Library Policies


Accessibility Plan for Serving Patrons With Disabilities

The Carbondale Public Library complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (the “ADA”) and offers alternative reasonable compliance to meet its requirements. Accordingly, the Library will take appropriate steps to ensure that Library communications with applicants, participants, and members of the public with ADA disabilities are as effective as communications with others; make reasonable accommodations in Library policies, practices, and procedures when necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability unless a fundamental alteration in a Library program would result; and operate its services, programs, and activities so that, when viewed in their entirety, they are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

The Library Director is the library’s ADA Compliance Officer. Implementing this Policy is the responsibility of all library staff.

METHOD OF NOTIFICATION
A copy of this Policy shall be included with the Library’s other policies.
If a person with visual impairment or other disability inquires about this Policy or about the Library’s ADA services, staff shall offer to read the policy and to provide appropriate ADA services.

PROGRAMMING
All library programs are wheelchair accessible. Any person needing additional accommodation for a disability in order to access the benefits of the Library’s services, programs, or activities under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the programming staff. Any person needing additional accommodation for a disability in order to attend a meeting at the Library should contact the Carbondale Public Library by telephone or in writing, not less than five (5) working days prior to the meeting.

ACCOMMODATIONS TO PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY
Staff will assist a patron with a disability in any reasonable way needed, including opening doors, carrying/retrieving library materials, completing library forms, etc.

Despite the Library’s best efforts, not all library materials may be available in accessible formats, not all areas of the Library are available to individuals with disabilities, and not every Library program, service and activity can be made accessible to every disabled person without fundamentally altering the nature of the service, activity, or program. However, the Library does make every reasonable effort to provide assistance to individuals with disabilities upon request.

  1. For the visually impaired, the Library attempts to select materials which are available in large print, audiotape, or media kits. Staff is available to assist such patrons at the computerized catalog.
  2. For the audibly impaired the Library attempts to select materials which, while normally available on tape or CD, are also available in print. The Library selects, when available, DVDs that are closed-captioned. The Library accepts phone calls through a hearing-assist operator.
  3. For the mobility impaired, the staff reaches and retrieves any and all materials which are inaccessible to wheelchair users or others with mobility impairments. Clear, readable signage indicates access routes. Staff will not touch or move wheelchairs without permission from the patron. If requested, staff holds doors open for wheelchair users.
  4. For the cognitively impaired, the Library attempts to select materials which are understood at appropriate levels of comprehension. DVDs, CDs, and audiotapes are offered for those with reading difficulties. Youth-oriented materials are available in the same formats.
  5. For the manually impaired, the Library attempts to select formats other than print, such as DVDs, CDs, and audiotapes. Staff is available to retrieve any material which may not be accessible to patrons. Staff is also available to assist at the computerized catalog.
  6. For library patrons who are verbally disabled, staff is available to communicate via writing.

MEETING ROOM USERS
Groups using the meeting room and presenters are required to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Library offers the facility as a service to community groups, but has no responsibility for the groups using the room.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Persons who believe they have been discriminated against based on their disability should file a complaint with the Library Director. An ADA complaint should be submitted to the Library Director in writing and should contain information about the alleged discrimination, including the name, address, and telephone number of the individual filing the claim, and also the location, date, and description of the problem. The ADA complaint should be submitted to the Library Director as soon as possible, but not later than 60 calendar days after the alleged ADA violation. ADA complaints will be brought to the attention of the Library Board at its next regular meeting following receipt of a completed complaint form.

Within 15 calendar days after receipt of the complaint, the Library Director or designee will attempt to contact the individual to discuss the complaint and possible resolutions; and within 15 days after such discussion, the Library Director or designee will respond in writing, and where appropriate, in a format accessible to the individual, such as large print, email, Braille, or audio. The response will explain the position of the Library and offer options for possible resolution of the complaint.

If the response of the Library Director or designee does not satisfactorily resolve the problem, the individual may appeal the decision to the Board of Library Trustees within 15 calendar days after the individual’s receipt of the response. Within 15 calendar days after receipt of the appeal, the Library Trustees and the Library Director or designee will attempt to contact the individual to discuss the problem and possible resolutions, and within 15 days after the meeting will respond in writing (and, where appropriate, in a format accessible to the complainant), with a possible final resolution of the problem.

Individuals may also file an administrative complaint with the U.S. Equal Opportunities Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of the date of the alleged discrimination, or may file a lawsuit for injunctive relief and damages.

Any or all of these methods may be pursued at the same time. Individuals are protected from retaliation or coercion when pursuing their rights or responsibilities under the ADA.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
In accordance with Section 35.106 of the ADA’s Title II Regulations, all applicants, participants, beneficiaries, and other interested persons are advised that further information may be obtained from the Library Director and also from the Office on the Americans with Disabilities Act, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, DC 20035-6118. Telephone: 800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY).

Adopted 12/16


Affirmative Action

This document serves to advance the Carbondale Public Library’s continuing commitment to affirmative action for the express purpose of ensuring equal opportunity for employment to all qualified individuals. Supported by a positive record of employment for minorities and individuals with recognized physical disabilities, this document serves as a record of the search procedures used to hire the current personnel and as a guide for filling all future open and available positions.
Position Descriptions

A written position description will be prepared for every open position. The position description will describe the responsibilities and duties of the open position, list the minimum  qualifications required for the position and any preferred qualifications deemed desirable for performing the assigned duties, specify procedures for submitting an application, and indicate the deadline for receiving applications.

In the search for a Director of the Library, the Board of Directors will prepare the written position description and serve as the hiring official. The Library Director will serve as the hiring official and be responsible for preparing the written position descriptions for all other open positions. It is recognized that open positions for professional staff offer an opportunity to reevaluate the duties and responsibilities of a particular position relative to those assigned to other employees and in keeping with current library needs for serving the public.

Advertising Open Positions
All open positions for professional staff will be advertised in those outlets that are most likely to reach all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender or disability. These will include, but not be limited to:

  • The Southern Illinoisan
  • Bulletin Board, a publication of the Shawnee Library System
  • Library Hotline, a publication of the Illinois Library Association
  • Mailings to colleges and universities that offer graduate library programs

As the position qualifications warrant, the Director may target the advertisement of the open position to increase the likelihood that candidates of a certain ethnic group or gender will apply. For example, if the Director/Board believed that the hire of an individual who is bilingual or Spanish speaking was important to serving a growing Hispanic population, the Director would advertise the open position in a manner that targets Spanish speaking individuals. Such special “targeting” will include, at a minimum, the following:

  1. correspondence with the directors of library programs at institutions known for graduating individuals belonging to the population being targeted;
  2. calls to individual members of the major library associations who may have personal contact with individuals belonging to the targeted population; and
  3. direct contact with appropriate caucuses that boast memberships consistent with the targeted population.

Screening and Interviewing Applicants
All applicants will be screened by the hiring official to determine whether their professional training and experience satisfy the advertised minimum position requirements. Those applicants found not to satisfy the minimum requirements will be eliminated from further consideration.

The candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the position will then be evaluated by the hiring official as to how well their professional training and experience satisfy the advertised preferred requirements for the position. The Director and/or Board search committee will determine which candidates should be interviewed on the basis of how well each candidate’s credentials indicate possession of the knowledge and skills needed to effectively carry out the duties and responsibilities of the open position.

Completing the Search
An offer of appointment will be extended to the best qualified candidate. Hires made by the Director will be submitted for approval at the next regular meeting of the Board of Directors. Once the candidate has accepted the position, the Director will send a written notice to all applicants informing them that the position has been filled. Applicant files and search process records will be retained for a period of three years.

Adopted by the board 5/11/94


Borrower’s Card

Eligibility

  1. Individuals who reside within the Carbondale city limits are eligible for a “free” card because they (or their landlord) pay for library service through property taxes.
  2. Individuals who reside outside of the Carbondale city limits are not taxed for library service (unless they reside within another library’s district). If untaxed, they may purchase a card, as required by Illinois state law. [76 ILCS 16/30-55(60)]
  3. Individuals who reside outside the Carbondale city limits but own property within the city limits are, under Illinois state law, eligible for a “free” card. [75 ILCS 16/30-55(60)]
  4. Businesses located within the Carbondale city limits are eligible for one “free” card. This card is limited to use for business purposes.
  5. Children must be 5 (five) years of age to apply for a card.

Fees for Nonresidents

  1. Nonresident fees are calculated using a tax bill method. (See the Nonresident Fee Policy). Nonresidents who choose to purchase cards must provide the documentation necessary to calculate the fee. In most cases, this will be a property tax bill (usually available online for Jackson County properties) or a rental agreement. The nonresident family fee is paid annually. A family is defined as individuals residing at the same address.
  2. Nonresident fees are nonrefundable.
  3. Illinois State Law regulates where (which public library) individuals/families may obtain a nonresident card.

Fee exemptions for Nonresident Cards for Income Eligible Children:

  1. The Cards for Kids program [enacted in PA 101-632] allows the library to provide no-fee cards for nonresident K-12 students whose household falls at or below the United States Department of Agriculture’s Income Eligibility Guidelines. Proof of eligibility must be presented. This may include proof of SNAP or TANF benefits, or a letter from the child’s school stating that this specific child is eligible for the “free lunch” program based on financial qualifications. Free nonresident cards issued through the Cards for Kids program are to be used only for the student’s library materials. Free cards and borrowing privileges are not extended to the entire household.
  2. Intergovernmental agreements with area schools may include a waiver of nonresident fees for all students regardless of household income.

Fee Exemptions for Nonresident Cards for Those Who Own, Lease, or Administer Taxable Property Within the City Limits:

  1. The non-resident fee shall not apply to a non-resident who, as an individual or as a partner, principal stockholder, or other joint owner, owns or leases property that is taxed for library service or is a senior administrative officer of a firm, business, or other corporation owning taxable property within the district, upon presentation of the most recent tax bill on that taxable property.  [75 ILCS 5/4-7(12) and 75 ILCS 16/30-55.60(3)]

Fee exemptions for Nonresident Cards for Qualified Veterans:

  1. The nonresident fee shall not apply to veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 70% and who are exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence in compliance with the Disabled Veterans’ Standard Homestead Exemption [35 ILCS 200/15-169].
  2. The nonresident fee shall not apply to the unmarried surviving spouse of a veteran who has previously qualified for this exemption prior to his/her death.
  3. The nonresident fee shall not apply to an unmarried surviving spouse of a service member killed in the line of duty.

In each instance, proof of eligibility must be presented. This may include a property tax bill showing exemption from property taxes, or official documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating the individual’s Veteran status, and the Veteran’s percentage of service-connected disabilities. Free nonresident cards may be extended to the disabled Veteran’s (or surviving spouse’s) entire household.

Proof of Eligibility Requirements

Applicants for a Carbondale Public Library card are required to provide the following:

  1. Proof of current address (in addition to photo ID).
  2. In the case of a child under 16 applying for a full-access card, a parent or guardian must be present and provide their own photo ID and proof of current address. Minors with a valid driver’s license do not need to have a parent or guardian present when applying for a card.
  3. Photo ID (not required for children under age 16). A photo ID does not have to show an address within the Carbondale City Limits.
  4. Nonresidents who own property within the Carbondale city limits must present a current property tax bill for that taxable property (usually available online).
  5. Businesses applying for a business card must make their request in writing on letterhead stationery, if possible.
  6. See above requirements for fee exemptions for income eligible children and veterans killed or severely disabled in the line of duty.
  7. If a photo ID lists an address within the Carbondale city limits, but that applicant does not have a secondary proof of address, a card may be created with a 6-week expiration period. The expiration date will be changed to allow for a full year of service once a secondary proof of address has been presented. 
  8. Limited access cards may be provided to juvenile students through an intergovernmental agreement with a school district. (See Lending/Fine Policy for lending restrictions).

Use of Library Card

  1. A valid* library card must be presented when borrowing library materials.  Patrons who hold cards from public libraries other than Carbondale are subject to the rules of their home library. Some electronic resources are only available from a patron’s home library.
  2. Some electronic resources may require a valid CPL card or Guest Internet Pass for access. A 90-minute Guest Pass fee of $2 is assessed for patrons who do not have a CPL card. There is no charge for CPL cardholders for 90 minutes of Internet time per day. Cardholders may purchase a $2 guest pass for an additional 90 minutes.
  3. Carbondale card holders may use their card at any public library in Illinois. However, the policies, fines, and fees of that library will apply when borrowing materials whether on-site or through interlibrary loan.
  4. Fines on a patron record must be under $5 to be eligible to borrow materials without restriction. This includes fines incurred at another public library. Carbondale cardholders are permitted to pay off fines gradually while still checking out materials, as long as those fines are not excessive, though the number of materials they are permitted to check out may be limited.
  5. Registered patrons who do not have their card with them when borrowing materials may show proof of identification. However, this privilege may not be abused. A patron who habitually “forgets” their card will be asked to come back with the card or replace it if it is lost.
  6. Lost cards should be reported immediately. There is a fee of $2.00 to replace a lost card.
  7. Patrons are responsible for all items checked out on their card. This includes any fines or fees due to late return, damage to or loss of an item. It is suggested that patrons not allow others to use their card.
  8. Some individuals reside in a community within the Illinois Heartland Library System (IHLS) with a tax-supported library that is not connected to the IHLS automated database. These individuals are eligible to receive service as a reciprocal patron. However, their home library is responsible for issuing them a library card. A valid card must show an expiration date.

Card Expiration

Carbondale Public Library cards expire annually. Patrons must provide proof of address when renewing. Nonresident patrons must provide a current property tax bill (or proof of rent), and pay their annual nonresident fee to renew their card.

Patrons from other communities must renew their cards at their home library. Carbondale Public Library staff will not renew cards issued by other libraries.

Revised 6/98, 8/00, 6/05, 3/06, 6/21, 4/22


By-Laws

CARBONDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY BY-LAWS

PREFACE

The Carbondale Public Library derives its authority for operation from the Local Library Act of July 12, 1965.  The Act sets out guidelines for general provisions, method of creation, taxation, Trustees, and erection of buildings for the library.

ARTICLE I  (NAME)

The name of this library shall be the Carbondale Public Library.

ARTICLE II  (APPOINTMENT OF THE BOARD)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Statutes of the State of Illinois, the Board of Trustees of the Carbondale Public Library shall consist of nine members appointed by the mayor of Carbondale and confirmed by the Carbondale City Council.

Trustees shall hold office one-third for one year, one-third for two years, and one-third for three years, from the first of July following their appointment, and at their first regular meeting shall cast lots for the respective terms; and annually thereafter the mayor shall, before the first of July each year, appoint or reappoint three Trustees to fill those terms expiring, who shall hold office for three years, and until their successors are appointed.

If a vacancy becomes available during mid-term, the mayor shall be requested to appoint a replacement to fill the vacancy until the end of the normal three-year term.

Within 60 days after their appointment incumbents and new Trustees shall meet in public session to take their oaths of office.  The oath is as follows:

Do you (Name of the Trustee) solemnly affirm that you will support the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and that you will faithfully discharge the duties of Trustee to the best of your ability?

ARTICLE III  (ORGANIZATION, POWERS, AND PURPOSES)

Library Trustees shall immediately after appointment meet and organize by the election of one of their number president, and by the election of such officers as they may deem necessary.  They shall make and adopt such by-laws, rules and regulations for their own guidance and for the government of the library as may be expedient, not inconsistent with the Local Library Act.

Library Trustees shall have the exclusive control of all monies collected for such library and deposited to the credit of the library fund, and of the construction of any library building, and of the supervision, care and custody of the grounds, rooms or buildings constructed, leased or set apart for that purpose.

All monies received for such library shall be deposited in the name of the Carbondale Public Library in such bank or banks as may be designated by the Board of Trustees.

Said Board shall have the power to appoint a suitable library director and necessary employees, and fix their compensation, and shall also have power to remove such appointees, and shall in general, carry out the spirit and intent of the Local Library Act, in establishing and maintaining a public library.

ARTICLE IV  (OFFICERS)

The officers of the Board shall be a president, a vice-president, a secretary, and a treasurer.  They shall be elected at the first regular meeting following reappointment or appointment to expiring regular terms and shall serve two years, and until their successors are elected and qualified.  No officers shall serve in the same position for more than two consecutive terms.

The president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer shall constitute the Executive Committee to conduct library business between regularly scheduled Board meetings.  A quorum at any meeting of the Executive Committee shall consist of a majority of the Trustees serving on the Executive Committee at that particular time.

The president shall preside at all Board meetings, appoint all standing or special committees, and perform other such duties as are normally associated with this office or may be assigned to the president by the Board.

The vice-president shall perform the duties of the president in the absence of the president.  If neither the president or vice-president is available, the duties of the office shall be performed by the treasurer.

The secretary shall keep the minutes of the Board meetings, record attendance, and record all votes. The library director or secretary shall issue notice of all regular meetings three days in advance and in compliance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act.  Notices to the Board shall include copies of minutes of the prior meetings, the agenda to be discussed at the proposed meeting, and any reports essential to the consideration of the agenda. The agenda is the mutual responsibility of the library director and president. On receipt of the meeting notice, minutes, and agenda, Board members should notify the library director if unable to attend.

The treasurer shall have charge and custody and be responsible for all funds of the library.  Such funds may be drawn upon by the signature of any two of a group consisting of the officers and library director, ordinarily the treasurer and the library director.  Before entering upon the duties, the treasurer shall be bonded in an amount to be approved by the Board, but not less than that required by state law, conditioned that the treasurer will safely keep and pay over upon the order of such Board all funds received and held for the Carbondale Public Library. The treasurer shall also arrange for an annual audit of the library’s financial records.

ARTICLE V  (DUTIES OF THE BOARD)

The Board of Trustees of the Carbondale Public Library shall have the authority necessary to carry out the spirit and intent of the Local Library Act, and, in addition to the powers conferred by the Act, shall assume any other powers and duties that are normally the responsibility of a Library Board.

ARTICLE VI  (MEETINGS)

The Board of Trustees shall establish a regular meeting time.  A minimum number of ten meetings shall be held in each calendar year.  A quorum at any meeting shall consist of a majority of the Trustees serving on the Board at the particular time who are physically present.  Trustees may attend a meeting by teleconference, video conference, or by other electronic means and  in compliance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act so long as a quorum are present at the place designated in the public notice of the meeting.

Special meetings may be held at any time at the call of the president or at the call of any three members of the Board, provided the notice thereof be given to all Trustees and in compliance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

The order of business at all regular meetings shall be as follows:
Call to Order and Roll Call of Trustees
Recognition of Guests
President’s Report
Approval of the Minutes of the last meeting
Correspondence and Communication
Treasurer’s Report
Librarian’s Report
Committee Reports
Old Business
New Business
Adjournment
Roberts Rules of Order shall govern in the parliamentary procedure of the Board.

ARTICLE VII  (COMMITTEES)
The president of the Board shall appoint and assign duties for such committees as are necessary for the proper conduct of the Carbondale Public Library.  Each committee shall consist of a chairman and one or more members of the Board.

ARTICLE VIII  (DUTIES OF THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR)
It shall be the duty of the library director to have general charge of the library and of all its branches and depositories, operating under the direction of the Board of Trustees. The director shall be responsible for all phases of the library’s operation including planning budget, personnel, physical facilities, public relations, administration, and staff development.  The director shall be responsible for the interpretation of the goals, objectives, and policies of the library in light of changing community needs, and initiate changes in library functions and services to meet the needs. The director shall certify to all bills and money expended, shall countersign all checks, unless impossible to do so, and shall present monthly and annual financial and progress reports to the Board.  The director shall, unless absent or incapacitated, attend all meetings of the Board. The director shall serve on all committees, except a committee considering the director’s own position. The director shall be responsible for the care of library property and the proper discharge of duties by all employees.  The director shall be encouraged to participate in community activities as a representative of the library. The director shall purchase the books, periodicals, records, tapes, pictures, pamphlets, and other library materials and equipment and have the power to expend the amount budgeted. The director shall be encouraged to use the system of informal as well as formal bids for all significant expenditures. The director shall ultimately be responsible for management of all functions and services of the library including collection development, preparation and maintenance, collection storage and retrieval, circulation and staff development.

ARTICLE IX  (TRUSTEE ATTENDANCE)
The office of any trustee who misses four regular meetings in any one fiscal year (May 1-April 30) shall be vacant. The Board President or Vice President may excuse absences due to a death in the trustee’s family, an illness or disability of the trustee or the trustee’s family, family or other emergency, observance of a religious holiday, or when employment or library board business necessitates an absence as long as those absences do not threaten the likelihood of a monthly quorum. Replacement will be sought in conformity with Article II.

In accordance with 5 ILSC 120/7(c) and 5 ILCS 120/7(a), when a quorum is physically present, trustees are permitted to attend board meetings via audio and/or video communication in the event that they are unable to be physically present due to personal illness or disability, family or other emergency, or when employment or library board business necessitates an absence. Attendance via email or text is prohibited.

ARTICLE X  (GIFTS)
The Board of Trustees may, at its discretion, accept gifts, donations, or endowments for the Carbondale Public Library.  A policy shall be established and followed in accepting gifts, donations, and endowments.

ARTICLE XI  (BOOK SELECTION AND PURCHASE OF LIBRARY MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT)
Selection of books, periodicals, records, films, tapes, pamphlets, and other library materials or equipment shall be the duty of the library staff with the approval of the Library Director.  A policy for selection shall be established and followed.

ARTICLE XIII ( FISCAL YEAR)
The fiscal year of the Carbondale Public Library shall be from May 1 to April 30.

ARTICLE XIV (EX-OFFICIO HONORARY MEMBERSHIP)
The Board of Trustees of the Carbondale Public Library at any regular meeting of the Board at which a quorum is present may appoint ex-officio honorary membership on the library Board by a majority vote.

ARTICLE XV (CONFLICT OF INTEREST)
No Library Trustee or employee shall engage in any business or transaction or shall have a financial or other personal interest, direct or indirect, which is incompatible with the proper discharge of his/her official duties in the public interest or would tend to impair his/her independence of judgment or action in the performance of his/her official duties.
Carbondale Public Library adopts and agrees to be governed by Section 1-17-3. Conflict of Interest, of the Carbondale Revised Code. (see appendix A).

ARTICLE XVI (AMENDMENT AND REVIEW)
These by-laws are to be reviewed every three years, and may be amended by a majority vote at a regular meeting at which a quorum is present, provided notice of the proposed amendment and of the language thereof, has been given at the last preceding regular meeting and notice is contained in the mailed agenda.

Revised 11/97, 9/04, 3/07, 3/09, 2/14, 10/19, 1/21


Code of Ethics

As members of the American Library Association, we recognize the importance of codifying and making known to the profession and to the general public the ethical principles that guide the work of librarians, other professionals providing information services, library trustees, and library staff.

Ethical dilemmas occur when values are in conflict. The American Library Association Code of Ethics states the values to which we are committed, and embodies the ethical responsibilities of the profession in this changing information environment.

We significantly influence or control the selection, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information. In a political system grounded in an informed citizenry, we are members of a profession explicitly committed to intellectual freedom and the freedom of access to information. We have a special obligation to ensure the free flow of information and ideas to present and future generations.

The principles of this Code are expressed in broad statements to guide ethical decision-making. These statements provide a framework; they cannot and do not dictate conduct to cover particular situations.

  1. We provide the highest level of service to all library users through appropriate and usefully organized resources; equitable service policies; equitable access; and accurate, unbiased, and courteous responses to all requests.
  2. We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all efforts to censor library resources.
  3. We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted.
  4. We respect intellectual property rights and advocate balance between the interests of information users and rights holders.
  5. We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, fairness, and good faith, and advocate conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees of our institutions.
  6. We do not advance private interests at the expense of library users, colleagues, or our employing institutions.
  7. We distinguish between our personal convictions and professional duties and do not allow our personal beliefs to interfere with fair representation of the aims of our institutions or the provision of access to their information resources.
  8. We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, by encouraging the professional development of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of potential members of the profession.
  9. We affirm the inherent dignity and rights of every person. We work to recognize and dismantle systemic and individual biases; to confront inequity and oppression; to enhance diversity and inclusion; and to advance racial and social justice in our libraries, communities, profession, and associations through awareness, advocacy, education, collaboration, services, and allocation of resources and spaces.

Adopted 10/23


Community Engagement, Networking, Outreach, and Programming Policy

Public libraries are encouraged by our State Libraries and professional associations to partner with other community organizations and businesses in order to create relevant library programs, understand the needs of our communities, and create relevant services. Carbondale Public Library staff may attend community meetings, serve on boards and coalitions, and partner with organizations and businesses to produce programs and resources within the library’s mission to provide resources and services to support the educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs of our community. Designated library staff may choose whether to produce or co-sponsor programs and participate in organizational opportunities at their discretion under the guidance and supervision of the Library Director, overseen by the Library Board, in accordance with the library’s mission, policies, needs, time constraints, and budget. At times, library staff may need to limit their level of participation, and select which programs to host or co-host, within the parameters of those same constraints.

Opinions expressed or implied by program speakers or within program content do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the library itself, its staff, Board, or other stakeholders. Likewise, opinions expressed by library staff do not necessarily reflect opinions of the entire institution.

The library makes every effort to share accurate information, and professional advice may be offered as a public service. However, such advice is not an endorsement by the library, and the library is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or interpretations of information and/or advice garnered through library participation, nor for any actions taken in response to such advice or information.

Speakers from community groups and businesses may be invited to present programs on topics of general interest or of a timely nature. Presenters may not directly solicit business before, during, or following the program, although cards and brochures may be left on display for attendees to pick up. Fundraising for a nonprofit project or organization may be an aspect of a program, but not as a price of admission or barrier to full participation. Likewise, an author or artist may be invited to provide books or artwork for sale in conjunction with a library program, but a purchase must not be required.

When the library sponsors or co-sponsors a program it must be free and open to the public (with some exceptions for cost-recovery). The library must be listed as a co-sponsor on all promotional material. The library has the right to produce and/or oversee program content and promotion, and to promote the program.

When a program is hosted on the library’s online platforms the library will not share the names and contact information of program participants with partner organizations, but may share anonymous demographic information and responses. Partner organizations may request (but not require) personal information directly from participants on a voluntary opt-in basis.

The library reserves the right to publicly share, post, circulate, store, or discard recorded program content and associated ephemera within the parameters of contractual agreements, copyright limitations, and other applicable laws. Co-sponsoring organizations may link to, share, post, and circulate such recordings and ephemera as well (in accordance with the above-listed parameters) for as long as the library maintains them. The library is under no obligation to permanently store content in any format.

The Carbondale Public Library streams and archives many programs online via various social media platforms. Those who participate in programs that are streamed (in whole, or in part) agree to allow all content presented to be broadcast and stored online (within the confines of the above-listed parameters). Presenters must ensure that all content presented (in person and/or virtually) is in compliance with public performance rights and copyright law. Presenters should be aware that sharing content online may be considered a form of publication.  

All library programs are subject to being photographed, and potentially recorded. Any participant who wishes to avoid being photographed or recorded by the library and/or press, with photos and recordings potentially posted online or elsewhere, should alert the library staff member in charge of the program. The library will then make an effort to avoid taking or posting those photographs or recordings of that person if possible, and will attempt to communicate the issue with any known members of the press present at the program. However, the library is a public venue and all library events, regardless of location, are open to the public. In the age of social media, the library cannot guarantee that no one will post photos and/or recordings of people present at any public venue or event at any given time.

The library strives to provide inclusive and equitable access to diverse viewpoints and, in doing so, cannot promise to avoid controversial subject matter in any context. In the course of community engagement library staff are not expected to avoid participation in groups that engage with issues that may be “politicized” in public discourse, in the colloquial sense. Although library staff may learn about legislative issues and build relationships with legislators in the context of their work, they are prohibited from arguing for or against specific legislation while representing the library. While on the clock, or acting as a representative of the library, library staff are prohibited from attending political rallies and engaging in political activities; again, “political” is to be interpreted in the literal sense, rather than in the figurative, colloquial, or topical sense. However, staff are free to engage in such activities on their own time. In the case of political forums hosted by the library, all registered candidates must be invited to participate. Legislators and candidates are welcome to participate in library programs, but not to campaign or solicit campaign funds at or through the library individually.

All participants in library activities are expected to abide by the library’s Patron Conduct Policy as well as all other library policies, as well as local, state, and federal laws.

Adopted 10/21


Confidentiality of Records

The Carbondale Public Library abides by Illinois Law which states the records of client transactions and the identity of registered library clients is confidential material.
The Carbondale Public Library does not make available the records of patron transactions to any party except in compliance with the law.
The Carbondale Public Library does not make available lists of registered library clients except in compliance with the law.

Adopted 8/00


Displays and Exhibits

DISPLAY SPACE POLICY
The Carbondale Public Library maintains bulletin boards and display tables/cases for the purpose of promoting the services and programs of the library. Although individuals, agencies, organizations, etc. may request use of the display areas or make suggestions for themes, or parallel agency activities, the responsibility for selection of all displays rests with the staff of the library. Individuals, agencies, organizations, etc. may request use of the display space; however, acceptance, design and placement of the display must be approved by the Library Director or designate. Displays will be accepted for a period of time not to exceed 30 days with set up and removal being the responsibility of the exhibitor.

Click here for Display Case Form

EXHIBITS POLICY
Exhibits from outside sources may be allowed in the library. All exhibits considered for space within the library must support the mission of the library, and not cause disruption of the regular flow of library work and service. The Library Director or designate will determine the suitability of a given object, or collection for display in the Library, considering both the facilities available in the building and the objectives of the library. The Library Director or designate may refer such requests as deemed advisable to the Board of Trustees. Such exhibits will remain in place for not longer than 30 days with set up and removal being the responsibility of the exhibitor. Requests for a longer period may be made to either the Library Director or Library Board. Such requests should be made prior to the completion of the 30 day period. The library assumes no liability for damage or loss relating to any exhibit set up for public viewing in the library, and will take no extraordinary measures to insure its safety. Individuals or groups using display or exhibit space in the library are advised to carry their own insurance for items on display. Exhibits placed in the library must be displayed without damage to walls, carpet, etc. Exhibits must not restrict use of any library facility for its usual purpose.

Individuals or groups who reserve exhibit or display space and fail to use it as scheduled forfeit the opportunity for future use of library exhibit and display space.

Revised 11/99


Donation Guidelines

Carbondale Public Library appreciates the donation of used books, audiotapes, etc. The following guidelines, however, have been established :

  • Donations become the property of the library.
  • Donations will be evaluated for addition to the collection and are subject to the same criteria as all other materials.
  • Donations which are not added to the collection will be kept for the Friends of Carbondale Public Library book sales, passed on to other libraries, or discarded if necessary.
  • Receipts are available for tax purposes; however, the library staff can not determine the fair market value of donated materials. That is the responsibility of the donor.

The following items are not accepted as donations (and don’t even sell in book sales):

  • Textbooks
  • Magazines and professional journals*
  • Reader’s Digest Condensed Books
  • Out-dated information
  • Items which are mildewed, musty, insect-infested or generally in poor condition

*There are some magazines which the library will accept, but please check with library staff before donating magazines.

Due to a lack of storage space we cannot accept large numbers of items year round. Please call the library (618-457-0354 ext. 1) before bringing donations of more than 25 items.
Popular reading paperbacks are welcome at any time.
Please refer to the library’s policy on Gifts to the Library for further details.

Revised 5/98


Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco

The Carbondale Public Library recognizes that the non-medical use of controlled substances is hazardous to the health of the patrons and employees of the Library. Additionally, the use of alcohol and tobacco by patrons is recognized as both hazardous and often illegal; and the irresponsible use of alcohol and tobacco by employees is detrimental to the Library environment. Smoking is not permitted inside any library building. The illicit manufacture, use, possession, or distribution of controlled substances, look-alike drugs, drug paraphernalia, and the manufacture, use, possession or distribution of alcoholic beverages, marijuana and its derivatives as defined by Illinois and Federal statute at any time, is not permitted at any Library location.

“Library location” means any library building, on any library premises, in any library-owned vehicle, or at any library-sponsored activity where patrons or employees are engaged in activities under the jurisdiction of the Library. This shall include any period of time when an employee is supervising students on behalf of a school district, or is otherwise engaged in library business.

Any employee who violates the term of the Library’s drug alcohol and tobacco policy may be suspended or terminated pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Library and applicable state statutes. The Library may, in its discretion, refer incidents to appropriate legal authorities for prosecution when this policy is violated. Sanctions against employees shall be in accordance with prescribed Library regulations and procedures. The Library’s employees, as a condition of their employment, agree to abide by the terms of this policy and to notify the Library, no later than five (5) days after a conviction, of any criminal drug or alcohol statute convictions for a violation occurring at a library location. The Library, if or when required by law, shall report such conviction to the appropriate authorities.

A patron who violates the terms of this policy may be expelled from the library location involved, or any library location at the discretion of the Library and use privileges may be suspended for a specified period of time. The Library may, in its discretion, refer incidents to appropriate legal authority for prosecution when this policy is violated. Sanctions against patrons shall be in accordance with prescribed library regulations and procedures.

Adopted 9/99


Electronic Information Network

Internet Access Policy

Libraries make it possible for citizens to have access to the information they need to make informed decisions. As a member of the Illinois Library and Information Network (ILLINET), Carbondale Public Library is committed to networking. This represents good public policy by maximizing use of the resources of all types of libraries. Every library user benefits from expanded access to information beyond the four walls of a single library building.
Carbondale Public Library and other ILLINET libraries use electronic information networks such as the Internet for a variety of purposes:

  • Access to shared automation systems that provide bibliographic access to the collections of local, regional, state, national and international libraries.
  • Access to both the general and specialized shared or licensed databases available to ILLINET member libraries through regional and statewide cooperative programs.
  • Access to the wealth of information resources available via the Internet.

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER LIBRARY POLICIES

Carbondale Public Library’s policy for access to electronic information networks is part of the library’s overall policy structure and should be interpreted in conjunction with other existing policies. Copies of all library policies are available upon request from a library staff member.

“GLOBAL” VERSUS “LOCAL” RESOURCES

Most resources available via the Internet and other electronic information networks are “global” resources rather than “local” resources. Carbondale Public Library does not and cannot control the information content available through global resources via the Internet. Internet resources enhance and supplement resources available locally within a library. Library users must be aware that Carbondale Public Library does not exercise control over information obtained via the Internet and must keep in mind the following points when evaluating information obtained via the Internet:

  • Information obtained via the Internet may not be obtained from a reliable source.
  • Information obtained via the Internet may not be current or accurate.
  • Links to information on the Internet may not always be valid.
  • Particular information sites on the Internet may sometimes be unavailable and this unavailability often occurs unpredictably.
  • Certain information obtained via the Internet may be considered controversial by some library patrons.

Carbondale Public Library urges library patrons to be informed consumers and carefully evaluate information obtained via the Internet. Library staff may be available to assist patrons in making judgments about the reliability or currency of certain types of Internet information sources, but are unable to provide definitive analysis of particular sources due to the extremely large variety and volume of information available via the Internet.
Carbondale Public Library is not liable for damages, indirect or direct, arising from a library patron’s use of Internet information resources.

LIBRARY PATRONS’ RIGHTS TO ELECTRONIC INFORMATION ACCESS

Library patrons have certain rights with respect to use of electronic information networks such as the Internet. Carbondale Public Library will work with other libraries in the Illinois Library and Information Network to preserve and protect these rights, subject to limitations imposed by licensing and payment agreements with database providers.

  • Library patrons have the right to confidentiality and privacy in the use of electronic information networks to the extent possible given certain constraints such as proximity of other patrons and staff in public access settings.
  • Library patrons have the right to equitable access to electronic information networks.
  • Library patrons have the right to request and to read all library service policies and to discuss questions with appropriate library staff.

PATRON ASSISTANCE AND INSTRUCTION

Carbondale Public Library’s staff may provide assistance to patrons in the use of electronic information networks as time and staff knowledge permit. Printed and online documentation and instructions may be available at or near points of service. Formal instruction in particular aspects of electronic information network use may be available.

USE OF EQUIPMENT AND NETWORKS

Carbondale Public Library requires that library patrons using electronic information networks such as the Internet do so within the guidelines of acceptable use. The following activities are prohibited:

  • Use of electronic information networks for any purpose that results in the harassment of other users.
  • Destruction of, damage to or unauthorized alteration of the library’s computer equipment, software, or network security procedures.
  • Use of electronic information networks in any way that violates a federal, state or local law, including all copyright laws.
  • Use of electronic information networks in any way that violates licensing and payment agreements between Carbondale Public Library and network/database providers.
  • Unauthorized duplication of copy-protected software or violation of software license agreements.
  • Violation of system security.
  • Behavior that is disruptive to other users, including but not limited to overuse of computer equipment that serves to deny access to other users.

INTERNET SAFETY FOR MINORS (UNDER AGE 18)

Carbondale Public Library supports the right of all library users to access information and will not deny access to electronic information networks based solely on age. Measures designed to restrict minors’ access to materials harmful to minors are addressed through parental supervision and electronic filtering. The Carbondale Public Library is compliant with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Ultimately, the library reserves the authority to determine what matter is inappropriate for minors.
Carbondale Public Library recognizes that electronic information networks such as the Internet may contain material inappropriate for minors. To ensure the safety and security of minors when using the Internet, email, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications, parents/guardians are expected to monitor and supervise their minors’ use of the Internet and other electronic resources. The library staff is unable to monitor minors’ use of electronic resources and cannot judge the suitability of library material for any individual. Because of the diverse family values within this community, we encourage parents/guardians to assist their minor in choosing library resources they consider appropriate to their own family values, as well as to the maturity and development of their minor. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss with minors issues of appropriate use and electronic information network safety.
Minors are expected to abide by all library policies. Unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors or adults is prohibited. Unauthorized disclosure, use, dissemination of personal information regarding minors is prohibited.

FILTERS

Carbondale Public Library has installed a filter on all Internet access terminals and wi-fi networks. A filtering device gives the library the flexibility to select Internet content using the same criteria applied as collection development guidelines for other materials. The library’s filtering devices protect against access by adults and minors to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or – with respect to the use of computers with Internet access by minors – “harmful to minors.” Filtering devices do not replace the need for parents/guardians to supervise minors’ access to the Internet.

ADDITIONAL LIBRARY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES RELATING TO ELECTRONIC NETWORKS

Carbondale Public Library has procedures to assist staff and patrons in the use of electronic information resources. These include but are not limited to:

  • Time limits for access to allow use of resources by the maximum number of library patrons.
  • Cost recovery for using the library’s computer equipment and/or supplies (i.e. printer paper and ink).
  • Priority usage for accessing the library’s online catalog.
  • Specific instructions for downloading including compliance with virus protection measures.
  • An online registration and use agreement form must be completed prior to usage.

SOCIAL NETWORKING

The library uses various social media to inform and/or engage its public. While the library encourages comments from the community, the library will remove comments, posts, links, photos, or other content for any reason, including but not limited to harassment and personal attacks, derogatory or defamatory comments, vulgar or profane language, commercial promotion, improper use of copyrighted material, or other inappropriate content.

BREACH OF POLICY

Violation of any aspect of these policies or procedures may result in the loss of library privileges.
This policy is a modified version of the document adopted by Illinois State Library Advisory Committee May 23, 1996.

Adopted 2/97, Revised 11/97, 11/99, 2/02, 8/02, 12/04, 8/16


Gifts to the Library

The Carbondale Public Library is grateful for gifts, and its collection has been enriched by donations of materials as well as monetary contributions. Through donors the library has been able to acquire items which could not have been purchased otherwise. Upon request, the library staff can supply a list of items for consideration by donors.

Gifts will be judged by the same standards of selection as those applied to the purchase of new materials. The Carbondale Public Library reserves the right to accept or decline gifts.

GIFTS

Gifts of Books and Audiovisual Materials
In accepting a gift of materials, the library reserves the privilege to decide whether donated items should be added to the collection. Of the many books and other materials citizens give, a considerable proportion can be used. However, some will not be added to the collection. There are various reasons why an item might not be added to the collection. Some of those reasons are: it may be an item of which the library already has a sufficient number; it is outdated – interesting but not of sufficient current reference or circulating value to the library; and/or it is in poor condition – which would not justify the expense of processing it, i.e., cataloging and preparing it for circulation. The Carbondale Public Library accepts books and audiovisual materials as gifts with the understanding that those useful to the library collection will be retained, and the remainder disposed of in whatever manner the Library Director deems best. The library necessarily reserves the right to interfile gifts with other collections on the same subject so that all collections are organized and classified according to library standards for the best public service.

Gifts of Art Objects and Other Types of Materials
Although such gifts are usually welcomed and valued, final decision on their acceptance rests with the Library Director and Board of Trustees.

Other Gifts – e.g., Monetary
The library welcomes cash contributions, gifts of real property, stocks and bonds. The library expends cash gifts on materials, equipment, or projects acceptable to the donor. Although unlikely, there maybe an occasion in which the restrictions set by the donor make it impossible for the library to accept the gift.

Recognition of Gifts
Bookplates are placed in/on books and other material formats, if possible, unless otherwise specified. Donors are provided with a letter or other appropriate form for tax purposes. Acknowledgments are sent to individuals whom donors wish to notify of the gift.

Use of Gifts
Gifts are accepted with the understanding that it may someday be necessary to sell or dispose of them in the best interest of the library. The library cannot commit to perpetually housing or retaining a gift.

Income Tax Statements
The library cannot appraise the value of any gift. The library will, however, issue the donor a letter acknowledging the gift. Gifts to the library as a governmental unit are tax deductible; however, the donor will be responsible for securing an appraisal if one is desired.

Restriction
No gift can be accepted unless it is given to the library without restrictions or unless the Board of Trustees has specifically adopted an agreement to do so. Gifts are accepted only if in the opinions of the Library Director and Board of Trustees they are in the best interests of the library. A Gift Agreement Form must be signed by the donor and approved by the Library Director for unrestricted gifts and also by the Board of Trustees for restricted gifts.

GIFT BOOK PROGRAM

Gift Book Program
The library welcomes monetary contributions specifically for book purchases in memorial to or in honor of named individuals. For the library to properly acknowledge the generosity a form recording the information should be completed.

Recognition of Gifts
Bookplates are placed in books and other material formats, if possible, unless otherwise specified. Donors are provided with a letter or other appropriate form for tax purposes. Acknowledgments are sent to individuals whom donors wish to notify of the gift.

Adopted 10/98


Illinois Freedom of Information Act

I. A brief description of our public body is as follows:

  1. Our purpose is to provide resources and services to support the educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs of our community.
  2. An organizational chart is attached.
  3. The total amount of our operating budget for FY24 is: $1,334,529. Funding sources are property and personal property replacement taxes, state and federal grants, fines, charges, and donations. Tax levy includes:
    1. Corporate purposes (for general operating expenditures)
    2. IMRF (provides for employees’ retirement & related expenses)
    3. Social Security (provides for employees’ FICA costs & related expenses)
    4. Audit (for annual audit & related expenses)
    5. Maintenance (for maintaining the building)
    6. Tort Liability (for insurance premiums, risk management, attorney’s fees & related expenses, unemployment and worker’s compensation insurance)
    7. Working Cash (for internal loans [not currently levied])
    8. Debt Service (for bond & interest payments [not currently levied])
  4. The office is located at this address: 405 West Main Street, Carbondale, IL 62901
  5. We have the following number of persons employed:
    1. Full-time: 12
    2. Part-time: 4
  6. The following organization exercises control over our policies and procedures: The Carbondale Public Library Board of Library Trustees, which meets monthly on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 4:30 p.m., at the library. Its members are: Don Prosser. President; Chastity Mays, Vice President; Barbara Levine, Vice President; Susan Tulis, Secretary; Frances Anterola, Philip Brown, Joyce Hayes, Julian Pei, Roland Person.
  7. We are required to report and be answerable for our operations to:
    Illinois State Library, Springfield, Illinois. Its members are: State Librarian, Alexi Giannoulias (Secretary of State); Director of the State Library, Greg McCormick; and various other staff.

II. You may request the information and the records available to the public in the following manner:

  1. Please make your request for records in writing. The Carbondale Public Library does not require the completion of a standard form for this purpose. You may submit your written request by mail, email, or in person. Please direct your request to:
    FOIA Officers – Jennifer Robertson and Gwen Hall Grosshenrich
    Carbondale Public Library
    405 W. Main St.
    Carbondale, IL 62901
    E-mail jrobertson@carbondale.lib.il.us and ghall@carbondale.lib.il.us
  2. Please be as specific as possible when describing the records you are seeking. Remember, the Freedom of Information Act is designed to allow you to inspect or receive copies of records. It is not designed to require a public body to answer questions. To the extent that you wish to ask questions of a representative of the Carbondale Public Library, you may call the library at 618-457-0354, to be directed to the proper person.
  3. Please tell us whether you would like copies of the requested records, or whether you wish to examine the records in person. You have the right to either option.
  4. There is no fee (for non-commercial requests) for up to 50 pages of standard paper copies. For pages beyond 50, there is a 10 cent-per-page charge for black and white copies. Fees for color copies or electronic delivery devices (CD, flash drives) may apply.
  5. You are permitted to ask for a waiver of copying fees. To do so, please include the following statement (or a similar statement) in your written FOIA request: “I request a waiver of all fees associated with this request.” In addition, you must include a specific explanation as to why your request for information is in the public interest—not simply your personal interest—and merits a fee waiver.
  6. Please include your name, preferred telephone number(s), mailing address, and, if you wish to receive information by email, your email address.

III. Certain types of information maintained by us are exempt from inspection and copying. However, the following types or categories of records are maintained under our control:

  1. Monthly Financial Statements
  2. Annual Receipts and Disbursements Reports
  3. Operating Budgets
  4. Current budgeted employee compensation packages in excess of $75,000 in compliance with the Illinois Public Act 097-0609
  5. Minutes of the Library Board of Trustees
  6. Library Policies
  7. Annual Reports to the Illinois State Library

Adopted 1/10, Revised 7/15


Interlibrary Loan

  1. Individuals may have no more than 20 interlibrary loan requests on file at any given time; 10 for materials outside the Shawnee Library System and 10 through Shawnee Library System’s computerized database (which automatically limits the number of requests).
  2. Copyright regulations are strictly enforced.
  3. Interlibrary loan materials are subject to the loan periods, renewals, fines, fees and any other applicable policies of the lending library (the library which owns the material). Libraries in Illinois have adopted an Interlibrary Loan Code which sets these guidelines. It states: “The borrowing library shall honor the lending library’s condition of loan including observation of dates and duration of loans, recall notices, fees (if applicable), and special handling provisions. The borrowing library shall convey these conditions to the patron.”
  4. Periodicals (magazines and newspapers) are not loaned or borrowed on interlibrary loan. However, photocopies or facsimiles of periodical articles can be requested and are subject to copyright laws.
  5. Carbondale Public Library does not provide the following materials on interlibrary loan:
    1. Reference material
    2. Art prints
    3. Periodicals (see #4 above for further explanation)
    4. New acquisitions for a period of three to six months (determined by
      reserves). However, CPL does lend audio/visual materials within and
      outside the Shawnee Library System.
  6. Individuals who request intra-system (within Shawnee Library System) interlibrary loan service through the library must have a valid Carbondale Public Library card.
  7. Only those individuals with a valid Carbondale Public Library card may request interlibrary loan of materials owned by libraries outside the Shawnee Library System. All other public library card holders must initiate interlibrary loan requests for materials outside Shawnee Library System at their home library. (See #8 below for an exception when Carbondale Public Library acts only as a facilitator.)
  8. There are occasions when Carbondale Public Library may act as a facilitator between a library and a client/organization. In such cases the client/organization does not need to have a public library card. However, the lending library must acknowledge that Carbondale Public Library assumes no responsibility for items handled this way. In this situation CPL generally acts as the delivery agent and there is no actual circulation transaction within the automated system.

Revised 9/97, 5/00


Investment of Public Funds

PURPOSE AND SCOPE.
This policy statement outlines the responsibilities, general objectives, and specific guidelines for managing public funds of the Carbondale Public Library. Its scope is all public funds of the Library.

RESPONSIBILITIES
All investment policies and procedures of the Carbondale Public Library will be per Illinois law and specifically refer to and adhere to the Public Funds Investment Act (30 ILCS 235/). The authority of the Library Board of Trustees to control and invest public funds is defined in the Illinois Public Funds Investment Act, and the investments permitted are described therein. Administration and execution of these policies are typically the responsibility of the Board Treasurer and by designation, the Library Director and a staff member who handles financial operations. However, the “Chief Investment Officer(s)” position is to be approved annually by the Carbondale Public Library Board of Trustees. The Chief Investment Officer(s) acts under the authority of the Library Board of Trustees. Investments, fund balances, and the status of such accounts will be reported at each regularly scheduled meeting of the Library Board of Trustees.

DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
Management and administrative responsibility for the investment program is hereby delegated to the Chief Investment Officers. The Chief Investment Officers are responsible for establishing internal controls and written procedures for the operation of the investment program. All investment decisions of the Chief Investment Officers shall be unanimous, and such decisions shall be shared with the Treasurer at least quarterly.

“PRUDENT PERSON” STANDARD
All Library investment activities shall use a “prudent person” standard of care.  This standard shall be applied in the context of managing an overall portfolio and specifies that investments shall be made with judgment and care, under circumstances then prevailing, which persons of prudence, discretion, and intelligence exercise in the management of their affairs, not for speculation, but for investment, considering the probable safety of their capital as well as the probable income to be derived.  Investment officers, acting following this Policy and the written procedures of the Library, and exercising due diligence, shall be relieved of personal responsibility for a security’s credit risk or market price/value changes, provided deviations from expectations are reported in a timely fashion and appropriate action is taken to control adverse developments.

OBJECTIVES.
In selecting financial institutions and investment instruments to be used, the following general objectives should be considered in the priority listed: 
• Legality (conforming with all legal requirements)
• Safety (preserving capital and including diversification appropriate to the nature and amount of the funds)
• Liquidity (maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet current obligations and those reasonably to be anticipated)
• Yield (attaining a market rate of return on investments)
• Simplicity of management

GUIDELINES.  
The following guidelines should be used to meet the general investment objectives:
1) Legality and Safety:
a. Investments will be made only in securities guaranteed by the U.S. government or in FDIC-insured institutions, including SAIF of the FDIC.  Deposit accounts in banks or savings and loan institutions will not exceed the amount insured by FDIC coverage (unless adequately collateralized under Regulations of the Federal Reserve regarding custody and safekeeping of collateral). Any credit union accounts would not exceed insured amounts and otherwise would comply with the legal requirements for such accounts and institutions.
b. Authorized investments include and will primarily consist of Certificates of Deposit, Treasury Bills, and other securities guaranteed by the U.S. Government, participation in the State of Illinois Public Treasurer’s Investment Pool, and any other investments allowed under State law that satisfy the investment objectives of the library district.
2) Liquidity:
In general, investments should be managed to meet liquidity needs for the current month plus one month (based on forecasted needs) and any reasonably anticipated special needs.
3) Yield – Return on investment:
Within the constraints of Illinois law, considerations of safety, and this investment policy, every effort should be made to maximize return on investments.  All available funds will be placed in investments or interest-bearing deposit accounts.
4) Simplicity of management:
The time required by library administrative staff to manage investments shall be kept to a minimum.

REPORTING
Investments, fund balances, and the status of such accounts will be reported at each regularly scheduled meeting of the Library Board of Trustees, and at least quarterly, include information regarding securities in the portfolio by class or type, book value, income earned, and market value as of the report date.  At least annually, the Treasurer and the Chief Investment Officers shall review this Policy for any needed modifications and report to the Board on the investment portfolio and its effectiveness in meeting the Library’s need for safety, liquidity, rate of return, diversification, and general performance. These reports will be available to the general public upon request.

INTERNAL CONTROLS
In addition to these guidelines, the Chief Investment Officers shall establish a system of internal controls and written operational procedures to prevent loss, theft, or misuse of funds.

AUTHORIZED FINANCIAL DEALERS AND INSTITUTIONS
Any investment advisors, money managers, and financial institutions shall be considered and authorized only by the action of the Library Board of Trustees upon the recommendation of the Chief Investment Officers. The Chief Investment Officers will maintain a list of financial dealers and institutions authorized to provide investment services.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Officers and employees involved in the investment process shall refrain from personal business activities that might conflict with the proper execution and management of this investment program, that could impair their ability to make impartial decisions, or that could give the appearance of impropriety.

Adopted 10/99
Revised 03/19, 2/20
Renewed 12/12, 12/13, 12/14, 12/15, 12/16, 12/17, 1/21, 1/24


Juveniles in the Library

SELECTION AND CENSORSHIP OF MATERIALS
The Carbondale Public Library staff cannot make a judgment as to what is suitable reading, viewing or listening material for any individual, particularly for a child. The library staff can provide professional assistance, book reviews, and lists to help parents match their stated needs with suitable materials. However, censorship of a child’s selection and use of available library materials and resources rests solely with the parent/guardian.

SUPERVISION
Parents/guardians are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the library. The Carbondale Public Library staff is committed to help children with activities related to the library. However, library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to keep a child safe from harm or to serve as care givers, teachers or disciplinarians. The staff must assume that all library users are able to take care of themselves or are under the supervision of a responsible individual, such as a parent, guardian, or care giver. Children who cannot work independently must not be left unattended in the library. Parents/guardians who neglect to supervise their children will be asked to do so. If they fail to correct the situation a library staff member will speak directly to the child about the disruptive behavior. Whenever advisable or possible, the library will notify the parent/guardian of incidents involving an unattended child.

  • Children under the age of ten must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent/guardian or other responsible care giver. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, or the parent/guardian or responsible care giver cannot be located, or if the library is closing, library staff is authorized to call the police and will stay with the child until the police arrive.
  • Carbondale Public Library may schedule programs which are designed and suitable for attendance by children without parental/guardian supervision. Program announcements will indicate when supervision is required.
  • Children, ages ten and older, may use the library unattended by an adult, subject to other library rules and policies concerning behavior, conduct and demeanor.
  • Violations of this policy are grounds for being barred from the library.

UNATTENDED CHILDREN AFTER HOURS
The library staff cannot assume responsibility for minors who remain at the library beyond closing time. In the event a minor is still at the library 15 minutes after the library closes to the public, the library staff members are authorized to call the police to pick up the young person. Before calling the police, attempts will be made during that 15 minutes to reach parents/guardians, but in no instance will library staff provide transportation for minors.

Adopted 8/95, Revised 6/99, 2/00


Legal, Medical, Investment and Tax-Related Reference Questions

The librarians at Carbondale Public Library will help clients use the legal, medical, investment and tax materials in the library. However, they will not do legal, medical, investment or tax research; nor will they give legal, medical, investment or tax advice. When clients come to the library, the librarians will show them where the legal, medical, and tax information is located and show them how to use the indexes, etc. However, clients are responsible for doing their own research. If the information is unclear, the librarians will not interpret it. Instead they will suggest other sources that might help clients interpret it or suggest they contact a professional in those fields (i.e., attorney, physician, accountant) to help with interpretation. The librarians will not give legal, medical, investment or tax information over the telephone if it involves interpretation of the material.

This policy is necessary because:
• Giving advice about legal, medical, investment or tax issues and how it applies to a client’s situation may be interpreted as practicing law, medicine, accounting, etc. We are librarians. Our job is to help clients use the library, not to research and interpret information for them.
• Legal, medical, investment and tax research can be complicated. What appears to be a simple question may have many factors to be considered. Clients have to assess the information themselves, determine what factors apply to their situation, and choose the information that seems appropriate to their situation.

Adopted 5/00


Lending and Fines

In general there is no limit on the number of items which may be checked out. However, some exceptions are noted in the table below. The library may set additional limits on high demand items as the need arises.

Borrowers are responsible for all items checked out on their card. This includes any overdue fines, as well as fees for damaged or lost items. Parents/guardians are responsible for all fines and fees incurred on their minor children’s (under 18) cards and may be requested to pay fines and fees that accumulate on those cards as a condition for using their own card. A service charge of $.50 is added to each overdue notice or bill that is mailed. Replacement costs will be charged for lost materials. The library will refund payment for lost material if found and returned within 30 days of payment. The lending periods and fines for each type of material are listed below as a general guide. Additional material types and changes made on an as-needed basis may not be reflected here.

Account type:Maximum fines imposed on account at any given time:Circulation  Limits:
Adult account$20 overall account max on fines.No overall item limit. Some limits on specific formats.
Juvenile full access account$10 overall account max on fines (in the event that the child has checked out adult or ILL items).No overall item limit. Some limits on specific formats.
Juvenile limited access account
 
(registered through an intergovernmental agreement with a school district)
$10 overall account max on fines (in the event that the child has checked out adult or ILL items).Total limit of 10 items, which may include no more than 1 video game and 2 DVDs.
Material:Loan Period:Renewals:Daily Fine:Maximum Fine Accumulated Per Item:Circulation  Limits (if any):
Books: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.00
Books: Adult (New)3 weeks2.10$2.00
Books: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines
Books: Juvenile & teen (New)3 weeks2No finesNo fines
Kits: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.00
Kits: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines
Periodicals: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.00
Periodicals: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines
Audiobooks: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.00
Audiobooks: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines
DVD: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.005 per card per visit. 1 DVD total for Limited Access Juvenile/Teen cards.
DVD: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines5 per card per visit. 1 DVD total for Limited Access Juvenile/Teen cards.
Music CD: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.00
Music CD: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines
Video games: Adult3 weeks2.10$2.005 per card per visit. 1 game total for Limited Access Juvenile/Teen cards.
Video games: Juvenile & teen3 weeks2No finesNo fines5 per card per visit. 1 game total for Limited Access Juvenile/Teen cards.
Fishing poles1 week0No finesNo fines3 per household. Must have a child present.
Hotspots3 weeks0$1.00$2.001 per card.
Telescope1 week1$1.00$2.00Available only to adult (18+) CPL cardholders in good standing.
Interlibrary loan (outside of the Illinois Heartland Library System)2 weeks0.25$2.00
NewspapersDo not circulateNANANA
Reference materialsDo not circulateNANANA

The above fines and renewal periods apply to items owned by the Carbondale Public Library. Items borrowed from other libraries may have different fines and renewal periods established by each item’s owning library.

Some items are labeled with a warning not to put them in the book drop. Doing so may result in a $1 fine per item. Returning these items in the outside book drop may damage them.

Revised 6/97, 5/00, 1/01, 6/04, 3/06, 7/06, 4/22


Meeting Room Policies and Regulations

The Carbondale Public Library has a meeting room with seating capacity for 40 in an auditorium style arrangement. The primary purpose of the meeting room is to support library functions and to promote the library’s programs of service to the community. It is also available to nonprofit civic, cultural and educational organizations for events open to the public. The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the public library does not constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies or beliefs.

The Library Director or a designee authorizes use of the meeting room and maintains the schedule. If a question is raised as to the objectives and/or activities of any group or organization requesting use of the meeting room, the Carbondale Public Library Board of Trustees has the final authority in granting or refusing permission for use of the room.

The following regulations apply to the use of the meeting room and any departure from them must be authorized in writing by the Library Director.

  1. Availability
    1. Library programs and library-related programs have priority in the use of the meeting room at all times.
    2. The meeting room is available for use by organizations of a civic, cultural or educational nature, but not for social or religious gatherings, fund-raising, political or commercial purposes.
    3.  Non-partisan organizations which do not endorse individual parties or candidates may be allowed to conduct meetings in the library at which current election issues will be discussed by candidates for public office, provided that all candidates for the same office have been invited.
    4. Groups of individuals under 18 years of age may use the meeting room provided they are supervised by at least one adult for every ten children in attendance. The adult supervisor will be responsible for any damage.
    5. Meetings which may disturb regular library functions shall not be scheduled.
    6. Activities involving more than normal wear and tear on the meeting room will not be permitted, i.e. projects involving materials which might cause damage.
    7. All meetings shall be open to the public.
  2. Scheduling
    1. An individual representing the group or organization desiring to use the meeting room must complete the appropriate application providing all information requested on the form.
    2. A $15 per use fee (effective January 2006) is required at the time of application. The room and kitchen facility (if used) will be left clean and in good order. All participants must vacate the room by five minutes before closing time, and a representative of the group must have the librarian on duty check the facilities for cleanliness, damage and room arrangement before the group leaves. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in an additional fee to repair damage, reimburse the library for custodial services, etc.
    3. Application to use the room may not be made more than 12 months in advance.
    4. Generally, no group or organization may use the meeting room more than once a month. Exceptions may be granted for workshops or educational classes or other reasons with the Director’s approval.
    5. Groups using the library on a regular basis for meetings must reapply annually.
    6. The meeting room shall be scheduled for use during regular library hours only. Any group or individuals representing a group who remain in the room beyond the library’s regular hours of operation will be charged an additional fee.
  3. Use of Kitchen Facilities
    1. The kitchen facility may be used to prepare light refreshments or light luncheons which involve no cooking.
    2. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
    3. Clean-up is the responsibility of the group or organization using the facility.
    4. No dishes, utensils or kitchen equipment, except a coffee maker, will be provided by the library. The library does not supply coffee, filters or condiments.
  4. Responsibility for Equipment and Furnishings
    1. Art work may be hung from the picture rail. No signs, displays or exhibits shall be attached to the walls in any other manner.
    2. Organizations shall accept responsibility for the repair or replacement of damaged or missing equipment and furnishings, or for damage to the building’s interior.
    3. No material, equipment or furniture belonging to groups or organizations may be stored on the library’s premises.
    4. The library will not be responsible for any items left on the premises.
    5. The library is not responsible for arranging chairs, tables, or equipment for meetings. Groups using the meeting room are responsible for returning the furnishings to their previous arrangement.
    6. The library will allow use of its equipment (VCR, monitor, slide projector, screen, etc.) with prior arrangement.
  5. General Regulations
    1. Neither the name or address of the Carbondale Public Library may be used as the official address or headquarters of a group or organization, except the Friends of the Carbondale Public Library.
    2. Admission fees or collections are prohibited at meetings held in library facilities. The only exceptions are in the case of paid registrations which are necessary to cover expenses for workshops or institutes, or a fee to cover the actual cost of a library sponsored program.
    3. The Library Director or designee is authorized to terminate the meeting of any group or organization that becomes disorderly or objectionable and to deny subsequent use of the room to groups that violate policies and regulations.
    4. Smoking is not allowed in any part of the library at any time.
    5. Any group using the meeting room must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and are responsible for providing qualified interpreters or auxiliary aids upon request.
  6. Amendments
    1. This statement of policy is subject to amendment at any time by the Carbondale Public Library Board of Trustees.

Adopted 10/93, Revised 9/99, 8/05


Non-Resident Fee

Carbondale Public Library charges a nonresident fee in accordance with Illinois State Law. This fee is assessed using the methods listed below. However, no nonresident fee will be lower than $25. Fees will be rounded to the nearest whole dollar. See the Borrower’s Card Policy for specific exemptions for income eligible students and and qualified veterans.

Tax Bill Method
For Homeowners and mobile homes on foundations
EAV (equalized assessed value/generally one-third [1/3] of the actual value of a home) times the tax rate divided by 100 (tax is assessed per $100 of assessed value)
Example: (for a home valued at $75,000) $25,000 (EAV) x .30402 (library tax rate*) = $7,6005/100 = $76 (rounded)

For Renters
Annual rent times the current tax rate divided by 100 (tax is assessed per $100 of assessed value).  In the case of renters, the value is the annual rent.
Example:  $9011 ($750 per month) x 0.30402 (library tax rate*) = 2739.5242/100 = $27 (rounded)

For Mobiles homes on piers instead of foundations
Mobile homes on piers are assessed according to year of manufacture and square footage. The rate declines every three years until it reaches the lowest fixed rate for the general population. CPL uses the median rate to calculate the nonresident fee.
Example: 900 square feet x .1125 cents per square foot = $101.25 x .30402 (library tax rate*) = $31 (rounded)

*The library tax rate used in this policy may not be current. It is used only as an example in the formulas. For the most current tax rate, consult with the Library staff.

Adopted 1/02, Revised 3/06


Patron Conduct

The Carbondale Public Library is dedicated to providing access to knowledge and information through reading, writing, quiet contemplation, program participation and respectful collaboration, providing patrons the right to use materials and services without being disturbed or impeded, and providing patrons and employees a secure and comfortable environment. The Public Library Act provides the Library Board of Trustees with the general power to carry out the spirit and intent of the Act in establishing and maintaining the library and providing library services and the specific power to “exclude from the use of the library any person who willfully violates an ordinance or regulation prescribed.”

To ensure that all patrons may have comfortable use of the Carbondale Public Library, appropriate behavior is expected. Violation of any of the following rules will result in a warning and/or expulsion from the property. Whenever necessary, police will be contacted. The director and supervisory staff have authority to carry out all provisions of this policy.

The Library Board of Trustees of the Carbondale Public Library establishes its patron conduct policy as follows:

  1. A patron who engages in any activity that disrupts the use of library facilities, collections, or services by patrons or disrupts the ability of the staff to perform duties shall cease such activity immediately upon request by library personnel.
  2. Due to space limitations and the general mission of the library, purely social gatherings are not permitted. Patrons are expected to be engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library while they are in the building.
  3. Respectful and limited use of cell phones is permitted in the building. Patrons who are asked to speak more quietly or to end a phone call shall comply immediately with that request.
  4. Solicitation is not permitted. Solicitation includes, but is not limited to, verbal solicitation or printed literature that is not approved for posting or distribution in the library.
  5. The library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended inside or outside the building. Please do not deposit personal belongings in the library and then leave the building. The library reserves the right to remove items left on furnishings if the owners leave the building. Personal items left anywhere on the premises inside or outside may be removed or discarded.
  6. Library furniture, such as tables and chairs, may not be moved without permission of the staff. Furnishings are to be used for their intended purposes only (i.e., do not stand on chairs, do not put feet on tables, do not sit on tables).
  7. Patrons may not occupy the area under the steps.
  8. Only light, un-messy snacks, and drinks with secure lids, are permitted in the library unless otherwise provided by the library for a library program.
  9. Bicycles must be parked in the bicycle racks.
  10. Smoking of any kind, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere in the building. Smoking may take place outside at least fifteen feet from the library entrance, and cigarette butts are not to be littered on library property.
  11. The library is a public building used by patrons of all ages and sensibilities. There should be no expectation of the same level of viewing privacy as would be enjoyed in the home. Use of the library’s computers or devices, or personal computers, materials or devices on library property, to access or process obscene or inappropriate material, images or sound, is prohibited.
  12. Children under the age of ten must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent/guardian or other responsible caregiver.
  13. Adults may enter the children’s section in order to access the collection, but may not lounge in the children’s area when unaccompanied by a child in their care.
  14. Patrons may not verbally abuse, badger, stalk or harass library staff or patrons. This includes but is not limited to raising one’s voice, using foul language or gestures, personal insults, incessant arguing, staring, following, lingering in a person’s space, and asking the same question repeatedly once an answer has been provided.
  15. No prolonged sleeping is allowed in the library or on library property.
  16. Alcohol use is not permitted in the library or on library property.
  17. No weapons are allowed in the library or on library property.

Consequences of policy violation:

  1. Patrons who fail to abide by library policy and/or cause severe or repeated disturbance in the library may be asked to leave and not return to the library for an extended period of time.
  2. If, following a request from library personnel, a patron fails or refuses to comply, or responds to the request in an abusive fashion, he or she may be required to leave the library premises.
  3. In situations involving minors, incidents may be reported to the parent or guardian.
  4. Library personnel will record instances in which patrons behave in a disruptive manner, and/or are required to leave the library, in a file maintained by the library for that purpose. In the instance of repeated or severe disruptive or abusive behavior, the Librarian or Manager on duty may ban the patron from the library’s property for a period of time to be determined by the Librarian or Manager, or until the Library Board can review the situation. The Library Board will review instances in which a patron is banned long term to determine the duration of the ban. The Library Board may consider any and all available information about the patron’s behavior, and may elect to ban a patron from the library until and unless there is further action from the board. In the instance of a long term ban, the library will notify the police, and attempt to notify the patron (or the patron’s guardian, if the patron is a minor) in writing. Entering library property, whether inside or outside, while banned, can result in an arrest for criminal trespass.
  5. Patrons wishing to appeal a ban may do so upon written request to the Library’s Board of Trustees.

The library may change, modify, alter or rescind any part of this policy or adopt a new policy, at any time without notice.

Related policies with additional information may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following policies: Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco policy; Electronic Information Network policy; Juveniles in the Library policy.

Adopted 2/95, Revised 6/97, 7/99, 9/00, 2/02, 8/03, 7/15


Reference Service

The Carbondale Public Library serves a diverse public with unique individual needs and levels of ability to conduct research independently. At times of peak activity within the library, it is mandatory that rules for providing reference assistance be established. The most recent standards document, Serving Our Public: Standards for Illinois Public Libraries provides the model for this reference policy.

The Board of Trustees and Library Director of Carbondale Public Library encourage staff of all levels to pursue continuing education opportunities which will enable them to better meet the needs of the library’s clients. All staff members receive in-house training regarding appropriate responses to client questions, including reference questions. This training includes reference interviewing techniques, reader’s advisory service, and bibliographic instruction. All staff members are taught to treat each client and question asked with respect. Names of users and the transactions which occur between users and the staff are confidential and not discussed outside a professional context.

Reference service and materials are available to all persons regardless of their age, religion, race, sex, social or economic status. Reference service and materials are available during all hours the library is open and is provided in response to all forms of inquiry including but not limited to clients in the library, the telephone, telefacsimile, email, and TTY. The reference questions of clients visiting the library are given the highest priority. All requests for information receive an answer or status report within one working day. Questions which cannot be answered with on-site resources are referred to another agency. Such referrals are verified and/or mediated by library staff.

In the instance of legal, medical, investment, or tax reference questions, the staff may only guide the client to the material available on the topic of interest. The staff may not evaluate or interpret the information provided nor may the staff define the meaning of terms, offer investment advice, select income tax forms or serve as a surrogate for a professional in any of the fields listed above. If all materials within the library are beyond the understanding of the client, the client will be advised to consult with their professional from the above listed fields for additional information or advice. For further details see the separate policy on Legal, Medical, Investment, and Tax Related Reference Questions.

Reference materials regardless of format may not be removed from the library.

Adopted 3/98, Revised 5/00


Security Cameras

  1. PURPOSE OF SECURITY CAMERAS The Library has security cameras to enhance the safety and security of Library users, staff, and property. Security cameras are used to discourage illegal behavior and policy violations, to enhance the opportunity to apprehend offenders, and to provide recorded data relevant to the control of library security and operations. The security camera installation consists of dedicated cameras providing real-time surveillance through a central monitoring facility. There is no audio recording associated with the cameras.
  2. SIGNAGE The library posts signs at both public entrances alerting patrons to the use of security cameras for monitoring and recording on library property, both inside and outside.
  3. STAFF ACCESS TO DIGITAL IMAGES Live surveillance and recorded data are accessible in staff areas only. Only the following administrative staff members are permitted to release recorded archival data to law enforcement in compliance with this policy: Library Director, Managers, Librarians, and Program Coordinators. Such authorized administrative staff may direct IT staff to access and isolate live or recorded data related to a specific incident or may ask other staff to view live or recorded data in order to ascertain security concerns. Authorized staff shall notify the Library Director whenever archival video data is accessed.
  4. COLLECTION OF DIGITAL IMAGES Video footage is collected for library purposes. The library is under no legal obligation to collect video footage. Authorized staff may turn off surveillance for maintenance, or to ensure patron privacy.
  5. ACCEPTABLE USE AND PATRON PRIVACY
    1. Activity on library property Authorized staff may use live surveillance, a still shot, or selected portions of recorded data to assess the security risk of a specific individual, to investigate a crime on library property, to request law enforcement assistance, to validate serious or repeated policy violations, to alert staff to banned or repeatedly disruptive individuals, or to address internal security / operational concerns. In the discharge of such duties, authorized staff members are permitted to connect the recorded digital image with identification data available on the library’s patron databases.
    2. Requests from law enforcement and Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Authorized staff may use live surveillance or recorded data to cooperate with DCFS, or with law enforcement investigations of criminal activity, missing persons, or runaways. Any such video data provided to law enforcement or DCFS will be with the knowledge and authorization of the Library Director when practicable. If the Library Director cannot be reached in a timely manner, a Manager, Librarian, or Program Coordinator may provide authorization.
    3. Privacy In all other respects, recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users by Illinois State law, The Carbondale Public Library policies, and the American Library Association policies on confidentiality and privacy, with footage released only in accordance with, and required by law.

Adopted 5/17


Selecting Materials

Introduction
The purpose in building a collection is to make available to all people who enter the library as comprehensive a collection of recorded knowledge as possible to meet the community’s needs within the limits of available funds and shelf space. The library recognizes the needs of the community are of primary importance in selection and because the community is a conglomerate of individuals, each individual’s needs will be considered in conjunction with the majority of the present and potential patronage. An effort is made to include information representing all sides of controversial issues as such material becomes available. The criteria for the selection of controversial materials are the same as for any other materials. Controversial materials have no distinguishing labels and are shelved in the general collection. Responsibility for the reading choices of children rests with their parents or legal guardians.  Selection for the adult collection will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may inadvertently fall into the hands of children. An open shelf policy will be followed at all times.

In accordance with the recommendations of the library’s Board of Trustees, the Carbondale Public Library will allocate not less than 20% of its total budget on resources and materials for patrons every year.  Serving Our Public:  Standards for Illinois Public Libraries recommends a minimum of 12% for this purpose.

I.        Statement of Purpose

This selection policy defines the standards and outlines the responsibility for materials selection for the Carbondale Public Library.  Within these guidelines, the librarians use their professional judgment to determine the materials which best meet the objectives of the Library and the needs of its patrons.

II.      Objectives in Materials Selections

The general objectives in materials selection are to carry out the Library’s goals of providing the community with a variety of significant media to meet their informational, educational, and recreational needs.

III.     Responsibility for Selection

Overall responsibility for collection development rests with the Library Director who operates within this framework of policies determined by the Library Board of Trustees.  Typically, the Library Director delegates or shares this responsibility with designated members of the staff.  No employee may be disciplined or dismissed for the selection of library materials when the selection is made in good faith and in accordance with the written policy required to be established pursuant to Illinois Library Law.  Suggestions from patrons are welcome and will be considered using the same criteria as all other selections.

All requests are given serious consideration  An attempt will be made to borrow through interlibrary loan any requested item which is out of print, or that the Library determines does not meet the criteria for purchase.

IV.     Criteria for Selection

The general criteria considered in selecting materials include: 1) significance and permanent value to the existing collection, 2) qualifications of author or producer, 3) suitability of subject and style for intended audience, 4) quality of format, 5) currency or timeliness if applicable, 6) demand by patrons, 7) price, 8) attention given to the item by reviewers and general news media, 9) availability of materials in other libraries, and 10) technical quality of non-book materials.  In selection, consideration will be given to the work as a whole. No work shall be excluded solely because of specific passages or pieces taken out of context.

V.      Selection Tools

Because it is impossible for librarians to examine all items being considered for purchase, they depend on reliable selection aids. The librarians regularly depend on the reviews found in standard sources. Other selection aids such as “Notable Book” lists chosen by the American Library Association, National Book Awards lists, Pulitzer Prize lists and published lists of bestsellers may also be used as required.

VI.     Scope of Collection

Materials will be selected in a variety of formats including, but not limited to, print, video, sound recording, and electronic media.  Each type of material must be considered in terms of its own excellence and the audience for whom it is intended.  No single standard can be applied in all cases.  Some materials may be judged primarily in terms of artistic merit, scholarship, or value to humanity; others are selected to satisfy the informational, recreational, or educational interests of the community.

Through careful selection, the Library strives to maintain a diverse collection of quality materials, including items of contemporary significance and permanent value, as well as a selection of materials concerning social issues and ephemeral items. Circulating materials are supplemented by a variety of reference materials for in-house use.  Because the Library serves a public embracing a wide range of ages, educational and cultural back-grounds, and reading skills, it will always seek to select materials of varying complexity.

VII.    Statement of Specific Policies in Selected Areas

Materials for Children and Youth

In general the Carbondale Public Library subscribes to a policy of free access to library materials for minors. Children and young people have access to all parts of the library and its collections; however, collections in Children’s Services serve children and young people from preschool through eighth grades as well as their parents and caregivers.

Materials appropriate for the interests and needs of the ages served are chosen for this collection.

Collections in Children’s Services include traditional picture books, beginning readers, juvenile non-fiction, juvenile fiction, middle grade fiction, periodicals, non-book materials, reference materials, and a collection on parenting. This last collection contains some duplication of materials on parenting found in the adult collection. A sampling of children’s books in a variety of foreign languages is also selected for the Children’s Services department.  The junior high fiction collection is selected especially for the needs and interests of 6th, 7th and 8th graders. It contains some duplication of classic titles found in both the adult and juvenile fiction collections, but is also strongly stocked with those titles that deal with the contemporary scene as it concerns 12 to 14 year-olds. Young people in the 7th and 8th grades are expected to use non-fiction materials throughout the Library in preparing school assignments or for any other reason.

Materials for Adults and Young Adults

The materials in Adult Services are selected primarily to serve the needs of adults and high school students; consideration is also given to the nonfiction needs of the middle school/junior high students. The collection includes reference and circulating nonfiction books, fiction books, and non-book materials.

A.  Fiction

The fiction collection provides books for a wide range of interests of the general reading public, including classics, titles representing periods and styles of writing, current titles of a lasting nature, and those titles meeting popular demand for recreational reading.

B.  Business Section

The Library purchases standard business directories and reference materials as well as popular circulating items which are of interest to the general public.

C.   Foreign Language Materials

Materials in foreign languages are considered as community needs change.  Individual needs for foreign languages not purchased by the library may be served by requests through interlibrary loan.             

D.  Literacy

Materials in the Literacy collection are selected to serve the needs of new adult readers and persons for whom English is a second language. There is heavy emphasis on materials teaching the basics of the English language and grammar, materials on coping with everyday life situations, and other high-interest, low reading-level fiction and nonfiction.

E.  Textbooks

Although the Library tries to serve students’ needs as much as possible, textbooks are not purchased unless they are the best source of information on a given subject.  The library policy is to purchase materials which will also supplement and complement the curriculum offerings of the public and private schools within the city.

IX.     Collection Maintenance

A.  Duplicate Copies
The number of copies purchased varies with the expected use of any item. As extensive use for individual titles is demonstrated, duplication to meet the demand is implemented.

B.  Weeding
In order to maintain the best possible collection of materials, a continual weeding process takes place. Items are discarded if they are outdated, if they no longer circulate, if there are more duplicate copies than needed, or if they are in poor physical condition. Items discarded are plainly marked and may be donated to the Friends of the Library for sale.

X. Anti-Censorship

The Carbondale Public Library is committed to providing free and open access to information, ideas, and expressions of all perspectives. Intellectual freedom is essential to the democratic principles of our society and we recognize the inherent authority of the library to preserve and make available all expressions of knowledge and creativity. We also understand that censorship, the suppression of ideas or information, undermines these principles and ultimately harms our community.

The library endeavors to build a collection representing varying points of view. The choice of library materials by users is an individual matter. Responsibility for the reading materials of children and adolescents rests with their parents or legal guardians. While a person may reject materials for himself or herself and for his or her children, he or she cannot exercise censorship to restrict access to the materials by others. The library supports intellectual freedom and has adopted the following statements as policy: ALA Freedom to Read Statement, ALA Library Bill of Rights, and the “Freedom to View” statement of the American Film and Video Association.

To that end:

  • The library will not remove or restrict access to any materials in our collection based on personal, political, or religious beliefs, or on the grounds that the content is controversial or offensive to some.
  • The library does not endorse or promote the ideas, opinions, or viewpoints expressed in any materials in our collection. Rather, we believe that our patrons have the right to access a diversity of perspectives and to form their own opinions based on their own critical analysis.
  • The library will resist any attempt to censor or restrict access to our collection, whether it comes from individuals or organizations within or outside of the library.
  • We uphold the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights, which states that “Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.”
  • The library board and staff reserve the right to place materials in the age section we deem appropriate based on the content of the materials. This decision will be made based on publisher recommendations, professional judgment, and consideration of age appropriateness of the content, as well as the potential interest and needs of our patrons.
  • The library board and staff reserve the right to feature, promote, and display materials as we deem appropriate.

XII. Requests for Reconsideration of Materials

If patrons object to specific materials in our collection, we encourage them to express their concerns and engage in respectful dialogue with the Library Director. Formal requests for reconsideration may be made only by registered patrons, and shall be made in writing and given to the Library Director for a written response. Appeals are directed to the Board for the final decision. The library believes that intellectual freedom is a fundamental right of all individuals and that access to information is essential to the functioning of a democratic society. We affirm our commitment to upholding these values and to serving the needs of our diverse community.

XIII.  Revision of Selection Policy

Because the needs of the community change, this materials selection policy may be reviewed and/or revised as needed.

Adopted 1/12/2000
Revised 4/12/2023

The Freedom to Read Statement

The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label “controversial” views, to distribute lists of “objectionable” books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.

Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be “protected” against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.

These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.

Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with controversy and difference.

Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.

We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.

The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights.

We therefore affirm these propositions:

  1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority.

    Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it.

  2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated.

    Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper.

  3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.

    No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say.

  4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression.

    To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the freedom of others.

  5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.

    The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need others to do their thinking for them.

  6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people’s freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.

    It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental prerogative or self-censorship.

  7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people’s freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.

    The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that reader’s purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans the fullest of their support.

We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.


This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers.

Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.

A Joint Statement by:

American Library Association
Association of American Publishers

Subsequently endorsed by:

American Booksellers for Free Expression
The Association of American University Presses
The Children’s Book Council
Freedom to Read Foundation
National Association of College Stores
National Coalition Against Censorship
National Council of Teachers of English
The Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression

Adopted 4/23

Library Bill of Rights

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.

Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.

Adopted by the Carbondale Public Library May 24, 2023

Freedom to View Statement

The FREEDOM TO VIEW, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is protected by the  First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression. Therefore these principles are affirmed:

  1. To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
  2. To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
  3. To provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of the content.
  4. To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging film, video, or other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
  5. To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public’s freedom to view.

This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee of the American Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational Film Library Association) and was adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors in February 1979. This statement was updated and approved by the AFVA Board of Directors in 1989.

Endorsed January 10, 1990, by the ALA Council

Adopted by the Carbondale Public Library April 12, 2023


Policy Prohibiting Sexual Harassment

I. PROHIBITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT

It is unlawful to harass a person because of that person’s sex or gender. The courts have determined that sexual harassment is a form of discrimination under Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended in 1991. All persons have a right to work in an environment free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is unacceptable misconduct which affects individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. It is a policy of the Carbondale Public Library to prohibit harassment of any person by any municipal official, municipal agent, municipal employee or municipal agency or office on the basis of sex or gender. All municipal officials, municipal agents, municipal employees and municipal agencies or offices are prohibited from sexually harassing any person, regardless of any employment relationship or lack thereof.

II. DEFINITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT

This policy adopts the definition of sexual harassment as stated in the Illinois Human Rights Act, which currently defines sexual harassment as:

Any unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature when:

(1) Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment,
(2) Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or
(3) Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
Conduct which may constitute sexual harassment includes:
Verbal: sexual innuendos, suggestive comments, insults, humor, and jokes about sex, anatomy or gender-specific traits, sexual propositions, threats, repeated requests for dates, or statements about other employees, even outside of their presence, of a sexual nature.
• Non-verbal: suggestive or insulting sounds (whistling), leering, obscene gestures, sexually suggestive bodily gestures, “catcalls”, “smacking” or “kissing” noises.
• Visual: posters, signs, pin-ups or slogans of a sexual nature, viewing pornographic material or websites.
• Physical: touching, unwelcome hugging or kissing, pinching, brushing the body, any coerced sexual act or actual assault.
• Textual/Electronic: “sexting” (electronically sending messages with sexual content, including pictures and video), the use of sexually explicit language, harassment, cyber stalking and threats via all forms of electronic communication (e-mail, text/picture/video messages, intranet/on-line postings, blogs, instant messages and social network websites like Facebook and Twitter).
The most severe and overt forms of sexual harassment are easier to determine. On the other end of the spectrum, some sexual harassment is more subtle and depends, to some extent, on individual perception and interpretation. The courts will assess sexual harassment by a standard of what would offend a “reasonable person.”
III. PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING AN ALLEGATION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT
An employee who either observes sexual harassment or believes herself/himself to be the object of sexual harassment should deal with the incident(s) as directly and firmly as possible by clearly communicating her/his position to the offending employee, and her/his immediate supervisor. It is not necessary for sexual harassment to be directed at the person making the report.
Any employee may report conduct which is believed to be sexual harassment, including the following:
• Electronic/Direct Communication. If there is sexual harassing behavior in the workplace, the harassed employee should directly and clearly express her/his objection that the conduct is unwelcome and request that the offending behavior stop. The initial message may be verbal. If subsequent messages are needed, they should be put in writing in a note or a memo.

• Contact with Supervisory Personnel. At the same time direct communication is undertaken, or in the event the employee feels threatened or intimidated by the situation, the problem must be promptly reported to the immediate supervisor of the person making the report, a department head, a director of human resources, an ethics officer, the city manager or administrator, or the chief executive officer of the municipality.

The employee experiencing what she or he believes to be sexual harassment must not assume that the employer is aware of the conduct. If there are no witnesses and the victim fails to notify a supervisor or other responsible officer, the municipality will not be presumed to have knowledge of the harassment.

• Resolution Outside Municipality. The purpose of this policy is to establish prompt, thorough and effective procedures for responding to every report and incident so that problems can be identified and remedied by the municipality. However, all municipal employees have the right to contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for information regarding filing a formal complaint with those entities. An IDHR complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged incident(s) unless it is a continuing offense. A complaint with the EEOC must be filed within 300 days.
Documentation of any incident may be submitted with any report (what was said or done, the date, the time and the place), including, but not limited to, written records such as letters, notes, memos and telephone messages.
All allegations, including anonymous reports, will be accepted and investigated regardless of how the matter comes to the attention of the municipality. However, because of the serious implications of sexual harassment charges and the difficulties associated with their investigation and the questions of credibility involved, the claimant’s willing cooperation is a vital component of an effective inquiry and an appropriate outcome.

IV. PROHIBITION OF RETALIATION FOR REPORTING SEXUAL HARASSMENT ALLEGATIONS
No municipal official, municipal agency, municipal employee or municipal agency or office shall take any retaliatory action against any municipal employee due to a municipal employee’s:
1. Disclosure or threatened disclosure of any violation of this policy,
2. The provision of information related to or testimony before any public body conducting an investigation, hearing or inquiry into any violation of this policy, or
3. Assistance or participation in a proceeding to enforce the provisions of this policy.
For the purposes of this policy, retaliatory action means the reprimand, discharge, suspension, demotion, denial of promotion or transfer, or change in the terms or conditions of employment of any municipal employee that is taken in retaliation for a municipal employee’s involvement in protected activity pursuant to this policy.
No individual making a report will be retaliated against even if a report made in good faith is not substantiated. In addition, any witness will be protected from retaliation.
Similar to the prohibition against retaliation contained herein, the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act (5 ILCS 430/15-10) provides whistleblower protection from retaliatory action such as reprimand, discharge, suspension, demotion, or denial of promotion or transfer that occurs in retaliation for an employee who does any of the following:
1. Discloses or threatens to disclose to a supervisor or to a public body an activity, policy, or practice of any officer, member, State agency, or other State employee that the State employee reasonably believes is in violation of a law, rule, or regulation,
2. Provides information to or testifies before any public body conducting an investigation, hearing, or inquiry into any violation of a law, rule, or regulation by any officer, member, State agency or other State employee, or
3. Assists or participates in a proceeding to enforce the provisions of the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act.
Pursuant to the Whistleblower Act (740 ILCS 174/15(a)), an employer may not retaliate against an employee who discloses information in a court, an administrative hearing, or before a legislative commission or committee, or in any other proceeding, where the employee has reasonable cause to believe that the information discloses a violation of a State or federal law, rule, or regulation. In addition, an employer may not retaliate against an employee for disclosing information to a government or law enforcement agency, where the employee has reasonable cause to believe that the information discloses a violation of a State or federal law, rule, or regulation. (740 ILCS 174/15(b)).
According to the Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/6-101), it is a civil rights violation for a person, or for two or more people to conspire, to retaliate against a person because he/she has opposed that which he/she reasonably and in good faith believes to be sexual harassment in employment, because he/she has made a charge, filed a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
An employee who is suddenly transferred to a lower paying job or passed over for a promotion after filing a complaint with IDHR or EEOC, may file a retaliation charge – due within 180 days (IDHR) or 300 days (EEOC) of the alleged retaliation.

V. CONSEQUENCES OF A VIOLATION OF THE PROHIBITION ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT
In addition to any and all other discipline that may be applicable pursuant to municipal policies, employment agreements, procedures, employee handbooks and/or collective bargaining agreement, any person who violates this policy or the Prohibition on Sexual Harassment contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-65, may be subject to a fine of up to $5,000 per offense, applicable discipline or discharge by the municipality and any applicable fines and penalties established pursuant to local ordinance, State law or Federal law. Each violation may constitute a separate offense. Any discipline imposed by the municipality shall be separate and distinct from any penalty imposed by an ethics commission and any fines or penalties imposed by a court of law or a State or Federal agency.

VI. CONSEQUENCES FOR KNOWINGLY MAKING A FALSE REPORT
A false report is a report of sexual harassment made by an accuser using the sexual harassment report to accomplish some end other than stopping sexual harassment or retaliation for reporting sexual harassment. A false report is not a report made in good faith which cannot be proven. Given the seriousness of the consequences for the accused, a false or frivolous report is a severe offense that can itself result in disciplinary action. Any person who intentionally makes a false report alleging a violation of any provision of this policy shall be subject to discipline or discharge pursuant to applicable municipal policies, employment agreements, procedures, employee handbooks and/or collective bargaining agreements.
In addition, any person who intentionally makes a false report alleging a violation of any provision of the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act to an ethics commission, an inspector general, the State Police, a State’s Attorney, the Attorney General, or any other law enforcement official is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. An ethics commission may levy an administrative fine of up to $5,000 against any person who intentionally makes a false, frivolous or bad faith allegation.


Theft from the Library

CITY OF CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS

ORDINANCE NO. 89-63

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14 (OFFENSES AND PENALTIES) OF THE REVISED CODE

ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL

OF THE CITY OF CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS

THIS 5TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 1989

Published in pamphlet form by authority of the City Council of the City of Carbondale, Jackson County, Illinois, this 6th day of September, 1989.

CERTIFICATE OF PUBLICATION

        I, Janet M. Vaught, the duly qualified and acting City Clerk of the City of Carbondale, Illinois, and the official custodian of the records of said City, do hereby certify that this ordinance was published in pamphlet form by authority of the City Council on the 6th day of September, 1989.

Janet M. Vaught, City Clerk

City of Carbondale, Illinois

Article VI. Theft of Library Materials

Sec. 14-6-1. Definitions.

As used in this section the following definitions shall apply:

  1. “Library Facility” includes any public library or museum, or any library or museum of an educational, historical or eleemosynary institution, organization or society.
  2. “Library Material” includes any book, plate, picture, photograph, engraving, painting, sculpture, statue, artifact, drawing, maps, newspapers, pamphlet, broadside, magazine,. manuscript, document, letter, microfilm, sound recording, audiovisual material, magnetic or other tape, electronic data processing record or other documentary, written or printed material regardless of physical form or characteristics, or any part thereof, belonging to, or on loan to or otherwise in the custody of a library facility.
  3. “Premises of a Library Facility” means the interior of a building, structure or other enclosure in which a library facility is located and in which the library facility keeps library material.
  4. “Library Card” means a card or plate issued by a library facility for purposes of identifying the person to whom the library card was issued as authorized to borrow library material, subject to all limitations and conditions imposed on such borrowing by the library facility issuing such card.

Sec. 14-6-2 Library Theft.

A person commits the offense of library theft when he or she:

  1. knowingly and intentionally removes any library material from the premises of a library facility without authority to do so; or
  2. knowingly and intentionally conceals any library material upon his or her person or among his or her belongings, while still in the premises of a library facility and in such a manner that the library material is not visible through ordinary observation although there may be some notice of its presence, and removes such library material beyond the last point in the premises of that library facility at which library material may be borrowed in accordance with procedures established by that library facility for the borrowing of library material; or
  3. with the intent to deceive, borrows or attempts to borrow any library material from a library facility by 1) use a library card issued to another without the other’s consent, or 2) use of a library card knowing that it is revoked, cancelled or expired, or 3) use of a library card knowing that it is falsely made, counterfeit or materially altered; or
  4. borrows from a library facility library material which has an aggregate value of $50.00 or more pursuant to an agreement with or procedure established by the library facility for the return of such library material, and usually without good cause fails to return the library material so borrowed in accordance with such agreement or procedure, and further willfully without good cause fails to return such library material within 30 days after receiving written notice by certified mail from the library facility demanding the return of such library material.

Section 14-6-3. Mutilation or Vandalism of Library Materials

A person commits mutilation or vandalism of library materials when he knowingly tears, marks on, maliciously renders imperfect or otherwise damages or destroys library materials.

Section 14-6-4. Posting of Warning

Each library facility shall post a copy of this section at a location adjacent to each entrance to the premises of the library facility and at each point in the premises of the library facility at which the borrowing of library materials occurs.

Section 14-6-5. Penalties

Library theft, as defined herein above, is a violation of the Carbondale Revised Code for which the offender may be fined in accordance with Section 14-1-6 of this Chapter and be ordered to reimburse the library for actual replacement costs of the materials not returned.

SECTION 2: That Chapter 16 of the Carbondale Revised Code be revised by repealing Section 1610-4 and Section 16-10-5.

SECTION 3. That all ordinances and parts thereof in conflict herewith are expressly repealed and are of no other force and effect.

SECTION 4. The repeal of any ordinance by this Ordinance shall not affect any rights accrued or liability incurred under said repealed ordinance to the effective date hereof. The provisions of this Ordinance, insofar as they are the same or substantially the same as those of any prior ordinance, shall be construed as a continuation of said prior ordinance.

SECTION 5. That it is the intention of the City Council of the City of Carbondale that this Ordinance and every provision thereof shall be considered separable, and the invalidity of any section, clause, or provision of this Ordinance shall not affect the validity of any other portion of this Ordinance.

SECTION 6. That the City Council of the City of Carbondale finds that the subject matter of this Ordinance pertains to the government and affairs of the City of Carbondale and is passed pursuant to the Home Rule Powers of the City of Carbondale pursuant to the provisions of Article VII, Section 6(a) of the Illinois Constitution.

SECTION 7. That this Ordinance shall be known as Ordinance No. 89-63 of the City of Carbondale, Illinois, and shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, approval, recording, and publication in pamphlet form in accordance with law.

APPROVED: (Neil Dillard)

Mayor

FOR: Mills, Yow, Morris, Tuxhorn and Dillard

AGAINST: None

PASSED: 9-5-89

APPROVED: 9-5-89

RECORDED: 9-6-89

PUBLISHED: 9-6-89

ATTEST: (Janet M. Vaught)

APPROVED AS TO LEGALITY AND FORM:

(P. Maureen)

City Attorney

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