Circulation

Circulation Desk Policies and Guidelines

New Patron Registration:

  • Must have a picture I.D. and proof of a current address.

  • May check out 5 books, 2 DVDs, and 2 CDs on your initial visit.

  • Must be a patron for 2 weeks to check out reference books and equipment.

  • Photo of patron should be taken and attached to account unless they object.

    New Junior Patron (under 16 years of age) Registration:

  • Must be with a designated responsible party at time of registration

  • Responsible party must have a library card in good standing (Late fines of $5 or less and

    no outstanding overdue materials). If the responsible party does not have a library card,

    they must register.

  • May check out 5 books on initial visit.

  • Junior patrons may NOT check out equipment, DVDs, or music CDs.

    Book Check Outs:

  • Patrons who declined to have their photo taken and attached to their account must be prepared to show photo identification at time of checkout. The library reserves the right to refuse checkout without proper identification.

  • Patrons must have a balance no greater than $5 to check out materials.

  • Materials that have been reserved by another patron may not be renewed.

  • Materials may not be checked out in someone else’s name who is not present, unless

    prior written permission has been granted and recorded in the patron’s account.

  • Materials may be held on the reserve shelf for 3 business days.

  • After initial 5 books are returned, 30 items can be checked out per adult borrower.

  • A book may be renewed up to 3 times as long as it is not on hold for another patron.

  • Books may be renewed via telephone or online, as long as the item is not on hold for

    another patron.

    DVD Check Outs:

• If a new patron, only 2 DVDs may be checked out the first time.

  • Must be 16 years of age and have a valid driver’s license or official state I.D.

  • DVDs may not be checked out in someone else’s name who is not present, unless prior

    written permission has been given and recorded in the patron’s account.

  • May borrow DVDs for 7 days, up to 4 at a time.

  • DVDs may not be renewed.

  • Late fee for DVDs is $1 per day.

    Lost or Damaged Books/Materials:

  • Materials lost or damaged beyond reasonable repair by patrons, or while in their care, must be paid for according to the latest replacement price.

  • The Cataloguer will determine the replacement price. Payment Policy:

  • Payment of fines and fees may be made in the form of cash, or debit cards/credit cards for fees $1 or more.

  • Checks are accepted only for donations, books in memorial purchases, or for out-of-town rental of the Community Room if prior arrangement has been made with the Director.

    Phone Policy:

    • No public phone available.

    • No children behind the circulation desk.

      Fax Policy:

    • Fax machine is employee operated.

    • There is a $.50 charge per page for all pages faxed or received.

      Copy Machine:

  • Copy machine is employee operated.

  • Black and white one-sided copies are $.20 a page.

  • Black and white two-sided copies are $.30 a page.

  • Color one-sided copies are $.40 a page.

  • Color two-sided copies are $.60 a page.

Patron Privacy:

  • When registering a new patron, keep private information as quiet as possible. Have them fill out the new registration card and then put the information in the computer. When asking patrons for updated private information, give them the option to write it down.

  • Never give out any patron information such as phone number/address to anyone, under any circumstance. If in question, see the Director.

  • Community room reservations are private. Do not give anyone the book to choose the dates they want to reserve.

  • Do not give out patron check-out information, such as who has a certain book. Equipment Policy:

  • Must be 18 years of age and present photo ID at time of checkout.

  • Must have a registration in good standing with checkout activity for at least 2 weeks.

  • Equipment is checked out for 2 days, 3 days if checked out on a Saturday.

  • To check out equipment, scan the appropriate barcode located inside the front cover of

    the Audio-Visual Equipment Reservations calendar book. Mark the dates it is checked

    out for in the Audio-Visual Equipment Reservations calendar.

  • When returned, equipment should be scanned in and checked by a staff member.

Collection Management

Collection Management

The purpose of the Taylor County Public Library is to provide all individuals of the community with carefully selected books and other materials to aid the individual in the pursuit of education, information, research, pleasure, and the creative use of leisure time.

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

The Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement have been endorsed by Taylor County Public Library and are a basis for this policy.

Selection:

Materials are selected based on reviews in professional journals or actual examination and evaluation of materials. The purchasing decision is based on:

  • Individual merit of each item

  • The item’s merit as it fits into the greater literary canon

  • Popular appeal and demand

  • Suitability of material for patrons

  • Existing library holdings; the library will make every effort to present all sides of

    controversial issues.

  • Budget

  • Format

  • Reviews

    Textbooks:

    The Library does not buy textbooks used by the local schools, colleges, or universities, as it is the responsibility of the libraries of those institutions to provide copies of these course materials to their students.

    De-selection or Weeding:

    Materials that no longer meet the needs of the community and no longer support the library’s collection will be withdrawn and disposed of in accordance with this Collection Management Policy. Doing so improves the quality of the collection and is proven to increase circulation by removing worn, outdated items.

Weeding Process:

The weeding procedure for the Taylor County Public Library Collection:

  • Identify items that are candidates for weeding. CREW method: Continuous Review,

    Evaluation and Weeding.

  • Identify items that are of value to the collection, recognizing older titles that are still important to the library collection.

  • Identify items that might be valuable. Internet resources such as Bibliofind and Alibris are to be used to determine the potential value of an older book.

  • After items are identified for removal, they are removed from the catalog program and the library tabs and markings are removed. Depending on the condition, materials will be given away for free, discarded, or placed in a library used book sale.

    Censorship

    The selection of library books and materials is predicated on the library patron's right to read, and similarly, the patron’s freedom from censorship by others. Many books are controversial, and any given item may offend some persons. Selections for this Library will not, however, be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the merits of the material in relation to the building of the collection and to serving the interests of the readers. This Library holds censorship to be a purely individual matter and declares that -- while all patrons are free to reject for themselves books and other materials of which they do not approve -- they cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrict the freedom of others.

    With respect to the use and circulation of library materials by children, the decision as to what a minor may read is the responsibility of the child’s parent or guardian. Selection will not be inhibited by the possibility that books may inadvertently come into the possession of minors.

    Reconsideration of Material Request by Patron

    Any patron who seriously requests reconsideration of materials will be given a "Request for Reconsideration of Library materials" form to complete.

    The completed Reconsideration form will be submitted to the Director, who will evaluate the original reasons for the purchase and the book in question. The objections will be considered both in terms of the library's materials selection statement and the opinion of the various reviewing sources used in materials selection. The Director will communicate his/her decision in writing to the complainant.

    If the complainant still feels that his objections have not be considered adequately, the matter will be placed before the Board of Trustees. The Director will provide each Board member with copies of the complaint, the Director's response, pertinent book reviews, and copies of the book being reconsidered (if enough can be borrowed). Each Board member shall notify the Director when he/she has finished reading the book and at the Board meeting after everyone is finished, the issue shall be put to a vote. Each Board member shall vote to retain or remove the book. Any member who is unable to attend that meeting, shall communicate his/her vote to the Chairman of the Board prior to that meeting. A simple majority will prevail. The Secretary of the Board will notify the complainant of the Board’s decision.

Genealogy and Local History

Taylor County Public Library maintains a Genealogy Research Section that is available to the public. The purpose of this Genealogy Research Room Section is to preserve and promote the historic and cultural resources in our community in a useful manner.

Materials may be photocopied. The researcher is responsible for complying with the copyright law of the United States in making photocopies. Permission to publish or quote extensively from unpublished manuscripts or copyrighted works must be obtained from the copyright holder. It is the researcher's responsibility to secure that permission.

The Genealogy Collections are non-circulating and therefore to be used only within the Genealogy room.

This room includes these collections:
• Local and area family history
• Local Cemetery Records
• Green/Taylor County and Campbellsville history • Civil war information

• Church histories • Obituary records

Library staff is available to assist with use of the microfilm reader and provide access to materials. Staff is not responsible for conducting genealogy research.

Weeding is performed periodically to remove items that are available in another format, another local institution, or deemed not in correspondence with the goal of the collection.

Donations to the Genealogy Research Room are accepted in accordance to the Gifts and Appraisal Policy. When copies of family notebooks are donated to the library, photocopying the pages of the notebook to make the Library’s copy will be done free of charge.

Gifts and Appraisals

The Taylor County Public Library is grateful for gifts, and its collection has been enriched by donations of materials as well as contributions.

The library accepts gifts with the understanding that materials which are useful to the library collection will be retained, and other items may either be sold in used book sales, or disposed of in whatever manner deemed appropriate. In accepting a gift of materials, the library reserves the privilege of deciding whether items donated should be added to the collection. Many books and other materials can be used, but some cannot because:

  • The item is a duplicate of an item the library has

  • The item presents data which is available in another format or in another local institution

  • Item is outdated and not of circulating value to the library

  • Item is in poor condition

  • Interest in the material is not at a level that warrants the retention of the item

    The library retains unconditional ownership of gift materials. Materials may be added or discarded without consulting the donor. Since the library is actively used, and sustains losses through theft, mutilation and wear, no guarantee can be made that any gift will be a permanent part of the collection.

    Monetary gifts, bequests, and memorial contributions are welcome. Funds donated will be used to purchase items in accordance with the selection policy of the library. Acknowledgement for any items purchased with bequests and memorial or honorary contributions will be sent to the family of the person being recognized. Suggestions for subject areas or areas of interest are welcome and will be followed when possible.

    Acceptance of donations of equipment, real estate, stock, artifacts, works of art, collections, etc. will be determined by the library board based on their suitability to the purposes and needs of the library, law, and regulations that govern the ownership of the gift, and the library’s ability to cover insurance and maintenance costs associated with the donation.

    The library will not provide appraisal for gifts of books or materials which are accepted. The library will provide a receipt indicating that items were donated to Taylor County Public Library, to be completed by the donor. Gifts to the Taylor County Public Library may be deductible for income tax purposes; please consult your tax advisor.

Conduct

Patron Code of Conduct

Welcome to Taylor County Public Library. This Code of Conduct is intended to encourage behavior that supports the library’s objective to provide the best possible resources in a warm, welcoming, safe environment. It is the responsibility of the library to ensure the safety of its patrons, visitors, and staff.

This Code of Conduct is posted in the library, and copies are available at the Front Desk. Behavior becomes unacceptable when it interferes with the library objective, causes damage to buildings or equipment, or causes injury to oneself or others. Those willing to modify unacceptable behavior are always welcome to stay. Those unable to comply will be asked to leave and library privileges may be suspended.

Examples of Unacceptable Behavior include but are not limited to:

  • Offensive language, such as swearing, obscenities, ethnic slurs, etc.

  • Loud, disruptive conversations.

  • Harassment or threatening others either verbally or physically.

  • Removing or attempting to remove materials, equipment, or property without proper

    checkout or other official authorization.

  • Damaging or defacing library materials, running and/or climbing within the library or

    playing with the artwork and/or displays.

  • Any violation of federal or state laws or local ordinances. Theft, vandalism and

    mutilation of the library’s property are criminal offenses and may be prosecuted. The library reserves the right to inspect bags, briefcases, backpacks, and other such items when the staff has reason to believe this rule has been violated.

  • Carrying weapons by unauthorized personnel.

  • Failing to adhere to copyright laws.

  • Eating and drinking except in authorized areas.

  • Smoking or use of other tobacco products on library premises.

  • Leaving children at the library under the age of 12 unattended. Any child 8 years and

    younger must be in close proximity of a caregiver while in library.

  • Being in unauthorized areas of the library.

  • Use of facilities or equipment for solicitation or distribution of materials, without prior

    authorization.

  • Use of bicycles, skates, or skateboards on premises.

  • Library users wearing inappropriate attire, including being without shoes and shirts.

  • Patrons whose bodily hygiene is offensive so as to constitute a nuisance to other patrons

    may be asked to leave the library.

  • Loitering in the building or outside of the building.

  • Sleeping or bathing in the building.

  • Bringing animals into the building, with the exception of pre-approved animal programs

    or animals providing assistance to people with disabilities.

Unattended Children

The Taylor County Public Library, the Board of Trustees, and its staff are concerned for the wellbeing of this community’s children, but cannot be held responsible for incidents, accidents, or other liabilities arising from the actions of unattended children.

The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the Library rests with the parent/caregiver and not with Library staff. Library staff cannot be responsible for children who are unattended or demonstrating inappropriate behavior. Children who exhibit inappropriate behavior may be asked to leave the Library. If the child is unable to leave the Library without an adult, he/she should not be in the Library without an adult.

If a child is found to be unattended, Library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the Library and inform him/her of the Unattended Child Policy. If the parent/caregiver cannot be located, Library staff will contact the Campbellsville Police Department to assist the child.

The following guidelines will be followed concerning the care and behavior of children.

  • Children under the age of 8 must have a parent/caregiver in the immediate vicinity of (and in visual contact with) the child. The parent/caregiver must be at least 14 years old.

  • If a child under the age of 8 is found unattended, Library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the Library and inform him/her of the Unattended Child policy. If the parent/caregiver cannot be found, Library staff will contact the Campbellsville Police Department. If a child under the age of 8 violates the Library’s Code of Conduct, the child and the parent/caregiver will be informed of the policy. If inappropriate behavior continues, the child and parent/caregiver may be asked to leave the Library.

  • Children ages 8 to 11 must have a parent/caregiver in the Library. Children who exhibit inappropriate behavior may be asked to leave the Library. If a child ages 8 to 11 is not able to leave the Library without an adult, he/she should not be in the Library alone.

  • Children ages 12 and up may use the Library unattended. However, the parent/caregiver is still responsible for the behavior and the wellbeing of the child. The child is expected to follow the Library’s Code of Conduct policy and may be asked to leave the Library if he/she exhibits inappropriate behavior. The Library assumes no responsibility for the whereabouts of an unattended child who has been asked to leave Library property.

  • Teenagers are considered adult users. However, they are the legal responsibility of their parent/legal guardian and should have an emergency contact available.

In any situation involving the safety of children, and specifically whenever the parent/caregiver or police are contacted, staff will complete an Incident Report.

Fiscal Responsibility

Fiscal Responsibility

General Purpose

Fiscal Responsibility Policy

It is the policy of the Taylor County Public Library that public office not be used for personal gain, and that Board of Trustees members and the Director are to remain objective in their duties and responsive to the needs of the public they serve. Accordingly, the Director and Board members must maintain the highest commitment to their responsibilities as stewards of the Library.

District Funds

The Taylor County Public Library Board defines all district funds as “Public Funds." This includes, but is not limited to, all sums actually received in cash or negotiable instruments from all sources, whether or not the money has ever been deposited into a Library account. Any money controlled by the Library, including gifts, fines, fees and all funds received from any source, are considered “public funds” and are governed by this policy.

Personal Use of District Assets

Neither the Director nor any Board member will use or permit the use of Library funds, vehicles, equipment, telephones, materials, or property for their own personal benefit or profit. Neither the Director nor a Board member will ask or require a Library employee to perform services for the personal benefit or profit of a Board member or the Director. The Director and all Board members will safeguard Library property, equipment, moneys, and assets against unauthorized use or removal, as well as from loss due to criminal act or breach of trust.

Segregation of Fiscal Duties and Internal Controls

No one person should control or perform all key aspects of a transaction or financial event. Segregation of duties is an important internal control activity that helps detect errors in a timely manner and deters improper activities. Internal controls instituted by the Library will assist the board in maintaining adequate fiscal oversight of the expenditure of funds.

The Taylor County Public Library shall institute a system of internal controls and a segregation of duties which meet or exceed the 32 guidelines outlined in the Kentucky Auditor of Public

Accounts - Recommendations for Public and Nonprofit Boards (March 2010 revision). The adequacy of these guidelines and our compliance efforts should be reviewed after each audit and as otherwise needed. Procedures shall be modified to correct any deficiencies discovered during regular audits or at any other time. This document is available at:

https://auditor.ky.gov/cpatools/Documents/2010BoardRecommendationsLetter3-4-10.pdf

Policy Enforcement

All Library employees, the Director, and Board members are bound by this policy.

Any alleged violation of this policy by Library staff shall be investigated by the Director. If actual violation is determined, the Director shall impose sanctions appropriate to the degree of violation, up to and including termination. Any employee impacted by an action under this policy may appeal to the Board, as allowed by the district’s general employee policy.

Any alleged violation of this policy by the Director shall be investigated by the Board, or by a committee appointed by the Board for this purpose. If actual violation is determined, the Board shall impose sanctions appropriate to the degree of violation, up to and including termination.

Any alleged violation by a Board member shall be investigated by the remaining Board members. If actual violation is determined, the Board may impose sanctions as warranted, up to and including requesting the resignation of the Board member. At the option of the Board, and in accordance with KRS 65.007, the fiscal court may be requested to instigate removal proceedings for any Board member found in violation.

The Library District reserves the option of reporting any significant violation of this policy to appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation and possible prosecution.

Investment Policy

It is the policy of the Taylor County Public Library to invest funds in a manner which will provide the highest investment return with the maximum security of principal while meeting the Library’s daily cash flow demands and conforming to all state statutes and the Library’s regulations governing the investment of funds.

Scope

This investment policy applies to all financial assets held directly by the Library. These financial assets are accounted for in the Library’s annual financial report and include all moneys in investment fund accounts.

Investment Objectives

The Library’s primary investment objectives, in order of priority, are the following:

  1. Safety. Safety of principal is the foremost objective of the Library’s investment program. Investments shall be undertaken in a manner that seeks to ensure the preservation of capital in the overall portfolio.

  2. Liquidity. The Library’s investment portfolio shall remain sufficiently liquid to enable the Library to meet all operating requirements which might be reasonably anticipated.

  3. Return on Investment. The Library’s investment portfolio shall be designed with the objective of attaining a market rate of return throughout the budgetary and economic cycles, taking into account the Library’s investment risk constraints and the cash flow characteristics of the portfolio.

Investment Authority

Management responsibility for the investment policy may be delegated by the Board to the Director. The director shall have the authority to establish additional specific written procedures for the operation of the investment program, which are consistent with this investment policy. The procedures shall include explicit delegation of authority, if any, to persons responsible for investment transactions. No person may engage in an investment transaction except as provided under the terms of this policy and the procedures established. The director shall be ultimately responsible for all transactions undertaken and shall establish a system of controls to regulate the activities of subordinate officials and employees. The controls shall be designed to prevent and control losses of funds arising from fraud, employees’ error, misrepresentation by third parties or imprudent actions by officers and employees. The Board Treasurer shall maintain all records related to the Library’s investment program, and furnish a monthly investment report to the Board for their approval.

Prudent Person Rule

The actions of the Board Treasurer or Director in the performance of his or her duties as manager of the Library’s funds shall be evaluated using the “prudent man” standard. Investments shall be made with judgment and care under prevailing circumstances which persons of prudence, discretion, and intelligence would exercise in the management of their own affairs, not for speculation, but for investment considering the probable safety of their capital as well as the probable income to be derived.

Authorized Investments

The funds of the Library available for investment shall be invested in accordance with this policy and all applicable state statutes only in the following type of investment instruments:

A. Authorized Investment Instruments

  1. Obligations of the United States and its agencies and instrumentalities, including obligations subject to repurchase agreements, provided that delivery of these obligations subject to repurchase agreements is taken either directly or through an authorized custodian.

  2. Obligations and contracts for future delivery or purchase of obligations backed by the full faith credit of the United States or a United States government agency and/or obligations of any corporation of the United States government as per KRS 41.240.

  3. Certificates of deposit or other interest-bearing accounts of any bank or savings and loan institution which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or similar entity or which are collateralized, to the extent uninsured, by any obligations permitted by KRS 41.240(4).

  4. Shares of mutual funds and money markets, each of which will have the following characteristics:

    a. the mutual funds shall be an open-end diversified investment company registered under the Federal Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended;

  5. the management company of the investment company shall have been in operation for at least (5) years;

  6. all of the securities in the mutual fund shall be eligible investments under this section.

B. Limitation on Investment Transactions
With regard to the investments authorized in this section, the following limitation shall apply:

No investments shall be purchased for the Library on a margin basis or through the use of any similar leveraging technique.

Diversification of Investments

The Library recognizes that some level of risk is inherent in any investment transaction. Losses may be incurred due to market price changes or closing investments prior to maturity due to unanticipated cash flow needs. Diversification of the Library’s investment portfolio by type of investment instrument and term to maturity is the primary method to minimize investment risk.

To the extent possible, the Library will attempt to match its investments with anticipated cash flow requirements. Unless matched to a specific cash flow need, the Library’s funds should not, in general, be invested in securities maturing more than 1 year from the date of the purchase. However, the Library may collateralize its repurchase agreements using longer-dated investments not to exceed 30 years, if maturities of the investments are made to coincide as nearly as practical with the expected use of the funds. Reserve funds may be invested in securities exceeding 1 year, if maturities of the investments are made to coincide as nearly as practical with the expected use of the funds.

Safekeeping and custody

To protect against potential fraud and embezzlement, investment assets shall be secured through third-party custody and safekeeping procedures. Bearer instruments shall be held only through third-party institutions. Any officer or employee of the Library authorized to engage in investment transactions shall be bonded in an amount established by the Board. Collateralized securities, such as repurchase agreements shall be purchased using the delivery vs. payment procedure. The safekeeping procedures utilized in the Library’s investment program shall be reviewed by an independent auditor in accordance with KRS 65.065.

Collateral

It is the policy of the Library to require that all cash and investments in excess of the amount insured by the FDIC maintained in any financial institution named as a depository be collateralized. In order to anticipate market changes and provide a level of security for all funds, the collateralization level shall be 100% of the market value of principal, plus accrued interest. Collateral shall be limited to the types of instruments authorized as collateral for state funds in KRS 41.240.

Collateral shall always be held by an independent third-party custodian with whom the Library has a current custodial agreement. A clearly marked evidence of ownership (safekeeping receipt) must be supplied to the Library and retained by the Board.
Investment Reporting

The Treasurer shall prepare and submit to the Library Board a monthly report regarding the status of the Library’s investment program. As to each investment, the report shall include the following information:

  1. Name of financial institution from which the investment was purchased or in which assets are deposited.

  2. Typeofinvestment.

  3. Certificateorotherreferencenumber,ifapplicable.

  4. Percentage yield on an annualized basis.

  5. Purchase price, and maturity date.

  6. Current market value of the investment.

In addition, the report shall explain the month’s total investment return and compare the return with the budgetary expectations.

Audit

In connection with the audit of Library’s funds conducted by an independent certified public accountant, the auditor shall conduct a review of the Library’s investment program, including internal controls and procedures, and the results of the review, including recommended changes, shall be included in the Library’s audit.

Investment Policy Adoption

The Library’s investment policy shall be adopted by order of the Library Board and shall become effective on the date set forth in the order. The policy shall be reviewed annually and revised, as appropriate. Any amendments to this policy must be made by order of the Board. At maturity or liquidation, the monies previously invested, if reinvested, shall be invested only in accordance with this policy. The Board may take a reasonable period of time to adjust the existing portfolio to the provisions of this policy in order to avoid the premature liquidation of any current investment.

Library Advertising

The purpose of the Taylor County Public Library's (TCPL) promotional media is to increase public awareness of the library. Promotions or advertisements should always be in line with the library’s mission statement and should connect the public to the library's location, website, resources, events, services, and announcements.

The library publishes monthly newsletters, regularly updates the library website, and communicates to local media (radio/newspaper) upcoming events. In the event that the library chooses to advertise with other outlets, the following guidelines should be follows:

Minimum Requirements

  • The TCPL logo be used.

  • The TCPL contact information, which includes one or more of the following: website

    address, phone number, and/or physical address.

  • The cost of the advertisement should appropriately match the projected/targeted audience

    size.

    Preferred

    • Advertisements that not only include the minimum requirements, but also provide information about general library services.

Surplus

In accordance with KRS 45A.425, the Taylor Count Public Library Board of Trustees will sell or otherwise dispose of property that it deems no longer necessary or useful for library purposes. Whenever possible, surplus property will be disposed of as follows:

  1. Property valued above $200 dollars may be donated or sold to any other government agency operating in Taylor County or Kentucky.

  2. Books and non-print items withdrawn from the library’s collections on an ongoing basis and which have unit values of less than $200 dollars may be given to the Friends of the Library or to some other such philanthropic, educational, cultural, governmental, or other 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

  3. Computers and other technology items which have unit values of less than $200 dollars and are incapable of running current software and/or are incompatible with the library’s computer network may be disposed of using qualified computer recycling services or donated to philanthropic, educational, cultural, governmental, or other 501 (c) (3) not-for- profit organizations.

  4. All other items having a unit value of $200 dollars or less may be disposed of as determined by the Board in accordance with KRS 45A.425.

  5. In the case of surplus property valued in excess of $500 dollars, the board shall sell this property at public auction (including internet auction) or by sealed bids in accordance with KRS 45A.365. Sealed bids will be opened at the discretion of the board of trustees or the director. A sealed bid forms packet will be made available for interested parties to obtain at the Library’s front circulation desk.

  6. In the event that the library receives no bids for surplus property, such property may be disposed of in compliance with KRS 45A.425. Should the bids be deemed inadequate, a decision may be made to reject the bids and re-advertise the sale.

General

Americans with Disabilities Statement

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Taylor County Public Library does not discriminate against people with disabilities and will make reasonable accommodation for all employees and customers with disabilities.

The Director shall be designated as the ADA coordinator. All complaints in regard to ADA violations shall be referred to her/him. The Director shall make reasonable accommodations and advise the Board when such has been done. If the accommodation cannot be done or poses extreme financial considerations, the Director shall advise the Board of such, with the reasons and/or estimates of cost.

Bookmobile Policy

Checkout

Due to limited resources, patrons may checkout 1 DVD per person. Patron must be 16 years or older to checkout DVDs and must present a picture ID with address to register. If DVDs are not returned the patron may not checkout anymore DVD material.

Patron may checkout up to 10 total items from the bookmobile.

Patrons may remain on the bookmobile to browse and checkout material, but must exit when finished checking out material.

Cash is not accepted at the bookmobile.

All material is inspected and cleaned when returned to the bookmobile. Any item exhibiting signs of pests of any kind, including bed bugs and roaches, will immediately be discarded. Any signs of bugs from any borrower will result in bookmobile privileges being suspended until proof of professional treatment of borrower’s home is provided.

General Policies

The bookmobile follows the Taylor County Public Schools closings and delays during inclement weather.

The bookmobile operates on a strict schedule and will be at each stop for only the allotted time.

Safety rules must be followed while on the bookmobile. Patrons may be asked to leave if rules are not followed.

No belligerence or other inappropriate behavior will be allowed on the bookmobile. Persons who act in an inappropriate manner will be asked to leave the bookmobile and may have their privileges either placed on probation or suspended.

No firearms are permitted on the bookmobile. No animals other than service animals are permitted on the bookmobile.

Community Room Policy

  • The room is available to nonprofit groups for philanthropic, educational, cultural, or civic purposes free of cost. Donations or free-will offerings may not be requested. Non-profit organizations or educational institutions offering classes or seminars may be permitted to charge a fee with prior approval from the Library Board of Trustees

  • The room is available for a fee for personal events (baby showers, wedding showers, birthday parties) and for profit/business events for a fee. To reserve the room, a fee of $75.00 will be collected prior to the reservation date. After the event, if the room is cleaned (following basic instructions) and nothing is damaged, $25.00 will be returned. ($50.00 rental fee, $25.00 cleaning/damage deposit). DEPOSIT MUST BE PAID WITHIN ONE WEEK OF RESERVATION APPROVAL or reservation will be removed from reservation calendar.

  • Groups are responsible for any damages, missing property, or additional cleaning that might be needed after use. If there are extensive damages to the room during your event (for profit or non-profit) you, the responsible party, would be responsible. There is live video monitoring in the room.

  • The library Community Room is intended primarily to provide space for library- sponsored activities and programs that help the library fulfill its mission. This will always be the first priority and the library always reserves the right to alter the Community Room schedules according to the library’s needs. The library will attempt to provide at least two weeks of prior notice for any reservation cancelation.

  • Groups are responsible for any room set-up and are to leave the room as it was found. No tacks, nails, or adhesive tape are to be placed in or on doors, walls, or furniture.

  • The President, Program Chairman, or leader of the group is responsible for acquiring a PIN to unlock the Community Room door if the room is to be used after hours. The pin will only be issued in person at the library the day of the event or program.

  • Use of the meeting room’s audio visual equipment is permitted. The group leader must alert staff to the use of AV equipment prior to the meeting. The AV remote is to be left in the Community Room.

  • The library is unable to store any items for groups using the Community Room.

  • A contact person and phone number, and brief description of the event is required for booking the Community Room. After booking, a group representative must sign a copy of the meeting room policy. The group representative must 18 or older and present at the

    meeting.

  • All events are assumed to be open to the public unless you are paying to reserve the room for a private event.

  • Community Room space is intended for specific events rather than for regularly scheduled, on-going meetings. Use of a space with a frequency of once a month or greater will be considered a regularly scheduled meeting. Meetings may be scheduled up to 2 months in advance and persons or groups may have 3 meetings scheduled during that time. The Director reserves the right to consider allowing higher frequency meetings.

  • Lights and AV equipment must be turned off and all doors must be locked when leaving.

  • Smoking and alcoholic beverages are prohibited, as are open flames, such as candles,

    incense, or the like.

  • Please notify the Taylor County Public Library at least 48 hours in advance if you must cancel a meeting in order to allow for other bookings. Your reservation fee, if a private

    event, will not be refunded if we do not have proper notice.

  • Should any organization not abide by the stated rules and regulations, further use of the Community Room will be forfeited.

  • The Taylor County Public Library Board is the final authority concerning any disputes concerning the Community Room.

    Disclaimers

    • In allowing a group to use the Community Room, the Library Board and library staff do not imply any endorsement of the group’s beliefs, policies, or program. No group shall in any of its publicity state or suggest that the library, the Library Board, or the library staff sponsors or endorses the meeting, the group or any particular set of ideas.

    • Groups may identify the library and provide its address in their publicity as the location for the meeting, but may not invite potential attendees to contact the library. The name, address, or phone number of the library may not be used as the official address/headquarters of an organization.

    • The library assumes no liability for injury to people, damage to their property, or loss of property belonging to individuals or groups using the library’s meeting rooms. The library is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Conflict of Interest Policy

The Taylor County Public Library Board believes that it is fundamentally important that the public perceives that all policies and decisions of the Board are fairly and impartially determined, and that the personal financial interests of the Board members do not conflict with the interests of the Library. To that end, the Board has adopted the following policy:

  1. A Board member shall not participate, directly or indirectly, in the making of any contract on behalf of the Library in which he or she has a personal financial interest; nor shall a Board member participate in any decision or recommendation involving the Library in which they have a personal financial interest.

  2. Any Board member aware of a personal conflict of interest regarding a matter coming before the Board shall bring this to the attention of the Board. The President of the Board shall rule as to whether the situation constitutes a conflict. If a conflict exists, the Board member shall abstain from voting and excuse him/herself from any discussion regarding the matter by leaving the room, and shall not be counted in determining the quorum if that has not already been established for the meeting. These points shall be recorded in the Minutes of such meetings.

  3. In the event that the President has a conflict or perceived conflict, the Vice-President will fulfill the role of investigating and ruling on the conflict.

  4. A Board member shall not participate in any way in deciding whether to hire any person related to him/her by blood or marriage closer than a second cousin, as an employee of the Library.

  5. The Board, in accordance with this policy and applicable law, shall deal with any conflict of interest brought to its attention.

Displays

Display space is available in the library for educational, artistic, and cultural materials that promote interest in the use of books, library materials, and information. Preference will be given to exhibits that are timely and of general interest. The library director may reject any exhibit or display that does not fit with the mission of the library or that is not neat and presented in an attractive manner.

Display Rules and Regulations:

  • Arrangements for exhibits must be made in advance with the Library Director or Adult Program Librarian.

  • Displays that focus on a public issue (including elections and political issues) must include information about major aspects of differing points of view.

  • Displays that are solely commercial in content are not appropriate.

  • Placement of exhibits must be mutually agreeable to both the library and the exhibitor,

    and should in no way interfere with normal operation of the library.

  • Labels for exhibit items must be neat and legible.

  • Displays must be suitable for all patrons. Items of a suggestive nature are prohibited.

  • Displays are presented for no longer than one month, but generally will be displayed for 2 weeks.

    The library will take reasonable care to ensure the safety and security of all items displayed.
    If display items are not retrieved within 1 week of being notified, the library reserves the right to dispose of the items as it deems necessary.

    The library provides a public bulletin board for patrons to post announcements. The content of the postings will be regulated by library staff and any postings that are deemed inappropriate will be removed.

    The library does not necessarily espouse the views of any group wishing to post announcements for coming events. Announcements may be posted for no more than four weeks for any non- library event.

Library Programming

All programs sponsored by the Taylor County Public Library should meet the following criteria to ensure quality:

  • Offers information best transmitted in groups

  • Introduces a range of library services

  • Enhances the use of the library’s collection

  • Improves access to information for targeted audiences

  • Encourages positive community cooperation and support

  • Provides Entertainment, education, and enhanced learning support for patrons

    In addition to the above criteria, we will consider attendance, appropriateness of subject to the audience, circulation in subject area of the program, and comments from the public and library staff in determining whether or not the program was worthwhile.

    Every attempt will be made to accommodate all who wish to attend a program. However, when safety or the success of a program requires it, attendance may be limited. When limits must be established, attendance will be determined on a first come, first served basis, either with advanced registration or at the door.

    The library does not offer programs of a purely commercial nature. Library programs must have a special educational, informational, or cultural value to the community. Examples of programs that would be considered of a commercial nature include but are not limited to presentations offered for free but with the intention of soliciting future business.

    Professional performers and presenters that reflect specialized or unique expertise may be hired for Library programs; performers and presenters will not be excluded from consideration because of their origin, background, or views, or because of possible controversy. Performers and presenters will complete and sign a Library Performance/Presentation Contract (the prototype of which is attached to this Policy) and will be bound by the conditions of it. Library Staff who present programs do so as part of their regular job and are not hired as outside contractors for programming.

    All Library programs are open to the public. Specific adult programs are limited to attendees that are age 18 and older. The Library’s philosophy of open access to information and ideas extends to Library programming, and the library does not knowingly discriminate through its programming. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants, and program topics, speakers and resources are not excluded from programs because of possible controversy.

The Library welcomes expressions of opinion from customers concerning programming. If a customer questions a library program, he/she should first address the concern with a Library staff member. Patrons who wish to continue their request for review of Library programs may submit the Request for Review form. Requests for review of programs will be considered in the same manner as requests for reconsideration of library materials as outlined in the Library’s Collection Development Policy.

Lost & Found

It is the policy of the library to hold lost items behind the front desk for 30 days. Items will be indexed by date. Anyone missing an item must claim the item within 30 days. To claim an item, owner must be present, show ID, and be able to give a detailed description of what was lost. After 30 days, the lost item will be discarded (donated, recycled, or thrown away.)

Pest Control

Prevention

The Taylor County Public Library actively works toward the prevention and containment of pests, including rodents and insects of all kinds, in the Library and library materials. Staff members are trained on bug prevention, containment, and elimination procedures and act quickly to eliminate any known issues in the Library. The Library is inspected and treated by a professional pest control company on a monthly basis to prevent general pest problems. An inspection or treatment may be ordered at any time deemed necessary by the Library Director.

All materials are inspected and cleaned when returned to the Library. Any item exhibiting signs of bugs of any type, including bed bugs and roaches, is immediately treated or discarded. Items to be treated are placed in a plastic bag or container and sealed. The items are then placed in a special heater designed for bug treatment and heated to a recommended high temperature for a time long enough to kill the pests. After treatment, staff will inspect the items to determine if they can be saved or must be discarded. Items containing bug stains of any kind, especially blood or fecal matter, are not salvageable and must be discarded. Damaged and discarded items are charged to the borrower at replacement value. Items deemed to be in good condition are cleaned and returned to circulation.

Pests in Library Materials

In order to keep the Library a safe place for all patrons to borrow materials, patrons who return items with obvious signs of bugs may have borrowing privileges restricted or suspended. The following procedures will be followed for all Library users:

First Occurrence

The first time a borrower returns materials with signs of bugs, staff will:

  • Speak with the patron about what was found in the materials in a non-confrontational and

    confidential manner.

  • Show them the materials and bugs whenever possible.

  • Suggest ways the patron can address the issue (keeping materials in closed containers at

    all times when not being used, inspect them before return, talk with landlord or

    management if they live in a congregate living facility, etc.)

  • Offer information about bug treatment options.

  • Explain that no more than three items may be checked out on the patron’s account, as well as any individual accounts connected to the patron’s, at any given time until the patron provides the Library Director proof of treatment, such as a bill from an exterminator or a notice of treatment from a landlord. Or, if no other signs of bugs are found in returned materials for a period of three months, the Library Director, upon request by the patron, may reinstate full borrowing privileges. Further sightings at any time will be considered a second occurrence, even if privileges have been reinstated.

  • Explain that if bugs or signs of bugs are found in returned materials again, borrowing privileges for the patron’s account and all connected accounts may be suspended until the patron can demonstrate that their home has been treated.

  • Complete an incident report to be filed in the Library Director’s office.

  • Note the problem on the patron record.

    Sample note to write on the patron’s account:
    Bugs 1st offense. Returned books with roaches 03/12/18. Limited to 3 items out until proof of treatment or 3 months of returned clean books. Max may be increased on 06/12/18. TLS

    Second Occurrence

    The second time a borrower returns materials with signs of pests, at any point after the first occurrence, staff will:

  • Speak with the patron about what was found in the materials in a non-confrontational and confidential manner.

  • Show them the materials and bugs whenever possible.

  • Suspend all borrowing privileges by placing a block on the patron’s account as well as

    each individual connected account.

  • Explain that borrowing privileges have been suspended until the patron provides to the Library Director proof of treatment such as a bill from an exterminator or a notice of treatment from a landlord. If such proof is provided, full borrowing privileges may be reinstated by the Director. Further sightings at any time in the future will be considered a second occurrence, even though privileges had been reinstated.

  • Complete an incident report to be filed in the Library Director’s office.

  • Note the problem on the patron record.

Procurement

As the governing authority of the Taylor County Public Library District, the Board is authorized to enter into contracts and otherwise purchase products and services necessary to “establish, equip and maintain libraries...and do all things necessary to provide efficient library service.” KRS 173.745(1).

Purchasing Authority

Unless otherwise provided for in this policy, the Director, or designee, shall have the authority to purchase or lease products or services within the budget adopted, and may sign contracts and other instruments of the Board when authorized to do so by the Board. All procurement expenditures are subject to audit.

Any purchase or procurement of $5,000 or more not specifically included as an item within the approved budget shall be brought before the Board for approval.

Purchases over Twenty Thousand Dollars

As required under KRS 424.260, all purchase orders or contracts for products or services in excess of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000), except those exempted below, must be advertised for bid. Purchases may not be parceled, split, or scheduled over a period of time in order to subvert the intent of this requirement.

All such bid processes shall be conducted according to the provisions of KRS 424.130 and 424.140.

State or Federal [GSA] Contract Pricing

As authorized under KRS 45A.050, KRS 45A.420 and KRS 66.470, the Library may purchase products and services outside of the bidding process if those products and services meet the specifications of price contracts awarded by the state Finance and Administration Cabinet or the Federal Government.

Competitive Bidding Exemptions

The following purchases are exempt by law or Finance and Administration policy from competitive bidding. However, the Board may elect at any time to solicit bids or proposals for purchase of exempt products and services in order to obtain the best value for the Library.

  • Contractual services where no competition exists, such as electrical energy, telephone service, and other public utility services. KRS 45A.095 45A.380(2)

  • Contractual Services of a licensed professional, such as attorney, physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, certified public accountant, registered nurse, or educational specialist; a technician such as a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or mechanic; or an artist such as a sculptor, aesthetic painter, or musician, provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to architects or engineers providing construction management services rather than professional architect or engineer services, when a written determination has been made that competition is not feasible. KRS 45A.380

  • Subscriptions for the purchase of periodicals in either paper or electronic format. A subscription may include a professional journal, newspaper, or other required publication. KRS 45A.050 45A.380(1)

  • Copyrighted material in either paper or electronic format for which only one source of supply is available. Items commonly covered under this section include:

• Library books. KRS 45A.095 45A.380(1)
• Published books, maps, periodicals, and technical pamphlets. KRS 45A.050

45A.380(1)

  • Works of art for museum and public display. KRS 45A.050 45A.380(1)

  • Services of a visiting speaker, professor, expert witness, or performing artist. KRS 45A.095

    45A.380(3)

  • Rates fixed by law or ordinance. KRS 45A.09

  • Cooperative purchases made between state agencies, political subdivisions, state universities,

    agencies of other states, or agencies of the federal government. KRS 45A.300 45A.420

  • Advertisements, public media, public displays, billboards, signage, and booths. Dissemination of information and the purchase or rental of promotional related items for

    library use. (for clarification, see FAP 111-09-00 45A.380{2})

  • Equipment repair service and parts. (for clarification, see FAP 111-09-00 45A.380{5})

  • A product or service for which there is only one (1) known capable supplier as occasioned by

    the unique nature of the requirement, supplier, or market condition. (for clarification, see

    FAP 111-10-00 45A.380{2})

  • Contracts for group life insurance, group health and accident insurance, group professional

    liability insurance, worker's compensation insurance, and unemployment insurance. KRS 45A.380

• A product or service made necessary by an emergency which will cause public harm as a result of the delay in competitive procedures. KRS 45A.380

Purchases Less Than Twenty Thousand Dollars

Purchases of products and services less than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) but more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) may be made in the open market, without newspaper advertisement. Such purchases shall, whenever possible, be based on at least three (3) competitive written proposals or ascertained from vendor's price lists or other quote information. Award shall be made to the supplier offering the best value.

Purchases Less Than Five Thousand Dollars

Purchases of products and services less than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) may be made without competitive proposals but shall be made with attention to the lowest possible cost, consistent with the needs of the Library with regard to durability, performance, delivery and service.

Tax Exemption

As provided for by KRS 139.470(7), the Library is exempt from the Kentucky sales and use tax as applied to purchases of tangible personal property or services. This exemption applies only to purchases of property or services for use by the Library. The exemption cannot be claimed by a contractor purchasing property to be used in fulfilling a contract with the Library, or by a Library employee or Board member for their own personal purchases.

Payment

All invoices and pre-payments shall be paid promptly in accordance with generally accepted business and accounting practices. The Director, in conjunction with the Treasurer, shall be the disbursing officer of the Board. In the absence or inability of the Director or Treasurer, these duties shall be performed by such other Board member(s) or staff members as the Board may designate. Payments made by check shall be cosigned. All disbursements shall be submitted for approval monthly by providing to the Board a copy of the Treasurer’s report and payment vouchers.

Technology

Computer Use

General Usage

Taylor County Public Library offers Internet access to any library visitor under the following provisions:

  • Users must have a Taylor County Public Library account in good standing (fines of $5 or less and no overdue items) to use a computer. Exceptions will be made for out-of-town visitors on a case-by-case basis.

  • Usage is limited to one 2-hour session per day. Multiple sessions will be permitted under special circumstances.

  • If longer than two hours is needed for serious computer work such as job applications, testing, etc., notify library staff 10 minutes prior to end of session, and an extension of the 2-hour session may be granted.

  • Parents or guardians, not the library or its staff, are responsible for the Internet information selected &/or used by their children.

  • Patrons’ sessions may be monitored by library staff and can be terminated for any violation of the computer usage policy.

  • Taylor County Public Library is not responsible for information that you may find offensive or inappropriate.

  • Public use computers will be shut down for the day 15 minutes before close of business. Patrons may not use the Internet for any unethical or illegal activity, included but not limited to:

  • Transmitting, receiving, or displaying of pornographic materials.

  • Use of harassing or obscene communications.

  • User must respect the legal protections of data, software, copyright, and license laws.

  • Users may not use the library’s computers to make unauthorized entry into any other

    computer network or database.

  • Users are not permitted to delete, add to, or modify the library’s installed hardware or

    software.

  • Users are not allowed to perform nay operation that would threaten library computers’

    security.

Due to the evolving nature of the Internet/computer, service policies are subject to change without notice and at the library’s discretion. The library reserves the right to terminate a patron’s access to the Internet/computer for any violation of our current Internet Access Policy.

Usage by Minors

In accordance with Children’s Internet Protection Act and Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act, library computers are equipped with blocking and filtering software designed to restrict minors’ access to materials that are obscene, pornographic, or may be harmful to them.

• Children under the age of 12 may use public computers only in the presence of an accompanying adult.

• Minors 12 years and older may use the computers without an adult present only if prior written permission has been granted by a parent or guardian.