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Library Policies & Strategic Plan

These policies were established for the benefit and security of library users, staff and library property. Inappropriate behavior will result in a verbal warning; if it continues, the offender must leave for the day. Repeat instances of inappropriate behavior will result in further loss of library privileges. Inappropriate library behavior includes any misconduct that hinders use of the library or its resources or that places library members and users or staff at risk. Such misconduct might include, but is not limited to behaviors listed below.

The following behaviors are not permitted in the library, on the bookmobile or on library property:

  • Damaging or theft of library materials, equipment or property. Also stealing the property of library visitors or staff.
  • Misusing library computer equipment, including reprogramming or altering settings or using the Internet in a way that is in violation of the library’s Internet Use and Safety Policy.
  • Eating or drinking, except in designated areas.
  • Speaking loudly enough to disturb others, including cell phone use.
  • Using profanity or other inappropriate or rude language toward other library visitors or staff.
  • Bringing firearms, knives or other weapons into the library.
  • Fighting on library property; also behaving in a loud or rowdy manner.
  • Harassing others, either verbally or through actions. Harassment may include initiating unwanted conversations or interfering with access to the building by congregating in or near entrances, exits and stairways.
  • Loitering, alone or in a group.
  • Using emergency exits for non-emergency departures.
  • Leaving children unattended inside or outside the library, especially at closing time.
  • Allowing children in one’s care to behave disruptively or destructively.
  • Using radios, MP3 players, computers or other listening devices at a level audible to others.
  • Wearing inadequate or insufficient clothing (shirts and shoes required).
  • Exhibiting bodily hygiene so offensive as to constitute a nuisance to others.
  • Soliciting, selling or proselytizing whether for personal gain or charitable purposes.
  • Using tobacco in any form in any way while on library property.
  • Possessing, selling or using alcoholic beverages or illegal substances.
  • Behaving in a way suggestive of being under the influence of alcoholic, hallucinogenic or other controlled substances.
  • Bringing animals into the library, except for registered service animals for the disabled or animals featured in special library events.
  • Videotaping or photographing of any kind without prior authorization from the director or the librarian/supervisor in charge.
  • Distributing literature, taking surveys or asking individuals or staff to sign petitions or similar activities except as part of special events sponsored by the library.
  • Running, skateboarding, rollerblading, or bicycling on library property. Carrying skateboards, basketballs or other athletic equipment in the building; such items may be left with staff near the entrance. Playing on outside ramps, walls and walkways.
  • Engaging in inappropriate displays of affection or sexual activity.
  • Misusing restroom facilities, such as bathing or using gender inappropriate restrooms.

Updated and Board approved, December 2008

Unattended Child Policy

Internet Use & Safety Policy

The Ashland Public Library provides free public access to the Internet, a medium that offers a wealth of educational, recreational, and cultural information for Library users. Because the Internet is a vast, unregulated medium, the Library cannot control and is not responsible for the content or accuracy of information accessed of the Internet, including the information contained in electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of electronic communication.

The Library uses technology protection measures to block access to some Internet sites that may be harmful or inappropriate for minors. Since technology protection measures are not completely effective or efficient, further restrictions of a minor’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. Users in all areas of the Library may not use Internet sessions in a manner that is deliberately offensive or creates a hostile or intimidating environment. Library staff reserves the right to prohibit displaying material that in in their judgment is inappropriate for viewing in this public area.

To address issues of safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of electronic communication, parents and legal guardians should urge minors to follow basic safety guidelines: never give out personal information (name, address, phone number, etc.) never arrange via a computer to meet someone, and never respond to messages that are threatening or suggestive, remembering that people online may not be who they say they are.

While accessing the Internet at the Library, users must comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws. Users may not attempt in any way to alter, damage, or sabotage computer hardware or software (practices known as hacking) and will be financially responsible for any malicious damage to hardware or software. The Library is not liable for any damage to a customer’s disk or computer that may occur from use of the Internet at the Library; not is the Library responsible for any liability that may occur as a result of the disclosure of financial or other personal information while access the Internet at the Library.

The Library does not release information on the use of the Internet by Library users except as required by law. The Library may limit the amount of time of individual user sessions on the Internet and may charge a fee for printing from the Internet. Failure to comply with this policy may result in loss of access. Illegal acts may be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.

Approved by Board of Trustees, December 2006

Displays/Exhibits

Content: Ashland Public Library is pleased to provide space for displays of an educational, cultural, civic, or recreational nature. Display space is not provided for commercial, political or religious purposes. Ashland Public Library shall have the final decision on the content and arrangement of all displays/exhibits.

Liability: Ashland Public Library assumes no liability for items displayed or exhibited and the exhibitor agrees to hold harmless and fully indemnify the library in the event of damage or loss.

Application: Application is made on a first-come, first-served basis. Please apply at the Circulation Desk; applications will be forwarded to the Director for consideration. Exhibitors are to comply with dates specified for setting up and taking down of displays/exhibits.

Approved by Board of Trustees, June 1999

Insects and Other Pests

It is the responsibility of the Ashland Public Library to maintain a healthy and clean environment for all Library users and to protect the taxpayer’s investment in Library collections, equipment, and property from insects and other pests. In order to fulfill this responsibility, the Library may charge the patron for damage to materials and/or restrict a user’s ability to borrow materials and/or to visit Library property when such use may jeopardize the health and cleanliness of Library facilities, collections, users, and/or staff.

Approved by Board of Trustees, September 2020

Social Media Policy

Approved by Board of Trustees, November 2021

Public Participation Policy

Approved by Board of Trustees, May 2022

Collection Development and Interlibrary Loan Policy

Approved by Board of Trustees, May 2022

Patron Request for Reconsideration of Library Material

Meeting Room and Study Room Policy

Approved by Board of Trustees, August 2022

Test Proctoring Policy

Approved by Board of Trustees, August 2022

Strategic Plan

The Ashland Public Library understands that libraries, along with a wide range of other service organizations, are facing tougher, more numerous challenges than ever before. Our funding model is changing as we are moving from a state funded system to a greater dependence on local funding, and there fore we are more concerned about our voters. Our competition is changing and growing. In many libraries, our circulation figures and foot traffic have plateaued or are decreasing. How do we respond to these trends? 

The Board of Trustees and Management Team have identified strategic changes that the Ashland Public Library will implement to meet these challenges. These decisions are fundamental, directional, and overarching. They will be used to guide the organization over the next two years, and influence Ashland Public Library’s service, marketing, hiring and training decisions. The tactical decisions, made by the Management team and their staff, will affect the day-to-day implementation of the strategic decisions. Having well thought out strategic decisions and clearly articulated tactical decisions is important to have success in any organization.

Approved by Board of Trustees, 2020