The Mt. Olive Public Library maintains collections of books, audio books, DVDs, music CDs, CD-ROMs, magazines and newspapers for use by the public.
** Circulation of these items is restricted to patrons with a valid library card.
Loan Periods
| Books | 21 days |
| New Books | 14 days |
| Audio Books | 21 days |
| CD’s – Music | 21 days |
| DVDs | 7 days |
| TV Series DVDs | 14 days |
| Magazines | 7 days |
FINES
any item exceeding the normal or special loan time will be charged:
| Books | .10/day up to $5.00 each |
| Audio Books | .10/day up to $5.00 each |
| CD’s- Music | .10/day up to $5.00 each |
| Videos & DVDs | $1/day up to $5.00 each |
| Magazines | .10/day up to $5.00 each |
Family Fines
If card members with the same household address have cumulative Library fines that equal or exceed the amount of twenty dollars ($20.00), no one else with this household address can effectively use his/her card until fines that have been totally paid.
Fines will not be assessed for days the library is closed.
Computer Policies
In response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, The Mount Olive Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that meet the cultural, informational, recreational, and educational needs of Mount Olive Township’s diverse community. The Library provides open public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats for all users.
The Mount Olive Public Library has computer workstations with a variety of software programs that are available for use within the Library. Library patrons’ use of the facility and equipment will be managed to allow the greatest use by the greatest number of people.
Use of computers will not be limited to cardholders; however, no more than two (2) persons may work together on a computer.
A computer workstation may be used for up to ONE hour while others are waiting. If no one is waiting the usage time may be extended up to an additional hour or more, depending upon the need. A five (5) minute notice will be given when others are waiting to use the workstation. There will be a two (2) hour per day maximum. If two patrons are working together the two (2) hour maximum will still be in effect.
Personal software program(s) may NOT be installed on any computer. Data may NOT be saved to the hard drive; all users are expected to provide his/her own means (e.g. external hard drive, zip drive) for the storage of data. Any data saved to the computer’s hard drive will be deleted.
Printers are available at either the Circulation Desk or the Reference Desk. Please be aware that there is a charge for printing whether it is in black and white or color.
While the Library Staff is not able to offer extensive explanations or to provide in-depth training, they will try to answer specific questions and offer suggestions for effective use of the software programs. Information will be provided about books, manuals and other materials.
The Mount Olive Public Library reserves the right to end the session if a patron’s behavior when using the computers becomes inappropriate for a library setting. Violation of the policies and regulations that govern the use of the Library’s resources may result in suspension or loss of the privilege to use these resources.
The Mount Olive Public Library assumes NO responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of the computers.
To fulfill its mission of providing public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, The Mount Olive Public Library (known as “Library”) provides access to Internet resources.
In accordance with The American Library Association Library Bill of Rights, the Mount Olive Public Library (referred to as “Library”) provides adults unrestricted access to the Internet through its wireless networks, where available.
By choosing to use this free wireless service the Library’s patron(s) agree to abide by the Library’s Internet Policy that prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the Library’s Internet service.
Limitations & Disclaimers
- Wireless access is provided as a public service free of charge on an as-is basis with no guarantee and no warranty. The library’s Wireless network is subject to periodic maintenance and unforeseen downtime.
- Information passing through the Library’s wireless access is not secured and could be monitored, captured, or altered by others. There are risks involved with connecting to a public wireless connection, such as possible viruses, malware, loss of data, possible hacking/snooping by others connected, possible hardware/software failure. It is the patron’s sole responsibility to protect his/her information from all risks associated with using the Internet, including any damage, loss, or theft that may occur as a result of his/her use of the Library’s wireless access.
- All Wi-Fi users should have up-to-date antivirus software installed on their computers.
- The laptop owner is responsible for setting up his/her equipment to access the Mount Olive Public Library Wireless network. Library staff is not permitted to handle a patron’s laptop or peripheral equipment. Library staff is not allowed to configure patrons’ laptops, nor can any Library staff member provide more than general assistance in getting connected to the wireless network.
- The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment; users must keep their equipment with them at all times.
- In using this free Internet access, the patron agrees and hereby releases, indemnifies, and holds harmless, the Township of Mount Olive, the Mount Olive Public Library, its officers and employees, and any affiliate, from any damage that may result from his/her use of this wireless access.
- While using this wireless access, the patron acknowledge that he/she is subject to, and agrees to abide by all laws, and all rules and regulations of the Mount Olive Public Library, the State of New Jersey, and the federal government that is applicable to Internet use.
- At its sole discretion, the Mount Olive Public Library may terminate this public service at anytime without prior notice.
- Printing is not available via the wireless connection at this time. If the user desires to print, the file can be saved to a flash/thumb drive or emailed to him/herself and printed from a public computer in the Computer Lab for a nominal fee per page.
- Patrons plugging equipment into Library electrical outlets do so at their own risk. Laptop owners are advised to use designated electrical outlets fitted with surge protectors to connect up their equipment.
- As a result of limited bandwidth, during peak hours Library staff may limit the type of Internet use.
- Any attempt to circumvent library procedures or any unauthorized attempt to access or manipulate library equipment will result in permanent disconnection from the library’s Wi-Fi network.
- If a patron does not agree to the above terms, please immediately disable your wireless connection or turn off your computer.
The Internet offers access to many valuable local, national, and international sources of information. However, some information found on the Internet may be inaccurate, incomplete, dated, or offensive to some individuals. A good information consumer must evaluate the validity and appropriateness of information found.
Choosing and Evaluating Sources
Library patrons use the Internet at their own risk The Internet is a series of communication linkages leading to a highly diverse array of information content. In choosing sources to link to from its home pages, the Library follows its materials selection guidelines. Beyond this, the Library is not responsible for the content of the Internet, changes in content of the sources to which the Library home pages link, or for the content of sources accessed through secondary links. In an effort to assist its users, the Library has created websites for the general population, for teens, and for children to help guide them to sources that are accurate, complete, and current and that provide them with a wealth of information on the local, national, and global level. In addition, the Library provides training for members of the public to assist them in using the Internet in a safe, effective, and efficient manner. Finally, as set forth in greater detail below, in accordance with The Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”) the Library has implemented “technology protection measures” (i.e., software filtering) on all of its Internet-accessible computers in the children’s and teen areas.
Filtering
As required by The Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”), in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding, the Library has implemented software filtering on all of its Internet-accessible computers in the children’s and teen areas. The software installed on Internet-accessible computers at the Library protects against access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and, in the case of persons under the age of 17 years, materials that are “harmful to minors.” Users should be aware, however, that all currently available filtering software results in a degree of both “underblocking” (i.e., permitting access to certain material that falls within the foregoing categories) and “overblocking” (i.e., denying access to certain constitutionally protected material that does not fall within the foregoing categories). The Library has attempted to select filtering software that best complies with CIPA while providing Library users with the broadest possible access to constitutionally protected speech and information. The Library cannot and does not guarantee that the filtering software will block all obscenity, child pornography, or materials that are harmful to minors. Nor can the Library guarantee that the filtering software will not restrict access to sites that may have legitimate research or other value.
Unblocking Filters
The Library requests that only users of the age of seventeen or older may complete the following steps in order to obtain assistance with unblocking filters:
- Contact the Library Director or as such other staff member as the Library shall designate from time to time, to locate a computer that has unfiltered Internet access;
- Any user who is seventeen (17) years of age or older may request to disable the filtering software only within the adult section of the library in order to obtain unfiltered Internet access for bona fide research or other lawful purpose.
As a result of the limited resources available for provision of public access to the Internet, the Library may set limits, for example, on use of large files of still or moving images or sound, or on downloading files in any medium. The Library also reserves the right to limit the amount of time an individual user can devote to a single session. The public must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including laws governing the transmission and dissemination of information while accessing the Internet, and with all Library policies and procedures.
Users may not:
- Use the network to make unauthorized entry into other computational, informational or communication services or resources.
- Distribute unsolicited advertising.
- Invade the privacy of others.
- Make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software.
- Engage in any activity that is harassing or defamatory.
- Use the Internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other rights of third parties, or in a manner inconsistent with the Library’s tax-exempt status or its proper operation
Violations may result in loss of access. Unlawful activities will be dealt with in an appropriate manner.
Public Users’ Security
Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. However, The Mount Olive Public Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or necessary for the proper operation of the Library.
Compliance
The Library reserves the right to take appropriate action to insure compliance with this policy.
Guidelines on Access to Information
The Mount Olive Public Library abides by the American Library Association’s statements on access to information:
- The Library Bill of Rights
- Freedom to Read Statement
- Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights: Free Access to Libraries for Minors and Access to Electronic Information Services and Resources
In general, the Library is guided by a commitment to access to information policies that provide appropriate protections to its patrons while being consistent with the Library’s longstanding commitment to the principles of free expression as set forth in the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Rules Governing Use of Equipment
Patrons are expected to exercise care in the use of Library equipment and property and use such property only for authorized purposes and shall be personally responsible for the usage of said equipment. Loss, damage, or theft of Library property should be reported at once to the Library Director or his/her designee. The responsibility of said patron will be determined after a full investigation by the Mount Olive Public Library.
What Parents/Legal Guardians Should Know:
“Blogging,” “friending,” “tagging,” and “Googling” are all part of the new language of cyberspace. These are verbs children use every day to talk about what they do online. It is important that parents understand this new language and provide their children with guidance in navigating the Internet. The Internet is a wonderful tool for children to do research, play games, and communicate with family and friends. Unfortunately, just as people can be rude, obnoxious, and exploitative in person, the anonymity of the Internet can sometimes amplify poor behavior and create an environment that is not always appropriate for children.
Get Involved and Set Rules:
The best way to ensure any child’s safety on the Internet is for the child’s parent/legal guardian to be involved and to set rules for the child’s use of the Internet.
- If a child’s parent/legal guardian doesn’t know how to access the Internet, ask at the Mount Olive Public Library Reference Desk for assistance and/or for a schedule of free classes on how to use the Internet, if offered.
- Spend time with the child when he/she is online.
- Ask the child to share his/her blogs or online profiles with his/her parent/legal guardian.
- Monitor the amount of time this child spends online. Excessive use of online services, especially late at night, may signal a potential problem. The same parenting skills that apply to the “real world” also apply online.
- Set rules for any child’s use of the Internet.
Tips for Parents
Here are some other things you can do to help keep a child/children safe online:
Privacy:
- Educate each child about the importance of keeping personal information private.
- Discourage children from giving out personal information such as their last name, age, home address, school name, or telephone number without parental/legal guardian approval.
- Discourage each child from sharing his/her online passwords with anyone other than his/her parent/legal guardian.
- Familiarize yourself with how your child’s information is being used online. Read the privacy policies of the websites your child visits regularly.
Social Networking:
Encourage your child to be honest about his/her age when signing up for social networking sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Second Life, and MySpace) or blogs. These sites and services often have minimum age requirements and may not be appropriate for all children.
Posting Images/Videos:
Discourage your child from posting photos or videos online without parental/legal guardian approval.
Inappropriate Messages:
Discourage your child from responding to messages that are suggestive, obscene, threatening, or otherwise inappropriate.
Meeting Strangers:
Don’t allow your child to arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone he/she meets over the Internet without parental/legal guardian approval. Remember that people online may not be who they say they are.
Other Tips:
Advertising and Inaccurate Information. Teach your child to be a critical consumer of information. Make sure your child knows that not everything he/she reads on the Internet is true.
Child Exploitation. If any adult or child becomes aware of the transmission of child pornography, report it to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.
Communication. Talk with your child about his/her favorite websites, how much time he/she should spend online, what information he/she can share with online friends and what kinds of sites you want him/her to visit.
For more tips, please go to the following websites: ConnectSafely.org or fbi.gov.
Mount Olive Public Library Privacy Statement & Social Media Policy
The Mount Olive Public Library (“Library”) is strongly committed to protecting the privacy of its online users, customers, members, donors, and friends. The Library believes that maintaining privacy on the Web is very important and that the Library takes seriously its responsibility to inform users about the information that is collected and used.
Confidentiality of Patron Account Information
All registration and lending records of the Mount Olive Public Library are considered private and confidential as part of its commitment to NJSA 18A:73-43.1 the Library Records Confidentiality Act. Confidentiality extends to all records with identifying information about patrons, including their requests for information and materials and their lending transactions. This confidentiality of patron account information also includes the use of Library computers and the online resources the patron’s access.
The Library will keep patron records confidential and will not use this information except as necessary for the proper operation of the Library and will not disclose the information except upon consent of the user, pursuant to subpoena or court order, or as otherwise required by law.
Promotional E-mail & Newsletter Communications
By providing a patron’s email address in his/her Library account, the patron agrees to receive notification e-mails about items requested and borrowed.
Privacy of Website Usage
The Library’s website and social software are intended to create a welcoming and inviting online space where Library users can find useful and entertaining information and can interact with Library staff and other Library users.
In common with many websites, the Library’s website automatically logs certain “non-personally identifiable” information about visits to its website. This information is used for system administration, usage statistics, and to inform future development of the site. Any personally identifiable information provided to the Library is maintained by and accessible only to the Library unless the Library explicitly states otherwise. The Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet or website resources by individual members of the public except as required by law.
Individual visits to the Library’s website and to third party electronic services are logged automatically, but do not identify individuals. The Library accesses summaries of usage to evaluate its impact, improve its content, and better manage its online services.
Third-Party Partners
The Library has teamed up with reputable third-party vendors in order to provide certain online content and services to its online users. When users leave the Library’s site to visit one of its partners’ sites, users are encouraged to become familiar with the privacy statements of each site they visit.
Security
The Library has all reasonable physical, electronic, and managerial measures in place to prevent unauthorized access to the information that the Library collects online. The Library does not, however, claim any responsibility for information collected by or from websites linking to or from the Library’s website.
Children
Parents/Legal Guardians should review the Mount Olive Public Library’s “A Safety Net for the Internet: A Parent/Legal Guardian’s Guide.”
Social Media Software and Expectations
The Mount Olive Public Library offers social software tools as a limited public forum to share ideas, opinions, and information about Library-related subjects and issues for educational, cultural, civic, and recreational purposes. Social software is defined as any web application, site, or account offered by the Library that facilitates the sharing of opinions and information about Library related subjects and issues including blogs, listservs, websites, social network pages like Facebook and Twitter.
What Patrons Can Expect Of The Mount Olive Public Library
Library staff has the right to exercise content management on its social media platforms in order to create a safe and welcoming environment, and to support the Library’s aim to create online communities around the Library and its services. The Library moderates comments and reserves the right to remove content that is unlawful. The Library strives to keep its communities like the Library’s locations: safe and welcoming.
Postings by users do not indicate Library endorsement of the ideas, issues, links, or commentary posted. Additionally, endorsement is not implied via “following,” “friending,” or otherwise linking to other online entities.
What The Mount Olive Public Library Expects Of its Patrons
When The Mount Olive Public Library chooses to share comments, lists, or other information in the Library’s social software, the patron agrees to do so with responsibility and with respect for the Library’s communities and purpose.
- Always communicate with respect. Be considerate of others. Obscene, harassing, or abusive language is not tolerated.
- Act legally and ethically. Acting or attempting to act in violation of state, federal, or local law, ordinance, or regulation, or Library policy, is prohibited.
- Protect your privacy. Do not post personally identifying information. Young people under age 18, especially, should not post information such as last name, school, age, and phone number, address.
The Library reserves the right to remove posts that include:
- Copyright violations
- Commercial material/spam
- Duplicated posts from the same individual
- The FCC’s definition of Obscene language
- Specific and imminent threats
- Libelous comments
- Pornographic and/or obscene Images
By choosing to comment on the Library’s social software the patron agrees to these expectations. Violation of the Social Media Expectations may result in warnings or exclusions from the Library’s social software tools.
Reconsideration of Materials
The Mount Olive Public Library provides materials and services to support the informational, educational, and cultural needs of the citizens of Mount Olive Township. These needs will be considered in the development of the collection and will receive priority in the allocation of resources and funds.
Selection and purchase of library materials rests with the Library Director who may delegate some responsibilities to other staff members. Staff will adhere to accepted professional practices when making selection decisions. The recreational, educational, informational, and cultural needs of the community will be considered in selection materials.
To build a collection of merit and significance, materials must be measured by objective guidelines. All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated are considered in terms of criteria listed below. An item need not meet all criteria to be acceptable.
Materials selection is a discerning and deliberative process, involving general knowledge of the subject and its important literature, familiarity with the library’s collection, awareness of bibliographies on the subject, and an understanding of the community’s needs and interests. There is no single standard that can be used to evaluate the numerous and varied types of material in the library’s collection; however, the following are general areas of consideration:
- The authority, reputation, or significance of the author and/or publisher of the work.
- Attention of critics, reviewers, media, and the public.
- Literary, artistic, or technical quality of the item as a whole.
- Social significance.
- Community needs, both those expressed, and those inferred from user demographics or other evidence indicating areas of interest.
- Importance as a document of the times.
- Suitability of the subject format and style for the intended audience.
- Scarcity of resources on a particular subject, the importance of the subject to the overall collection, and availability elsewhere.
- Cost relative to need or merit.
- Resident authors or materials with local emphasis. Local authors, illustrators, musicians, and filmmakers are encouraged to donate one copy of their work to the Mount Olive Public Library. Materials will be reviewed to assess which collection is the best fit for the work. If possible, the item will be added to our catalog using a local interest statement in the bibliographic record.
- Reviews from professional journals and other review sources.
- The extent to which the item supplements, expands on, or supports the existing collection, rather than duplicating it.
- Contribution to the MOPL collection as a whole.
- Representation of diverse points of view on controversial issues.
- Representation of an important movement, genre, trend, or national culture.
- Artistic presentation and experimentation.
- Collection use and circulation trends.
- Varied formats (print, audio, digital) based on anticipated public demand and vendor availability.
The library does not purchase textbooks or technical manuals for the benefit of a single individual. The collection is not developed to support academic study, but rather to serve as a supplementary resource for educational curricula.
New formats will be added to the library’s collection when industry reports, public library practice, and evidence of community demand make it clear that the proposed new format will be broadly accepted and utilized. The library will keep abreast of new formats and, when possible, will acquire and facilitate new ways of accessing content.
The Library Director determines how limited funds will be allocated among the major collection subdivisions (e.g., adult non-fiction, fiction, youth collection, reference, periodicals, non-print). Circulation will be maintained to assist in decision making.
Materials will be selected based on positive reviews in professional journals or actual examination and evaluation of materials. Along with reviews and popular demand (bestsellers, school bibliographies, local interest) may be used as the criterion for selection of materials. Items that must be updated every year may be placed on a standing order list to ensure timely delivery. Suggestions from the community for items to be considered for purchase are strongly encouraged, but material must meet selection criteria.
Multiple copies of popular books (e.g., bestsellers, resume guides, tax preparation) may be purchased to meet short-term demand. The Library will attempt to have information available in a variety of formats (book, non-book, pamphlet, magazines, etc.) when available and practical. Generally, only one copy of materials in other formats will be purchased unless long-term high demand is anticipated. Objections to items in collections must be made in writing and must adhere to the procedure stated in Library’s Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Policy. Materials that no longer meet the needs of the community and no longer support the Library’s collection will be withdrawn and disposed of in accordance with the Library’s De-Selection of Materials’ Policy.
Print a copy of Selection of Materials Policy
One of the goals of the Mount Olive Public Library (MOPL) is to maintain a comprehensive collection of materials that offers a wide diversity of views and expressions. These materials may include views which are unorthodox, unpopular, or controversial in nature. The decision to acquire materials does not constitute endorsement of the material’s content. Members of the library community are free to select or reject materials based on personal choice.
Patrons wishing to formally address a concern about the appropriateness of library resources may choose to make a request for the reconsideration of the resource in question. Patrons making this request for reconsideration of Library Materials, whether for personal reasons or on behalf of an organization, must be a resident of the township of Mount Olive.A valid library card from the Mount Olive Public Library or proof of residency is required for any patron making a request for reconsideration.
The following steps will be used when an individual believes that further action is necessary to address concerns about a library resource. For the duration of this process, the material in question will remain available to the public. One should note that the Mount Olive Public Library is part of the MAIN Consortium and has no ability to remove resources from other member libraries.
A. Submit Completed Reconsideration Form
1. A concerned patron who would like to start the procedure for reconsideration of resources
will be offered a packet of materials that includes:
- The Mount Olive Public Library’s Mission Statement
- The Mount Olive Public Library’s Selection of Materials Policy
- The MOPL Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Policy (This policy)
- The MOPL Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials (FORM)
- The American Library Association (ALA) Library Bill of Rights
- The American Library Freedom (ALA) to Read Statement
2. Patrons are required to complete and submit a MOPL’s Request for Consideration of Library Materials Form to the attention of the Library Director.
B. Evaluation Process: Professional Review
- Upon receipt of the completed form, the librarian responsible for collection development of the area where the item in question is located will be assigned to review the reconsideration request.
- The librarian will read, listen to, or view the item. The Librarian will also read reviews of the item when available, check the item’s circulation statistics, and compare the item to the selection standards set forth in the MOPL’s Collection Management Policy.
- In assessing the reconsideration request, the librarian will evaluate the item as a whole. Items will not be removed from the collection based solely on frankness of expression, the expression of controversial viewpoints, or objections to a particular passage considered outside of the context of the entire work.
- Within fifteen (15) business days, the assigned librarian will make a decision and send a written response to the patron who requested the reconsideration, stating reasons for the decision. A copy of the response will also be sent to the Library Director.
C. Further Action: Appeal to the Director
- If the concerned patron or organization is not satisfied with the librarian’s response, a written appeal may be submitted to the Library Director within fifteen (15) business days of when the complainant received the decision. This second appeal must include all previous submitted, forms, the librarian’s response, and another Reconsideration Form filled out with further written explanation/information as to why the patron is not satisfied with the decision to justify the appeal, along with other documents the complainant feels will justify the argument.
- The Library Director, with appropriate professional staff, will review the Reconsideration Form and the resource in question, to evaluate whether its selection follows the standards stated in the MOPL’s Collection Management Policy.
- Within fifteen (15) business days, the Library Director will make a decision and send a written response to the patron/organization who requested the reconsideration, stating the reasons for the decision. A copy of the decision and the Reconsideration Form will be supplied to the Mount Olive Board of Trustees.
D. Further Action: Mt. Olive Board of Trustees
- If the patron is not satisfied with the decision of the Library Director, a written appeal may be submitted within fifteen (15) business days, of the date that the Library Director’s decision was given to the complainant, to the Mt. Olive Board of Trustees and which must include all previous submitted, forms, the librarian’s response, the Director’s response, and another Reconsideration Form filled out with further written explanation/information as to why the patron is not satisfied with the previous decisions to justify the appeal, along with other documents the complainant feels will justify the argument.
- When the Trustees plan to address the appeal at its board meeting, the patron will be notified of when and where the meeting will be held during the public session of a monthly Library Board of Trustee’s meeting.
- The Mt. Olive Board of Trustees reserve the right to limit the length of public comments.
The decision of the Mt. Olive Board of Trustees is final.
Print a copy of Reconsideration Policy
Materials that no longer fit the service roles of the Library will be withdrawn from the collection. This may include materials that are damaged, include obsolete information, or are no longer used. Decisions will be based on accepted professional practice, such as those described in The CREW Method (Continuous Review, Evaluation and Weeding) and the professional judgment of the Library Director or designated staff.
Items withdrawn from the collection will be disposed of in accordance with local law, which permits discarding into the trash, recycling of paper, or transfer to the Friends of the Mount Olive Public Library for sale. Discarded magazines and newspapers may be given to other libraries or social service agencies at the discretion of the Library Director.
Emergency & Conduct Policies
The Mount Olive Public Library is a public facility that offers services to a wide range of citizens. The Library has the responsibility to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for every patron using its services and facilities appropriately. It is our desire to make every visit enjoyable, memorable, and safe for young children.
Children of all ages are encouraged to use the Library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The Library staff realizes that the Library will be noisier at busy times and that children by nature can cause more commotion. Children and young people are, however, expected to follow the same standards of patron conduct expected of adults (See Patron Code of Conduct Policy approved on 10-15-2016). Parents, guardians, caregivers, or assigned chaperones are responsible for the behavior of their children while in the Library or on Library grounds. In order to insure the highest level of safety for young patrons, the Mount Olive Public Library Board of Trustees has adopted the following policy standards:
- Children twelve-years-old (12) and younger must be accompanied and supervised by a parent, guardian, caregiver, assigned chaperone, or another designated responsible person while in the Library or on Library property.
- Children seven-years-old (7) and younger must never be left unsupervised in any area of the Library
- If a child attends a Library sponsored program, the Library requires the parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone to remain in the Library throughout the program.
- If a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone cannot be located, the Library staff will contact the Mount Olive Township Police Department.
Disruptive Children:
The Library Staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the Library. Children (whether with a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone or not) who are continuously disruptive will be dealt with in the following manner:
- Will be given a first warning by a staff member that he/she must settle down
- If after a second warning by a staff member, he/she continues to maintain disruptive behavior, he/she will be required to leave the Library.
- If required to leave the library as a result of disruptive behavior, he/she will be permitted to call a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone if he/she cannot safely leave the Library to return home on his or her own, and will wait with a staff person until the parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone arrives.
Unattended Children at Closing Time:
- Children who have not been picked up at closing time will be given the opportunity to call a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone.
- Children who have not been picked up after closing will be left in the care of the Mount Olive Township Police Department.
- Under no circumstances will any staff member transport a child or children in a vehicle or accompany a child or children home.
The Mount Olive Public Library Board of Trustee and staff of the Library are dedicated to the good of the community and to this institution. We support the vision and the integrity of the Mount Olive Free Public Library. Further, we pledge to uphold the following rights to which our Library patrons are entitled.
- Prompt, friendly, courteous and respectful service at all times;
- Equitable service regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, race, appearance or disability;
- Accurate, timely, and useful information;
- Clearly identified library procedures and services;
- Professional direction and guidance by trained and knowledgeable staff;
- Opportunity to submit suggestions, comments and concerns about all material, and
- Confidentiality and privacy to the extent reasonably possible.
To protect the rights of everyone using the Mount Olive Public Library, the listed below Acceptable Standard of Conduct is hereby posted and will be enforced by the Library staff. Persons failing to comply will be asked to leave the Library building. Persons who persist in disapproving conduct or who refuse to leave the Library building when requested will be subject to exclusion from Library premises, suspension of Library privileges, and a misdemeanor arrest.
Acceptable Standards of Conduct:
- Patrons are required to wear a shirt and shoes in the library.
- Patrons shall maintain a generally accepted standard of personal hygiene.
- The library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items brought into the library.
- Library management has the discretion to discard personal items left unattended on library property in order to preserve a safe environment for library patrons, volunteers, and staff.
- The children’s room of the library is for the exclusive use of parents/guardians and their children or adults using resources that are only available in this area.
- Non-alcoholic beverages in covered containers are permitted.
Users of the Library must respect the rights and privileges of all other users. Any behavior that inhibits the use of the Library by others is prohibited.
All conduct that materially disrupts the use of the Library facilities, collections, or services is defined as unacceptable in this Library’s environment is prohibited. Patrons are urged to report disruptive behaviors immediately to staff so that appropriate steps can be taken.
Examples of disruptive or unacceptable behavior include, but are not limited to:
- Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, local, or other applicable law or library policy;
- Employing obscene, threatening, abusive or harassing language or behavior;
- Smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes, or any other use of inhalation substances or of tobacco products;
- Mutilating, damaging or defacing any Library property or Library materials;
- Consuming food and/ or drink in open areas of the library, except in the context of library programs and special events;
- Use of alcohol, narcotics, hallucinogens or other foreign substances or behavior consistent with intoxication or disorderly persons offense;
- Using the following for entertainment, research or enjoyment, etc. such as a smart phone, digital music, music players, i.e. I Pods, radio, or tape cassette player without the use of earphones; using a portable television set or any other device which might disturb other Library users;
- Using wheeled devices in the library or on library grounds, except assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers;
- Sleeping, except for young children under the supervision of the parent/guardian/caregiver;
- Gambling and card playing;
- Blocking or in any way interfering with the free movement of any persons;
- Rearranging or relocating any Library furniture or equipment;
- Possessing a weapon for unlawful purpose;
- Using Library telephones without approval by any person, other than Library personnel;
- Using cell phones and other communication devices in a manner that disturbs others;
- Removing materials from the Library without authorization or clearance through established lending procedures;
- Littering;
- Dressing inappropriately e.g., shoes and shirts must be worn at all times;
- Bathing, laundering clothes, or changing of clothes in the public bathrooms, and
- Selling, distributing or soliciting on Library premises without written consent by the Library Director.
Access to “Staff Only” areas:
Members of the public are not permitted in “Staff Only” areas of the Library without the permission or accompaniment of an authorized staff member.
Members of the public must use only those entrances and exits designated for their use.
Animals and pets:
Animals, except for service animals, are not allowed.
Inspection of bags, books, etc.:
Patrons may be requested to show the contents of book, bags, papers, etc. by Library Staff.
Loitering:
Loitering is not permitted in or on Library property.
Lost or stolen items:
The Library cannot be held responsible for personal items lost or stolen on the premises.
Misuse of Library property:
Unauthorized use of, damage to or theft of Library materials, equipment or property is prohibited.
Photographing, filming or video recording:
Photographing, filming or video recording is not permitted in the Library unless authorized by the Library administration and the permission of the Library user to be photographed, filmed or videotaped
Smoking:
Smoking or holding lighted tobacco is prohibited either in the Library or within 30 feet of the public entrance of the Library.
Sports equipment:
Use of sports equipment on Library property is prohibited when, in the opinion of Library staff, such use constitutes a danger to members of the public or Library staff.
Unattended children:
- Children twelve-years-old (12) and younger must be accompanied and supervised by a parent, guardian, caregiver, assigned chaperone, or another designated responsible person while in the Library or on Library property.
- Children seven-years-old (7) and younger must never be left unsupervised in any area of the Library.
- If a child attends a Library sponsored program, the Library requires the parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone to remain in the Library throughout the program.
- If a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone cannot be located, the Library staff will contact the Mount Olive Township Police Department.
- A parent /guardian who leaves a child/children unattended in the Library does so at his/her own risk.
- Library staff members are not babysitters and will not supervise any children.
- The Library is a public building and, as such, cannot be considered a safe place to leave an unattended child.
- Parents/guardians are responsible for their children’s behavior while in the Library.
- Disruptive children who do not control their behavior within two warnings will have this policy enforced.
Disruptive Children:
The Library Staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the Library. Children (whether with a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone or not) who are continuously disruptive will be dealt with in the following manner:
- Will be given a first warning by a staff member that he/she must settle down.
- If after a second warning by a staff member, he/she continues to maintain disruptive behavior, he/she will be required to leave the Library.
- If required to leave the library as a result of disruptive behavior, he/she will be permitted to call a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone if he/she cannot safely leave the Library to return home on his or her own, and will wait with a staff person until the parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone arrives.
Unattended Children at Closing Time:
- Children who have not been picked up at closing time will be given the opportunity to call a parent, guardian, caregiver, or chaperone.
- Children who have not been picked up after closing will be left in the care of the Mount Olive Township Police Department.
- Under no circumstances will any staff member transport a child or children in a vehicle or accompany a child or children home.
Washrooms:
Library materials are not permitted in the public washrooms in the Library.
Results of violations:
- If patrons conduct themselves in an objectionable or noisy manner, staff will, whenever possible, warn the patron that the behavior is unacceptable.
- If no proper response is made, the patron will be asked to leave.
- If the patron will not leave, police will be called. In any extreme or threatening situation, police will be called immediately.
- Violation of the Rules of Conduct may result in cost-recovery charges, suspension of Library privileges and/or exclusion from Library property or prosecution.
Non-compliance:
Any patron who is not complying with the stated code of conduct will be asked to read and sign this code of conduct. If a minor is not complying with the stated code of conduct, the minor will also be asked to have a parent signature on the code of conduct before returning to the Library.
The Mount Olive Public Library, like all facilities, is vulnerable to unplanned issues and disasters. Since the facility management is the responsibility of the Library Director, it is important that the Library Director, the entire Library Staff, and the Library Board of Trustee Members are aware of the appropriate response to unforeseen incidents that may endanger the well being of those in the facility. These issues can be behavioral, threatening, or medical in nature and may occur during operating hours and/or after hours.
The Director, staff, and Trustees must know appropriate action to take in order to assure safety at all times.
Disruptive Behaviors
For the purposes of this policy, “disruptive behavior” is understood to include, but is not limited to the following:
- Arguing, fighting, and/or any activity that creates excessive noise or commotion detrimental to the work of library users or staff;
- Abusing, threatening, or intimidating library users or staff through language or action;
- Engaging in sexual harassment or overt sexual behavior in any library facility;
- Displaying overt signs of substance abuse, including drunkenness;
- Using musical instruments in non-designated areas;
- Using audio devices or other electronic devices that create excessive noise or in any other way disrupt the work of library users or staff;
- Using electronic or other devices to make a photographic, audio, digital, or film recording of any person without his/her prior knowledge or his/her effective consent;
- Using bicycles, skateboards, or other non-medically-related wheeled vehicles in and around the parking lots and grounds of said library facility; bringing bedding into any library facility;
- Entering areas of the library marked as “Staff Only”;
- Refusing to follow reasonable directives, either verbal or written, issued by library staff, or obstructing library staff from the carrying out of his/her assigned duties or responsibilities;
- Refusing to leave a library facility at closing time, or as directed by library staff or by members of the Department of Public Safety; and refusing to identify oneself to library staff, when requested, or to members of the Department of Public Safety.
The Library staff will take appropriate action to remedy disruptive behavior, including, if necessary, notifying the Mount Olive Police Department.
Animals
With the exception of service animals, animals are prohibited in the MOPL.
Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products:
- Smoking is prohibited in the building.
- Smoking is prohibited within the building whether using a natural, battery operated, or other device requiring activation. This includes any apparatus that emits smoke, gas, vapor, steam, or mist.
- The use of any tobacco product may pose a threat to library collections, and is likewise prohibited.
Threatening Behaviors:
If a patron’s behavior is perceived to be menacing or threatening, staff shall immediately request police assistance by dialing 911. All Staff members are to be aware of their physical environment and options for avoiding potential harm at the hands of a violent person. Staff should also be aware of locations from which they can deny access to possible harm. The Library Board of Trustees and The Library Director or his/her designee are committed to working on improving security and monitoring within the library.
Shelter In Place:
There may be occasion when library staff members are advised by town officials to have patrons’ shelter in place due to a potential threat or hazard in the vicinity. Should this occur staff shall make a facilities wide announcement and lock the facility until told by town officials the hazard or threat has been remediated.
Behavior Issues Social Incident – with possible weapon:
In cases of an unstable visitor that poses a threat to others with either actions or a weapon must be responded to quickly. Identifying a safe place within the Library facility is essential. If staff and patrons need to retreat, staff must guide the public calmly to a safe location within the Library.
Emergency/Disaster Training:
- ALL Library staff members shall participate in the following courses/workshops,
- Active shooter workshop
- Maintain an active CPR certification for Adult/children
Active Shooter:
Calling 911 must be the first step taken.
- “Run. Hide. Fight.” teaches a three-step approach. If it is safe to do so, the first reaction should be to run to a place of safety in order to notify the authorities. Though this “run” step goes against most librarians’ tendency to assist others in need, the trainers suggest not stopping to aid other staff members who may be injured or are unsure of what to do. They say the best way to aid others is to get police and emergency medical technicians to the location as soon as possible.
- When it is not safe to run, hiding is the next best option. It’s important to be as inconspicuous as possible, silencing cell phones, turning off lights, and barricading doors. Bookshelves, loaded book carts, and heavy furniture can be used for barricading. The idea behind this theory is that most shooters want easy, fast targets and will not stop moving to attempt accessing a locked or blocked area.
- The last option is to fight with available “weapons.” Trainers suggested heaving a fire extinguisher—or any other heavy object—at the shooter, as that might cause him to stop or pause while you run away.
Social Incident – Abusive language:
- In cases of a visitor using profanity and aggressive tones must be responded to quickly. Call 911 immediately and explain the situation requesting assistance. Staff should never deal with this behavior alone. The Director or senior-staff-in-charge must be called for assistance immediately. Know where the identified safe places are located within the Library facility in case the situation escalates. If staff and patrons need to retreat, staff must guide the public calmly to a safe location within the Library.
- Social Incident – exterior threat: If the Library facility is contacted by another Town Department (Town Hall, Schools, Fire Department, Police Department) reporting that it is necessary to do a facility lock down due to a danger known on the outside, the following steps must be taken: Lock the door and wait for further notice from Town Officials before leaving the safe location.
Medical Issues:
- The most important action to take is calling 911.
- Calling 911 for assistance is always the first action any personnel member should take whether it is obvious or whether in doubt. A staff member should stay with the patron until the proper medical assistance has arrived.
Facility Issues
During library hours
- In cases of flood, fire, and other dangerous conditions securing the safety of staff and others is the main priority.
- In some cases, the Library Director or his/her designee must stay with the facility until appropriate help arrives.
- The Library’s staff may need to respond to alarm systems that would indicate a fire or another type of emergency. It is important that all staff know how to call 911. Calling 911 must be the first step taken. The following procedure outlines the best actions to take to protect staff and public and to protect or minimize the Library facility from damage.
- Once the library has been evacuated, The Library Director or his/her designee should not stay alone in the facility but rather he/she should wait in a safe place until appropriate help has responded i.e.: fire and police, etc.
- Once all library patrons and staff are outside and have congregated at the designated outside location, the Library Director or senior-staff must make sure that all staff and known patrons are in attendance.
- It is not advisable to enter an area of flooding or other dangers, no matter the outcome to the facility or financial concerns.
- If the Director is not present at the time, he/she should be contacted by the senior-staff-in-charge immediately for action and or advice.
Before/After library hours:
If the contracted alarm company (Tyco Integrated Alarm System) receives signals from the Mount Olive Public Library for either a fire alarm or a security breach, the Director may be contacted in addition to the fire and police department.
- The Library Director must work with the appropriate contacts to address the emergency by using the Emergency Contact Information Sheet (Attachment A).
- The Director must inform the President of the Board of Library Trustees; if the President of the Board of Library Trustees is not available then the Vice President of Board of Trustee Committee must be contacted.
- It is the responsibility of the President of the Board of Trustee or his/her designee to inform the rest of the Board of Trustee Members of any situation that arises and how the situation is being handled.
- This information should be disseminated within twelve to twenty-four hours of the situation’s onset.
Fire Alarm
- If the fire alarm sounds, there may be a fire.
- The Alarm Monitoring Company (Tyco Integrated Alarm System) will immediately contact first the Mount Olive Fire Department and then the Library Director or the designated staff member.
- The Library Director or the designated staff member will need to return to the Library to make contact with the Fire Department personnel on call and/or other official officers, to secure the facility and to assist with assessing the damages and to make arrangements for securing the facility, decide what, if any, services can be provided to patrons, and to plan the actions required. Fire Department personnel are helpful and will take charge of identifying the cause and assessment of damages in case of a fire.
- If it is determined that the alarm was, in fact, not a fire, the Library Director or the designated staff members must immediately contact the alarm company to assess why the alarm was falsely tripped. There may be something wrong with the system that will need to be repaired and prevent future false alarms.
Security Alarm
If the security alarm is tripped, it could mean a number of things
– Actual security breach has occurred
– Loss of power
– System malfunctioned
– Human error when entering leaving the facility
- The Alarm Monitoring Company will immediately call the emergency dispatch department of the Mount Olive Police Department and then will contact the Library Director or the assigned senior staff member. Communications over the phone will help in determining why the alarm was tripped.
- The police will communicate what was found after visiting the property.
- If the facility is secure, the Alarm Monitoring Company can reset the alarm remotely. If there is any doubt about the facility condition, the Library Director or the assigned senior staff member will need to return to the library to assist police in deciding if the facility is secure and in proper order.
- The security alarm system will then need to be reset manually.
If a break-in has occurred, police and the Library Director or his/her designee will work together to decide how best to secure the facility and what action must be taken.
Society has now moved into a digital age where technology has revolutionized the world of photography. As the digital camera/phone gives a person the opportunity to instantaneously capture those “Special Moments,” The Mount Olive Public Library Board of Trustees wishes to capture, preserve, and publicize Library sponsored events.
The Library staff regularly takes photographs or videos of patrons and staff at Library-sponsored events and activities, workshops, classes, and in other library spaces. Some of these photos/videos will be used in print and electronic marketing for use in the Library’s newsletter, on its digital screen, on the Library’s web site, or for other Library publicity purposes.
Therefore, attendance at Library programs and events shall constitute consent to be photographed or filmed for use in print and/or electronically for the Mount Olive Public Library’s publicity purposes. The Library may also use photos, images, and videos submitted by users for galleries or contests for promotional purposes.
To ensure the privacy of individuals and children, images will not be identified using full name without written approval from the guardian. If a patron does not want the Library to use a photo or video of them or of their child, they must inform the Library staff member who is coordinating the event. This policy extends to photographing and filming by library staff at Friends of the Library events and at any of the Library’s outreach efforts in the community, including at public events.
Casual amateur photography, filming and videotaping is permitted in the Library facilities for patrons and visitors, provided that the photography does not interfere in any way with Library operations or capture any identifiable likenesses of individuals without their permission. Any such photographers are responsible for arranging all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed. Under no circumstances may anyone take a photo or film a Library patron without the consent of the patron, or their parent/guardian, if a minor.
No commercial or media photography or filming may occur in Library facilities without the prior permission and approval of the Library Director, or his/her designee. Such approval shall contain the conditions under which the commercial/media photography or filming will take place, and address the rights to ownership of the photos/films.
If you have concerns or questions about a photograph or video posted on the library’s website or social media accounts or any other question relating to this policy, please contact the Director of the Library, or his/her designee.
