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Deerfield Public Library Policies
 
Bulletin Board Policy
 
Circulation Policy
 
Collection Development Policy
 
Gift and Donation Policy
 
 
Meeting Room Policy
 
Participation Waiver
 
Petitioning, Leafleting and Solicitation Policy
 
Public Work Station Registration and Use Policy
 
Social Media Policy
 

Unattended Children Policy

 
 
Printable PDF:
Request for Reconsideration of Material Form
Meeting Room Application

Collection Development
 
Purpose
 
As a source of open access to the world of information and ideas, the Deerfield Public Library collects, organizes, and lends print and non-print materials as well as electronic resources that encourage lifelong learning and personal growth.
 
The materials collection is a major asset of the Deerfield Public Library. Within budget, the Library provides a general collection of reliable materials that includes both basic works of permanent value and materials of current interest. The selection of library materials and electronic resources is based on the needs of all residents and reflects the Library’s core role as a popular materials library for all ages.
 
Materials are selected on the basis of the content and quality of the work as a whole. The Library seeks to maintain the democratic principles expressed in the Library Bill of Rights, and the Freedom to Read and Freedom to View statements (See Appendix I).
 
The Library Board delegates responsibility for selection of the Library’s collection to the Library Director. Under the guidance of the Library Director, Library staff members with at least a Masters’ level education in Library Science select new materials and make decisions regarding material retention in accordance with the following policy.
 
Materials Selection
 
The Deerfield Public Library collects materials in a variety of print, audiovisual, and electronic formats which are of permanent value, of contemporary significance, or of special interest to the community.
 
Selection is a critical and interpretive process. Professional or otherwise credentialed reviews are the principal tool used in the selection of library materials and electronic resources. Staff members selecting library materials and electronic resources are also assisted by bibliographic publications, authoritative discussions of the subject, publisher and vendor advertising and demonstrations, and requests of Library patrons.
 
In selecting materials for the Deerfield Public Library, the following criteria will be used as they apply:
 
A. Comprehensiveness and depth of treatment
B. Artistic presentation
C. Relevance to current and anticipated community needs, as well as long-term significance or interest
D. Authority, competence, reputation and purpose of the author and/or publisher
E. Currency and accuracy of the information
F. Local significance of the author or topic
G. The works’ contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on controversial issues
 
The Library seeks to meet the needs of the total community, recognizing that some materials may be considered controversial to some readers. It is the responsibility of individual library users to choose materials which suit his or her tastes and needs. Therefore, the Library’s collection will represent broadly the views and preferences available in print, audio-visual and electronic materials. Decisions relating to a child’s choice of materials are solely the responsibility of the child’s parent or legal guardian. Selection of materials for adults will not be inhibited by the possibility that such materials may be accessible to children.
 
Replacements
 
In cases where there is sufficient community interest, Library staff members designated selectors may purchase replacement copies of lost, worn, or damaged items. A replacement copy will contain the same intellectual content but may not be the same edition or format as the original.
 
Gifts and Donations
 
Gifts to the collection can be made in the form of money or actual materials. Gifts of books and other materials may be accepted by the Library with the understanding that they will be considered for addition to the collection in accordance with the Materials Selection section of this policy. Donations must be outright and unconditional. Gift plates and letters of acknowledgement are appropriate stipulations by a donor, but other requirements may not be honored. All gifts that become part of the general collection are subject to the Materials Retention section of this policy, and may not require special circulation procedures. The Library reserves the right to sell or otherwise dispose of gift materials not added to the collection.
 
Reconsideration of Materials
 
The selection of materials is predicated on the Library user’s right to read/view and his or her freedom from censorship by others. Selections are made based on the merits of the work in relation to the fulfillment of the Library mission. The addition of an item to the collection in no way represents an endorsement by the Library of any theory, idea, or policy contained in it.
 
The Library recognizes that some materials address issues that some individuals may find controversial. No item, however, will be removed from the collection for the sole reason that the philosophy, perspective, ideas, or view contained in the item is opposed by the individual requesting reconsideration.
A Deerfield Public Library cardholder may request reconsideration of any material as follows:
  • Discussion with the manager of the department in which the material is located
  • If not satisfied, discussion with the Library Director, and,
  • If not satisfied, completion of a Request for Reconsideration which will be given to the Library Board of Trustees (see Appendix II for form)
The Board of Trustees will make a ruling on whether the material in question will be retained, relocated, or removed and the patron requesting reconsideration will be notified as to the decision within a reasonable amount of time. The material in question will remain in the collection pending the decision of the Library Board of Trustees.
 
Retention of Collections
 
In order to retain relevant and reliable collections, in the space available, librarians must regularly evaluate and withdraw materials. Materials are withdrawn when they are no longer of value to the community using criteria that include, but are not limited to, lack of interest, poor condition, unnecessary duplication, or inaccurate or outdated information. Withdrawn materials are saved for Friends or Library book sales, donated to other institutions, or discarded. The Library does not make arrangements to sell or give withdrawn materials directly to specific patrons.
 
Appendix I: Library Bill of Rights, and the Freedom to Read and Freedom to View statements
 
Appendix II: Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form
 
Adopted 4-14-2010

GIFTS AND DONATIONS
 
DEERFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY GIFT POLICY

WE WELCOME YOUR GIFTS!

Thank you for thinking of the Deerfield Public Library. We at the Deerfield Public Library welcome monetary gifts to purchase library materials and also accept donated used books and non-book materials in good condition. Our professional staff evaluates gifts using the same criteria they use for purchased materials.

CASH DONATIONS

If you or your company wishes to donate money, the Library suggests unrestricted gifts, and we will use the donation at the discretion of the Director.

In the case of restricted gifts, an agreement of understanding will be filed between the donor and the Library for what purposes the gift can be used. After such an agreement is made, the donor is generally not contacted and will have no further input into the disposition of the gift.

A key element in receiving any gift is that the librarians are responsible for the selection and withdrawal of library materials in their areas of specialization subject to the Administrative Librarian's approval. (See Deerfield Public Library Materials Selection Policy.) The Library reserves the right of final selection in order to meet the needs of space, building design and utilization plus the criteria of the Materials Selection Policy.

The Library cannot commit itself to a perpetual fund. When all currently held funds are expended, that fund will be dissolved. If donors wish a fund to continue in perpetuity, the donors should set up a fund of their own as a separate foundation.

Please make your check payable to the Deerfield Public Library and direct it to the Administrative Librarian. The Administrative Librarian will send a letter of thanks to both you the giver and the person or family for whom you donated the gift.

 
GIFTS IN REMEMBRANCE

If you wish to have us purchase a book in honor or in memory of a person or a special occasion, bring your check to the Library and ask a librarian to prepare a gift form. We will also handle this by telephone if you mail your check. You may request the subject area in which you want us to purchase and a professional librarian will select material suitable for our collection. The Administrative Librarian will send a letter of thanks to both you the giver and the person or family for whom you donated the gift. When we add the book to the collection, we will affix a special bookplate to the inside cover.

 

DONATIONS OF MATERIALS

We will accept donated materials at the Circulation Desk. Once materials are accepted they become the property of the Deerfield Public Library and subject to applicable Library policies. We prefer to receive current materials in very good condition. We cannot use textbooks or encyclopedias. New bestsellers are especially useful. We reserve the right to 1) add the donated materials to the collection, 2) put them on the book sale shelf or sell at a Library-sponsored book sale, or 3) refer them to other book donation programs. Professional librarians add or withdraw materials based on the Materials Selection Policy. The Library does not shelve, house, or catalog donated materials separately; the materials accepted will be shelved in the appropriate general collections.

VALUATION OF NON-MONETARY DONATIONS

Upon request, the Library will be happy to provide written acknowledgement of your gift, but the staff does not appraise or provide valuations of gifts for tax deduction or other purposes. The establishment of the gift's value is the responsibility of the donor.

 

WE APPRECIATE YOUR THINKING OF US!

Library Patron Policy
 
The purpose of the facilities of the Deerfield Public Library is to provide a safe and welcoming environment that encourages the use of Library services and materials to the fullest extent, and for the necessary administrative and support activities required to fulfill the mission of the Library.

Persons on the premises of the Deerfield Public Library accept the responsibility for conducting themselves in a manner that does not interfere with that purpose. To support this purpose, the Library Board of Trustees has adopted the following rules and regulations.

Patrons are expected to conduct themselves in a manner respectful of themselves and others. Behavior that violates this policy may result in intervention by staff members. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to:

1. Interfering with another person's ability to use the facilities or services or with Library employees' performance of their duties. Interference includes behavior that is deliberately intrusive, intimidating, hostile, or offensive, or that demands the attention or monopolizes the time of a staff member. Examples of such behavior include, but are not limited to: following, interrupting, staring at, or spying on any patron or staff member.

2. Damaging, mutilating, or removing from the premises without authorization any part of the library collection, building, furnishings, equipment, or supplies, or using any in a manner that is inconsistent with customary use.

3. Altering any computer system hardware or software configurations. Patrons shall adhere to the Library's Public Work Station Registration and Use Policy, Social Networking Policy and all applicable Federal, State, or local laws, ordinances or regulations.

4. Making excessive noise or playing audio equipment so others can hear it.

5. Using abusive or threatening language.

6. Using matches, lighters, or other means of ignition, illegal substances or alcoholic beverages on Library premises. Smoking is not permitted in the building or within 25 feet of the building entrances.

7. Eating in the building, unless the food is served as part of a Library program or approved meeting and eaten in a designated program or meeting area. Any beverage consumed outside of these programs or meetings must be in a spill-proof container.

8. Placing or taking calls in unapproved areas of the Library or in such a manner as to disturb others.

9. Entering the building without a shirt or other appropriate covering on the body or without shoes or other footwear.

10. Creating a nuisance to other patrons or staff with offensive bodily hygiene.

11. Sleeping on Library furniture or on the floor in a manner that disturbs or interferes with the usage of the library by others.

12. Leaving personal belongings in spaces where they interfere with patrons' and staff members' ability to use library collections, furnishings or equipment or to move safely and freely throughout the premises. Patrons shall not leave personal belongings unattended.

13. Using the building's restrooms inappropriately. Examples include, but are not limited to, use as laundry facilities, bathing facilities, or gathering places.

14. Using bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, or the rolling function of roller shoes anywhere on Library premises.

15. Leaving children in need of supervision unattended on the premises. Specifically:
a. Children 8 years of age and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver at all times.
b. Children between the ages of 9 and 12 must be picked up prior to Library closing time. Any child age 12 or younger left unattended after the Library closes may be placed in police custody for his or her safety.
c. See the Unattended Children Policy for more information.

16. Bringing any animal into the Library, other than a registered service animal, or as approved for participation in Library sanctioned activities.

17. Soliciting or panhandling on Library premises, including but not limited to, approaching library users or staff members to request money, food, or other donations. (See the Petitioning, Leafleting, and Soliciting policy for more information.)

18. Bringing onto the premises any dangerous weapon. Dangerous weapons include, but are not limited to, the weapons set forth and defined in Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 720, section 5/24.1 et. seq.

19. Fighting

20. Engaging in any illegal act or conduct in violation of Federal, State, or local law, ordinance or regulation.

21. Disregarding the reasonable direction of a Library staff member. This includes, but is not limited to, remaining in the library past regular operating hours or when circumstances dictate evacuation, i.e. power failure, fire, threatening weather, or similar situation.

22. Being present in Library offices, lounges, storage areas, or other non-public areas while unaccompanied by a Library staff member or without prior agreement with Library management.

23. Any and all other behavior that is contrary to the intended purposes of the Library.

Library staff may address any of these behaviors in the following ways:
1. Verbal warning to cease the behavior or actions
2. Written warning to cease and/or not to repeat behavior or actions
3. Directing the patron to leave the premises
4. Involving the police

The Library is not necessarily required to go through the entire intervention process. Intervention may begin at any step, including immediate involvement of the police, depending upon the severity of the incident or behavior

Extreme or repeated violation of this policy may result in a suspension of Library privileges. The Illinois compiled statutes, Chapter 75, Paragraph 5/4-7, permit the Board of Library Trustees to “exclude from use of the library any person who willfully violates the rules prescribed by the board.” Any patron whose privileges have been denied may have the decision reviewed by the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees may, at its discretion, designate a hearing officer to make a finding of fact and recommendations in connection with such review.

Approved April 14, 2010

PETITIONING, LEAFLETING AND SOLICITATION POLICY

  Petitioning and Leafleting

 
The Deerfield Public Library recognizes the presentation of petitions and the distribution of literature by individuals and groups is a fundamental right, protected by the First Amendment. The Library also upholds the rights of its patrons and employees to enter and leave the Library safely, without being impeded or unduly hindered.

 

As a result, no petitioning or leafleting is allowed inside or anywhere on Library property at any time.

 

Solicitation

 
No commercial solicitation is permitted in the Library or anywhere on Library property at any time.

 

Only the Friends of the Deerfield Public Library, a 501(c)3 organization formed to support the Deerfield Public Library, is allowed to engage in fundraising activities in the Library or on Library grounds. No other fundraising for civic, political, welfare, youth or other groups, charities or causes, including raising money through the sale of goods or food, is permitted in the Library or anywhere on Library property at any time.

 

REVISED 9-09


PUBLIC WORK STATION REGISTRATION AND USE POLICY
 
The library provides access to the internet and select software programs to the public:
  1. All library patrons may register to use the public work stations.
  2. Patrons may reserve public work stations up to 24-hours in advance of their session.
  3. Patrons under the age of nine must have a parent or guardian present to use the public work stations.
  4. Adult patrons may only use the public work stations in Youth Services while working with a child under the age of fourteen.
  5. Patrons are allotted at least 90 minutes and up to 150 minutes for each session.
  6. Patrons cannot view obscene content, nor can they use the public work stations for illegal or criminal purposes.
  7. All computers will logout after 10 minutes of inactivity and 10 minutes before the library closes.

The library provides printing services to the public:

All pages printed from the public printers or copy machines cost 10 cents per side for black only and 25 cents per side for color.
Bulletin Board Policy

The Library's Public Bulletin Boards, Display Spaces and Information Distribution Spaces provide visitors with information about cultural, educational, civic and charitable activities and services in the area. The Library also provides limited space for promotional materials for local services and for general interest displays.

· The Library cannot post advertisements of products or services offered by commercial organizations or individuals; requests for contribution; petitions; electioneering.

· All displayed materials must be approved by a Library staff member. Placement and duration of display is at the discretion of Library staff.

The Library maintains three public bulletin boards.

· Library Lobby: Organizations should submit posters or announcements at the Circulation desk for posting.

· Youth Services: Organizations serving children and families should submit posters or announcements at the Youth Services desk for posting.

· Teen Services: Organizations serving teens should submit posters or announcements at the Teen Services desk for posting.

The Library maintains two public display spaces.

· Youth Services: Library staff coordinate with area schools and home schooled families to display children's artwork throughout the year.

· Teen Services: Teens residing in Deerfield, Bannockburn, and Riverwoods may submit creative works to be displayed in the Teen Space.

The Library maintains two public information distribution spaces.

· Adult Reference: Service organizations, nonprofits and government agencies serving area residents should submit materials for display and distribution at the Reference desk.

· Youth Services: Organizations providing social services, educational and recreational opportunities to children and families should submit materials for display and distribution to the Youth Services desk.

Participation Waiver
 
This program will include a component of physical movement, exercise, or similar activity. You are welcome to attend this program without participating in any of the physical activities demonstrated.

 

If you choose to participate (rather than observe) in these physical activities you agree to the following:

 

·         You are participating in a Health and Fitness Program or Workshop offered by the Deerfield Public Library during which you will receive information and instruction about health and fitness. You recognize that fitness programs require physical exertion and may cause physical injury and are fully aware of the risks and hazards involved.

 

·         You understand that it is your responsibility to consult with a physician prior to and regarding participation in Health and Fitness Programs or Workshops. You represent and warrant that you are physically fit and have no medical conditions that would prevent you from your full participation in this program.

 

·         You agree to assume full responsibility for any risks, injuries or damages, known or unknown, which you might incur as a result of participating in this program.

 

·         You voluntarily waive any claim you might have against Deerfield Public Library for injury or damages you might sustain as a result of participating in this program. 

 

·         You and your heirs or legal representatives forever release, waive, discharge and covenant not to sue Deerfield Public Library for any injury or death caused by their negligence or other acts.

 

 

Rev. 6-9-10