Mission Statement
The Girard Public Library exists to provide a professionally selected and well organized collection of books and multimedia materials for the residents of the community in their pursuit of knowledge, information, education, research, and recreation in such a manner to enrich the quality of life and promote an enlightened citizenry.
Access to the collection will be assured through a well-trained and courteous staff, an adequate facility, and appropriate outreach services. The Library shall endeavor to cooperate with all appropriate local, state, and federal agencies and shall keep abreast of changing library technology and practice.
All of the above shall be done in a fiscally responsible manner.
Public Access Computer Guidelines
The Girard Public Library is pleased to provide public access computers, to meet our patrons Internet and word-processing needs. These computers are to be used first for Internet research and word-processing, then for games and CD games. The Internet researcher and word-processing user will have priority.
Those using the computers must be in good standing with no outstanding fines or overdue materials. If there are outstanding fines at least $1 will be collected each time the computers are used until the fines are paid in full.
Children age 11 years and under may use the filtered Internet computers in the Children’s Library.
Children 12 years through 17 years will be able to access the Internet in the adult computer lab on filtered computers.
Patrons age 18 years and older will use the adult computer lab with filtered computers. If a valid request is made to the staff to turn off the filter, they will comply.
The computers will not be used in an unacceptable manner, such as trying to discover another user’s password or accessing another person’s materials, information or files. Also no unlawful purposes, such as the illegal copying or installation of software, or violation of copyright laws will be tolerated.
Local patrons using the computers must have a current signed library card, and all computer users must agree to follow the Girard Public Library’s Computer and Internet Access Guidelines.
Computers are available on a first come first served basis, or users may reserve a time in advance. There is a 30 minute time limit. If no one is signed up and waiting, the user may have another 30 minutes or continue until someone does come and signup. When this occurs the user will then be given 5 minutes to finish.
WARNING!
The computers should be used in a responsible manner. This means avoiding physical damage to the computer, keyboard, mouse or headphones. Internet sites, e-mail and chat rooms shall not be used for illegal purposes, and (since it’s located in a public area) no one shall display on-screen sexually explicit images. Misuse of the computer or the Internet may result in the loss of computer privileges. There is a thirty day suspension for the 1st and 2nd violations. If there is a 3rd violation, the patron will be suspended for one year from the date of the violation.
THE LIBRARY STAFF RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ALLOW OR DISALLOW ANY RESERVATION
GIRARD PUBLIC LIBRARY INTERNET ACCESS GUIDELINES
Welcome to the Girard Public Library’s Internet Access. Upon hearing the term “information superhighway”, many people think of the Internet. To maximize availability to this resource, and to insure fair accessibility for all, please follow these Internet Access Guidelines, which include our Internet policies, rules, and procedures. Internet access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.
Internet Access Policy
In response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community, the Girard Public Library endeavors to develop collections, resources, and services that meet the cultural, informational, recreational, and educational needs of Girard’s community. It is within this context that the Girard Public Library offers access to the Internet.
The Girard Public Library does comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). A filtering software by Intego called Content Barrier has been installed on all library computers. Please be aware that the Girard Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. The Internet is a global entity with a highly diverse user population and Library patrons use it at their own risk.
Internet resources accessible through the Library are provided equally to all library users. Even though the Library has taken measures to protect those using the Internet from harmful content *(SEE CIPA), parents, or guardians, are advised to supervise their children’s Internet sessions. Please note that all children are allowed on the Internet with no requirement for a parent present as long as they have a signed library card. Even with filtering software we cannot promise that from time to time something offensive won’t get through. Please feel free to report any misuse or concerns to the staff.
Staff Assistance
For many Library staff, traveling the Internet is a new experience. Others have more experience. In all cases we will be glad to assist you in accessing the Internet and, as our experience grows, attempt to assist you in getting to the right place on the “superhighway.”
Library staff cannot provide in-depth training concerning Internet computer jargon or personal computer use. We may, however, be able to offer searching suggestions and answer questions. When, in the course of their duties, staff may become aware of violations of the Internet Access Policy, they will correct the user and address the matter in accordance with this procedure and other policies governing patron conduct.
Have fun exploring the Internet, but please remember that many times you will find the specific information you need right here...in our books, periodicals, etc.
Privacy
Patrons do not have a personal privacy right in any matter created, received, stored in or sent from the GPL computers. GPL Staff may at times and without prior notice, monitor and review E-Mail messages and web site retrieval by patrons to insure proper use. Patrons must follow policies governing Internet use and Internet safety.
The Director of the Library and appointed staff may review files and monitor all computers and Internet activity to maintain library integrity and ensure that patrons are acting responsibly. Privacy is not guaranteed.
Guidelines for Accessing the Internet at the Girard Public Library
1. Local patrons need a signed Girard Public Library card and not have any outstanding fines.
2. Use of the Internet access computers is on a first-come, first served basis or you may reserve one for a specific date and time. There is a set time limit of 30 minutes. You will need to sign in when you begin. If there is no one signed in and waiting at the end of your allotted time then you may continue for another 30 minutes or until someone asks to use a computer.
3. Internet research for homework or personal help such as: reservations, medical reference, email, stock exchange, will be given priority over games and use of chat rooms.
4. E-mail may be sent and received on your own web site, not through the Library’s address. The Internet access computers may not be used to send threatening, obscene, abusive, or harassing messages, or for any illegal purposes.
5. You may not use your own software programs on the Internet Access computers. This will help prevent computer viruses that are common on public computers.
6. You may download information to your own disk if you wish. If you put information on your disk, you do so at your own risk. The Library is not responsible for damage to a patron's disk or computer, or for any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of the computer.
7. Printing of materials is 25¢ per page for black and white, 50¢ for color and you will pay for all pages printed. Be sure you know how many pages you are printing (use print preview).
8. The computers should be used in a responsible manner. This means avoiding physical damage to the computer, keyboard, mouse or headphones. Internet sites, e-mail and chat rooms shall not be used for illegal purposes, and (since it’s located in a public area) no one shall display on-screen any obscene or sexually explicit images. Misuse of the computer or Internet access may result in the loss of computer privileges. There is a thirty day suspension for the 1st and 2nd violations. If there is a 3rd violation, the patron will be suspended for one year from the date of the violation.
*Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA)
www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cipa.html or www.ifea.net/cipa.html
1. Access to information potentially harmful to the child.
2. The safety of a minor when using electronic mail, a chat room, or other Internet information.
3. The prohibition of hacking from a library computer.
4. The disclosure of personal information by a minor and the unauthorized disclosure of personal information about another person.
5. Filtering and library management policy and practices designed to protect minors from information potentially harmful to the minor.
These “Public Computer and Internet Access Guidelines” were approved and updated by the Girard
Public Library Board of Trustees, February 27, 2007.
- Books are checked out for 2 weeks (limited to 3 consecutive times or 6 weeks)
- New books are checked out for 2 weeks with no renewal
- Magazines are checked out for 1 week (except the latest issue, it remains on rack until the new one comes in.)
- Audio Books are checked out for 2 weeks only.
- Older encyclopedias & reference books may be checked out for 3 days.
- Non-circulated materials are available for use in the library.
- No more than 15 items may be checked out at a time. First time users may only check out 3 books. Children 11 and under may only check out 5 items.
- Items may be renewed by phone, but the patron MUST WRITE the new due date in at least one book or there will be a fine charged from original due date.
The library has over 1050 in-house videos. Interlibrary loan sources for more videos are found in the bibliography notebook
- Must be 18 years old or older on Interlibrary loan videos. (5 day loan period)
- Must be in good standing - no overdues or service charges due.
- $1 per video, per day service charge
- Limit 5 videos/ 3 DVD's per household.
- 1 week loan period.
- Must be 12 or older to check out DVD's
- $7 search fee (includes up to 4 copies), additional copies are 25¢ each, plus postage and handling.
(Requests must be placed or sent in writing, with return address)
- 3 per household
- 1 week loan period
- 12 and over for CD's
- Audio Books - *2 week loan period
- Cost to receive is 25¢.
- $1 for each copy, cover letter required (to send white paper only)
- Also, free of charge inter-library loan use by our staff for patrons.
- Effective February 1, 2008, fines are 20¢ per day for each item overdue- $1 on videos and DVDs. Stops when amount exceeds cost of item.
- No items may be checked out, until overdues are returned and fines are paid.
- Overdue Items - a library staff member calls (non long distance patrons) every Tuesday to inform patrons of an overdue item. If the item is not returned by the following Thursday, a overdue notice will be sent. If in 1 week the item is not returned, a letter from the Girard City Attorney will be mailed, then after 1 week the information will be turned over the Girard City Municipal Court.
*NOTE: After the information has been sent to the City Court and they have taken action you must appear in court to take care of this matter.
- Magazines that are damaged are assessed a charge to compensate for the diminished lifetime of the item. Replacement cost is: cost of magazine plus $1.50.
- Books are assessed a damage charge to compensate for it's diminished lifetime beginning at $1.50.
- Lost items are charged the replacement cost of: paperback books $15 and hardback books $25. If the patron chooses to replace the book there will be a $5 processing charge added. Cassettes are $15, CD's $20, Videos are $20,and DVD's are $25. If an item is lost and paid for, the patron has 3 months to find and return it, they will then be given their money back minus $3.00 a month charge.
- Slide Projector - $20 deposit
- Projection screen - $5 deposit, if removed from the library. Refund will be given upon their return.
a) Disruptive Patrons -- A patron whose behavior is disruptive to the use of the Library by other patrons may be asked to leave the Library premises. A patron who refuses to leave under theses circumstances is trespassing. The staff member handling the problem may seek assistance from the police if needed.
Code of Behavior:
- Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, firearms or other weapons are not permitted in the Library or on the grounds.
- Smoking is not permitted in the Library.
- Food and drink are permitted in the Library kitchen and in meeting rooms during a scheduled meeting. Drinks in appropriate containers may be allowed at the descretion of the library staff.
- Unruly behavior disruptive to the Library users or staff is not allowed.
- Offensive odor is not allowed in the Library.
- Shoes and shirts must be worn in the Library.
- Roller blades may not be worn in the Library.
- Privileges my be limited or revoked for damaging Library property, stealing Library materials, or harming Library patrons or staff.
b) Behavioral Standards for Children -- The Library welcomes and encourages children to explore the Library and make use of the Library services. However, some behavior is considered inappropriate and causes interruptions for others or danger to the child. Parents are responsible for their child's proper behavior in the Library, and for monitoring their child's behavior. Inappropriate behavior includes loud, obscene, or disruptive speech, quarreling or fighting, disturbing other patrons, running, climbing on shelves or furniture, and playing with, rather than using computers and catalog terminals. If a child is causing a disturbance or harming library equipment or materials, the parent(s) will be asked to correct the inappropriate behavior. If the behavior continues, the parent(s) and child may be asked to leave. Children who are in the Library alone and who behave in a disruptive manner or harm library equipment or materials will be asked to leave. If the child is unable to go home alone, staff will attempt to locate the child's parents to come for them. If staff is unable to locate a parent, the police will be called for assistance.
c) Unattended Children -- The Library is open for use to the general public and staff cannot be responsible for the safety of children. Parents and others responsible for children may not leave children age 6 and under unattended in any area of the library and its premises. All children in the Library should be attended at all times. Parents and adults accompanying children are responsible for their children's behavior while in the Library. Staff will not agree to a parent's request to "keep an eye on" a child, nor will staff allow a parent to order a child to remain in the Library unattended. Children under the age of 7 who come unattended or are left unattended at closing will be invited by a Library employee to call a parent. At 15 minutes after closing such child will be treated by the Library employee as abandoned and as a child in need of care, and the police will be notified and requested to take charge of an abandoned child in need of care. Children 7 and older may be left unattended provided their behavior is appropriate as to stated previously.
Library Bill of RightsThe American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services:
- 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.
- 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.
- Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsiblity to provide information and enlightenment.
- Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
- A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
- 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.
Girard Public Library
(620)724-4317
128 W. Prairie Ave. / Girard, KS 66743
