Policies
Meeting Room Use And Privilege Policies
The Board of Trustees of the Johnsburg Public Library district offers the use of the library’s meeting room to local, non-profit groups for educational, cultural, and civic purposes free of charge, provided such meetings are open to the general public. The library and the Board of Trustees do not support any position taken by any group by virtue of allowing a group to use the public meeting room.
1. Permission to use the library’s public meeting room will be based on the following considerations:
a. Library-associated groups will have preference over other groups.
b. No admission fee may be charged, no fundraising event may be held, and no sale of any kind can take place without permission of the Library Director.
c. The room may not be reserved more than 3 months in advance without the permission of the Library Director and there is a limit of 6 room reservations per individual OR group during a 12-month period.
d. A representative or representatives of the group or organization must accept personal responsibility for damages and financial loss occurring through the group’s or organization’s use of the public meeting room facilities.
e. The room will not be available for use when the library is closed.
f. Childcare is not available in any area of the library. Parents must make arrangements for childcare while they are attending a meeting.
g. No phone calls, messages, documents, or faxes will be accepted by the library staff for those administering or attending meetings.
h. Groups composed of children under the age of 18 must have adequate supervision.
i. Meeting room use which would interfere with normal library activities and work because of noise and other factors, such as parties or showers, will not be permitted.
2. Any of the above conditions may be waived at the Library Director’s discretion.
3. Use of Public Meeting Room Facilities:
a. All groups and organizations are responsible for arranging the room for their use and for leaving all facilities in the same condition in which they find them. If library staff needs to clean up the room, a $75 janitorial fee will be assessed.
b. All groups must conclude their meeting no later than 15 minutes prior to the library’s scheduled closing time.
c. No group shall be permitted to store equipment on library property.
d. Absolutely no smoking, drinking of alcoholic beverages, use of controlled substances, or activities which are inherently dangerous are permitted.
e. Groups using the meeting room must comply with ADA and are responsible for providing qualified interpreters or auxiliary aids upon request.
4. Permission to use the library’s public meeting room may be denied if the group or organization has used the room in the past and failed to follow public meeting room use policies.
a. Suspension of Use: The library Board of Trustees may suspend the use of library facilities by individuals pursuant to Illinois State Statute, and normally such suspension will be for a specific length of time. The library may provide specific regulations pursuant to statute for persons committing offenses with library property on library grounds. (Sec. 1004-11(14)) (Policy revised 3/2022)
Computer/Internet Use Policy (approved 4/12/2016)
The Johnsburg Public Library uses internet filters to protect children from pornographic or extremely obscene images as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). No filtering solution is 100% effective. The Johnsburg Public Library makes no claims that every pornographic site or image will be filtered, although the library has made a good faith effort to attempt to do this with its filters. The Johnsburg Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. Information may be reliable and current, or it may be inaccurate, out-of-date, controversial or even offensive to some people.
Library users access the Internet at their own discretion. Parents and legal guardians of minors are responsible for determining the limits of their children’s access to the Internet and providing guidance to them.
By using any computer in the Johnsburg Public Library patrons agree to these terms. These include:
1. Library staff cannot provide in-depth training. Staff will provide assistance as time and the expertise of the individual staff members permit.
2. In order to discourage unruly or noisy behavior, staff may limit the number of users at any single workstation at any given time.
3. There is a one-hour time limit on all computers unless no one else is waiting for one. Usage is available on a first come-first served basis.
4. Library computers may be used only for designated and legal purposes. Illegal or prohibited acts may include but are not limited to: viewing or producing sexually explicit or pornographic materials, violation of copyright laws or software licenses agreements, using Library computers to buy or sell illegal items, creating slanderous or libelous material, harassment of other users or violation of their privacy, attempting to break into the library’s computer network, any deliberate attempt to alter software or hardware configurations, or any attempt to cause degradation of system performance or any other ‘hacking’ of library equipment.
5. Users are responsible for deleting any personal files saved on Library computers during their sessions. Files saved on Library computers may be accessible to other patrons using the same computer. Computer hard drives are set to delete saved information at the end of each day. The Johnsburg Public Library is not responsible for the loss of any file that may have been saved on a public station. Storage devices are available for purchase if files need to be saved.
6. While reasonable efforts are made by the library to guard against malware and to protect user privacy, no guarantees can be made as to the security and privacy of any activity conducted on Library computers. Users conducting personal business on library computers do so at their own risk.
7. The library accepts no responsibility for loss or damage of personal property incurred as a result of the use of library workstations. This includes but is not limited to damage to users’ storage devices or personal equipment.
8. Wireless internet access is available at the library. Patrons should be aware that wireless access is less secure than wired access. The library cannot assure the safety of your personal data when you use either our wireless or wired access. The library assumes no responsibility for any problems or damage that may be inflicted on any equipment by using or attempting to connect to the wireless network.
9. The library charges 10 cents a page for printing in black and white from all computer workstations. Color copies are available for 50 cents per page.
10. Illegal/prohibited use of the library’s computers or failure to follow the terms of this policy may result in suspension of computer privileges, being required to leave the premises, having library privileges limited or suspended, and/or appropriate legal or disciplinary action. Illegal acts may be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.
Conduct Of Patrons Policy
Library patrons of all ages have a right to expect that the library will be quiet and safe enough for reading and study. The following regulations are authorized by the Public Library District Act, Sections 1004-11, Chapter 81, Illinois Revised Statutes:
1. A patron of any age who is talking loudly enough to disturb other patrons, or engaging in any activity which disturbs or harasses other patrons or staff, or is damaging library materials or facilities***, will be asked to display his library card or other form of identification and to desist from such activity immediately.
2. If, following such a request, the patron refuses to comply, or responds to the request in an abusive fashion, he will be required to leave the library premises immediately for the balance of that calendar day. If he fails to do so, the police will be summoned.
3. Upon a third offense, the patron may be required to surrender his library card or may be barred from the library premises for a period not less than three months, or both.
4. Such instances involving minors will be reported in writing to the parent or guardian
5. Persons wishing to appeal such action may do so upon written request to the Director and the Board of Trustees. The determination of the Board of Trustees to an appeal is considered final.
***Other specific prohibited activities also include smoking indoors or within 15 feet of entrances, and violating the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, which will result in library privileges being revoked immediately for a period of not less than one year. (Policy revised 1/14/2014)
Library Bill Of Rights And Freedom To Read
Library Bill of Rights
https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill
Freedom to Read Statement
https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement
Library Cards
The Johnsburg Public Library is a tax-supported public library. This means that people residing within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Johnsburg Public Library pay taxes to support the library. Those people who live within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Johnsburg Public Library need pay no additional fee to be eligible to receive their first library card.
As a resident card holder, the borrower identified on the valid borrower’s card may physically take their library card to another library to borrow materials. Those materials are the responsibility of the individual who borrows them, and are subject to all fines, rules, and regulations of the lending library. Often libraries limit the borrowing privileges of reciprocal borrowers, and it is best to establish local rules and procedures before making your selections.
Individuals residing beyond the jurisdictional boundaries of the Johnsburg Public Library and not within the boundaries of another Illinois public library, and owning no property within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Johnsburg Public Library, may purchase a non-resident library card at the closest participating Illinois public library. The Johnsburg Public Library honors all valid Illinois public library cards, whether they are resident or non-resident cards. The Johnsburg Public Library non-resident card fee shall be determined annually. (Policy updated 3/16/06)
District Residents: A free, three-year Johnsburg Public Library card is issued to any resident, or persons who own real estate or rent within the boundaries of the Johnsburg Public Library District. Proof of residency within the library district and photo identification must be presented at the time of application for a library card. A valid library card must be presented by patrons to check out library materials. There is a fee of $2.00 to replace damaged, destroyed, lost, or stolen library cards.
Reciprocal Borrowers: Any person who presents a valid library card from an Illinois reciprocal library may use that card to check out all materials from the Johnsburg Public Library. Reciprocal card holders shall abide by all rules and regulations of the Johnsburg Public Library.
Age Requirements: Anyone age 5 and over may apply for their own library card subject to the above conditions. All persons, age 17 and under who apply for a library card must have the application form signed by a parent or guardian before they may receive a library card. This library subscribes to the policy that parents are responsible for the materials which their children read, and this library will not actively restrict or censor materials which children check out.
Material Selection Policy
The Johnsburg Public Library District serves a rural population of approximately 12,000 residents and offers materials, services, and programs for patrons of all ages. Serving a community with a school district noted for excellence, the library maintains close contact with the school community in providing services and activities for the student population. Because of the community’s heavy emphasis on education, the library’s primary role is that of a Formal Education Support Center. Secondary roles for the library are that of a Preschoolers’ Door to Learning and Popular Materials Library.
The Johnsburg Public Library District provides materials and services to help patrons obtain information meeting their educational, recreational, informational, and personal needs. Special emphasis is placed on assisting students of all ages in meeting education objectives. The library encourages young children’s interests and appreciation for reading and learning, as well as providing recreational and leisure materials for patrons of all ages.
The Board of Trustees of the Johnsburg Public Library District accepts and endorses the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement of the American Library Association.
The purpose of the library materials selection policy is to guide librarians and to inform the public about the principles upon which selections are made. “Selection” refers to the procedures and decisions by which books and other materials are added to or retained in the collection. It does not refer to reader guidance. A policy cannot replace the judgement of librarians, but goals and guidelines will assist in choosing from the vast array of available materials. The Children’s and Young Adult Librarians shall be responsible for the selection of youth materials in all formats and the Director/Librarian shall be responsible for the selection of all other library materials. The ultimate responsibility for the selection of all library materials does however rest with the Library Director who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Board of Trustees.
The Johnsburg Public Library sets as its major goals in materials selection: the advancement of knowledge, the education and enlightenment of the people of the district, the provision of recreational reading, and the development of multi-media resources. Library materials, in all formats, are selected on the basis based on the following criteria:
1. Reputation of the author, artist, or production company.
2. Importance of the subject matter to the collection.
3. Scarcity of material on the subject.
4. Timeliness or permanence of the material.
5. Appearance of the titles in special bibliographies or indexes.
6. Authoritativeness.
7. Reputation and standing of the publisher or distributor.
8. Availability of the material from other sources.
9. Price.
10. That the material supports the collection development goals of the library.
Suggestions from patrons for books and other library collection purposes will be given serious consideration. However, all such requests will be subject to the same selection criteria which are applied to all new materials purchased.
Request For Reconsideration
The library does not endorse opinions contained in its materials. The choice of library resources by a library user is an individual matter. While a person may reject resources for oneself, no one may restrict access to those resources by other library users. The library strives to have a collection of materials that is representative of all people.
A request to remove library materials creates complex legal and ethical questions for both the library and the community and thus is taken very seriously. To initiate a request, you must reside within the boundaries of the Jonhsburg Public Library District. A Request for Reconsideration Form should be filled out completely and given to the Library Director which will ensure serious consideration of any request for removal or restriction of any item on the library’s shelves. However, until such an examination has been made, and a decision reached by the Library Director, no such removal or restriction shall take place. Since all political, religious, and social opinions should be represented in a public library, no group or individual will be permitted to impose a partisan emphasis upon the library’s collection. Frankness of language will never in itself be considered sufficient justification to remove or restrict library materials. Patrons unwilling to accept the Library Director’s decision may appeal to the Board of Trustees.
Unattended Children
Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the library. The Johnsburg Public Library staff is committed to helping children with activities related to the library. However, the library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to serve as baby-sitters, teachers, or disciplinarians. In order to prevent undue disruption of normal library activities, to accommodate the general welfare of all persons using the library, and to provide general safety of children using the Johnsburg Public Library, the Library Board of Trustees has approved the following rules as policy:
1. All children 7 years of age or younger shall, at all times, be attended and supervised by a responsible adult or mature adolescent 13 years of age or older.
2. Children 8 years of age or older may use the library unattended providing proper behavior is maintained. Parents will be contacted if any inappropriate behavior occurs.
3. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, or the parent or responsible caregiver cannot be located, or if the library is closing, library staff is authorized to call the police and stay with the child until the police arrive.
4. In all situations, children with disruptive behavior will be asked to leave the library building and property. Procedures for inappropriate behavior will take effect immediately. The Johnsburg Public Library assumes no responsibility for children left unattended on library premises, including prior to, or following all scheduled events.
5. In the event a young person is still at the library 15 minutes after the library closes to the public, the police will be called to pick up the young person. Attempts will be made during those 15 minutes to reach parents, but in no instance will staff take young people home.
Donations
The Johnsburg Library accepts donations of gently used books, DVDs, and CDs. We also accept old cell phones, eyeglasses, and retired American flags.
Circulation Policies
Loan Periods
• Books & Audiobooks: 3 weeks
• CDs & DVDs: 3 weeks
• Hotspots: 1 week. Must be 18 or older to borrow and requires a signed waiver
• Homeschool Resource Center Items: 6 weeks
• Library of Things: 1 week
Renewals
All items may be renewed for an additional loan period unless the item is on reserve for another person. Homeschool items may be renewed 1 time, Hotspots are not renewable, and all other items may be renewed up to 3 times. You may renew materials in person, by phone, or online with a log-in account.
Interlibrary Loans and Reserving Items
Both Johnsburg library card holders and patrons with cards from other libraries may reserve all items owned by the library. Johnsburg card holders may also request items from other libraries through the Catalog by asking a librarian in-person, by phone at 815-344-0077 or by email to curbside@johnsburglibrary.org. Patrons from other libraries must request Interlibrary Loan items from their home library (the library that issued your card).
Overdue Fines
• Books, audiobooks, DVDs and CDs: 20 cents per day, to a maximum of $10.00 per item
• Lost Items: Cost to replace the material(s). We do not accept donation of the item purchased by the patron
• Damaged Items: Charges depend on the severity of damage(s) and will be assessed at the discretion of the Library Director
Collection Agency
Patrons with items five weeks or more overdue and existing fines having a total combined value of $25 or more are turned over to the library’s collection agency. A $10 collection agency fee will be assessed on the patron’s library card.
Patron Privacy and Confidentiality
The Library seeks to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all who use the library in the pursuit of free speech, thought and association. The Library respects and supports an individual’s fundamental right to open inquiry without scrutiny by others.
The Library is committed to protecting personally identifiable information of patrons, donors, staff and other contacts. The Library will not collect or maintain personal information without consent and the information gathered is used only to provide or improve library service. Patrons should be aware that in some cases, if they choose not to provide personal information, they may not be able to use a service or participate in a program.
Confidentiality
Illinois state law 75 ILCS 10/1 mandates the confidentiality of all records containing personally identifiable information relating to an individual’s use of the library and its resources, facilities and services. Confidentiality includes, but is not limited to, circulation of library books, periodicals and other materials, electronic resource searches, interlibrary loan transactions, reference requests and use of audio-visual materials. The library will not sell, lease or disclose confidential information to outside parties unless required to do so by law.
Unless otherwise required by law, Library records containing personally identifiable information will not be made available to any agency of state, federal or local government unless a warrant, court order, or other investigatory document is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction that shows good cause and is in proper form. The Board of Trustees has authorized only the Library Director to receive or comply with requests from law enforcement officers. The Library Director will confer with legal counsel before determining the proper response.
Individuals who use library services that require the function and process of personally identifiable information are entitled to view and/or update their information. Patrons may view their circulation records in person and parents and/or legal guardians may view the circulation records of their children. Patrons, parents and/or legal guardians will be asked to provide ID to verify their identity.
Information We Collect
Types of personal information collected:
- Name
- Telephone number
- E-mail address
- Library card barcode number
- Date of birth
- Materials currently checked out or requested
- Overdue materials (until returned)
- Unpaid fines (until paid)
How We Safeguard Personal Information
In order to protect your personal information the library will:
- Avoid keeping unnecessary records.
- Remove the correlation between personal information and materials borrowed once these items are returned.
- Purge and shred outdated records.
- Have security procedures that protect against loss, destruction and unauthorized access to your information.
- Ensure that contracts and agreements with providers of electronic resources reflect our policies and legal obligations.
- Remove from computers daily: cookies, search histories, cached files and other records of internet use.
- Not collect personal information from individuals using public access computers in the library.
- Not collect personal information from individuals visiting the library website from home.
- Not collect personal information from individuals visiting the library social media accounts.
Links to Other Sites
The library website contains links to sites not maintained by the library. The library is not responsible for the privacy practices of any other sites. The library encourages individuals to become familiar with these privacy practices and be mindful when asked to disclose personal information.
Cookies
The library uses cookies to facilitate access to our catalog and electronic resources. Cookies are small data files that are sent to an individual’s web browser that are then stored on a computer’s hard drive. These cookies do not collect, store or maintain a library user’s personally identifiable information. Patrons do not have to accept these cookies to visit or use the website or resources. Cookies may be refused or deleted from a computer’s hard drive.
In order to access the library catalog and electronic resources from home, the barcode number from the library card is required for authentication purposes. Providers of licensed electronic resources do not have access to records containing personal information. Any information collected is discarded upon logging off.
Children’s Privacy
The library considers the privacy and safety of children to be very important. Personal information collected by the library is not shared with any other agency or organization. Due to the ease with which children can be induced to divulge personal information on the internet, parents are urged to supervise their children’s use of the internet in the library.
