HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem C21 C21
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY of MONROE Mayor James K.Scholl,District 3
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tern Michelle Lincoln,District 2
Craig Cates,District 1
David Rice,District 4
Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
July 16, 2025
Agenda Item Number: C21
2023-4173
BULK ITEM: Yes DEPARTMENT: Library System
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Anne L. Rice
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Approval of revisions to the Monroe County Public Library policy
manual.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
The Monroe County Public Library regularly updates its Policy Manual to adopt professional best
practices, evolve with changing technologies, and meet the needs of the community. This revision is to
increase the membership fee for non-county residents from $30.00 to $80.00, codify our mission
statement, along with minor edits for clarity.
A sampling of other Florida county and municipal library fee card charges. Some offer pro-rated 3- and
6-month cards, but these are their full annual charges:
Broward=$38, Charlotte County=$35, Clay County=$100, Delray=$60, Kissimmee=$40, Lee
County=$60, Winter Park=$150
Per OMB: Monroe Library's budget of$6,532,802/ 80,908 population= $80.74 per capita.
In FY24, revenue for non-resident membership cards was $5,250 with 175 cards issued. It is unknown
if, or how many, of these visitors would be inclined to renew their cards at the increased price. If all
175 out of county card holders renew at $80/resident approximately $8,750 in additional revenue could
be realized to help offset the cost of delivering the services.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
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. Most recent
BOCC review and approval on 04/16/2025, 04/20/2022 and 05/20/2020.
The membership fee was last updated in 2009 from $15.00 to $30.00. Agenda item language (attached)
in 2009 stated: The revisions to fees are based on similar fees charged by State Library of Florida and
other public libraries for services provided to customers outside a Library's taxing area.
INSURANCE REQUIRED:
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No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval, please.
DOCUMENTATION:
MCPL_policyrev July2025.pdf
Library Policy Revision Report July2025.pdf
061720091tem CO I (1).pdf
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Potentially, an increase in revenue of$8,750.
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PoLi iirivaL
Contents
Monroe County Public Library Policy Manual.................................................................................................. 1
SECTION 1--MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY MISSION STATEMENT...................................................................2
SECTION 2--MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY SERVICE POLICY...........................................................................2
PUBLIC ACCESS TO POLICY .......................................................................................................... 3
SECTION 3-GUIDELINES FOR PATRONS........................................................................................................4
LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION.................................................................................................... 4
POWER FAILURES AND WATER DISRUPTIONS................................................................................ 4
TEST PROCTORING&NOTARY SERVICES....................................................................................... 4
RULES GOVERNING LIBRARY USE.................................................................................................. 4
UNATTENDED CHILDREN AND VULNERABLE ADULTS .................................................................... 5
FILMING AND AUDIORECORDING.................................................................................................. 6
OBTAINING A LIBRARY CARD......................................................................................................... 7
BORROWING MATERIALS .............................................................................................................. 8
AUDIOVISUAL MATERIALS BORROWING POLICY...........................................................................10
FINESANDFEES...........................................................................................................................11
SECTION 4-USE OF LIBRARY FACILITIES...................................................................................................... 12
MULTI-PURPOSE ROOMS .............................................................................................................12
DISPLAY FACILITIES......................................................................................................................13
SECTION 5-NETWORKAND COMPUTER EQUIPMENT USE........................................................................16
SECTION 6-LIBRARY MATERIALS................................................................................................................... 17
MATERIALS SELECTION ................................................................................................................17
GIFTMATERIALS...........................................................................................................................18
WITHDRAWN MATERIALS..............................................................................................................19
FREE PUBLICATIONS....................................................................................................................20
SECTION 7—FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER ARCHIVES..........................................................................21
SECTION 8-PROGRAMMING..........................................................................................................................22
SECTION 9-GIFTSAND DONATIONS POLICY...............................................................................................23
SECTION 10-VOLUNTEERS AND FRIENDS GROUPS...................................................................................23
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S IEGT 110 IN 1 --III 0 IN IR 0 IE C 0 U INT II,,,,,,.II I I I 11\11ISS1101IN STATEMENT
The mission of the Monroe County Public Library is to deliver a broad range of resources, services, and
programs that meet the educational, informational, and personal enrichment needs of the Keys
community.
S IE GT 110 II --III II I IE,,,,,, III T I .111BIRAIRY SERVICE IF)OII,,,,,,JI ,
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 Library Service Policy affirms our guarantee to library users. All other library policies should be
interpreted considering 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, email, and chat receive the same level of service as
walk-in users.
5. When a staff member is unable to fulfill 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 can articulate the rationale behind them.
7. Library branches offer feedback forms at every service desk to address user concerns.Whether a
facilities issue (e.g., parking, temperature) or of an operational nature, such as programs, hours open, or
materials selection, library staff will respond in a respectful and prompt manner.
8. Library staff adhere to the strong ethical standards of the profession. These standards include patron
confidentiality, the freedom to read, and intellectual property rights.
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U ll......1IC ACCESSTO1POI.....11 Y
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 and via the
library website. 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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S IE GT 110 I w, II IC IE II,,,,,,�II IN IES IF 0 IR I[ 'T IR 0 I S
I......III IRA1 Y IHOURS OF OPERATION
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 BOCC approved holidays in accordance with Monroe County
Personnel Policy. In addition to designated holidays the BOCC may grant other special holidays during
the year to County employees.
POWER FAII LYRES AND WATER DISRUPTIONS
All library occupants, except for staff, will vacate library premises in the event of a power failure or water
disruption. Users may return when utilities are restored.
PEST PROCTORING & N TARP SERVICES
Test proctoring and notary services are not provided by library staff while on duty.
LJ I IES GOVERMNGII......II I I ARY USE
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 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.
This code states:
Each branch of the county public library is designated a limited public forum that must be managed to
foster an atmosphere conducive to every library patron's constitutionally protected interest in receiving
and reading written communications.
To best protect the constitutional rights of library users, the following rules of conduct for library patrons
are adopted for all county public libraries:
(1) Library patrons must be engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library while in the
building. Library patrons not engaged in reading, studying, using library materials/equipment, accessing
WIFI, or attending scheduled on-site programs, must leave the building.
(2) Library patrons shall not be intoxicated while in the building.
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(3) While in the Library, patrons shall not solicit money, panhandle, fundraise or request donations from
other persons.
(4) The library restrooms are for the temporary convenience of library patrons. Library patrons shall not use
the restrooms for shaving, washing clothes or bathing.
(5) Adults are permitted in children's areas of library branches only when accompanied by a child or when
the unaccompanied adult needs to retrieve materials from the youth services area collections, is touring
the facility, or is consulting with a youth services staff member. When not accompanied by a child,
adults will review youth materials in adult areas of the libraries.
(6) Library patrons must not harass or annoy others through noisy or boisterous activities, by staring at
another person with the intent to annoy that person, by following another person about the building with
the intent to annoy that person, by playing audio equipment so that others can hear it, by singing or
talking to others or talking in monologues, or by behaving in a manner that reasonably can be expected to
disturb other library patrons.
(7) Library patrons must not interfere with the use of the library by other patrons or interfere with library staff
in the performance of their duties.
(8) Library patrons may not enter the building without a shirt or other covering of their upper bodies or
without footwear. Library patrons whose bodily hygiene is offensive to constitute a nuisance to other
persons must leave the building.
A library patron who violates the library rules of conduct will be cautioned of the violation and asked to
correct their behavior. If the behavior continues, the violator will be asked to leave the building by the
library supervisor on duty.A violator who refuses to leave the building after being so requested commits
the offense of trespass in a structure (Florida Statutes § 810.08), and the library supervisor will then
contact local law enforcement for assistance.
In addition to the rules of conduct listed above, patrons are reminded of the following:
• Smoking, including vapes, is not permitted in the Library. Eating is not permitted, except in
designated areas or for Library programs. Drinks must have a lid or cap.
• Alcohol is not permitted on the premises.
• Sleeping and loitering are not permitted on the premises.
• Children under ten and vulnerable adults are not to be left unattended.
• Feet are to be kept off tables and chairs.
• Bed rolls and large parcels exceeding the size of typical airline carry-on luggage are not
permitted in the library. Personal belongings may not be left unattended.
U IINATTI II--N II I DREN AND VLA.....I I I AIC I IE AID LY II......T
STATEMENT: To maintain normal library operations and ensure safety of children and vulnerable adults,the
Monroe County Public Library system has established the following rules.
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CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 10 YEARS: Children younger than ten (10)years shall always be attended
and adequately supervised by a responsible caregiver. If a child is left unattended, the staff on duty shall
attempt to locate the parent or caregiver.
CHILDREN TEN AND OLDER: Children aged ten (10) and older may use the library unattended provided
their behavior meets the Library's rules of conduct and supervision or caregiver support is not needed. If
children aged 10 or older fail or refuse to follow these rules, the Library may require a responsible adult
accompany and supervise them during future visits.
VULNERABLE ADULTS: Vulnerable adults who require physical or behavioral support or are unable to
understand and follow the Library's rules of conduct shall always be attended and adequately
supervised by a responsible caregiver.
RESPONSIBILITY: The Monroe County Public Library system assumes no custodial responsibility for
children and vulnerable adults left unattended on library premises. Library staff will attempt to contact a
parent or caregiver when:
• the health or safety of an unattended child or vulnerable adult is of concern;
• the behavior of an unattended child or vulnerable adult is a disturbance to staff or other Library
patrons;
• the Library is closing and the unattended child or vulnerable adult requires assistance with
transportation.
If a parent or caregiver cannot be reached, Library staff will contact law enforcement officials to assume
control of the situation involving the unattended child or vulnerable adult.
F I I I�IING AND AUDIORECORDING
As a limited public forum, filming, photography, and audio-recording are allowed within the libraries
when they do not interfere with our services to the public and adhere to the County Code of Conduct.
Library staff may end a recording session that seems to compromise public safety or security, including
hampering ADA access and blocking fire exits with equipment or personnel. Library staff may film or
photograph events for promotional, grant compliance, and financial/auditing purposes and will endeavor
to conceal participants' identities or obtain permissions.
Videos and photos recorded by the library's security system are intended to further the physical security
of the facility and to mitigate weaknesses. Videos from the security system are exempt from disclosure
under Florida Statutes 281.301, allowing release by the County in the following circumstances:
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1. By request of the property owner
2. In furtherance of the County's official duties
3. To another local, state or federal agency in furtherance of their official duties
4. Upon a showing of good cause before a court.
We do not provide video requests directly to citizens. All other video requests must be approved by legal
counsel.
0IBTA IIN I IN G A II......II IB IRA 1 Y CA IR I
FULL ACCESS 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. Full access
cards are renewable every 2 years.
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.
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) orunder 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 are the responsibility of the child's parent/caregiver,
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and the Library is not responsible for enforcing such restrictions.All circulating materials, regardless of
format, may be checked out to children upon compliance with required registration procedures.
FULL ACCESS MEMBERSHIP CARD: Individuals who are not Monroe County residents may pay a $80.00
annual non-refundable fee for a library card which entitles them to borrowing privileges equal to a full
access card at all Monroe County Library branches.
LIMITED ACCESS CARD:A temporary 90-day limited access Library card is available to Monroe residents
and long-term visitors who have picture ID but cannot provide local address verification. Patrons with
this type of card may check out physical items to a maximum of three on their account.
LIMITED ACESS DIGITAL CARD:A temporary Library card is available to Monroe residents to begin the
resident library card application online. Patrons with this type of card may access online library services
for 90 days until a full access card is obtained.
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. The
institution will be responsible for all activities associated with card use (damages, losses, etc.)
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 the 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.
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 and to bill for overdue
materials, but failure to receive notification of overdue items or of fees accrued does not negate the
patron's obligation to return such materials or to pay such rightfulfees.
BORROWING IMTIIRIIII......
CARD USAGE: All valid Monroe County Public Library cardholders are eligible to check out circulating
items from any Monroe County Library location. If a customer's library card is not readily available, a
valid I.D. may be presented for checkout of library materials. Library app users may present their
scanned card via the app. Library cards are only transferable when the 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
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other people 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 because of that use.
READERS' RIGHT TO PRIVACY: Florida Statute 257.261 upholds patron registration and their circulation
records as confidential and exempt from open records laws. 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 accessed by them.
RESERVING MATERIALS: 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 susceptibility to damage in transit, 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 branch is responsible for determining if demand necessitates purchasing an
additional copy of the requested title.
INTERLIBRARY LOANS: Every effort is made, through an interlibrary loan network, to request materials
not available in the Monroe County Public Library System. Replacement fees are set by the loaning
library and are the responsibility of the reader.
MATERIALS AVAILABLE FOR LOAN: Avalid 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, video,
and audio materials. Use of available materials within the library building does not require a library card.
BORROWING LIMITS: Generally, there are no limits on the number of library materials checked out at
any one time, except for Easy Access cards as defined above. 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
several patrons at one time.
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:
• BOOKS and 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.
• REFERENCE MATERIALS: In-library use only. Exceptions may be taken under consideration by the
Branch Manager, Lead Historian, or designees.
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EXTENDED LOAN PERIOD: Patrons may be granted extended loan periods for special needs, 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.)
UD II II LAII...... INlAT JR II II......S BORROWING P01.....II CY
FREEDOM TO VIEW: The Monroe County Public Library system supports the American Library
Association's interpretation of the Bill of Rights, which affirms that librarians have a responsibility to
ensure access for all, including children and young people, to audiovisual materials 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.
ELIGIBILITY: It is understood that those rules which govern the borrowing of all other library materials,
also apply to audiovisual materials.
CIRCULATION OF AUDIOVISUAL MATERIALS:Audiovisual materials shall circulate for one (1)week, with
renewals allowed. Renewal may be made by telephone or by the online public access catalog.
AUDIOVISUAL MATERIALS BORROWER RESPONSIBILITY: 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.
COPYRIGHT LAW: All audiovisual 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.
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 audiovisual items. Such materials must be returned inside the library during the open hours.
AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT: In addition to the materials described above, the Library has procured and
installed various audiovisual 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.
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FII IFS IFE IFS
FINES: Overdue materials are not charged ad a ily fine. Following a 10-day grace period past due date, the
patron's account is blocked from further renewals, checkouts, and access to online resources. After 28
days past the 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 removed
from the patron's account.
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. Replacement of lost or damaged material is acceptable, at the discretion of the Branch
Manager. 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.
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S IECTII II w, S IE OF II,,,,,,III IR IRY FAC111 IT II IES
WHO MAY USE: Library facilities are open to programs sponsored or co-sponsored by the Library, to
federal, state, and Monroe county governmental agencies, and to public meetings held by groups
headquartered in Monroe County which are civic, cultural, educational, 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 Director of Libraries.
HOW FACILITIES MAY BE USED: The following regulations apply to all programs scheduled in Library
facilities:
• All programs must be free of charge and open to the public as space permits. No collections may
be taken or sales made, except as approved by the Director of Libraries. Library facilities shall not
be used for personal or private profit, promotion, or advertising.
• Maximum occupancy limits will be monitored and enforced by library staff. Meetings exceeding
maximum occupancy must reduce attendees in the room, move to a larger room (if available), or
conclude the meeting.
• Press and media notices of the meeting may not include the library's phone number or email
address as contact information. These notices may not imply library sponsorship of the meeting.
• 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.
• 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.
• Refreshments may be served only by permission and special arrangement. Smoking and alcoholic
beverages are prohibited. Organizations may not store materials or refreshments in the libraries
for future meetings or events.
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• Meeting and conference rooms are available during the library's scheduled hours of operation
and must conclude by closing time. Rare exceptions may be granted by the Director of Libraries or
designee.
• The Library reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any program or exhibit when necessary. This
may happen due to a weather event, unscheduled maintenance, lack of interest, absence of
talent, or power/water failure.
WHAT IS OR NOT PROVIDED: Maintenance and security staff are not available for meetings.
Organizations using the meeting room are responsible for 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 to restore the meeting room to its original condition within a reasonable amount of time
following the meeting. The audiovisual 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.
PROCESS TO RESERVE: Rooms may be booked up to three (3) months in advance, on a first come/first
served basis. Phone,visit, or email the Library Branch Manager for availability and reservation form. If
available, community and civic organizations may reserve library meeting rooms for a maximum of two
successive days.
DII I II......AY IFAC III......IITIII
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 forthe Use of Library Display Facilities for approval by the Branch
Manager.
PRIORITY: Displays sponsored or co-sponsored by the library have first priority for use of display
facilities.
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.
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PRICES: No sale prices may be visible on the displayed objects. 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 verbally, and under no circumstances may staff accept money for the sale of any display item.
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.
TRANSPORTATION: 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.
RESPONSIBILITY: The Library shall not be held responsible for loss or damageto exhibits, special
equipment, or any other materials owned by an individual or group and displayed or used in such a
display in the Library.
DISPLAY CASES: The time limits for displaying in display 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: when this is done, the dates agreed on should be
adhered to strictly.
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.
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 Director of
Libraries.
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.
POSTERS AND FLIERS: Libraries having space available are encouraged to have 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 priority. Commercial advertisements are not accepted for the
bulletin boards. The Library does understand for some community activities, such as recreational
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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.
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S IE GT 110 IN 5 w, IN ETWO IR IK A IN IC II IF TIE IR IE Q U II IF II IE INT U S IE
STATEMENT: To meet the 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 or
caregiver.All users of the internet, as well as other library resources, should use judgment in evaluating
the value and accuracy of information found.
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S IE GT 110 IN 6 w, II,,,,,,.II I IR IRY MATEIRIA11,,,,,S
N1 AT IE RII A II......S SE!.....I T 10 N
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.
POLICY ON LIBRARY MATERIALS SELECTION: The Monroe County Public Library system honors our
citizens with widely diverse interests, backgrounds, and needs. They further recognize the library was
created to serve all 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:
• Library material selection is and shall be vested in the Director of Libraries of the Monroe County
Public Library, and, under the Director of Libraries' direction, qualified members of the
professional staff. Any such material or internet access selection shall be held to be selected by
the Library.
• Selection of library material is based on its value to members 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.
• 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 hear. Parents have the responsibility to guide and direct the
reading, viewing, and listening of their own minor children. The Library does not stand in loco
parentis.
• 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 they are determined
unprotected byjurisdictional action.
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:
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• Suitability of physical form for library use.
• Suitability of subject and style for intended audience.
• Present and potential relevance to community needs.
• Appropriateness and effectiveness of medium to content.
• Insight into human and social conditions.
• Importance as a document of the times.
• Relation to existing collection and other material on subject.
• Reputation to existing collection and other material on subject.
• Skill, competence, and purpose of the author.
• 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.
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 Florida Keys authors, as well as general works related to the State of
Florida and the Florida Keys but is not obligated to add these materials to the collection.
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.
IIIFT N1 AT IE IR IAI......
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
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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 Director of Libraries.
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 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.
WITHDRAWN M TI IRII II......
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 Director
of Libraries or designee, but each manager is regularly responsible for the upkeep of his/her branch
collection. Continuous appraisal of the collection 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:
• Materials which contain outdated or inaccurate information
• Superseded editions
• Worn or damaged items
• Seldom used titles
• Availability of the material elsewhere in the system collection and/or convenient access to the
material through the interlibrary loan system.
REPLACEMENT OF MATERIALS: The Library will not automatically replace 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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• Continued value of the title
• Demand for the title
• Extent of adequate coverage of the field in the existing collection
• Availability of newer or better material in the field
• Number of copies in the unit and/or system
• Availability of the item in another format and/or through the interlibrary loan system
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 Director of Libraries 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 director 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.
F R IE IE IP U. BI......II ATIION
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 publications but it cannot be considered a depository for such materials. Materials
promoting general awareness of local non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and recognized
community groups will be displayed as space allows, with the approval of the Branch Manager or
designee.
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S IDS TI III pew,—IF II,,,,,,0 IR II DA IK IDE S IH II STO IRY C IDS INT IDS IR A IR C IH II V IDS S
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 mayjeopardize the records' continued preservation.
Customers may duplicate archival materials using their own digital capture or photographic equipment
onsite, subject to handling restrictions above. 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.
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 researchers unable to visit the archives, basic look-up and copying services (such as obituaries and
city directory listings) are provided when time and resources permit. 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.
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S IE GT 110 I 8 w, IF IR 0 G IRA II II II II
Programs at the Monroe County Library support our strategic plan, bolster our collection of materials,
and provide access to public services, resources, and facilities, while supporting eligibility for state and
federal funding, and expanding the community visibility of the library system.A wide-ranging offering of
programs for all demographics fosters the Library System's presence as a cultural and educational
center and provides a "third space" for the Florida Keys community. Programs may serve the
educational, informational, personal enrichment, and social needs of citizens while reflecting
engagement with a diverse population and promoting both a sense of community and usage of the
Library.
Final authority for programming at all library branches rests with the Director of Libraries or designated
staff. The Library's professional and paraprofessional staff use the following criteria in making decisions
about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources:
• Availability of space
• Budgetary concerns
• Relevance to community needs and interests, including historical or educational significance
• Presenter's background and expertise in a content area and the treatment of content for intended
audience
• Presentation quality
• Performers for children and teens must have previous experience performing for young
audiences, be age appropriate, and register as a vendor with the County of Monroe.
In addition, the Library draws upon other community resources in developing programs and actively
partners with non-profit organizations, government agencies and other educational and cultural
institutions to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. Professional performers and
presenters that reflect specialized or unique expertise may be hired for Library programs as a vendor with
the County of Monroe or through agreement with a library branch's individual Friends of the Library
organization.
Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content or views expressed
by presenters or participants in the audience. Library programs are free and open to the public. The
library reserves the right to cancel a scheduled program or to not schedule a program. Programs may be
cancelled for a variety of reasons including a weather event, unscheduled maintenance, lack of interest,
absence of talent, or power/water failure. Cancelled programs are not necessarily rescheduled. The
library does not offer programs that are purely commercial or self-promotional.
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S IEGT 110 IN 9 w, II IFTS A IN IC ICE 0 IN AT 110 IN S IF)0 JICY
POLICY: Donations to the Monroe County Public Library System will generally be accepted only when
there are no conditions imposed by the donor with regards to use, location, rebinding, or disposal.
RESTRICTIONS: Should adonor wish to place restrictions on a gift, all details about that specific gift and
the restrictions shall be referred to the Director of Libraries for a determination as to its acceptability.
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 interior plaques in the Monroe
County Public Library facilities to 81/2" x 18". All such presentations must be referred to the Director of
Libraries for written approval prior to formal acceptance by the Library.
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 more than $500.00, must be presented to and approved by the
Director of Libraries 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 Director of Libraries 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 or grounds. 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 Monroe County protocol for handling unanticipated funds, including
grant moneys, which can be formally accepted only upon approval by the County Attorney and the Board
of County Commissioners.
ARTWORK: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 Director of Libraries 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 considered in the
selection of all items of this type:
• Artistic merit of the original work of art.
• Artistic reputation of the artist.
• Importance of the artist historically, or in the contemporary or local scene.
• The contribution the item will make to the institution.
• The suitability of the item for general viewing.
S IEGT 110 IN 10 w, II,,,,,,UNT IBE IRS AINID IF I II IE III ICES GIROUIFS
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FRIENDS ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
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 branches, Director of Libraries, 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.
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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Library Policy Revision Report
16 July 2025
1.Table of Contents/Section Order
• Change:The updated July 2025 version reorganizes sections slightly:
o The Mission Statement is now Section 1.
o Service Policy is Section 2 instead of Section 1.
o Subsequent sections are renumbered accordingly.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Mission Statement
• New Addition:The Mission Statement is its own standalone section, providing clearer
context for the rest of the manual.
-------------------------------------------------------------
3. Fee Change for Non-Resident Full Access Card
• Change:
o BOCC approved 04/2025: $30 annual fee.
o July: Increased to$80 annual non-refundable fee.
o This policy update impacts non-resident patrons and is consistent with other
Florida public libraries. For example, current non-resident fees in Florida,obtained
May 2025:
Library System Annual Fee Card Charge
0 Clay County 0 $100
0 Delray Beach 0 $60
0 Lee County 0 $60
0 Winter Park 0 $150
0
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Minor Wording Adjustments
• Throughout:The July version has polished wording for consistency. For example:
0 Added clarifications like "Full access cards are renewable every2 years"now
appears more explicitly.
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o Minor rephrasing in filming, unattended children,and rules of conduct sections
for clarity but not substantive policy changes.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.Additional Subheadings&Formatting
• July version adds clearer headings and spacing for user readability,e.g., in sections about
library cards, borrowing,fines, and facilities.
6. No Substantive Policy Shifts
• Aside from the fee increase and clearer mission placement,the core service principles,
borrowing rules,facilities use,and code of conduct remain unchanged in intent and
enforcement.
This document was prepared with the assistance of Al tools—A. L. Rice
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Meeting Date: June 17, 2009 Division: Deputy County Administrator
Bulk Item: Yes X_ No _ Department: Library Services
Staff Contact Person/Phone#: Norma Kula/7349
AGENDA ITEM WORDING:
Approval of revised Library Policy sections 2.01, 2.03, 2.04 and 5.05
ITEM BACKGROUND:
Library hours of operation are being updated per 2008 changes. The revisions to fees are based on
similar fees charged by State Library of Florida and other public libraries for services provided to
customers outside a Library's taxing area. The revision was approved by the Library Advisory Board at
the February 2009 meeting.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
On April 14, 1999,the BOCC approved the first major revision of the Library Policy since the 1990
resolution instituting the official policies of the Monroe County Public Library. Various parts of the
policy have been reviewed, revised and approved since that time, as circumstances decreed.
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
Not applicable
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Approval
TOTAL COST: INDIRECT COST: BUDGETED: Yes No
COST TO COUNTY: SOURCE OF FUNDS:
REVENUE PRODUCING: Yes X No_ AMOUNT PER MONTH_ YEAR$6,000410,000
APPROVED BY: County Attrded
OMB/Purchasing Risk Management
DOCUMENTATION: Incl X Not Required
DISPOSITION: AGENDA ITEM#
Revised 1/09
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Revisions to Library Policy
2.01 Library Hours of Operation
Current policy:
The Monroe County Public Library will observe the following hours of operation.
MAY HILL RUSSELL LIBRARY
700 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040
ph.292-3595 fax295-3626
Mon.,Wed. 10 a.m. -8 p.m.
Tue.,Thu. Sat. 10a.m. 6 p.m.
BIG PINE KEY BRANCH
213 Key Deer Blvd. Big Pine Key ,FL 33043
ph. 289-6303 fax 289-6304
Tue. 12p.m.-I p.m.
Wed. Sat. 10a.m. -6 p.m.
GEORGE DOLEZAL BRANCH
3251 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
ph. 743-5156 fax 289-6093
Mon.,Wed. 10 a.m. -8 p.m.
Tue.,Thu. Sat. 10 a.m. -6 p.m.
HELEN WADLEY BRANCH
P.O, Box 1129
MileMarker 81.5, Islamorada, FI 33036
ph. 664-4645 fax 853-7312
Mon.,Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m. 6 p.m.
Tue.,Thu. 10a.m, -8 p.m.
KEY LARGO BRANCH
101485 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo,FL 33037
ph. 451-2396 fax 853-7311
Mon.,Wed. 10a.m. -8 p.m.
Tue.,Thu. Sat. 10 a.m. -6 p,m.
Libraries are closed on Sundays and on the following holidays observed by all Monroe
County offices:
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Recommended revision:
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
Tue., Thur., Fri. 9:30am-6pm
Wed. 9:30am-8pm
Sat. 10am-6pm
BIG PINE KEY BRANCH
213 Key Deer Blvd. Big Pine Key ,FL 33043
ph. 872-0992 fax 289-6304
Tue. 12pm-8pm
Wed. Sat. 10am-6pm
GEORGE DOLEZAL BRANCH
3251 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
ph. 743-5156 fax 289-6093
Tue., Thur., Fri. 9:30am-6pm
Wed. 9:30am-8pm
Sat. 10am-6pm
HELEN WADLEY BRANCH
P.O, Box 1129
MileMarker 81.5, Islamorada, FI 33036
ph. 305-664-4645 fax 305-853-7312
Tue. 9:30am-8pm
Wed.—Fri. 9:30am-6pm
Sat. 10am-6pm
KEY LARGO BRANCH
101485 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
ph. 305-451-2396 fax 305-853-7311
Tue., Thur., Fri. 9:30am-6pm
Wed. 9:30am-8pm
Sat. 10am-6pm
Libraries are closed on Sundays and Mondays and on the following holidays observed by all
Monroe County offices:
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2.03 Obtaining a library card and borrowing materials
A. Library cards
5. Non-residents
Current policy:
NON-RESIDENTS: Individuals who do not possess appropriate Monroe County identification
may pay a $ 15.00 annual non-refundable fee for a library card which entitles them to
borrowing privileges at all Monroe County Library branches.
Recommended revision:
NON-RESIDENTS: Individuals who do not possess appropriate Monroe County identification
may pay a $ 30.00 annual non-refundable fee for a library card which entitles them to
borrowing privileges at all Monroe County Public Library locations.
2.04 Fines and fee schedule
Current policy:
E. Fee card for a non-resident (Annually) $15.00
Recommended revision:
E. Membership card for a non-resident (Annually) $30.00
Section 5 Library Materials
5.05 Florida History Department Photographs
Current policy:
A. STATEMENT: A basic purpose of the holdings in the Monroe County Florida History
Department is to promote an appreciation of our heritage.
B. CONDITIONS FOR REPRODUCTION: the conditions for reproduction and publication
of photographs from the library's collection, which also cover visual arts materials in
the archival collection, are set out in the procedural format established by the Florida
History Department, in the Headquarters Branch.
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Recommended revision:
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.
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