Timely reporting of the loss prevents the library patron from being
held responsible for materials checked out on his/her lost or stolen card. Some
proof of identity must be presented when applying for a library card replacement.
If there are any charges against the patron's record, they must be cleared before a
replacement card can be issued.
9. LOSS OF PRIVILEGES: All rightful fees must be paid to maintain borrowing
privileges. Failure to pay for lost/damaged materials, or a failure to return library
materials may result in the loss of the patron's library borrowing privileges. It is
the Library's practice to provide notification of and to bill for overdue materials,
but failure to receive notification of overdueor of fees accrued does not abrogate
the patron's obligation to return such materials or to pay such rightful fees.
B. BORROWING LIBRARY MATERIALS
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1.CARD USAGE: All valid Monroe County Public Library cardholders are
eligible to check our circulating items from any Monroe County Library location.
If a customer’s card is not readily available, a valid I.D. may be presented for
checkout of library materials. Library cards are only transferable when the
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cardholder has provided permission directly to the library. (Exception: a
parent/caregiver who has signed as being responsible for a juvenile’s card may
use that card for borrowing library materials.) If a cardholder chooses to allow
other persons to use their card, the cardholder remains responsible for all items
checked out on that card, as well as for any fees or fines that may accrue as a
result of that use.
2. READERS’ RIGHT TO PRIVACY: reaffirming the Library’s concern for
readers’ rights of privacy, the library will not disclose to anyone the names of, or
other information regarding, readers and will not identify materials called for or
examined by them. (See APPENDIX F: STATEMENT OF
CONFIDENTIALITY.)
3. RESERVINGMATERIALS: If a patron wishes to obtain a book or item(s) not
currently on the library’s shelves but listed in the library catalog, a reserve request
may be placed for the item(s). As the requested material becomes available, the
patron will be notified. Materials not picked up by the given date will be made
available to the next person on the reserve list, or returned to the library shelves.
Unless excluded due to damage in transit susceptibility, all normally circulating
materials at all branches are loanable throughout the system, regardless of the
length of time the item has been in the lending library’s possession. The
requesting agency is responsible for determining if demand necessitates
purchasing an additional copy of the requested title.
4. INTER-LIBRARY LOANS: Every effort is made, through an inter-library
loan network, to obtain materials which are needed, but not available in the
Monroe County Public Library System.
5. MATERIALS AVAILABLE FOR LOAN: A valid library card entitles the
patron to the full range of circulating library materials throughout the system’s
collection. These include, but are not limited to: books, periodicals, video and
audio materials. Use of any available materials within the library building does
not require a library card.
6. BORROWING LIMITS: Generally there are no limits on the number of
library materials checked out at any one time. There are, however, some materials
that are limited to use in the library exclusively, such as reference materials.
Additional limits may be set by a particular branch depending on availability of
materials. Temporary limits may be placed on materials in high demandat a
particular time, e.g., holiday materials or materials needed for school reports by a
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number of patrons at one time.
7. STANDARD LOAN PERIOD: The Library reserves the right to manage loan
periods to meet urgent demands on the collection. It is the Library’s right to recall
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materials after the first basic loan period. The standard loan periods are as
follows:
a. BOOKS, MAGAZINES, AUDIO: Two (2) weeks with five
renewals if no other patron has requested these materials. A block will be
placed on requested materials and their loan period cannot be renewed.
Available materials may be renewed by telephone and/or by the on-line
public access catalog.
b. REFERENCE MATERIALS: In-library use only. Exceptions may
be taken under consideration by the Reference Librarian or the Branch
Manager.
8. EXTENDED LOAN PERIOD: Patrons may be granted extended loan periods
for special need, or to cover times when they will be out of town. The individual
library, at the discretion of the Branch Manager, will determine which books or
materials it will lend for extended loans. (For example, books in heavy demand
may be excluded.)
9. VIDEO MATERIALS BORROWING POLICY:
a. FREEDOM TO VIEW: The Monroe County Public Library
system supports the American Library Association interpretation of the
Bill of Rights, which affirms that librarians have a responsibility to ensure
access for all, including children and young people, to videotapes and
other nonprint formats, and to all materials and services that reflect
diversity sufficient to meet their needs. As with books and other materials,
the Library cannot act in loco parentis, but does acknowledge, support and
encourage the exercise by parents of their responsibility to guide their own
children’s reading and viewing. (See APPENDIX C: FREE ACCESS
TO LIBRAIES FOR MINOR, and APPENDIX D; ACCESS FOR
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE TO VIDEOTAPES AND
OTHER NONPRINT FORMATS.)
b. ELIGIBILITY: It is understood that those rules which govern the
borrowing of all other library materials, also apply to video materials.
c. CIRCULATION OF VIDEO MATERIALS: Video materials shall
circulate for one (1) week, with renewals allowed. Renewal may be
made by telephone and/or by the online public access catalog. (See Sec.
2.03.B.3).
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d. RETURNING VIDEO MATERIALS: Video materials may be
returned to the library via the video return drop box. At locations where a
Media Box is used, borrowers are encouraged to return their video items
directly to the Box. The borrower is responsible for damages incurred as a
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result of using the book drop for video return. In addition, a patron who
uses the book drop for video return may forfeit video material borrowing
privileges.
e. VIDEO MATERIALS BORROWER RESPONSIBILITY:
I. DAMAGES: Borrowers are held responsible for the safe
return of video materials and for the cost of repair or replacement,
should the materials be lost or damaged. Evidence of tampering
with video material will result in the forfeiture of video borrowing
privileges.
II. COPYRIGHT LAW: All of the video materials in the
library’s circulating collection are protected by the copyright laws
of the United States, which must be strictly observed. The
materials are available for private home use only, unless otherwise
indicated.
III. RESTRICTIONS ON VIDEO USAGE: Admission fees
are not permitted at any film, filmstrip, video, or DVD showing,
nor may these materials be used for fundraising purposes.
10. RETURNING MATERIALS: Regular circulating materials may be returned
to any branch in the system. Book drops may be used for book materials, but due
to the likelihood of damage to the material, not for any audio-visual items,
including, but not limited to, audio cassettes, video materials, and CD’s. Such
materials must be returned inside the library during the open hours.
11. AUDIOVISIUAL EQUIPMENT: In addition to the materials described
above, the Library has various audiovisual equipment, such as film projectors,
VCR’s, TV’s, overhead projectors and other types of equipment. These items do
not circulate, but are available for use within the library for library-sponsored
programs or for programs presented by groups who are registered to use the
meeting/conference room and have a signed designee to accept responsibility for
their use. In-library use of these items is also available to individuals, at the
discretion of the Branch Manager.
2.04 SCHEDULE OF FINES/FEES
A. FINES: Overdue materials are not charged a daily fine. Following a 10-day grace
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period past due date, the patron’s account is blocked from further renewals, checkouts,
and access to certain online resources. After 28 days past due date, overdue items are
considered lost and the patron is billed for replacement value. When overdue items are
returned, replaced, or paid, all blocks are resolved and lost item fees waived.
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B. REPLACEMENT FEES: A replacement fee is charged when library materials
are lost or damaged to the extent that they can no longer be used. This fee covers the
current purchase price of the same or a similar item. Alternative replacement of lost or
damaged material is acceptable, at the discretion of the Branch Manager.
The fees to be charged for lost or damaged materials are determined as follows:
BOOKS: the cost of replacement of a work of fiction or non-fiction, whether
adult or juvenile, is to be taken from a current ordering source, catalog, listing,
etc. If the exact edition is no longer available in print, the cost of a comparable
edition is charged, i.e., a hardcover book is to be replaced only by a hardcover,
and a paperback only by a paperback. If the book is no longer available in any
comparable edition, a flat fee system will be used, based on the most recent
pricing information available.
NON-BOOK MATERIALS: Replacement cost is to be taken from a current
ordering source, catalog, listing, etc. If the material is no longer available for
purchase, replacement charges will be based on comparable materials. The total
replacement cost for multiple sets is not to exceed the actual value of the set.
2.05 UNATTENDED CHILDREN:
A. STATEMENT: In order to prevent undue disruption of normal library activities, to
provide for the general welfare of all persons using the library, and to provide for the
general safety of children using the Monroe County Public Library system, the
following rules and regulations shall be and are made a matter of policy at the
Monroe County Public Library system.
B. RESPONIBILITY: The Monroe County Public Library system assumes no custodial
responsibility for children left unattended on library premises.
C. CHILDREN FIVE YEARS OR YOUNGER: All children aged seven years or
younger shall, at all times, be attended and adequately supervised by a responsible
person,
e.g., an adult or a mature adolescent. If a child is left unattended, the staff on duty
shall attempt to identify and locate the parents or responsible adult.
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1. IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICY:
a. When the parent is located, the Library policy on unattended children will be
thoroughly explained.
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b. If the parent is not found in the building, a staff member should stay with the
child until the parent can be found.
c. If the parent has not been located within 20 minutes, or if the library is
closing, a staff member shall call the police non-emergency number.
d. Under no circumstances shall a staff member take a child out of the building.
D. CHILDREN EIGHT AND OLDER: Children age eight (8) and older may use the
library unattended, subject to rules and regulations promulgated by the Monroe
County Public Library system concerning behavior and conduct.
E. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR:
1. Children who are being disruptive will be asked by staff to correct their behavior.
2. If the parents refuse or are unable to control the child, the family will be asked to
leave.
3. If the child over seven years of age is unattended and parents cannot be located
within the building, a staff member will attempt to contact a parent.
4. Older, unattended children will be cautioned about their disturbance andadvised
the next time they will be asked to leave.
5. If the disruptive behavior continues, the child will be asked to leave. Staff will
ensure the child leaves the building.
2.06 USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
A. RESTRICTIONS: Personal electrical/electronic equipment may be used only in
designated library areas, as determined by the Branch Manager.
SECTION 3 – USE OF LIBRARY FACILITIES
3.01 USE OF CONFERENCE AND MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM AND AUDIO-VISUAL
EQUIPMENT
A. LIMITATIONS: Use of Library facilities is open to programs sponsored or
cosponsored by the Library, to Monroe county, federal, and state governmental
agencies, and to public meetings held by groups headquartered in Monroe County
which are civic, cultural, educational, intellectual, or charitable in nature. Such use
does not imply Library endorsement of the aims, policies, or activities of any group.
Application for the use of any meeting room will be made with the respective Branch
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concerned. However, final authority for use of space will rest with the Library
Director.
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B. REGULATIONS: The following regulations apply to all programs scheduled in
Library facilities:
1. All programs must be free of charge and open to the public as space permits. No
collections may be taken or sales made. Written exceptions may be submitted to the
Director of Libraries in advance for sales during author book signings, public
performance or exhibits, or for non-profit agencies or groups to cover costs incurred
for class supplies or speaker fees. Library facilities shall not be used for personal or
private profit, aggrandizement, or advertising. (11/20/2012)
2. In case of exhibits, the Library shall not be held responsible for loss or damage,
and any insurance arrangements will be THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE
EXHIBITOR. Exhibitors will be required to sign waiver forms and follow
Display Policy.
3. Sponsors may be required to execute a “hold-harmless” agreement and/or furnish
appropriate insurance naming Monroe County as additional insured for certain
types of programs, in compliance with the “Use of County Property” policy and
procedures.
4. Monroe County government agencies take preference over outside groups when
scheduling the use of meeting rooms. Once an outside group has booked the
room, however, every effort shall be made to avoid a forced cancellation in favor
of the County agency.
5. Refreshments may be served only by permission and special arrangement.
Smoking and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
6. The Library reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any program or exhibit
when necessary.
7. Meetings held in library facilities outside of library hours are subject to the terms
and fees of Monroe County’s Policy of the Use of County Property.
8. Maintenance employees are not available to organizations at any time.
Organizations using the meeting room are responsible for any needed
arrangement of furniture before their meeting as well as rearranging and cleaning
of the meeting room at the conclusion of the meeting. Monroe County
governmental agencies are responsible for making their own arrangement with the
Public Works Department for such duties and are required to restore the meeting
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room to its original condition within a reasonable amount of time following the
meeting.
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9. Rooms may be booked up to six (6) months in advance, on a first come/first
served basis. If available, community and civic organizations may reserve library
meeting rooms for a maximum of two successive days. Organizations may not
store materials in the libraries for future meetings or events.
10. The audio-visual equipment owned by the Monroe County Public Library may be
used within the library facilities, with a signed designee of the group to accept
responsibility, but may not be loaned to leave the facilities.
3.02 APPLICATION/REQUEST FOR USE OF MULTI-PURPOSE OR CONFERENCE
ROOM OF THE MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM (See
APPENDIX J)
3.03 DISPLAY FACILITIES
A. STATEMENT: The Monroe County Public Library provides display facilities where
available and whenever possible. These facilities may include locked glass display
cases, limited bulletin board space, and limited wall space. The Library provides
display space as a means of attracting community attention and promoting the
Library, its materials, collections, and services. Groups, organizations, assemblies,
collectors, specialists, institutions, industries, and individuals may use these facilities
for displays of educational, cultural, or recreational interest. However, use of these
facilities does not imply library endorsement of the display or of the aims, policies, or
activities of the sponsoring agent. All exhibitors must complete an Application for the
Use of Library Display Facilities for approval by the Branch Manager.
B. PRIORITY: FIRST PRIORITY FOR USE OF MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY
DISPLAY FACILITIES IS RESERVED FOR THOSE DISPLAYS SPONSORED
OR CO-SPONSORED BY THE LIBRARY.
C. POLICY: Before a display is accepted, it must be previewed by the Branch Manager
or a designated representative for originality, professional quality (where
appropriate), and condition. Items suitable for hanging must be properly outfitted
with the necessary hardware. Temporary art displays and/or collections will be
subject to the same criteria as permanent collections. (See SEC. 6.02.E.1.)
D. PRICES: NO SALE PRICES MAY BE VISIBLE WITH THE OBJECTS
DISPLAYED. A list of persons participating in the display, and their local phone
numbers, may be made available to inquiring patrons. Prices are not to be quoted
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verbally, and under no circumstances may staff accept money for the sale of any
display item.
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E. INSURANCE: If insurance is desired, it must be obtained by the individual or group
responsible for a given display. The Library has no responsibility to provide liability
coverage of any kind – including fire, theft, or vandalism. In those rare instances
where the Library may itself solicit or sponsor a display, it may also provide
insurance, but is not under obligation to do so.
F. TRANSPORTTION: Individuals or the official representative of the displaying
groups are responsible for transporting the display, arranging it, and removing it at
the end of its allotted schedule. Individual items within a display may not be
withdrawn prior to the conclusion of the display time and removal of the entire
display may not be done without permission of the Branch Manager.
G. RESPONSIBILITY: The Library shall not be held responsible for loss or damage to
exhibits, special equipment, or any other materials owned by an individual or group
and displayed or used in such a display in the Library.
H. GLASS CASES: The time limits for displaying in the glass cases are determined by
mutual agreement between the Branch Manager and the displaying individual or
group. A 30-day time limit is recommended. The glass cases may be reserved in
advance: when this is done, the dates agreed on should be adhered to strictly.
I. AGREEMENT: Individuals or the official representative of the displaying group will
sign a statement indicating their understanding of the above and concurrence with it.
The Branch Manager will sign the agreement to indicate approval of the display on
behalf of the library.
J. TIME LIMIT: Time limits for displays are to be determined by mutual agreement
between the Branch Manager and the displaying individual or group.
K. AUTHORITY: The Branch Manager or a designated representative has the authority
to accept or reject a display based on the stated policy. Appeals to the decision must
be made in writing to the Library Director.
L. APPLICATION FOR DISPLAY: The Branch Manager or designee provides the
Application for the Use of the Display Facilities. Applications should be filled as
early in advance of installation as scheduling requires, up to one year in advance. The
Branch Manager shall maintain a calendar of these bookings and a two-year file of
the applications.
M. POSTERS AND FLIERS: Libraries having space available are encouraged to have a
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library bulletin board and a community bulletin board for displaying items of
community interest. Where only one bulletin board is feasible, library material will
have first priority.
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Commercial advertisements are not accepted for the bulletin boards. The Library does
understand that for some community activities, such as recreational programs or adult
educational programs, a fee is required. The Library will post fliers for such events if
they meet the other requirements.
All items for the bulletin board must be approved by the Branch Manager; no formal
application is required. Fliers and/or posters from recognized educational facilities
will be accepted and displayed as space is available.
Display of fliers or posters for events, other than Library-sponsored ones, on the
bulletin board does not imply Library endorsement of the aims, policies, or activities
of the event or the sponsoring agent.
3.04 APPLICATION FOR THE USE OF DISPLAY FACILITIES (See APPENDIX K)
3.05 COLLECTING/SELLING ACTIVITIES
A. RESTRICTIONS: No employee of the Monroe County Public Library, while on
official duty or on library premises, shall engage in collecting or selling activities for
personal profit.
3.06 POWER FAILURE
A. POLICY: All library users, with the exception of staff, will vacate library premises in
the event of a power failure. Users may return when power is restored.
SECTION 4 – USE OF COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
4.01 COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
A. STATEMENT: In order to meet the changing needs of the residents of Monroe
County and in response to advances in communications technology, the Monroe
County Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that
meet the cultural, informational, lifestyle, and educational needs of Monroe County’s
diverse, multicultural community.
The Monroe County Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the
information infrastructure accessed through the internet and cannot be held
responsible for its content. As with other library materials, restriction of a child’s
access to the internet is the responsibility of the parent/legal caregiver. All users of
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the internet, as well as other library resources, should use judgment in evaluating the
value and accuracy of information found.
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The Monroe County Public Library supports the American Library Association’s
Library Bill of Rights (for which see APPENDIX A) as well as the specific
interpretations of that document concerning “Access to Electronic Information,
Services, and Networks” (APPENDIX E) and “Access for Children and Young
People to Videotapes and other Nonprint Formats” (APPENDIX D).
SECTION 5 – LIBRARY MATERIALS
5.01 MATERIALS SELECTION
A. STATEMENT: This policy for the selection of books and all other library materials
(including internet access and other electronic media) for the use of the public has
been developed as a flexible guide for all those concerned with the selection process
for the Monroe county Library System. It is intended as a broad guide and not as a
procedure manual.
B. POLICY ON LIBRARY MATERIALS SELECTION: The Monroe County Public
Library system honorsour citizens with widely separate and diverse interests,
backgrounds and needs. They further recognize the library was created to serve all of
the people within the Monroe County Library’s service area, regardless of race, age,
lifestyle, creed, or political persuasion, and therefore declare as a matter of library
materials selection policy that:
1. Library material selection is and shall be vested in the Library Director of the
Monroe County Public Library, and, under the Library Director’s direction,
qualified members of the professional staff. Any such material or internet access
selection shall be held to be selected by the Library.
2. Selection of library material shall be made on the basis of its value to all of the
people of the community. No library material access shall be excluded because of
race, nationality, or the political or social views of the author or others
contributing to their creation. The Library must be responsible to public
suggestion of items and subjects to be included in the library collection.
3. The Monroe County Public Library believes that censorship is a purely individual
matter and declares that while an individual is free to reject books and other
information sources of which he or she does not approve, the individual cannot
exercise this right of censorship to restrict the freedom of others to read, view, or
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hear. Parents have the responsibility to guide and direct the
reading/viewing/listening of their own minor children. The Library does not stand
in loco parentis.
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4. Library staff defends the principles of the freedom to read, view or hear and
declares all materials selected under this policy are considered constitutionally
protected until such time as they are determined unprotected by jurisdictional
action and after appeals, if any, have been heard.
C. SELECTION STANDARDS: While all staff members, as well as the general public,
may recommend materials to be considered for purchase, all recommendations are
channeled through regular processes and considered in the light of regular selection
standards. To build collections of merit and significance, materials will be considered
according to objective guidelines. All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated, are
considered in terms of the following standards:
1. Suitability of physical form for library use.
2. Suitability of subject and style for intended audience.
3. Present and potential relevance to community needs.
4. Appropriateness and effectiveness of medium to content.
5. Insight into human and social conditions.
6. Importance as a document of the times.
7. Relation to existing collection and other material on subject.
8. Reputation to existing collection and other material on subject.
9. Skill, competence, and purpose of the author.
10. Attention of critics, reviewers, and public.
Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of
the contents, and no material will be sequestered except for the purpose of protecting
it from injury or theft.
D. LIMITATION IN SELECTION: As the Library is limited in its selection of
materials by its financial resources and available space, certain limitations are
necessary; e.g., in the fields of law and medicine, only the more general works of
community interest and use are selected; in the field of religion, a representative
collection of beliefs and practices of the world’s principal faiths and religions is
maintained—purely devotional materials are not generally selected for inclusion. In
all areas, selection is based on the merits of the work as well as serving the needs and
interests of the community.
The Library acknowledges a particular interest in local and state history. It therefore
takes a broad view of works by and about Florida and/or Florida Keys authors, as
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well as general works related to the State of Florida and/or the Florida Keys, but is
under no obligation to add to its collection any such materials if it does not seem in
the public interest to do so.
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E. CHILDREN’S MATERIALS: The Library is deeply committed to the conviction
that a public library should provide all children with the freedom to select books and
materials without being limited to an artificial grouping by age or grade level. The
Library will not restrict children’s access to available materials, and bears no
responsibility for a child’s selection of such. Supervision of children’s selection and
use of materials rests with their parents or caregivers. Library selection of adult
materials for its collection will not be inhibited by the possibility that such materials
may come into the possession of children.
F. SERVICE TO STUDENTS: The Library selects materials to serve students but does
not duplicate material which should be provided by school libraries. Textbooks are
purchased only when they provide the best coverage of a subject and are useful to the
general public. They will not be duplicated to satisfy the demands of a specific school
course. The Library assumes its responsibility to be that of providing books which
will broaden the student’s interest in a particular subject that may stem from the use
of a textbook, rather than in providing the textbook itself.
G. GIFT MATERIALS: The library system welcomes the donation of books and other
library materials from individuals, corporations, and other sources. Such gifts are
accepted only with the understanding that they may be retained, relocated, or
discarded at the discretion of the library staff. Such gifts as are retained cannot
normally be given special housing but will be integrated into the general library
collection. If the donor insists that it be retained in a special outlet or that its use be
restricted in any way, these materials may not be accepted until clearance is received
from the Library Director.
The same standards of selection are applied to gift materials as to materials purchased
from library funds. Replacement and duplicate copies are added to the collection if
needed. The costs of processing and the availability of shelving space are also factors
in determining the acceptance of gifts. Gifts which do not meet the Library’s
standards for the collection may be placed in the Friends of the Library book sale.
Unneeded duplicate copies may be placed in the book sale or given to another branch
where they are not yet in the collection. The Library does not provide valuations of
gifts for tax deductions or other purposes.
Choice of memorial books or other materials may be left to the library staff, or the
donor may indicate a particular book or subject desired. Often the library selection
will reflect the special interests of the person being commemorated.
Memorial materials are shelved with the regular collection, according to subject
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classification, so that they will be available and useful to persons seeking materials on
a particular subject. Book plates will be placed in each item if requested by the donor.
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H. WITHDRAWAL OF MATERIALS FROM LIBRARY COLLECTION: Outdated,
seldom used, or shabby items can weaken a collection as surely as insufficient
acquisitions. Weeding the collection and selection of items for discard are the
ultimateresponsibilities of the Library Director and/or his/her designee, but each
manager is regularly responsible for the upkeep of his/her branch collection.
Continuous appraisal of the book collection, the pamphlet files, the periodical files,
and the audio-visual materials is as essential as their initial selection for the library.
In general, the same criteria apply to weeding as are used in the selection of new
materials and are largely based on the following consideration:
1. Materials which contain outdated or inaccurate information
2. Superseded editions
3. Worn or badly marked items
4. Seldom used titles
5. Availability of the material elsewhere in the system collection and/or convenient
access to the material through the inter-library loan system.
I. REPLACEMENT OF MATERIALS: The Library will not automatically replace all
materials withdrawn because of loss, damage, or wear. The same criteria that apply in
original selection will apply to replacement with particular attention given to the
following:
1. Continued value of the particular title
2. Demand for the specific title
3. Extent of adequate coverage of the field in the existing collection
4. Availability of newer or better material in the field
5. Number of copies in the unit and/or system
6. Availability of the item in another format and/or through the inter-library loan
system
J. DEACCESSIONING MATERIALS: Materials which are replaced, outdated,
obsolete, beyond their useful service life or which are no longer needed as determined
by library professionals may be offered for sale or donation to other governmental
units or, if no other governmental unit desires the materials, to a non-profit agency as
defined in Florida Statute 273.01(3). The cost of transferring the property shall be
paid by the governmental unit or the private nonprofit agency purchasing or receiving
the donation of surplus property. If the materials are offered for sale or donation and
no other governmental unit or non-profit agency expresses an interest in the
materials, the value of which the Library Director determines to be $5,001 or higher,
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shall be sold by public auction to the highest responsible bidder, after publication of
notice not less than 1 week nor more than 2 weeks prior to sale in a newspaper having
general circulation in Monroe County. Materials, the value of which is known to be
or the director determines to be under $5,000, or materials which have been offered
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for sale at public auction and which have received no bids may be disposed of in the
most efficient and cost effective means available.
5.02 REQUESTS FOR RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
A. PROCEDURE: All members of the public may voice their opinions verbally, but
before any action concerning the material in question is taken, a written, specific
Request for Reconsideration form must be completed and filed with the Library by
the complainant. This request will be placed before a library staff committee which
will include Librarians holding a Master’s Degree in Library Science and have
experience selecting in adult, young adult and children’s collections. The committee
will review the material and all appropriate supporting documentation including
professional reviews, data and trend in the collection usage and American Library
Association recommendations. The Committee will make a recommendation of
action and so notify the complainant.
If the complainant wishes to pursue the matter further, the complaint will be
forwarded to the Library Director for a further recommendation. If the complainant is
not satisfied with the decision of the Director, the challenge will be presented for final
disposition to a Collection Assessment Team, consisting of the Library Director, the
Assistant Director—Public Services, and a member of the Library Advisory Board.
The complainant will be notified when the Team will meet to act on the request, but
attendance is not required.
Material will retain its status in the collection until a decision to retain, remove or
reclassify is made.
5.03 REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS (See
APPENDIX L)
5.04 FREE PUBLICATIONS
A. STATEMENT: Materials produced by the Library or other local, state, or federal
governmental agencies will be distributed in the library as space allows. The Library
will make every effort to make available current County-generated information such
as Board of County Commission meeting agendas, Land Use material, and other
similar information relevant to County activities and interests, but it cannot be
considered a depository for such materials.
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Materials promoting general awareness of, or the philosophy of, local non-profit
organizations as well as those described above, in addition to educational institutions
and recognized community groups, will be displayed as space allows, with the
approval of the Branch Manager or a designee.
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5.05 FLORIDA HISTORY DEPARTMENT PHOTOGRAPHS
Monroe County Public Library provides its customers with access to most of the original
items in its Florida History archival collections. Library staff, however, reserves the right
to restrict handling or copying of materials which may jeopardize the records’ continued
preservation.
Customers may duplicate archival materials using their own digital capture or
photographic equipment. Some archival material may also be available in digital format.
Downloads of low-resolution, archival images or audio files from the library’s websites
are available free of charge. High-resolution reproductions (generally, uncompressed,
full-size master files) can be provided on removable storage media (such as compact
disc) at a cost of $10.00 per image. Non-profit and research organizations may be granted
a waiver of this fee, at the discretion of Library staff.
Monroe County does not hold copyright over the original images in the archival
collections. Responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright claims to the
original images must be assumed by those wishing to reproduce the images.
For non-county residents unable to visit the archives, basic look-up and copying
services (such as obituaries and city directory listings) are provided at a cost of $5.00 for
each search. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. Materials from the
Library archives will not be loaned to customers for the purpose of outside copying.
SECTION 6 – GIFTS AND DONATIONS POLICY
6.01 ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS, PLAQUES, AND DONATIONS
A. POLICY: Donations to the Monroe County Public Library System will generallybe
accepted only when there are no conditions imposed by the donor with regards to use,
location, rebinding, or disposal.
B. RESTRICTIONS: Should a donor wish to place any restrictions(s) on a gift, all
details with regard to that specific gift and the restriction(s) shall be referred to the
Library Director for a determination as to its acceptability.
C. PLAQUES. In accordance with the Board of County Commissioners’ direction on 22
April 1992, permitting the presentation of plaques, the Library has limited the size of
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interior plaques in the Monroe County Public Library facilities to 8 ½” x 18”. Any
and all such presentations must be referred to the Library Director for written
approval prior to formal acceptance by the Library. Specific approval by the Library
Director must also be received in advance of acceptance.
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D. GIFTS AND CASH DONATIONS: Any donated gifts purchased for the Monroe
County Public Library System, or cash donations given to the library for any purpose
other than the purchase of library materials, with a value equal to, or in excess of,
$500.00, must be presented to and approved by the Library Director prior to formal
acceptance of the specified purchased gift or cash donation by the Monroe County
Public Library System. The donor should first approach the Manager of the Library
concerned, who will discuss the offer with the Library Director to determine need and
feasibility, as well as any maintenance or other possible long-term obligations that
may be incurred by acceptance of the offer. The Director then approaches the County
Administrator for approval and reports back to the Manager and the gift giver for
implementation. Such approval is also required for any gift project affecting the
library structure proper. Cash donations of this nature, that have no undue restrictions
placed on them, may be accepted conditionally prior to this formal acceptance
procedure.
This procedure is in keeping with the standard Monroe County protocol for handling
any unanticipated funds, including grant moneys, which can be formally accepted
only upon approval by the County Attorney and the Board of County Commissioners.
1. POLICY: Any offering to the library of non-library material, such as framed
art, sculpture, etc., for permanent display as library property, will be approved
by the Library Director prior to its acceptance. Both original works of art and
reproductions may be chosen. Care will be used to select items of special
interest to the community. The following general criteria will be taken into
account in the selection of all items of this type:
a. Artistic merit of the original work of art.
b. Artistic reputation of the artist.
c. Importance of the artist historically, or in the contemporary or local
scene.
d. The contribution the item will make to the institution.
e. The suitability of the item for general viewing.
6.02 GIFT MATERIALS RECEPT FORM (See APPENDIX M)
6.03 CASH DONATIONS RECEIPT FORM (See APPENDIX N)
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SECTION 7 – FRIENDS GROUPS
7.01 FRIENDS ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
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A. STATEMENT: Members of the Friends of the Library provide invaluable
assistance with fundraising and advocacy. Their interest, volunteer time, and
support contribute significantly to responsive public service and library
development for the people of Monroe County.
Friends of the Library are non-profit groups organized on the local level and
governed according to specific organizational by-laws. Local Friends groups
represent their communities and the entire Monroe County Library system by
serving as support groups to the Library Advisory Board, Library Director, and
Library Managers.
As representatives of the Monroe County System, all Friends activities should be
in accordance with the policies and procedures of the library system, follow the
terms of their MOU with the BOCC and follow local, state, and national public
library laws. Activities should also conform to any state regulations administered
through the Division of Library and Information Services, Florida Department of
State.
7.02 LIBRARY VOLUNTEERS AND ACTIVITIES
Library volunteers generously contribute to our vitality while fostering investment in our
communities. To uphold accountability and public safety, library volunteers are required
to satisfy conditions of Monroe County Administrative Instruction no. 4715.4 and its
revisions.
Exemptions to the Administrative Instruction include, but are not limited to:
Back-office duties, such as book-mending, document scanning, and furniture
refinishing.
Grounds-keeping, such as watering, raking, graffiti removal, and litter collection.
Middle School and High School students fulfilling class/school community
involvement requirements may volunteer by approval of the Assistant Director—
Public Services.
Friends of the Library volunteers participating in Friends events, such as author
lectures, book sales, and book donation sorting.
Under no conditions are volunteers allowed to access federally-protected patron
information, act in the capacity of a librarian, nor be within a library public area without a
badge identifying them as a volunteer.
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The ALA Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas,
and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and
enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be
excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on
current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan
or doctrinal disapproval.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide
information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting
abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age,
background, or views.
VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve
should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or
affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and
confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect
people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948;
February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.
Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.
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The American Library Association’s
The Freedom to Read Statement
The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups
and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to
reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists
of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a
view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and
suppression are needed tocounter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the
subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as
librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in
the preservation of the freedom to read.
Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the
ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We
trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions
about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage
of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We
believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.
These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against
education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not
only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an
even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or
unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.
Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet
suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the
United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative
solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement
of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able
to deal with controversy and difference.
Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and
write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression
that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the
new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is
essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of
knowledge and ideas into organized collections.
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We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a
creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of
limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture
depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish
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and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and
librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it
possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.
The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand
firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities
that accompany these rights.
We therefore affirm these propositions:
1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest
diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or
considered dangerous by the majority.
Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every
new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to
maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges
the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly
strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting
opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark
the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of
weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times
like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it.
2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation
they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their
own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be
published or circulated.
Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available
knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning.
They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought.
The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than
those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is
wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper.
3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings
on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private
lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to
whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say.
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4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults
to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to
achieve artistic expression.
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To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking?
We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life.
Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of
experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help
them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to
be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet
prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can
machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the
freedom of others.
5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label
characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.
The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to
determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals
must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans
do not need others to do their thinking for them.
6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as caregivers of the people's freedom
to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to
impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government
whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.
It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral,
or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of
another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for
themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will
recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law
into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other
members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the
accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and
creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental
prerogative or self-censorship.
7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to
read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression.
By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to
a "bad" book is a good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one.
The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for
that reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive
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provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said.
Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and
the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires
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of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all
Americans the fullest of their support.
We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty
claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of
enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the
application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of
expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the
comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read
is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a
democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.
This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the
American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970
consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of
American Publishers.
Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read
Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.
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