Operations Policy

Borrower’s Responsibilities and Eligibility

General use of Mellinger Memorial Library is open to any person that shows evidence of being a patron of an Iowa open access library.  All policies of the Mellinger Memorial Library will apply to these patrons.  All patrons will be assigned a patron number and be registered in the computer before they can check out any library materials.  Patrons outside the regional area may not check out reference books or any books that the librarian on duty feels can’t be replaced.

Library Privileges

If a patron owes the library for overdue materials, all privileges (which means the use of all in-house library services) will be suspended until the fines have been paid in full.  The library staff will check the computer overdue report at minimum of once per week and allow the Apollo Automation Software to notify patrons of overdue items. If an attempted at payment is being made, patron will be allowed to use library privileges.

Open Access (use by other libraries’ patrons)

The Board of Trustees may authorize the use of the Library by persons who are not residents of the City or County in any one or more of the following ways:

Lending. By lending the books or other materials of the Library to nonresidents on the same terms and conditions as to residents of the City or County or upon payment of a special nonresident Library fee.

Depository.  By establishing depositories of Library books or other materials to be loaned to nonresidents.

Bookmobiles.  By establishing bookmobiles or a traveling library so that books or other Library materials may be loaned to nonresidents.

Branch Library.  By establishing branch libraries of lending books or other Library materials to nonresidents.

Access Plus

Interlibrary Loan is open to any person with a Mellinger Memorial Library card, with special consideration to residents of Morning Sun, Iowa and the Louisa County.  The fee for interlibrary loan will be listed in the Operating Parameters Chart.  The librarian on duty will mark the book in some manner indicating the return date.  Each item loaned to a participating library will be recorded on the State’s Access Plus Transaction Form and saved for the end of the year reporting to the state.

Equipment use

General use of Mellinger Memorial Library equipment is open to any person with special consideration to residents of Morning Sun, Iowa and then Louisa County.  A library card is not required.  Equipment available for use includes a fax, computers with internet, printer, photocopier, and projector.

Fines and fees

See Operating Parameters Chart in Appendix A

Reserves/Purchase Suggestions/Renewal

Items may be reserved, purchase suggestions made, and items renewed in person, by calling Mellinger Memorial Library Circulation Desk, or using your account online.  Purchase suggestions may also be made online at morningsun.lib.ia.us.  Training of all patrons on the use of these online tools will be accomplished by the library staff.  If an item is overdue, fees still apply for the days previous to renewal.  If a reserved item is not picked up within a week from notification, the item will be returned to the shelf for circulation. 

Reference

Reference questions that cannot be answered by Mellinger Memorial Library staff will be forwarded to the Southeastern Iowa Library Service Area.  There is no charge for reference services.

Programming

The Library will make every effort to hold at least one program for youth and/or adults per month.  Topics are at the Director’s discretion.

Mellinger Memorial Library is available to host various programs for youth and adults throughout the year.  The Director must be contacted to arrange.  The library will NOT host events at which items are being sold (i.e. Scrapbooking parties, Pampered Chef parties, etc.) or partisan events; however, fundraisers may be considered by the Board of Trustees.  As Mellinger Memorial Library does not have its own meeting, arrangements must be made independently with City Hall to secure the Fireplace Room downstairs.

Internet Use Policy

The purpose of public access to the Internet is to provide a tool or information resource to be used to fulfill Mellinger Memorial Library’s mission of promoting intellectual freedom, life-long learning and the enhancement of cultural and leisure activities.

In order to provide access to as many users as possible, Mellinger Memorial Library may place time constraints on the use of Library equipment.

Mellinger Memorial Library does not monitor and 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.

Just as Mellinger Memorial Library does not restrict access to other material forms and formats, we cannot refuse access to the Internet content that someone else may deem objectionable.  The principles of intellectual freedom that apply to the traditional library also apply to the modern electronic access library.

As with other Mellinger Memorial Library materials, restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.  Mellinger Memorial Library does not act in place of or in absence of the parent and is not responsible for enforcing any restrictions which a parent or guardian may place on a minor’s use of this resource.

Internet Use Rules:

Computers at Mellinger Memorial Library are NOT filtered. Patrons are responsible for their own internet using behavior including chatting, instant messaging, gaming, etc.  Any patron who is misbehaving or misusing the computers or internet (intentionally damaging the computers, abusive language or pictures, software piracy, unauthorized use, attempts to learn the password of other users, and destruction or alteration of data belonging to other users) will lose internet privileges.  All Library patrons requesting to use the computer must verify that their account is in good standing at the circulation desk each time they signup to use an Internet Station.  Time may be limited by the librarian if there are patrons waiting.  The number of persons per station is limited to two.  There is a charge (see Operating Parameters Chart) for each page printed from the Internet.  Patrons may be bumped by the next user if necessary (needs for homework, needs to print) at the Librarian’s discretion.

Parents will be given a copy of this policy at the time of registration, thus acknowledging they know the policy and are giving their permission for the use of the computers by their children.

Unattended Children Policy

To provide for the general welfare of all persons using the Mellinger Memorial Library and to provide for the general safety of children using Mellinger Memorial Library, the Board of Trustees has established the following:

Children six and younger must be accompanied by an adult at all times.  This means that they remain with the child during the entire library visit.

Library staff members are not responsible for children in any area of Mellinger Memorial Library at any time.

A written copy of the policy will be given to individuals who do not observe this policy as a reinforcement of the importance of following the rules for their own child’s safety.

Unscheduled Closing Policy

Before closing Mellinger Memorial Library due to an unforeseen circumstance (such as electrical outage, severe weather, or other reasons, etc.) the director or a board member should be consulted.  If in IMMEDIATE DANGER (such as fire, terrorist attack, etc.), clear the building and then contact the director or a board member as to procedure.  Every attempt should be made to reopen the library for the remainder of the day after the emergency has passed.

In the event that no one can be reached, the employee will use his/her own discretion.

No library employee will be paid for hours not worked, but the director and assistant librarian may be given the opportunity to make up the hours if there is work that needs to be completed.

Library Personnel Policy

       I.            Job Descriptions

a.     Library Director

                                                              i.      Administrative

1.       Direct all activities of Mellinger Memorial Library including organization of library materials for use by patrons and coordination of all library programs.

2.       Organize library materials and visibly label shelves accordingly.

3.       Prepare a monthly agenda and report for Trustees.

4.       Prepare work schedules for self and other library personnel.

5.       Organize and submit the annual reports to the State Library of Iowa as requested.

6.       Set annual goals for the library, its collection and activities.

7.       Outline timelines and set work in motion to meet the goals.

8.       Prepare annual budget.

9.       Direct and supervise expenditure of library funds under the direction of the Board.

10.   Oversee other library staff activities.

                                                            ii.      Collection Development

1.       Review and select books and other materials based on reviews and user needs/wants.

2.       Submit orders for books and other materials.

3.       Process all materials for public access and circulation.

4.       Process interlibrary loans on a timely basis.

5.       Order additional supplies as needed in Mellinger Memorial Library.

                                                          iii.      Public Relations

1.       Communicate services of Mellinger Memorial Library to the public (answer questions, locate materials, assist in equipment usage, do public speaking, give tours, write newspaper articles).

2.       Coordinate posters, flyers, brochures, bookmarks, bulletin boards, and other materials that promote Mellinger Memorial Library.

3.       Coordinate outreach activities for Mellinger Memorial Library (programs, participation in other programs).

4.       Attend and report to the City Council when opportunity or need arises.

                                                          iv.      Bookkeeping

1.       Maintain an orderly check-out system of all materials.

2.       Maintain an orderly system for the tracking of overdue materials.

3.       Keep all cash records with a ledger in Excel or Quicken.

4.       List all bills received and forward to the City Clerk for payment.

5.       Compile any relevant grants and grant reports.

6.       Present budget to City Council and County Board of Supervisors.

                                                            v.      Library Maintenance

1.       Repair materials as needed or call service people immediately when needed.

2.       Coordinate maintenance of physical facilities by recognizing needs and communicating needs to City workers, custodians and/or Board of Trustees.

3.       Keep collection current by weeding outdated materials on a continuous basis.

4.       Keep library appearance orderly and themed with current topics.

5.       Daily shelving, cleaning, etc. as needed.

6.       Check US Post Office daily, check email daily.

                                                          vi.      Professional

1.       Participate in continuing education classes provided by the State Library.

2.       Complete the State Certification Level.

3.       Utilize advanced technology to assist in circulation and processing when possible.

4.       Establish and maintain effective working relationships with local government agencies, Board of Trustees, community groups and the general public.

5.       Attend professional meetings

a.       Monthly board meetings.

b.       Iowa Library Association Meetings.

c.       TriCounty Librarian Meetings.

b.     Assistant Librarian (if applicable)

*All duties will be dispersed to other employees if there is no Assistant Librarian.

                                                              i.      Collection Development      

1.       Recommend books and other materials to Mellinger Memorial Library Director when patrons make requests.

2.       Process interlibrary loans on a timely basis.

3.       Process all materials for public access and circulation.

4.       Process new materials into the Apollo and SILO databases.

5.       Assist in ordering materials for collection development.

                                                            ii.      Public Relations

1.       Effectively communicate services of Mellinger Memorial Library to the public (must be able to answer questions, locate materials, assist in equipment usage, do public speaking, give tours, etc.)

2.       Assist patrons and process interlibrary loans.

                                                          iii.      Bookkeeping

a.       Organize monthly circulation reports.

b.       Oversee the tracking of overdue materials.

c.       Reshelf returned materials.

d.       Assist in budget preparation and grant applications.

                                                          iv.      Library Maintenance

a.       Repair materials as needed or call service people immediately when needed.

b.       Keep library appearance orderly and themed with current topics.

c.       Daily shelving, cleaning, etc. as needed.

d.       Assist in weeding outdated materials on a continual basis, under the direction of the Director.

e.       Check US Post Office daily, check email daily.

                                                            v.      Professional

a.       Utilize latest technology to assist in circulation and processing.

b.       Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Mellinger Memorial Library Director, Board of Trustees, community groups and the general public.

c.       Attend as many professional meetings as possible and represent Mellinger Memorial Library in the Director’s absence.

d.       Recognize and be familiar with the Director’s duties in the event of the Director’s absence.

c.      Other Library Employees

1.       Other library employees include any clerks, those hired on a part time or temporary basis shall have duties and responsibilities outlined by the library Director when necessary.

a.       Must be able to shelve books, put up and take down displays, move books, clean, dust, get mail from post office.

b.       Basic computer skills.

c.       Tallying monthly and yearly transaction figures.

d.       Checking items in and out.

e.       Alphabetizing.

d.     Job Requirements

                                                               i.      All positions at the Mellinger Memorial Library require a minimum age of 16.  Good general education is the basic requirement for all potential staff members.  Applicants offering additional education and technical qualification, special ability, prior experience, etc. will merit special consideration.  In addition the Library Director must have completed, or must complete within 18 months of the date-of-hire, Public Library Management I and II.  Typing and computer skills are required for all positions.  Other duties are to be completed as assigned for all positions.  All staff must adhere to seasonal and professional office attire.

e.     Employment Policies

                                                              i.      Probationary Period

1.       There is a 3 month probationary period for the Library Director and Assistant Director.

                                                            ii.      Compensation

1.       Library employees are paid on an hourly basis and checks are issued from the City Clerk’s office every other Thursday. 

2.       Wages will be reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees in November and December and will be in effect for the fiscal year of July 1 through June 30. 

3.       Wages of all staff members will be set by the Board of Trustees, with no wage to be lower than minimum wage set by law.  Classifications and salaries will be based on duties, qualifications and budgetary considerations.

                                                          iii.      Hours

1.       The schedule for the rest of the employees is at the discretion of the Library Director.

                                                          iv.      Holidays

1.       Following the Probationary period, the Library Director receives the following eleven (11) paid holidays.  Library will follow this holiday schedule.  If the holiday falls on Saturday, Mellinger Memorial Library will be closed Friday and Saturday.  If the holiday falls on Sunday, Mellinger Memorial Library will be closed on Monday.

a.       New Year’s Eve (1/2 Day)

b.       New Year’s Day

c.       President’s Day

d.       Memorial Day

e.       Independence Day

f.        Labor Day

g.       Veteran’s Day

h.       Thanksgiving Day

i.         Day after Thanksgiving

j.         Christmas Eve (½ day)

k.       Christmas Day

                                                            v.      Vacation

1.       The Library Director receives two (2) weeks of paid vacation following the first year of employment.  A week’s vacation will be equal to the average number of hours worked in the last year, not to exceed 24 hours.  This shall increase to three (3) weeks after 5 years of continual employment as director.

2.       Vacation time does not accrue from year to year except by special request and when approved by the Board of Trustees and will not be paid out in cash. 

3.       No other employees will receive paid vacation; however, they are allowed unpaid vacation time at the discretion of the Library Director.

f.       Special Library Meetings

                                                               i.      All Library staff will be paid time and mileage while attending special library meetings at the request of the Board of Trustees.

g.     Evaluations

                                                               i.      The Library Director shall perform evaluations of library staff on an annual basis in May.  At the time of evaluation, both parties will discuss, and record in writing, what has been accomplished, what has not been accomplished, and why.  Three goals will be chosen for the next year and there should be discussion on how these goals are to be accomplished.

                                                             ii.      The Board of Trustees shall perform an annual evaluation for the Library Director in April.  This evaluation will be a review of the goals of the Board of Trustees and the Library Director.  Discussion and written comments should include what has been accomplished, what has not been accomplished and why.  Another set of goals and objectives should be chosen for the following year.

                                                           iii.      All goals used in the evaluation process for the Library Director and staff should be relatable to their jobs, achievable in the time period set, and measurable so as to assess performance.

h.     Resignations

                                                               i.      The Library Director may submit resignations in writing to the Board of Trustees at any time but must allow two weeks’ notice.

                                                             ii.      Staff will submit resignation in writing to the Library Director at least two weeks prior to resignation.

i.       Dismissals

                                                               i.      Illegal or unethical actions taken by the Library Director or other staff members will be discussed in a closed meeting of the Board of Trustees if the staff member so requests.

                                                             ii.      A majority vote of the Board of Trustees can result in the dismissal of any employee without notice.

j.       Grievances

                                                               i.      If the Library Director cannot mediate a grievance between staff members or between a staff member and the Library Director, the grievance will be taken to the Board of Trustees President.

                                                             ii.      If there is a grievance between the Library Director and a Board of Trustees member, the grievance will be taken to the Board of Trustees President.

k.     Continuing Education

                                                               i.      Employees have the option of attending continuing education classes offered by the State Library or Southeastern Iowa Library Services. 

                                                             ii.      Selection of classes to be attended will be made by the Library Director.

                                                           iii.      The number of classes taken and the number of staff attending each class is subject to budget limitations.

                                                           iv.      Mellinger Memorial Library will pay registration fees for continuing education classes and will also pay mileage and hourly wages as the budget allows.

Collection Development and Materials Selection Policy

Responsibility for Selection

The Board of Trustees has final responsibility for selection of materials for Mellinger Memorial Library.  The Board of Trustees gives the Library Director authority to select materials and develop the collection as long as he/she operates within the framework of policies determined by Mellinger Memorial Library Board of Trustees and by the Principles for Selection listed below.  Recommendations from staff members and requests from Mellinger Memorial Library patrons are welcome and given serious consideration.

Principles for Selection

The Mellinger Memorial Library provides materials and services to support the information and educational needs of the citizens of Morning Sun and surrounding area.  The primary functional roles that support this mission are Current Topics and Titles and Youth Services with the secondary role of reference library.  These functional roles will be considered in the development of collection and will receive priority in the allocation of resources and funds.

Selection and purchases 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.  First, the recreational, educational, and informational needs of the community will be considered.

Materials will be selected based upon positive reviews in professional journals or actual examination and evaluation of materials.  Instead of reviews, popular demand (bestsellers, school bibliographies, local interest, etc.) may be used as the criterion for selection.  Suggestions from the community for items to be considered are strongly encouraged, but materials must meet other established selection criterion as well.

Specific Types of Materials

Adult Fiction

The collection will emphasize contemporary fiction and include classical and semi-classical novels of the past.

Nonfiction

The usual criteria of authority, scope, currency, and overall quality shall be applied to most acquisitions for children’s, adult, large print, and reference collections.

Young Adult (YA) Fiction

The collection will emphasize contemporary fiction at reading levels ranging from approximately sixth grade to twelfth grade.  Due to the short lived popularity of many titles and young adults’ preference for the format, paperbacks may be purchased.

Large Print Fiction

The collection will offer a wide variety of mystery, romance, westerns, and drama books in the large print format. 

Paperbacks

A popular format, paperbacks are acquired to provide a greater scope of authors.

Periodicals

Magazines are purchased to keep Mellinger Memorial Library’s collection up to date on current topics in various fields and to provide recreational reading.

Newspapers

Mellinger Memorial Library subscribes only to local newspapers.  If sufficient interest were shown, a subscription to one of the larger newspapers would be considered.

Audiovisual

Mellinger Memorial Library purchases audio books, kits, DVDs, and compact discs.  Reviews and lists are consulted in evaluating new materials for these collections.  To expand further the selection, Mellinger Memorial Library may subscribe to regional library rotating collections.

Children’s Materials

Mellinger Memorial Library acquires print and computer materials with reading and comprehension levels ranging from infancy through the upper elementary grades.  Materials cover all areas of Mellinger Memorial Library’s mission statement: education, recreation, information, and personal enrichment.

Iowa History and Local History Collection

Mellinger Memorial Library maintains a collection of historical books about Iowa and books about Iowa history and local history separate from nonfiction collections.  Some materials in these collections maybe designated as reference only.

Genealogy

Mellinger Memorial Library maintains a separate Genealogy collection consisting of genealogy, methodology, local history, local cemetery records, census records, and family histories for reference use in Mellinger Memorial Library.

Use of Library Materials

Mellinger Memorial Library welcomes comments and criticisms of its collections.  However, no citizen in a democracy has the right to prevent another from reading a specific book by demanding its removal from Mellinger Memorial Library and aside from pornography, there should be no book that is absolutely inappropriate for a public library.  The Board of Trustees declares as a matter of firm principle that no challenged library material shall be removed from this library under any puntative legal or extra-legal pressure, save after an independent determination by a judicial officer in a court of competent jurisdiction and only after an adversary hearing, in accordance with well-established principles of law.

The responsibility for reading material for children rests with the parents or legal guardians.  Selection of materials for the adult collection is not restricted by the possibility that children may obtain materials their parents consider inappropriate.

Maintaining the Collection

In order to maintain the collection in its most useful and attractive condition, the selectors will use normal professional criteria in removing materials, which are no longer useful or are in a condition not suitable for circulation.  Materials which are deteriorating may be repaired or rebound.  Material no longer useful to Mellinger Memorial Library will be disposed of.

Withdrawal of Library Materials

The weeding of Mellinger Memorial Library’s collection is actually materials selection in reverse.  Weeding is a thorough and conscientious effort to achieve a well-balance, up-to-date collection suitable to the patrons served.  Weeding should be a continuous, consistent process.  Items to consider weeding are:

1.       Misleading.

2.       Ugly.

3.       Superseded.

4.       Trivial.

5.       Irrelevant to the Community

6.       Elsewhere (Can be found at other libraries through Interlibrary loan).

Reference

Weed by subject, replace Encyclopedia as deemed necessary, and replace Yearbooks, Statistical Guides and Almanacs annually.

Religion, Philosophy and Psychology

Keep basic information on religions and philosophy and the works of major writers.  Discard secondary information based on use or which deal with subjects no longer of interest to the community.  Keep a basic collection of books on standard psychological theories and the works of major writers.  Discard self-help psychology books, which are no longer popular.

Social Sciences, Education and Folklore

Weed frequently, particularly economics books which date quickly.  Keep historical works but weed contemporary works which have been updated.  Weed educational materials in areas where techniques and ideas have changed.  Keep basic material in folklore.

Language

Keep dictionaries, replace old grammars.  Weed based upon use.

Pure Science

Replace at least every three to five years except botany and natural history, which have longer life.  Pick up new trends in science by reading reviews in specialized periodicals.

Applied Science, Health, Medicine, and Cooking, Gardening, Business

Much of this area dates rapidly.  Much of the applied science material, health and medicine may be out of date in less than five years.  However, older appliance and equipment manuals may be of use to community residents.  Weed cookbooks and gardening books since a fresh new selection is much more appealing.  Keep current works on business and weed older ones based on use.  Be particularly careful in the areas of finance, investment, and taxation.

Art, Music, and Hobbies

Weed based upon use.  Older material is valuable in subject areas.

Literature

Keep plays, poetry, etc. unless they are written by little-known writers no longer read.  Discard literary history which has been updated and works about minor writers.

History and Travel

Keep the classics on various periods of history, discard memoirs and personal accounts no longer read, discard personal travel accounts if dated and unread and older editions of guidebooks.

Biography

Weed biographies of people no longer of interest.

Fiction

Use standard lists as a basis for weeding.  Discard duplicate copies of best sellers no longer being read.  Series will be kept unless entire series is being weeded.

Items withdrawn may be offered to another library but most often are sold in Mellinger Memorial Library.  Materials in poor condition may be thrown away.

Confidentiality Policy

It is the policy of Mellinger Memorial Public Library not to release information that would reveal the identity of a library patron who checked out or used certain materials or services or requested an item of information from Mellinger Memorial Library.  Information concerning the account of a patron will be released to that person only.  However, Mellinger Memorial Library will release information to the parent or guardian of a minor child for the purposes of recovering overdue material and settling accounts for late, lost, or damaged material, and for other matters related to the recovery of material or charges incurred by minor children for which a parent or guardian may be considered liable.  Information will not be provided to parents or guardians who are merely attempting to determine what library materials their minor children are using.

Requests for release of confidential patron records will be honored if submitted in writing and accompanied by an order from the court as outlined in Chapter 22.7 of the Iowa Code.

Parents should be aware that as provided in Section 22.7 (13) of the Code of Iowa, they cannot have access to records of what their child checks out.  This code states that libraries may not reveal to another party any titles checked out by an individual.  This law includes materials borrowed by children and requests by parents for information.  All borrowers, including children, may request this information from their own borrowing records.  Parents of young children may wish to check out materials for their child on the parent’s card to facilitate access to this information.

Patrons can receive information about their account at the Mellinger Memorial Public Library by phone.  This includes information on overdue items, fines, and titles of checked-out items.  Your library card number is required when calling as no information on a patron’s record will be release without this number.

Sex Offender Policy

Library Access for Registered Sex Offenders (against a minor). See also Iowa Code (692A)

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the Library is in compliance with Iowa State law that excludes registered sex offenders convicted of sex offenses against minors from public libraries.

In accordance with Chapter 692A of Subtitle 1 of Title 16 of the Code of Iowa, the Board of Trustees for the Mellinger Memorial Library prohibits the presence of sex offenders convicted of sex offenses against minors upon or within 300 feet of library property without written permission of the Library Director.

The Library Director may only give written permission as the result of a vote at a meeting the Board of Trustees at which a quorum is present.

Persons barred from library property under the law remain entitled to library service.  It is the responsibility of the library user to arrange for a courier to select, check out, and return materials to the library through possession of the library user’s card.

Persons barred from library property under the law will not be served by the library’s homebound delivery service.

The issuance of a library card to individuals who have been convicted of a sex offense involving a minor does not grant those individuals permission to enter the library or to be present on library property.  Individual convicted of a sex offense against a minor must follow proper library procedures and policies to request and obtain written permission to be on library property, regardless of whether or not they possess a valid library card.

Definition of “Loiter”: means remaining in a place or circulating around a place under circumstances that would warrant a reasonable person to believe that the purpose or effect of the behavior is to enable a sex offender to become familiar with a location where a potential victim may be found, or to satisfy an unlawful sexual desire, or to locate, lure or harass a potential victim.

Suspicious person or persons who appear to be “loitering” will be reported to the police to be checked out and investigated.

Background check will be performed using the National Sex Offender Registry on all employees, potential employees, and volunteers, including library board members or potential library board members, who are or will be working on library property.

Violations of this policy will be immediately reported to law enforcement.

Conduct Policy

            The Mellinger Memorial Library’s goal is to provide a safe, comfortable environment conducive to the use of library materials and services by all members of the public. Patrons are expected to observe the rights of other patrons and staff members and to use the library for its intended purposes.

Misconduct

Prohibited conduct may include, but is not limited to the following:

·         Harassment: Willfully annoying, harassing, or threatening another person.  Harassment is defined as any action taken or situation created intentionally to produce psychological or physical discomfort, embarrassment, or ridicule.  Sexual harassment is characterized by requests for sexual contact, unwelcome physical advances, or verbal or physical conduct of a nature that is intimidating, demeaning, hostile, or offensive.

·         Photography: Taking pictures or video of people unless authorized by the people involved or their parents if minors are present.

·         Disorderly: Behaving in a disorderly, loud, or boisterous manner.

·         Offensive language or images: Willfully exposing patrons or staff to offensive images or language.

·         Audio Equipment: Playing audio equipment at a volume that is disturbing to other library users.

·         Loud or Lengthy Conversations:  Engaging in loud or lengthy conversations including conversations on cell phones.

·         Animals: Bringing animals into the library, except service animals, unless approved by the director or his/her designee.

·         Personal Items: The library assumes no responsibility for any belongings left unattended.

·         Tobacco, Illegal Drug or Alcohol Use: Any form of tobacco, e-cigarettes, illegal drugs, or alcohol on library property.

·         Food and Drink: Consuming food except as permitted in the meeting room or approved by the director or his/her designee. Nonalcoholic beverages in covered containers are allowed.

·         Vandalism: Vandalism or deliberate destruction of library materials or property.

·         Sleeping: Sleeping in the library and/or bathing in the library restroom.

·         Law Violation: Violating any municipal, state, or federal law or code.

·         Policy Violation: Violating current library policies.

Enforcement

Enforcement of these rules (for persons ten and older) may take the form of any of the following actions, depending upon the severity of the misconduct which will be determined by the library staff on duty at the time.  Misconduct by persons less than ten years of age is discussed and remedies provided for in the Mellinger Memorial Library Unattended Children Policy.

• Warning: In most cases, patrons who are behaving inappropriately in the library will be given one warning and asked to behave in an appropriate manner. Patrons who do not modify their behavior after one warning may be asked to leave the library for the rest of the day.

• Extreme Conduct: In the case of any misconduct that in the judgment of staff is extreme, the offender may be told to leave the building immediately, or the police may be called as appropriate. 

• Multiple Offenses: Patrons engaging in misconduct on more than one instance may be barred from the library for one month or longer. 

• Misconduct of 10-17 Year-Olds: When known, parents/guardians of disruptive patrons from the ages of 10 through 17 will be notified by phone, mail or email by the director or his/her designee stating the date, the behavior considered disruptive, and the measures taken by the library staff.

• Exceptions: Exceptions to any of the above may be authorized by the director or his/her designee.

• Staff Responsibility: Staff will document on the attached form any and all actions taken when dealing with disruptive behavior. The form will be signed by the staff person involved and by other staff members as appropriate.  It will be referred to the director and kept on file.

·         Appeal Process

·         Any patron wishing to appeal a library staff conduct decision to the Mellinger Memorial Library Board of Trustees may do so in writing within 5 working days of the occurrence.

·         The Board of Trustees will meet with the patron or patrons and the staff member or members involved at the next regularly scheduled meeting.

·         A decision will be rendered within 5 working days following said meeting. Such decision is final.

Infectious Disease Policy

General Guidelines

Employees shall adhere to the following basic guidelines as follows:

·         Physical distancing (specifically, staying 6 feet away from others when you must go into a shared space).

·         Wearing cloth or paper face coverings when you are working with other staff and the public, unless an accommodation or other exemption applies.

·         Wear gloves when handling library materials and serving patrons during curbside and other in-person services.

General Hygiene

In addition to the above stated General Guidelines, employees shall use the following general hygiene practices:

·         Frequently wash hands or use alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available

·         Avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth

·         Stay home when sick

·         Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces Cleaning and disinfecting procedures Cleaning workstations and work areas

·         Disinfect daily and as needed.

·         Spray disinfectant the surfaces: Desktops, Keyboards, Mice, Phones Cleaning specific areas after each use Elevator: Disinfect buttons by spraying disinfectant on a paper towel and wiping the surfaces Copier: Disinfect display area and surfaces you or others touched on the copier by spraying disinfectant on a paper towel and wiping the surfaces Book drop: Spray lock area and opening to the book drop. This will be the responsibility of the staff member emptying the book drop.

·         Door handles: Disinfect handles you or others touch by spraying disinfectant the surfaces.

Employees health

·         Self monitor health Before leaving for work

·         Check temperature if necessary.

·         Screen yourself by asking if you have any of the following symptoms?

o   Cough

o   Shortness of breath

o   Fever 100.4 degrees F or higher

o   New loss of smell/taste

o   Chills

o   Repeated shaking with chills

o   Sore throat

o   Muscle pain

·         Have you been in close contact with anyone with these symptoms or anyone who has been diagnosed in the past 14 days?

If you answer yes to any of these symptoms, you will need to do the following.

·         Do not come to work

·         Notify Library Director and/or Assistant Director

·         We request you talk to a health care provider and obtain a medical release to return to work.

Employee with diagnosed (Library may be closed during this time)

·         Step 1:

o   Staff member will be sent home to self-isolate; or, if staff member is home, they shall not come to work.

o   Staff member must obtain a medical release from their medical provider prior to returning to work, but in no case shall a staff member return earlier if the criteria in step 2 are not met.

·         Step 2:

o   Return to work: Staff member(s) may return to work upon all of the following occurrences:

§  3 days with no fever and

§  Respiratory symptoms have improved and

§  10 days since symptom first appeared

·         Employees who have directly been exposed, defined as six feet for at least fifteen minutes without a face covering, to someone with infectious disease should report the situation immediately to their supervisor and remain absent from work for 14 days. A letter will be issued by email stating the fact of exposure without specifics to maintain confidentiality of employee as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Exposed employees will be assessed

·         “Close contact”– An employee will be considered “exposed” if they had “close contact” with a person who has been diagnose. The term “close contact” means being within six feet for at least fifteen minutes without face covering. ◦ If exposed, please do not come to work and remain absent from work for 14 days. Cleaning and disinfecting work place

·         Affected employee: Gone fewer than seven days: clean and disinfect workplace after waiting at least 24 hours.

·         Gone more than seven days: routine cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas.

Incident Report Policy and Form

A confidential file of information on problem incidents in which a contact for has been filed will be kept by the Library Director. The purpose of this file is to track any serious problems that are reported by the staff. It will be used to document incidents and to track problems of a reoccurring nature.

Contact Form

Please provide a description of unacceptable behavior reported and a description of any action taken (e.g., person asked to leave and did so; police called; officer escorted person from the library, etc.)

Name______________________________________________________________________________

Address_____________________________________________________________________________

Date & Time of Incident________________________________________________________________

Description of Incident:

Reported by__________________________________________________________________________

Witnesses:

Action Taken:

Submit contact form to the Library Director. Director initials when received and read.

LAPTOP COMPUTER / MEDIA PROJECTOR

BORROWER AGREEMENT FORM

The Mellinger Memorial Library lends laptop computers and media projectors to residents of Louisa County as a public service.  Given the expense of the equipment, however, the library requires photo identification and a security deposit for equipment that leaves the building.  Borrower must be at least 18 years of age and Borrower’s library account must also be in good standing.  Please review the agreement before signing.

By signing below I, _______________________________,  the Borrower agree to the following:

Please print

·         The City of Morning Sun, IA and the Mellinger Memorial Library are held harmless by the Borrower for any damage, injury or loss.

·         The Borrower will return the equipment at or before the agreed time and in the same condition as the equipment was in when borrowed.

·         The Borrower is fully responsible for the condition of the equipment and for the cost of any and all parts or pieces damaged or missing.

·         A copy of the Borrower’s driver’s license or other photo identification will be securely held by the Library which will be returned to the Borrower upon the return of the equipment in good condition to the Library.

·         A deposit of $20 in cash or check will be required before the equipment leaves the library.  The deposit will be securely held by the Library and returned to the Borrower upon the return of the equipment in good condition to the Library.  If parts or pieces of the equipment are missing or damaged, the deposit and identification will be held by the Library until such time as the cost for repair and/or replacement have been paid by the Borrower.

·         A non-refundable fee of $15.00 for the projector, $15.00 for the laptop, and $10.00 for setup will be required at time of checkout. If you do not any of those things you will not be charged.

·         After 30 days, the unpaid balance of the cost of repair or replacement of equipment may be referred to the City Attorney.  §714.5 of the Code of Iowa clearly states that failure to return library of materials or equipment is evidence of attempted theft.

·         Your deposit will NOT be returned if the item(s) are late, damaged, or missing any parts. 

·         You are the responsible one for the equipment and should not loan it to anyone else.

• If the equipment is damaged or missing, you will charged the replacement cost of all equipment that was damaged or missing.

Signed__________________________________________

Address_________________________________________

Telephone_______________________________________

Staff signature____________________________________

Date Due ___________        Deposit Received – date ________Staff Initials______

Deposit Returned – date _______  Staff Initials_______

Deposit picked up by ________________________________________________

                                                        (if other than Borrower – please both sign and print name)

Appendix A

Operating Parameters Chart

Appendix B

Service Chart