Library Policies

Library Mission

The mission of the Autauga-Prattville Public Libraries is to provide a safe and inviting place where residents can interact with each other; find information about their community; investigate a wide range of topics pertaining to their work, school and lives; and develop a love of reading and learning that will continue throughout their lives.

The following policies were prepared by the library director and board of trustees of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library. These are the established operational policies of the Library. These policies will be examined every five years and may be revised at any time by action of the Board. Please note that the use of the word “Library”, APPL, or Autauga-Prattville Public Library includes all library locations.

Library Policies

Reviewed and approved by Library Board of Trustees

November 2023
February 2024
June 2024
November 2024

I. Books-By-Mail Policy

Introduction

The Library offers the Books-by-Mail program as a service to its homebound residents who are otherwise unable to borrow library materials. Participants in this program may give general instruction on what type of library materials they want to receive, and the library staff mails them a maximum of three items per month in a postage-paid mailer. The items are returned in the same mailer.

Who Is Eligible to Use the Program?

Any homebound person residing in Autauga County. There is no requirement to certify a disability beyond stating that you are homebound. However, anyone who is eligible to enroll in the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped program will be referred to that program instead of APPL’s Books-by-Mail program.

Books-By-Mail applications are available at the Circulation Desk, on the library website, or by mail upon request.

Participant’s Responsibilities

A completed application must be mailed to the library for processing. If the patron does not have a current library card, a library card application will be mailed to them or the patron may fill out an application on the library’s website. The patron can complete the library card application and return it in the mail to the library. Once the completed application has been received by the library, they may proceed with the books-by-mail application process.

The patron will receive one shipment of three items monthly based on his/her interests. The loan period for these items is four weeks. Late fees are not charged but patrons will be billed for lost or damaged items. The patron must return the items in the pre-paid mailer in which they arrived. The patron or the patron’s caregiver must notify the library if the patron wants or needs to interrupt or stop service.

Participants must maintain an active account in good standing to remain in the program.

Library’s Responsibilities

The Circulation Administrator will maintain records for each program participant. The Circulation Administrator will send one shipment of three items each month based on the participant’s personal preferences as well as the Circulation Administrator’s best judgement for items of potential interest to the participant. The following items are not included in the Books-By-Mail program: New Books, Audio/Visual Material, Launchpads, Board games, oversized items.

II. Borrowing Policies

A library card may be issued to:

Any individual who lives within Autauga County or the City of Prattville
Minors (under age 18) who meet the above qualification accompanied by a parent/guardian (minors accompanied with another caregiver other than a parent/guardian may receive a library card if they present written consent from the parent/guardian and the caregiver agrees to take responsibility for the account; caregiver may terminate at any time)
Non-residents of Autauga County or the City of Prattville may obtain a Library card for a $15.00 annual fee. This card may be used by any member of the immediate family residing in the same home.
Individuals (including immediate family) presenting a military ID, both active and retired, may obtain a library card free of charge regardless of where they reside.
Public and private businesses within Autauga County or the City of Prattville that require the use of library materials i.e. day cares, nursing homes, museums, shelters, etc. (at the discretion of the Library Director; application must be signed by the person who will be responsible for material, fines and/or fees associated with material)
Educators working in Autauga County who wish to borrow materials for use in the classroom, may obtain a library card free of charge regardless of where they reside. (at the discretion of the Library Director)

Library Cards for Minors

Children under the age of 18 shall receive library cards that are especially designated for minors. These cards will not permit the checkout of material from the adult collection. Minor cards will have access to the children, juvenile, and teen collections. Parents/legal guardians may give their minor child access to adult materials by checking those materials out on their behalf or requesting a waiver giving the minor access to the adult collection. Emancipated minors who have a library card are exempt from this rule.

Proof of Residency

Identification showing current address is required for adult patrons (ages eighteen and older and emancipated minors) before a permanent Library card can be issued.

Identification sources accepted include but are not limited to:

Driver’s license, temporary Alabama driver’s license or learner’s permit
Passport
Military ID
Checkbook showing home address of applicant/guardian
Current utility bill in applicant’s/guardian’s name
Mail addressed to applicant/guardian showing recent postmark

Emancipated minors should bring proof of emancipation along with any of the above identification.

Welcome Library Card

Adult individuals who live within Autauga County and wish to apply for a library card but do not have proof of address with them may receive a Welcome Card. A Welcome Card is a temporary card that will expire 2 weeks from the date it is created. This card may be used to check out a maximum of 2 items. The individual will need to return with proof of address to receive a permanent library card. Welcome cards may not be renewed. If proof of address is not received by the library, by the expiration date, the Welcome card will be deactivated. Only books may be checked out using a Welcome Card. Welcome cards are not available to minors.

Checking Out Materials

A library patron should present his/her library card in order to check out materials. If the library card is not in his/her possession, materials may be checked out with photo identification.
Persons checking out material for the first time may check out five items the day the library card is issued.
Parents/legal guardians or caregivers who have responsibility for the account of a minor may have access to the minor’s account information.

Expiration dates

All library cards expire annually. The Library’s automated circulation system will prompt staff to update patron records with current contact information.

Responsibility for Materials

The individual to whom a library card is issued assumes full responsibility for all items borrowed with that card. The parent/guardian or caregiver who signs the application for a minor’s card is responsible for all items borrowed with that card and are also required to have a library card.

Linking of Family Member Cards

The library will link all members of a family in the same household who hold library cards. If a caregiver does not live in the household but has taken responsibility for a minor’s card, he or she will be linked to the minor’s library card. If any linked card is blocked or barred then all linked cards are effectively blocked until the fines are paid and/or books returned.

Suspension of Borrowing Privileges

Borrowing privileges may be blocked or barred for the non-return of items, unpaid fees or a change in eligibility. Users may also lose library privileges for illegal activity or other

infractions (see the library’s Patron Behavior policy).

Library Card Fees

Replacement library cards are $3.00.

Online Library Card Applications

Individuals may apply for a library card via an electronic form available on the library’s OPAC. The patron will be emailed once the library account has been created. The patron must then present proof of residency to a staff member at the library to receive a library card. Patrons who do not present proof of residency to a staff person within 30 days of the creation of the card will have their account deactivated.

III. Cell Phone and Library Business Phone Policy

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library is committed to providing an environment that is welcoming to all users while being conducive to study.

All individuals are requested to set cell phones to no-ring (vibrate) mode upon entering the library building. We recognize that it is sometimes essential to obtain information over the phone for things you are doing on the computers, but we ask that you notify staff about your need to use the phone prior to being seated if possible. Otherwise, short, quiet phone calls may be taken in the stacks area or in the lobby. Users must move extended conversations outside the library.

Staff members are authorized to issue verbal warnings to persons disturbing others with phone ringing or conversations. If the offender refuses to cooperate, he or she will be asked to leave as quickly and quietly as possible. Acting abusively with verbal or physical threat or failing to cooperate with the staff will be reported in a formal “Incident Report”. If this behavior continues the individual may lose library privileges.

All Library staff are expected to follow the same rules as the public. Private calls or text messages are to be made out of the public eye and during breaks or lunch.

Library phones are for library business. Patrons may be allowed to briefly use phones to call for a ride or to verify information for research.

IV. Charges (fees) for Services

Out of County Fee

A fee of $15.00 per card will be charged yearly for an out-of-county (Autauga) library card.

Lost/Damaged Cards

There will be a $3.00 charge to replace a lost or damaged card.

Materials Fines

Each book incurs a $.20 per day fine, up to a maximum of $5.00 per item.

Each lease book incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $10.00 per item.

Each DVD or audiobook incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $5.00 per item. *Each Launchpad incurs a $2.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $100.00 per item.

*Each board game incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $20.00 per item. *Each text magnifier incurs a $.20 per day fine, up to a maximum of $10.00 per item.

*Each projector incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $20.00 per item.

*Each CD player incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $20.00 per item. *Each learning kit incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item. *Each wi-fi hotspot incurs a $1.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item.

*Each telescope incurs a $5.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $100.00 per item.

*Each doll and doll accessory incurs a $0.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item. *Each baking pan incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item.

*Each microscope incurs a $5.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $100.00 per item. *Each tool kit incurs a $.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $20.00 per item.

*Each chemistry set incurs a $1.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item. *Each digital camera incurs a $2.00 per day fine, up to a maximum of $50.00 per item. *Each energy watt meter incurs a $0.50 per day fine, up to a maximum of $30.00 per item.

*Each Library of Things item returned via the dropbox will incur a fine of $2.00 to cover potential damage. Materials currently part of the Library of Things are notated with an asterisk.

Damaged or Lost Materials

All items returned in a damaged condition will be charged according to extent of damage. All Lost items will be charged the cost of the item.

All Items:

Missing barcode=$1.00; Missing/torn pocket=$1.00;

AudioBooks:

Damaged audio-visual cases=$3.00;

Damaged/missing disc if replaceable=$10.00 If the disc is not replaceable the patron will be charged the actual cost of the audiobook.

DVDs:

Missing case or missing disc=cost of item

Launchpads:

Launchpad case damaged beyond use or lost=$10.00;

Launchpad accessories damaged beyond use or lost=$10.00.

Damaged beyond repair=cost of item

Board Games:

Missing pieces=$.10 per piece.

Damaged or missing box/container=cost of item

Damaged beyond repair=cost of item

Text Magnifiers:

Damaged or missing pieces = cost of item

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

CD Players:

Damaged or missing pieces = cost of item

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

Projectors:

Damaged or missing pieces = cost of item

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

Learning Kits:

Damaged or missing pieces = $5.00 per item missing/damaged

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

Wi-fi Hotspots:

Damaged or missing pieces = $10.00 per item missing/damaged

Damaged beyond repair or lost = $150

Telescope:

Damaged or missing pieces = $20 per item missing/damaged

Damaged beyond repair = $300

Dolls:

Damaged or missing doll accessories = cost of item

Damaged or missing doll = $150

Baking pans:

Damaged beyond use = cost of item

Microscope:

Damaged or missing pieces = $20 per item missing/damaged

Damaged beyond repair = $200

Tool Kit:

Damaged or missing tools=cost of item

Damaged or missing container=cost of item

Chemistry Set:

Damaged or missing pieces = $5.00 per item missing/damaged

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

Digital Camera:

Damaged beyond repair = $300

Energy Watt Meter:

Damaged beyond repair = cost of item

All fees are nonrefundable. All damaged or lost materials are charged a non-refundable $2.00 processing fee. All items damaged beyond use or lost items will be charged the full cost of the item.

Lost Material Payment Refund:

A receipt will be issued when a lost item is paid for and library privilege reinstated. If the lost item is found and returned within sixty days of payment, and can be put back in circulation, the paid receipt and id can be presented and a full refund will be made minus the $2.00 processing fee.

Interlibrary Loan

A processing fee of $2.00 is charged for each ILL. A fine of .20 cents per day per item will be charged for all overdue interlibrary loan books up to a maximum of $2.00 per item. The fee for lost or damaged interlibrary loan material will be the amount indicated by the lending library and is nonrefundable.

Photocopies and Printing:

Each black and white page printed from a computer is $.20. Each color page printed from a computer is $1.00

Fax:

Faxes are $.50 per page for a local fax sent; $.25 per page for a fax received, including the cover sheet on faxes sent or received. Fax for long distance is $2.50 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page. Overseas faxes are $7.50 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page. Fax cover sheets may be obtained from the library free of charge.

Return Check Fee:

If a check is returned to the library, the patron will be responsible for paying the full amount of the check that was returned as well as a $25.00 returned check fee. The only acceptable forms of payments for returned checks are cash, money order, or a cashier’s check.

Research Fees:

Charges may be assessed for costs associated with local history or genealogical research.

Disputes:

Occasional disputes may arise between patrons and Library staff regarding charges against their accounts. The Library staff will make a good faith effort to locate the item within the Library. Likewise, the patron will be encouraged to carefully search his/her home for the missing item.
If a patron is adamant that the charge is not deserved the Library staff may waive the charges.
For damaged items, the Library will assess the damage and check the amount of time the patron had the item and the number of previous checkouts, among other possible factors, in considering the resolution of the dispute.
If the material in dispute cannot be located or repaired, the Library Director may forgive the charge, at their discretion.
No more than three lost/damaged items will be forgiven per patron account.

V. Children’s Books-By-Mail Policy – Bridge to Reading

Introduction

The Library offers the Children’s Books-by-Mail program primarily as a service to children who are otherwise unable to borrow library materials. Participants in this program may give general instruction on what type of library materials they want to receive, and the library staff mails them a maximum of four items per month in a postage-paid mailer. The items are returned in the same mailer.

Who Is Eligible to Use the Program?

Children residing in Autauga County between the ages of 2 and 12 years old. Books-By-Mail applications are available by request only.

Participant’s Responsibilities

Guardians are not required to have a library card but must take responsibility for the child’s card.

The patron will receive one shipment per month. The loan period for these items is four weeks. Late fees are not charged but patrons will be billed for lost or damaged items once the items become 2 months overdue. The patron must return the items in the pre-paid mailer in which they arrived. Patrons who have items 2 months or more overdue will be removed from the program.

Participants must maintain an active account in good standing to remain in the program.

Library’s Responsibilities

A library staff member will maintain records for each program participant. A library staff member will send one shipment each month based on the participant’s personal preferences as well as the library staff member’s best judgement for items of potential interest to the participant. The following items are not included in the Children’s Books-By- Mail program: New Books, Audio/Visual Material, Launchpads, Board games, oversized items.

A maximum of 20 children may participate in the program.

VI. CIPA-COMPLIANT INTERNET SAFETY AND FILTERING POLICY

Internet access at library computer workstations is provided equally to all patrons of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library. In the event that a library card becomes required to use the library’s computers, all patrons in good standing will have equal access to computers.

Just as with the physical collection, not all Internet sites are suitable for all ages. Therefore, the library provides a basic level of filtering on all computers.

All library computer workstations and the Wi-Fi network are filtered at the basic level. The goal of basic level filtering is to restrict access to sites that are illegal, obscene, and harmful to minors or that compromise computer or network security.

Wireless Internet access is provided to all patrons utilizing their own devices. People of all ages who use their personal devices to access the library wireless Internet will be filtered at the basic level.

A patron may request that an Internet site be blocked or unblocked for “bona fide research or other lawful purposes”. Staff will make every effort to review the request within 72 hours to determine whether it should be permanently blocked or unblocked.

All Library patrons are expected to access the Internet in compliance with the Library’s Computer Use Agreement and within the boundaries of the law. Viewing illegal materials (obscenity, child pornography or materials harmful to minors) is prohibited. While using in- library computer workstations patrons may not attempt to change program settings, boot from an external device, or try to run their own software. Violations may result in the loss of Internet privileges. Using the computer workstation constitutes an agreement by the user to these terms.

The Library respects the rights and responsibilities of parents or guardians in determining and monitoring the use of the Internet by their children under the age of 18. The Library advises parents/guardians that it cannot assure children’s safety and security while using the Internet in the library. When children use social networks, electronic mail, chat and other forms of direct electronic communication, the library cannot protect against unauthorized access, including hacking, and other unlawful online activities. Furthermore, the Library cannot protect against unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding children if children provide such information while using the Internet.

It is the responsibility of parents or legal guardians to monitor the Internet use of their minor children.

Copies of the Internet Use Policy, and other relevant documents, will be available to all library patrons in print format and electronically via the Library’s web site.

*The Children’s Internet Protection Act defines “Harmful to minors” as: Any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that—(i) taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion; (ii) depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or lewd exhibition of the genitals; and (iii) taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors” (Secs. 1703(b)(2), 20 U.S.C. sec 3601(a)(5)(F) as added by CIPA sec 1711, 20 U.S.C. sec 9134(b)(f)(7)(B) as added by CIPA sec 1712(a), and 147 U.S.C. sec 254(h)(c)(G) as added by CIPA sec. 1721 (a)).

**Federal Communications Commission’s Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Guide:

https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/childrens-internet-protection-act

VII. Collection Development Policy

Collection Development Responsibility

Ultimate responsibility for collection development rests with the Library Director who administers under the authority of the Board of Trustees. The Library Director, in turn, may delegate the authority for selection to the Cataloger who oversees this responsibility and works closely with the Children’s Librarian, branch managers, and circulation staff to purchase library materials. All library staff members, including the Library Director, are accountable to the Board of Trustees in matters related to collection development.

Selection Criteria

The library seeks to provide family-friendly content and services that lead to the health and posterity of Autauga County and Prattville residents. Materials that encourage true literacy and the pursuit of good will for one’s neighbor shall be prioritized when considering the collection.

The library collection provides the community with access to a wide range of information resources, including books, magazines, newspapers, digital media, and other educational materials for the good of its patrons. This collection, while fostering lifelong learning, literacy, and the pursuit of knowledge across all ages and backgrounds, is thoughtfully curated with consideration for the varying needs and sensibilities of different age groups, including minors

Library staff shall apply professional judgment and expertise in making collection development decisions, including decisions about choosing titles, identifying quantities for purchase, and selecting locations for materials. Relevant factors to be considered by the Library staff shall include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

Anticipated or actual demand for the item
Community interests
Community standards
Strengths and weaknesses of the existing collections
System-wide availability
Physical space limitations
Acquisitions procedures
Budget constraints, including cost-benefit (the extent to which the cost of acquisition and management of the item is justified by the overall benefit to the community in light of the Library’s budget and in comparison to potential alternatives)

Highest selection priority is given to those materials in all formats that have the broadest appeal.

Selection of books or other library material shall be made on the basis of their value of interest, information, accuracy of the information, comprehensiveness, and enduring significance. No book or library material shall be excluded purely because of race, nationality, or political views.

The Library staff shall develop and manage the collection in compliance with the administrative rules of the Alabama Public Library Service to ensure continued eligibility for state aid and to provide a safe space for all patrons, especially children and youth.

To that end, the Library staff shall not purchase or otherwise acquire any material advertised for consumers under the age of 18 which includes obscene or sexually explicit content (as those terms are defined in state or federal law) or which is otherwise deemed inappropriate for children or youth by the Library Director in the exercise of common sense and professional judgment, and in compliance with any applicable laws and any relevant standards, guidance, or policies adopted by the Board of Trustees. No books or materials containing obscene or sexually explicit content, or other content deemed inappropriate for children or youth, shall be located in the children’s section.

Age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this policy, provided their procurement, possession, distribution, display, and public dissemination would be lawful (without resort to the limited immunity for public libraries from the Alabama Anti-Obscenity Enforcement Act. See Ala. Code § 13A-12-200.10).

It is the policy of the Board of Trustees that material that would be criminal for any citizen to procure, possess, distribute, display, or disseminate has no place in a public library just because it is a public library, regardless of whether the library or library staff would be subject to criminal liability therefore. This policy does not (and could not) waive the criminal immunity afforded to library staff by Ala. Code § 13A-12-200.10; however, violation of this policy could subject library staff to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Library staff shall affix a warning label prominently on the binding of any book or other material advertised for consumers 18 and older which includes obscene or sexually explicit content or which is otherwise deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Such labeling shall not be required for age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy, as provided above.

As used here, “advertised for” means advertised, marketed, targeted, suggested, or recommended for persons under the age of 18 by the author, publisher, or seller of the material.
Or by the Board of Trustees in the case of an appeal of the Director’s determination. See Policy XX.

All displays should adhere to the selection criteria, take into account community standards and values, and have advanced approval by the Library Director.

The Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to exercise discretion over all library material, including but not limited to books, movies, artwork, displays, and programming.

Weeding

Both print and non-print materials should be reviewed and evaluated at regular intervals to determine if they are to remain in the current collection. This final step in the selection process ensures the library collection will contain materials that are factual and current; useless materials are to be discarded. The Library Director should consider the selection criteria, space, budget, the frequency of which the book has been checked out, and user needs when deciding how much and how often to weed. The Library Director will decide how to best dispose of discarded materials. The Library Board reserves the right to exercise discretion over weeding of materials.

General criteria for weeding

Materials are candidates for weeding if they are:

Misleading and/or factually inaccurate; worn out beyond mending or rebinding; superseded by a new edition or a better source; trivial (of no discernable literary or scientific merit); irrelevant to the needs and interests of the community; available elsewhere (the material may be easily borrowed from another source); not aligned with the selection criteria.

VIII. Community Bulletin Board Policy

A bulletin board is provided by the Autauga Prattville Public Library as a community service to publicize local groups, meetings, fundraising events for nonprofit organizations, educational opportunities (Educational or instructional opportunities may be posted, regardless of whether they are of a for-profit or nonprofit nature), or other services that are of a nonprofit nature.

All City/County activities will take precedence over non-library activities, publications or displays.

Personal ads and campaign literature may not be posted.

Items may be rejected for lack of space.

The items will be removed after two weeks, when they are no longer timely or when space is required for more current items.

Members of the public are not permitted to post notices on the library’s community board without approval from authorized library personnel. Notices posted without authorization will be removed.

Notice size (physical dimensions) can be restricted if deemed necessary to maximize available space.

The library does not necessarily advocate or endorse the viewpoints of organizations permitted to post notices on the Library bulletin board. The Library accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to any item accepted for posting. All posted items are discarded after they are removed.

Failure to comply with these rules may result in denial of future posting privileges.

IX. Computer and Internet Use Policy

(Unless noted, the use of the word “Library” refers to all four locations of the Autauga- Prattville Public Libraries.)

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library provides access to computers and Internet in accordance with our mission to meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of our patrons. The Internet is a vast, unregulated information resource. To continue to meet the needs of members of our community in an age when access to ever-increasing amounts of information changes constantly, this policy is presented to offer and regulate the use of electronic information networks at the library.

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library uses the Internet for a variety of purposes:

Access to shared automation systems that provide bibliographic access to the collections of our libraries.
Access to general and specialized shared licenses databases such as those provided through the Alabama Virtual Library
Access to information resources available via the Internet.

Computer Use and Minors

It is the policy of the library that parents or guardians are ultimately responsible for a

minor’s use of the Internet in the Library. Furthermore, the library staff is not responsible for supervising minors while they are using the computers. Patrons use the Internet at their own discretion. There is no expectation of privacy on public access computers. The library reserves the right to regulate use of public computers to allow users with school assignments and research projects to have first priority over recreational use such as game playing, surfing and social networking and commercial applications. User understands that minors (under age 18) must have the signed consent of a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians understand that library computers allow access to Facebook and other social networking websites. Minors age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Responsibility of Users

Internet users at the Library are expected to use the Internet as an education/information resource. Because anyone can publish on the Internet, the Library has no control over nor is it responsible for the content of the information available on the Internet. Users are encouraged to use critical judgment when evaluating the information they find on the Internet. Our libraries comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act which filters content for obscene, pornographic or other harmful content to children, but the filtering may not keep out all possibly disturbing or obscene materials. Social networking sites are readily available and all users are warned to be careful about revealing personal information on the Internet

The Library cannot assure privacy or system security and is not responsible for damages, direct or indirect, arising from a library patron’s use of electronic network resources.

Patrons are urged to respect the sensibilities of others when accessing information that may reasonably be offensive to others. Patrons are warned that they may be prosecuted for utilizing computers and information in any way that violates federal, state, or local laws.

Users of library public computers must agree to the following rules before using public computers:

User understands that he or she has no expectation of privacy.
User agrees to not damage library hardware, software, and all equipment that are property of the library nor use computers for illegal purposes such as copyright violation, disruption or damage to library computers, networks or other users.

User understands that there is a charge for making copies. User agrees to pay for all copies made at $.20 a page for black & white copies and $1.00 a page for color.
User understands that minors (under age 18) must have the signed consent of a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians understand that library computers allow access to Facebook and other social networking websites. Minors age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

User understands that small children cannot be allowed to play on computers or handle library equipment.
User understands that use of computers is available on a first come, first served basis. However, to ensure free access for all, the Library staff reserves the right to set a time limit of 1 hour on computer use sessions. During high-use periods, the use of library computers to access research materials, complete school assignment and job searching to include online application submission and creating resumes is a top priority.
User understands that nothing can be saved to the computer’s hard drive or desktop. User is responsible for bringing a USB flash/travel drive for saving information.
User understands that failure to abide by the library rules will result in a written warning and if behavior continues, ultimately loss of computer privileges.
User understands that computers will automatically shut down at 15 minutes before closing time.
User agrees to abide by copyright laws: U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S.C.) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by principles of fair use. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials (including electronic mail, text, images, programs or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Any responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement lies with the users; the Autauga-Prattville libraries expressly disclaim any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.

Wireless Access

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library provides an unsecured wireless access network for users with wireless electronic devices. This service is not to be used as a permanent connection. Wireless access is less secure than wired access. Signal strength may vary in the building and there is no printing capability.

By choosing to use this free wireless access, users agree to abide by this policy that prohibits abusive or illegal activity while using the access.

The library cannot guarantee that your hardware will work with the library’s wireless access network. If a user experiences problems connecting to a wireless access point, staff will verify that the library’s wireless network is operational, but staff are not trained to configure or troubleshoot all wireless devices. Please refer to your owner’s manual or other support.

The library’s wireless access network provides no security between access points and our device; therefore, someone in the library or outside can potentially capture information sent to or from your device. That includes passwords, credit card information, personal information, etc. Users are also urged to have up-to-date virus protection on their wireless devices.

Use of the library’s wireless network is entirely at the risk of the user. The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or data files.

X. Confidentiality

It is the policy of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library to protect the privacy of those who use the library materials. Staff members and volunteers shall protect information about library borrowers including their requests for information and materials, their loan transactions, and library staff shall not transmit such information to individuals or to any private or public agency without an order from a court of competent jurisdiction.

Pursuant to the Code of Alabama, 1975, Sections 41-8-9 & 41-8-10, the circulation and registration records of the Library are not available to the public. However, individuals may inspect their own records, and the parents of a minor child may inspect the child’s records.

Those agencies identified in the code of Alabama, 1975, Section 41-8-10, may have access to library records upon demonstrated need and with the approval of the Library Director.

Persons, firms, corporations, or agencies other than those mentioned in paragraphs one and two above, shall have access to library records only by obtaining an appropriate order or subpoena from a court of competent jurisdiction, as may be authorized by law.

Upon receipt of a court order or subpoena, the Library Director shall consult with the City Attorney or designated legal counsel to determine if the court order or subpoena complies with applicable law. If the order or subpoena is not appropriate or does not comply, then the Library may seek relief through a protective order. Further, such counsel for the Library and the Library Director shall have discretion to seek judicial relief if they deem it appropriate.

Any matter relating to the release or publication of the circulation and registration records of the Library that are not provided for in the above statements are to be referred to the Library Director. The Director shall work with the Library Board in deciding any issues arising from such matters.

Should any portion of this policy conflict with existing local, state, or federal law, then the laws will have precedence.

XI. Donations

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library welcomes donations, gifts, legacies, and endowments that promote and enhance the collection, services, and programs of the library. Commercial donations of funds, printed material, equipment, supplies, performers, or expertise that complement and support a library objective may also be accepted.

The library accepts gifts of new and used books, audio recordings, DVDs, and similar materials. The library will no longer accept VHS or Cassette tapes. Items will be added to the collection in accordance with the selection policy of the library. Once donated, items become the property of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library, and may be given to other libraries and non-profit agencies, sold, traded, or discarded if they are not added to the collection. Donated items will not be returned to the donor and the library will not accept any item that is not an outright gift. The library will acknowledge receipt of donated items but is unable to set fair market or appraisal values. It is recommended that the donor make a list of items donated. If items are being donated to obtain a tax benefit, it is the donor’s responsibility to establish fair market value or obtain expert assistance in establishing any value. The library also reserves the right to decide when a gift added to the collection can be withdrawn.

Monetary gifts, bequests, and memorial or honorary contributions are particularly welcome. Restricted gifts subject to certain conditions of the donor may be accepted if the Library Board of Trustees agrees to the condition of the gift. Funds donated to enhance the collection will be used to purchase items in accordance with the selection policy of the library. Books, DVDs, and other materials purchased with bequests and memorial or honorary contributions will be identified with special donor plates whenever possible. If requested, notification of memorial or honorary contributions will be sent to the family of the person being recognized. Suggestions for subject areas or other areas of interest are welcome and will be followed to the extent possible.

Acceptance of donations of equipment, real estate, stock, artifacts, works of art, collections, etc., will be determined by the Library Board based on their suitability to the purposes and needs of the library, laws, and regulations that govern the ownership of the gift, and the library’s ability to cover insurance and maintenance costs associated with the donation.

XII. Fine Forgiveness Program

Four times a year, the library will offer a Fine Forgiveness program to the community. Fines for overdue, lost, or damaged items may be forgiven if the patron brings items to the library for donation to an approved non-profit organization. A list of approved items that may be given as a donation in lieu of payment will be made available at the circulation desk. A minimum of two items must be donated and the items must be new, within the best buy date, and unused. The designated non-profit organization is approved by the Library Board and cannot be changed without Board approval.

XIII. Hoopla Streaming Service Policies

Hoopla is available to library patrons with a valid library card who are in good standing with the library.

Patrons with fines of $5.00 or more or with an expired library card will be blocked from Hoopla until their account has been cleared.

A limit of 5 check outs per month is set for all library cards. A limit of 10 holds are allowed at a time per library card. These limits may be adjusted at the Library Director’s discretion for budgeting purposes.

Items may be renewed twice.

All items borrowed through the Hoopla website may be streamed on a computer, tablet or smart phone, or downloaded using the mobile app. All items will expire automatically, so no fines will be assessed.

Hoopla content has the following restrictions for Patron Reporting Class: Preschool, Juvenile, Young Adult (minor library cards)

Movie Restrictions: R and above
TV: TV14 and above
Comics: PA and above
Music: PA

XIV. Interlibrary Loan

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) offers Library users the opportunity to request and receive books that are not owned by Autauga-Prattville Public Library (APPL). Through ILL, you have access to the circulating book collections of all the library systems in Alabama, as well as universities and public library systems throughout the United States. The APPL libraries will place a $2.00 service fee on each ILL to help with postage and handling.

ILL services are available to anyone holding a valid APPL card. Requests for books can be placed at any library location or by calling the main library at 334 365-3396 or faxing the request to 334 365-3397

Requested material will be delivered to the Prattville Library and then sent to a branch library of your choice. You will be contacted when the material is available for pickup. If you have questions about your ILL request once it has been placed, please call the Cataloger at 334 365-3396 Ext. 12.

Any item received via ILL service is subject to the same fees/fines placed on similar items owned by APPL. In addition, libraries which loan material to APPL may place restrictions on the loan period or place additional fines/fees on loaned items.

Patrons wanting photocopies or loans from fee-charging libraries must submit a check or money order made payable to the lending library before the loan request can be submitted. If the item is not filled by the lending library, the check or money order will be returned to the patron.

XV. Materials Circulation Policy

One of the goals of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library is to provide library materials for patron use. Policies and procedures governing the circulation of materials have been implemented by the library to foster fair and equitable availability of library materials to patrons and to reasonably ensure the return of the materials for future use.

The library staff strives for a consistent, efficient materials circulation procedure. While there will be exceptions to any rule or procedure, library patrons will appreciate that the consistent application of rules, policies and procedures ensure fair and equitable availability of library materials for all users. Staff will be mindful that the ultimate goal is to get materials into the hands of the patrons for their use.

All circulation transactions with patrons will be handled with an open, friendly, respectful, helpful and professional manner. Staff must adhere to the principles of confidentiality of library patrons’ records and circulation transactions in general, and specifically as required by law.

Circulation of Print and Non-Print Materials:

Books, lease books, audio-books, DVD’s, baking pans, text magnifiers, energy watt meters are loaned for a period of two weeks to any person presenting a valid library card and who is not blocked or barred from borrowing materials; Learning kits, projectors, CD players, dolls and doll accessory kits and tool kits, and digital cameras are loaned for a two-week period to any person 18 years of age and older presenting a valid library card with an account in good standing. Launchpads, telescopes, microscopes, chemistry sets, and wi-fi hotspots are loaned for a one-week period to any person 18 years of age and older presenting a valid library card with an account in good standing. Wi-fi Hotspots may not be loaned to any patron, or anyone living in the household of a patron who has lost a Wi-fi Hotspot and has not paid for the item.
A maximum of 50 total items may be borrowed per patron.

A maximum of 4 lease books may be borrowed per patron. A maximum of 4 audio books and 2 DVDs may be borrowed per patron. A maximum of 2 board games may be borrowed per patron. A maximum of 1 Launchpad, 1 learning kit, 1 projector, 1 CD player, 1 telescope, 1 microscope, 1 doll, 1 doll accessory kit, 1 baking pan, 1 wi-fi hotspot, 1 tool kit, 1 chemistry set, 1 digital camera, and 1 energy watt meter may be borrowed per household. A maximum of 1 text magnifier may be borrowed per patron. Patron will be given seven (7) days to return missing pieces/accessories before applicable nonrefundable replacement fee is charged.

Items may be renewed 2 times unless another patron requests the item; at that time the item must be returned to the library and checked back in. Lease books, DVD’s, board games, learning kits, projectors, CD players, wi-fi hotspots, telescopes, microscopes, dolls and doll accessory kits, baking pans, launchpads tool kits, chemistry sets, digital cameras, and energy watt meters may not be renewed.

Items may be renewed over the telephone or online if they are eligible for renewal.

At the discretion of the Director and department managers, materials that are in high demand may be limited to a shorter circulation period or may be placed on in-library reserve during the period of highest demand.
Interlibrary loan materials must be requested and reserved for use with applicable fees payable at the time of pick-up.

Reserves/Material Suggestions

Patrons may place a “hold” or request for Library materials that are checked out in person, by phone, or via the online catalog. When the material becomes available for checkout the requesting patron will receive a phone call, email, or text.

Patrons may suggest a title for purchase in person or via the online catalog. The library does not guarantee that any item requested will be purchased; if the item is purchased the patron will be notified by phone call, email, or text when the item is available for check out. If the item is difficult to find or the cost is outside the library’s budget, the item may be requested through Interlibrary Loan.

XVI. Notary Service

The library provides notary services free to all patrons.

A current valid photo ID is required for notary services. Acceptable forms of ID are:

Driver’s license
Non-driver ID issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission
US or foreign passport
US military ID
Green card

Documents in any language other than English will not be notarized.

Library Notaries are not able to give legal advice.

Library Notaries cannot pre or postdate any document.

The signature line should not be completed beforehand. Notaries must see the document be signed.

The Library does not provide witnesses. If the document requires a witness, the patron must bring the witness with them. A witness must be personally known and cannot be a stranger in the library.

Library Notaries reserve the right to decline service for any reason.

XVII. Patron Behavior

The Autauga Prattville Library Board of Trustees has established certain standards of acceptable behavior on library property in order to maintain an atmosphere that promotes the use and enjoyment of the resources and services of the library, promotes the safety of the general public and the library staff, and protects the building, computers, furniture, equipment, and materials of the library.

Any activity that interferes with the rights of other patrons to use the library, disrupts the normal functioning of the library, could result in physical, emotional, or mental injury to oneself or others, or could result in damage to the facilities, equipment, or materials is considered disruptive and unacceptable behavior. Some behaviors which are prohibited include:

Destruction of property (either that of other patrons, staff, or the library).
Physical abuse (such as an altercation between two patrons or physically abusive behavior directed at a staff member).
Threatening or bullying staff or others; brandishing or displaying weapons.
Sustained loud conversation, or noise, that rises above the ambient noise in the library.
Theft.
Obscene language and verbal abuse, exhibitionism, lewdness.
Consuming liquor or using illegal drugs on library premises.
Intoxication.
Soliciting for immoral purposes or for patronage (panhandling).
Smoking
Refusal to comply with library policy after requested by a staff member.
Bringing pets or animals, other than service animals necessary for disabilities, into the library, except as authorized by the Director.
Neglecting to provide proper supervision of children.

The library reserves the right to require anyone who engages in disruptive behavior to leave the premises, the right to restrict privileges for a specified period of time, and the right to ban the individual from the library for a specified period of time or permanently. In most cases, a staff member will notify the individual that he or she is in violation of the standards of conduct and will provide one verbal warning. Unlawful activities will be reported immediately to the police.

Recognizing that each situation is unique, common sense and courtesy should guide library staff response to any encounter. In situations where library staff members feel that the health, safety or security of library users or staff members are threatened, they may take any and all appropriate action including, but not limited to, calling the police for assistance. In the event that the library’s standards of acceptable behavior are violated, an “Incident Report Form” must be completed to fully document the incident. This report is vital to document what happened and get the names of witness in case there is further need to bar the person from the library or take legal action.

All bags and other articles are subject to inspection by library staff or other authorized personnel. The Library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items brought into the Library.

Banning and Appeal:

The library director may ban persons for serious offenses. A banned patron may not return to the library without the Library Director’s permission. If they return to the Library without permission the police will be contacted to remove them from the building.

When a person is being banned, they will receive a letter from the Library Director outlining the library policy on disruptive behavior and the offense or offenses which caused the library to take action. It is up to the banned person to contact the Library Director by phone, mail or email to set up a meeting to discuss the situation and the length of the ban, which may be one week or longer, at the discretion of the Library Director. At the meeting, banned persons under the age of 19 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. After the meeting, the banned person must leave Library premises until he or she receives a letter stating the library’s position.

The determination of the Library Director in a case of a banning may be appealed to the Autauga-Prattville Public Library Board of Trustees in writing. Written appeals must be filed within 10 days of the Library Director’s final determination. Such appeals will be filed with both the Library Director and the Library Board Chair. The Board will hold a hearing within 30 days after the appeal has been filed. The appellant will be notified at least 10 days before the hearing. Failure to appear on the assigned day of the hearing without prior notification to the Library Board Chair will result in denial of the appeal.

XVIII. Programming Policy

The Autauga Prattville Public Library provides programs to serve the Library’s mission and to expand the visibility of the Library in the community.

Ultimate responsibility for the planning and implementation of programs rests with the Library Director, who administers under the authority of the Library Board of Trustees. The Library Director, in turn, delegates the authority for program management to appropriate departmental staff.

The library uses the following criteria to make decisions about program topics, speakers, and resources:

Community needs and interests
Budget and cost of the program
Space requirements
Connection to other community programs, exhibitions or events
Relation to library collections, resources, and programs
Library policy

In addition, the library actively partners with other community agencies, organizations, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. Professional performers and presenters that reflect specialized or unique expertise may be hired for library programs; performers and presenters will not be excluded from consideration because of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, or age. Programming for minors age 17 and under may not involve obscenity, sexually explicit conduct or content, or any conduct or content otherwise deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate programming concerning biology, human anatomy, history, or religion is exempt from this rule. The Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to exercise discretion over all programming

Library staff who present programs do so as part of their regular job and are not hired as outside contractors for programming. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants.

The Library strives to provide the vast majority of its programming free of charge. However, a fee may be charged to recover the cost of a presenter, materials, or supplies, when it would otherwise not be feasible to offer the program.

Sale of items during library programs is not permitted except under the following circumstances; fund-raising to benefit the Library or the sale of books, CDs, or other items by authors, performers, or presenters as part of a Library program. The library does not sponsor programs used for commercial, religious, or partisan purposes or the solicitation of business; including presentations offered for free but with the intention of soliciting future business.

Registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited. Programs may be held on site, at any library branch, or off site.

External organizations or individuals partnering with the Library on programs must coordinate marketing efforts with the Library Director or other appropriate library staff. The library welcomes feedback from patrons concerning programming. Patrons who wish to request a review of library programs may submit a Request for Reconsideration form. Requests for review of programs will be considered in the same manner as requests for reconsideration of library materials as outlined in the Library’s Policy Manual.

XIX. Public Participation at Library Board Meetings policy

Information on the date, time, and place of the Library Board meetings can be found on the library’s website and announcement board.

It is the intent of the library board that persons wishing to address comments or ask questions shall be afforded reasonable and fair opportunity to do so. Members of the public wishing to address the board may do so at any regularly scheduled meeting during the agenda time reserved for communications.

To be allowed to speak, visitors must email the Library Director by the Monday no later than 5:00 pm, (regardless of whether Monday is a holiday) before the upcoming meeting with their full name, street address, and reason for speaking. Speakers must be residents of the City of Prattville or Autauga County. The Board Chair will call on each visitor one at a time to stand and address the board for no more than the allocated time. Speakers may not yield their time to another individual. Requests for time to speak will usually be granted in the order they were received.

Each speaker is given three (3) minutes to share their views with the board. No person may speak more than once per meeting.

Comments should be in good taste and remarks about specific individuals are not allowed. If the Board Chair feels that a speaker is not following these guidelines or other Board policies, the Board Chair is authorized to direct that speaker to sit down or leave the meeting.

It should not be expected that the board would take immediate or official action on any subject brought before it without having time for review or study of facts or matters presented.

The Board Chair recognizes each registered speaker. The Trustees listen and do not interact with the speakers. The Board Chair introduces each speaker and keeps track of the time. The Board Chair may ask questions or ask for additional information from persons appearing before the board.

XX. Reconsideration of Materials

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library supports the principles inherent in the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.

Comments from members of the community frequently provide librarians with useful information about interests or needs that may not be adequately met by the Library. The Library welcomes the expression of opinion by patrons on the collection as a whole, parts of the collection or individual items.

Upon receipt of a complaint regarding materials in the library’s collection or regarding the removal of materials from the library’s collection, brought within 30 days of the removal, the following procedures shall be followed:

1. The patron will be offered a packet of materials that includes the Collection Development Policy, Reconsideration of Materials Policy, and Request for Reconsideration Form. This packet will also be available on the library website.

2. The patron shall submit the Request for Reconsideration form to the Library Director. The patron submitting the request must be a resident of Autauga County or the City of Prattville and have an active library card.

3. Upon receipt of the completed Request for Reconsideration Form, the Library Director will respond to the patron within 48 business hours to acknowledge the reconsideration process has begun.

4. If upon review the Director determines that the request or a substantially similar request has already been processed for reconsideration under these procedures, the Director shall inform the patron and dismiss the request. Repetitive complaints and substantially similar complaints regarding the same material will not be processed.

5. Within 48 business hours of receipt of the Request for Reconsideration Form, the Director will request a review of the material by a Review Committee, as established below. Materials under reconsideration will be held in reserve for reference by the Review Committee and Board of Trustees.

6. The Review Committee will prepare and send to the Director written findings and recommendations once all members have been able to thoroughly review the material within a reasonable time frame. The Director shall not be bound by the recommendation of the Review Committee but shall consider the findings and recommendations in making a final determination on the request. The Director shall notify the Patron of the final determination and the Patron’s right to appeal the determination to the Board of Trustees.

7. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to determine the maximum number of materials under review at any point in time on appeal. After receipt of an appeal, the Board of Trustees shall consider the findings and recommendations of the Review Committee and any justification written by the Director in support of his or her final determination, and any other information the Board deems relevant. The Board may, but is not required, to invite and consider public comment.

8. The Board will make a final determination in the matter by the next regular meeting scheduled to be held after receipt of the appeal, but no sooner than 30 days. In acting on the appeal, the Board may resubmit the material to the Review Committee and Director with request for additional review and comment or with specific instructions for further investigation. In its final disposition of the appeal, the Board may do any of the following: (1) reverse or affirm the decision of the Director and issue such directives to library staff as are necessary to carry out the decision of the Board; (2) amend the decision of the Director and uphold the decision as amended; (3) dismiss the appeal and the underlying complaint and request for reconsideration.

9. The Director will immediately send a written response detailing the Board’s decision to the patron who submitted the request.

The decision on reconsideration of a specific title will remain in effect for five years, unless otherwise determined by the Board.

Review Committee

The Review Committee is called by the Library Director and approved by the Board of Trustees. The Review Committee consists of three members, preferably consisting of:

One Library Board Member
Two Library Staff Members

The Review Committee takes the following steps after receiving the challenged materials:

Reads, views, or listens to the material thoroughly;
Confers as a whole with the other members of the Review Committee;
Checks general acceptance of the material by reading reviews and consulting recommended reading lists from reputable sources;
Determines the extent to which the material meets the selection criteria
Prepares a written recommendation of its findings

All completed forms are to be kept on file in the Director’s Office indefinitely.

XXI. Solicitation

Solicitation of the public or the staff is not permitted on public library property. Citizens are entitled to visit the public library without the intrusion of personal or passive solicitation, which may imply an obligation to contribute. Solicitation activities include, but are not limited to, sales of goods or placement of receptacles for the collection of goods or money, asking for donations, insurance sales, ticket sales, posting of printed signs or literature not approved by the director, etc. The solicitation of names or personal information of those attending meetings or library functions is also prohibited.

Because libraries serve as voter registration sites, soliciting for votes on behalf of or against political candidates or issues is also prohibited.

The only exceptions to the non-solicitation policy are the fund-raising projects sponsored by the library or the Friends of the Library with the approval of the library director.

XXII.Unattended Children Policy

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library serves all residents of the community. The library encourages visits by children and it is our desire to make these visits both memorable and enjoyable for each child. Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading and program attendance. Parents and caregivers should realize, however, that the library staff cannot provide supervision for their children. Library staff cannot prevent children from leaving the library facility by themselves or with strangers whose intention may be to harm children. To ensure the safety of children who use the library, parents should not leave their children unattended in the library. An “unattended child” is defined as a child, who is in the library without a parent or adult supervisor who is eighteen or older. Under no circumstances will library staff take an unattended child out of the library or provide transportation for the child.

Parents or guardians are responsible for the appropriate behavior of their children in the library.
The library staff does not provide care or supervision of children in the library except to the extent needed to uphold the library rules of conduct and use and does not accept responsibility for such care.
Children 12 and under must be accompanied at all times by a parent, guardian or other responsible caregiver.
Children age 13 and older may be in the library unattended for a reasonable period of time if checking out books, doing research or homework or are otherwise legitimately engaged in library activities. Library appropriate behavior is expected.
When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt or if the library is closing and a parent, guardian or other caregiver cannot be located, two library staff will stay with the child for 30 minutes and then the police or sheriff’s department will be called. Under no circumstance will staff transport a child in their own vehicle. An incident report must be filled out and filed by library staff.
Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges (see the library’s Patron Behavior policy).
After the incident, the parent will be sent a letter notifying them of the library’s policy on unattended children.

XXIII. Volunteers

It shall be the policy of the Autauga Prattville Public Library to utilize the services of volunteers in any areas where they can assist the library in meeting its objectives of public service. Volunteers shall be utilized to supplement the duties and activities of paid staff and are not considered a replacement for paid staff. Volunteers will be at least 16 years of age, unless otherwise approved by the director, and will complete a volunteer information form to be reviewed by the director. All volunteer applicants 19 years of age and older will receive a background check prior to serving in the library. After review of his or her application information, the volunteer may be contacted concerning serving at the library. All volunteers must sign a Volunteer Agreement stating that they agree to abide by the policies set forth by the library. The librarian reserves the right to accept, deny, or terminate the position of a volunteer with the understanding that such a decision is in keeping with the established guidelines concerning personnel and practice set out in the employee handbook.

RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
AUTAUGA-PRATTVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Concerning Standards for Deciding Appeals of
Requests for Reconsideration Based on the Selection Policy

Duly Passed On June 24, 2024

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Autauga-Prattville Public Library’s Policies, the Library Director has ultimate responsibility, subject to the oversight of the Board of Trustees (the “Board”), for collection development; and,

WHEREAS the Library Director has broad discretion to curate the collection and the
responsibility to protect minors from material deemed inappropriate for children or youth; and,

WHEREAS the Library Policies set forth procedures by which patrons may request the Library Director to reconsider determinations regarding the acquisition of materials for the collection or the removal of materials from the collection; and,

WHEREAS the procedures provide for an appeal to the Board of the Library Director’s final decision on a request for reconsideration;

Be it therefore:

RESOLVED, that the Board will be guided by the following standards on any appeal of a Request for Reconsideration under the Library Policies:

The Library Director’s decision to remove material from the collection which is advertised for consumers under the age of 18 and which he or she deems inappropriate for children or youth may be reversed only if a majority of the Board finds that the material does not include any of the following:
a. Content that is harmful to minors, as defined in state or federal law.

b. Graphic descriptions, illustrations, or other representations of sexual conduct, as defined in state or federal law.

c. A mature theme or themes concerning issues of sexuality, sexual orientation, sexual abuse, or transgender identity.

d. Content presented in a manner that glorifies or seriously promotes or encourages illicit drug use; alcohol or tobacco use by minors; overt racial or ethnic animus; sexual harassment or discrimination; xenophobia; homophobia, transphobia, or any other animus based on sexual orientation or gender identity; promiscuity; teen pregnancy; physical or sexual abuse, pedophilia, polygamy, or any other criminal activity or conduct; or a pattern of behavior characterizing a recognized mental health condition.
The Library Director’s decision to keep challenged material in the collection, or to return previously removed material to the collection, because he or she does not deem it to be inappropriate for children or youth, may be reversed only if a majority of the Board finds the material satisfies at least one of the standards enumerated above and the material is not moved to the adult section of the library and appropriately labeled or flagged for patrons 18 years and older.

The undersigned hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was duly passed by the Board of Trustees of the Autauga-Prattville Public Library on the 24^th day of June 2024, and that the resolution has been duly recorded in the Minute Book and is in full force and effect.

Ray Boles (Chair) _____________________ Doug Darr (Secretary)_______________

REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
Autauga-Prattville Public Libraries

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library supports the principles inherent in the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.

Please read our Reconsideration of Materials Policy prior to submitting this form.

The completed form, including all required information, should be returned to the Library Director at 254 Doster St. Prattville, AL 36067.

Reconsideration Packet Form for Download

VII. Collection Development Policy

Collection Development Responsibility

Selection Criteria

Anticipated or actual demand for the item
Community interests
Community standards
Strengths and weaknesses of the existing collections
System-wide availability
Physical space limitations
Acquisitions procedures
Budget constraints, including cost-benefit (the extent to which the cost of acquisition and management of the item is justified by the overall benefit to the community in light of the Library’s budget and in comparison to potential alternatives)

Highest selection priority is given to those materials in all formats that have the broadest appeal.

As used here, “advertised for” means advertised, marketed, targeted, suggested, or recommended for persons under the age of 18 by the author, publisher, or seller of the material.
Or by the Board of Trustees in the case of an appeal of the Director’s determination. See Policy XX.

All displays should adhere to the selection criteria, take into account community standards and values, and have advanced approval by the Library Director.

The Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to exercise discretion over all library material, including but not limited to books, movies, artwork, displays, and programming.

Weeding

General criteria for weeding

Materials are candidates for weeding if they are:

XX. Reconsideration of Materials

The Autauga-Prattville Public Library supports the principles inherent in the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.

3. Upon receipt of the completed Request for Reconsideration Form, the Library Director will respond to the patron within 48 business hours to acknowledge the reconsideration process has begun.

9. The Director will immediately send a written response detailing the Board’s decision to the patron who submitted the request.

The decision on reconsideration of a specific title will remain in effect for five years, unless otherwise determined by the Board.

Review Committee

The Review Committee is called by the Library Director and approved by the Board of Trustees. The Review Committee consists of three members, preferably consisting of:

One Library Board Member
Two Library Staff Members

The Review Committee takes the following steps after receiving the challenged materials:

Reads, views, or listens to the material thoroughly;
Confers as a whole with the other members of the Review Committee;
Checks general acceptance of the material by reading reviews and consulting

recommended reading lists from reputable sources;

Determines the extent to which the material meets the selection criteria
Prepares a written recommendation of its findings

All completed forms are to be kept on file in the Director’s Office indefinitely.

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VII. Collection Development Policy

XX. Reconsideration of Materials

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