It is the mission of the Frank Carlson Library to offer unrestricted free access to information to the public. The Library will not limit legal access to any library materials or information obtained from library materials, including but not limited to, books, DVDs, audiobooks, e-books, and internet.

Library cards will be available free of charge to any individual who is able to write their first and last name. All patrons will be personally responsible for all information accessed and materials checked out using their library card number.

General Services

a.   The library makes available a variety of books, periodicals, and other materials on different subjects, level, and interests.

b.   Additional materials are available on a temporary basis through Interlibrary Loan.

c.   Reference services are available by phone or in the library.

d.   Patrons are encouraged to help themselves as much as possible.  However, they will be referred to the card catalog, periodical indexes, encyclopedias, and other reference tools and instructed in their use.  Staff service to a patron on time-consuming research may be interrupted to serve another patron.

e.   The library provides story hours, summer reading programs and other special programs to encourage reading and library use by children.

f.    Films and other programs may be provided for patrons in order to encourage library use and reading.

I. Library Cards and Borrowing Privileges

1. Library materials may only be checked out to individuals registered as a Frank Carlson Library member or a member of a Central Kansas Library System (CKLS) Pathfinder library participating in the One Patron One Card Program.
2. Library cards permitting full use of the library are free to adult residents of Kansas with the presentation of a valid, state-issued photo ID showing your name and current address.
   • Valid identification includes Kansas driver’s license or an Identification Card issued by the State of Kansas.
     • Identification with an out-of-date address or individuals who do not currently possess a Kansas-issued photo ID must present a proof of address in addition to a valid form of state or federal-issued photo ID.
   • Proof of address, such as Kansas voter registration card, utility bill, property tax bill, student registration, or auto registration, with name and current address may be presented along with a state or federal-issued photo ID.
3. A child may apply for their own library card when they are able to print their first and last name. To qualify for a Minor account, a parent or guardian must be present with all forms of identification required for adult applicants and must sign the application of a minor.
4. A child over the age of 10 may apply for their own library card without a parent or guardian present. A completed application must be signed by a parent or legal guardian of that child. This will qualify that child for a Minor Limited account, that can be upgraded at a later time when a parent or guardian is present or upon their 18^th birthday.
5. The adult signatory is responsible for all items checked out on the minor’s card and all fines and other charges that may occur with the use of the card. Permission for a child to have a library card cannot be withdrawn at a later date.
   • Kansas Statute 3.12 defines a minor as a “child under the age of 18”.
6. New borrowers of all ages, with the exception of Minor Limited accounts, will be registered as a New Patron for the first 2 months after which the account, if in good standing, will be upgraded to the appropriate account type.
7. Borrowers must present library card or photo ID in their own name to library staff when checking out materials.
   • A prior permission form must be signed by both parties for an individual to check out or pick up holds for another library member.
8. Library cards are non-transferable.
9. Borrowing privileges will be discontinued if the patron fails to return or replace borrowed materials. If legal action must be taken against a delinquent borrower any time in any twelve-month period, the offence shall result in the loss of borrowing privileges that can only be reinstated by the borrower making direct application to the Director.  The Director and Board may review this application and reinstate borrowing privileges at their discretion.  In all cases, application for reinstatement can be made no earlier than 6 months after final payment has been received by the Library from Concordia Municipal Court.

II. Replacement Library Cards

When registering for a Frank Carlson Library card, the cardholder accepts responsibility for all items on the card, all use made of the card, and all charges made against it until the card is reported lost. Therefore, it is to the cardholder’s benefit to report the loss or theft of a library card immediately. The cost of replacing a lost or stolen library card is $1.00.

Lost cards may be reported by phone, in person, or by email sent to frankcarlsonlibrary@yahoo.com.

III. Expired Library Cards

1. All issued library accounts expire and must be renewed every two years.
2. Expired accounts must be renewed and validated before they can be used to borrow materials, or access the Sunflower eLibrary on the Hoopla or Libby apps.
3. Library accounts can be renewed online by email, in person, or over the phone. Library staff are required to validate the account by reviewing the personal information of the account holder.
   • Personal information may include: first and last name, mailing address, phone number, email address, birthdate, and identification number such as a driver’s license.

IV. Canceling or Withdrawing a Library Card

Library cards may be withdrawn/canceled if the requesting person is:

• he cardholder
• a family member of a deceased cardholder with some form of proof of the cardholder’s passing

AND

• all library materials are returned
• all replacement charges, or other charges are fully paid
• all holds for materials are canceled

Library cards may be withdrawn/canceled at staff discretion if the account has been inactive for 5 years and has no outstanding replacement charges or other fees. Activity includes in-house circulation as well as digital circulation through the Sunflower eLibrary on the Hoopla or Libby apps.

V. Loan Period

a.      Length of loan period: The standard loan period for circulating materials is 2 weeks.  Special items such as periodicals, and DVD’s are loaned for 1 week.  Interlibrary loan (ILL) materials are loaned as designated by the lending library.  Non-circulating materials may not be removed from the library.

b.      Renewals: If there is no waiting list, materials may be renewed for 1 loan period.  Items may be renewed only twice.

c.       Extended loans: Patrons needing to keep an item for an extended period of time (longer than 6 weeks) may request an extended loan at the time of the initial check-out.  Patrons must be in good standing with no overdue materials or outstanding fines and must submit their request in writing using the Request for Extended Loan form.  Specific guidelines for extended loans    are specified on the form.

VI. Bulk Loans

Hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers and other institutions in the community may make arrangements to borrow books or other materials for use by their residents or clients within the institution for periods not to exceed 6 weeks.  The institution is responsible for any lost or damaged items.

VII. Checkout Limitations

To physically check out library materials, the patron must show their library card or a photo ID in their own name. For the privacy and security of Library patrons, Library staff cannot check out any library materials without proof the patron is who they say they are.

There will be a limit on the number of materials loaned per library card.

New Patron Account (All Ages)

• No more than 15 items may be checked out per individual card, including in-house or interlibrary loaned items.
• Of those 15 items, no more than
  • 10 books and/or magazines
  • 3 DVD/Blu-rays
  • 2 audiobooks
• Items of special reference value may have restricted circulation or in-house use only.
• Items may be designated “temporary reference” to allow maximum accessibility by
• large numbers of people during periods of high demand.

Adult and Minor accounts:

• No more than 50 items may be checked out per individual card, including in-house or interlibrary loaned items.
• Of those 50 items, no more than
  • 30 books and/or magazines
  • 6 DVD/Blu-rays
  • 5 audiobooks
  • 4 leased audiobooks
  • 4 video games
  • 1 tabletop game
• Adult patrons may check out no more than 3 Playaway Launchpads per library card.
• Items of special reference value may have restricted circulation or in-house use only.
• Items may be designated “temporary reference” to allow maximum accessibility by
• large numbers of people during periods of high demand.

Minor Limited accounts (ages 10-17):

• No more than 7 items may be checked out per individual card, including in-house or interlibrary loaned items.
• Of those 7 items, no more than
  • 5 books
  • 2 audiobooks
• All other items (DVD/Blu-ray, leased materials, videogames, tabletop games, etc) will not be available for checkout.
• This account is limited to Pathfinder interlibrary loan only and is ineligible for ShareIT interlibrary loan.
• Items of special reference value may have restricted circulation or in-house use only.
• Items may be designated “temporary reference” to allow maximum accessibility by

large numbers of people during periods of high demand.

Beyond the limitations stated above, Library staff cannot limit the quantity or quality of the materials checked out by patrons. While we cannot enforce limitations, we do encourage parents or guardians of minors to set limitations for their own children as they see fit. Should a parent/guardian choose to restrict the borrowing of certain library materials, the Library staff cannot enforce those restrictions and the responsibility falls solely on the parent/guardian to do so.

The Library Director, in consultation with the Library Board of Trustees, may limit the number of items borrowed by any patron with a chronic history of keeping items long overdue or having an excessive number of lost items. 

VIII. Reserving Materials and Interlibrary Loan

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a cooperative service agreement between libraries to lend or borrow materials in order to fill patron requests. Interlibrary Loan is a service provided by the Frank Carlson Library for patrons in order to obtain materials not in our collection. Patrons are encouraged to use ILL after thoroughly searching our Library resources.

A patron may reserve items at any given time in person at the Library, by phone, email, or through the Library website. All checkout limitations apply to items belonging to the Frank Carlson Library as well as items borrowed through interlibrary loan.

• Library accounts need to be in good standing.
• Patrons must have a library card from the Frank Carlson Library or any CKLS Pathfinder Library utilizing the the One Patron One Card program.
• Loan requests can be made for items owned by the Library that are long overdue or missing.
• When the requested item is available for check out, the patron will be notified by email or phone and will have seven days to pick it up. Items must be checked out to the account of the person making the request.
• If the requested item(s) is not picked up in those seven days, the item(s) will be put back into circulation.
• ILL items normally check out for two weeks.
• Patrons are responsible to pay for lost or damaged ILL items. The cost is determined by the lending library, not Frank Carlson Library. The patron’s account will be charged accordingly.

ILL service may be suspended or removed for patrons who fail to comply with policy.

IX. Returns

a.   All materials may be returned to the Circulation Desk during regular service hours.

b.   Materials may be returned at the outside book drop unless marked “Do Not Put in Book Drop.”  A fine of $1.00 per item will be charged for materials returned outside that are designated “Do Not Put in Book Drop.” Items designated as not to be returned in outside book drops are primarily heat and/or cold sensitive or fragile items.

X. Overdue, Lost, or Damaged Materials

The Frank Carlson Library is a fine-free library and any overdue materials checked out from the library will not accrue a late fine. Patrons will be notified of upcoming due dates via email 3 days in advance, at which time the patron is welcome to renew their item via the website, email, phone, or in-person. Notifications will also be sent automatically via email on the day an item is due, 7 days overdue, and 14 days overdue.

If an item has been overdue beyond 30 business days, that item will automatically be considered lost and a replacement charge will be applied to the patron’s account. The replacement charge shall not exceed the cost of the item as recorded in the automatic system.  A delinquency notice will the mailed to the patron to notify them of the charge. The patron is expected to resolve the issue within 30 days after the first delinquency notice.

30 days after the first delinquency notice, if the overdue materials issue has not been resolved between the Library and the patron, a second and final delinquency notice will be mailed to the address on the cardholder’s account.

If the overdue materials issue has not been resolved between the Library and the patron 30 days after the second delinquency notice was mailed, then the patron will be turned over to collections with the Concordia City Attorney as “uncollectable accounts”.  These uncollectable accounts may include materials which have not been returned or charges which have not been paid within 90 days.

Materials returned to the Library damaged beyond repair – such as water damage, ripped or torn pages or cover, stains, or the presence of health hazards such as bodily fluids or pests – will be immediately subject to replacement charges to be paid by the cardholder.

The replacement charge shall not exceed the cost of the item as recorded in the automatic system.

Cardholders assume all risk and responsibility for all items checked out on their account. The adult signatory of a child’s account is responsible for all items checked out on the minor’s card and all fines and other charges that may occur with the use of the card.

Upon reaching a charge of $5.00, library privileges will be suspended until the charge is paid. The maximum number of overdue items a patron may have before borrowing privileges are suspended is 2 items. The value of out-of-print books is left to the discretion of the Director depending upon the value of the material to the collection, but it shall be no less than $10.00 ($3.00 for paperbacks), plus a processing fee of no less than $5.00. The value of irreplaceable non-book items is left to the discretion of the Director.  A processing fee of no less than $5.00 shall be charged also.

Circulation Policy Revised and Approved by the Board of Trustees 8/1/2023

Acceptable Forms of Payment and Collections

The Frank Carlson Library may charge a fee or recover costs for such items as the replacement of lost library cards, damaged or lost items, photocopies, and more. As no card holder with charges exceeding $5.00 in value is able to use their library card, the library offers several methods of payment to facilitate the convenience of paying charges and the reinstatement of privileges.

I. Accepted Forms of Payment

The Library accepts the following forms of payment:

• Cash
  • When paying with cash, please use correct change or small bills, no greater than $20.00.
• Credit/Debit Card
  • Payment by credit/debit will be accepted for charges that exceed $2.00.
  • The Library is unable to accept online payments with credit/debit at this time.
  • Interlibrary Loan-related charges cannot be paid for by credit/debit.
• Check
  • When paying Library-related fees and charges and monetary donations, checks should be written to the Frank Carlson Library for the exact amount of the transaction.
  • When paying for Interlibrary Loan fees and charges, checks should be written to the lending library for the exact amount of the transaction.
  • Payments by check returned for reason of non-sufficient funds will result in a service charge for each returned check in the amount of $25.00 per check.
    • The Library will notify the person in writing of the returned check by certified mail, return receipt requested.  The notification will include a photocopy of the returned check, a deadline for redeeming the returned check and the amount due, including the face value of the check and the $25.00 returned check fee.  If the person does not redeem the returned check by the due date, the Library reserves the right to prosecute.  If further action is required, the person writing the bad check will be responsible for any additional fees associated with collection.
    • The Library may refuse to accept payment in the form of a check from any person who has written bad checks to the Library in the past.

II. Policy for Collecting Library Fees

1. Payment for library services such as printing and photocopying must be paid in full at checkout.
2. Payment for library-related charges, such as replacement fees, may be paid in full or in small installments. Account access will remain blocked until the overall fine is reduced below $5.00.
3. Patrons experiencing financial difficulty should discuss payment options with the library director if they have a pressing need to use library services before they can reduce the charges to less than $5.00.
4. Payments posted in person are immediately recorded to the patron’s account and account information is updated immediately. An exception to this rule may occur when there are technical difficulties preventing the software from processing properly.
5. Credit card information is never stored in the library’s database

III. Refunds

All payments are final and no refunds will be processed.

Library hours are established by the Board of Trustees.

Holidays observed by closing:  New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve.

The library will close at 5 pm the day proceeding an observed holiday.

Emergency Closures

The Library will be closed to the public in the event of an emergency which makes the building unsafe or potentially hazardous to patrons or staff. If possible, the Library will notify the public of closures via the website, Facebook, and/or posted notice on the front door.

1. Weather-Related Closings: The Library will be closed whenever the weather presents a hazard which could result in the injury of the public or staff.
   • In the case of blizzard conditions, the Library will close to the public when walkways cannot be kept reasonably clear of snow or ice.
   • In the event that the National Weather Service issues a Tornado Watch (in which there is a high likelihood of a tornado occurring) all children unattended by an adult will be asked to return home and will not be permitted in the library unattended until the Watch has concluded.
   • In the event that the National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning (in which there has been a tornado sighted on the ground in the area) the Library will close to the public. All patrons currently within the building will be notified.
   • In the event that the National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning (in which there has been a tornado sighted on the ground in the area) and local sirens sound, Library staff will vacate the premises and seek shelter at the Fire Station. All patrons currently in the Library will be asked to shelter with staff or vacate the building.
2. Equipment-Failure Closings: The Library shall be closed to the public whenever equipment or electric failure occurs.
   • The Library will close in the event of furnace or air-conditioner failure resulting in working conditions in which the inside temperature either falls below 63 degrees or rises above 82 degrees.
   • The Library will close to the public in the event of electrical failure causing all lights and equipment to be non-operational for the duration of the outage.
3. Active Shooter or Other Unforeseen Community-related Incidents: In the event of an active shooting or bombing incident within the community in which the perpetrator is still at large, the Library will close to the public to protect the safety of staff and all current patrons. The Library will close its doors in the event of any unforeseen community-related incidents that presents a danger to library staff and patrons.

Decisions about short-notice closings should be made by the Director with notice given to the Board President. If the Director is unavailable, the senior staff person on duty shall have the authority to close the building in the event of an emergency such as a fire or tornado. Attempts to notify the Director or Board President should be made only after staff has attained safe shelter.

I. Service to Special Groups

a.   The Board of Trustees acknowledges its responsibility to provide special services to the handicapped, blind, and elderly.

b.   The library will cooperate with community groups and organizations to provide programs and information.

c.   Library tours may be arranged for any interested group with advance notice.

d.   Display cases and community projects shall be of a non-partisan nature. 

II. School-Public Library Relationship

a.   The library assumes that the school libraries will provide curriculum materials.  It, therefore, provides textbooks of general interest only, as well as useful items in specific fields.

b.   Teachers wishing to assure the availability of materials for multiple students’ assignments are urged to contact the library before the assignment is given to the students. 

c.   Teachers may borrow up to 30 books at a time for periods of up to 6 weeks for use in the classroom.  Overdue notices will be sent for items that are more than two weeks overdue.  Fines will be charged for overdue materials not returned within two weeks after the due date. Teachers are responsible for any lost or damaged items. 

The Frank Carlson Library has no private meeting rooms which can be used by the public. The Frank Carlson Room may not be utilized by the public for any private meetings, exclusive programs, events, or activities. (Refer to Carlson Collection Policy or Programs section of the Library Services Policy for more details.)

Spaces within the library, such as tables, play areas, and lounging areas, are open to the public and accessible to all. Closed meetings are not permitted and no meeting can be treated as confidential in nature.

Permission to use the Frank Carlson Library does not constitute an endorsement by the Library of the user or users’ beliefs.

I. Political and Religious Groups

In accordance with the Library’s Code of Conduct, political organizations may use the Frank Carlson Library public spaces, but not for rallies or any other kind of activity supporting or opposing an issue or a candidate. Likewise, religious groups are permitted to use Library spaces for Bible study, discussion, or instruction, prayer, and sharing testimony, but not for proselytizing or praise and worship.

II. Refreshments

1. Drinks with lids and small snacks are permitted within the Library.
2. Meals, such as picnic foods or carryout dinners are not permitted within the library space without prior approval.
3. No food or drink is permitted when using Library computers.
4. No food or drink is permitted in the Frank Carlson Room unless it is offered as part of a Library program or is otherwise approved by the Library Director.
5. Please dispose of all trash in the appropriate waste receptacles.

III. Programming and Events

All programs, events or activates hosted in the Frank Carlson Library must be facilitated by library staff, or have a direct connection to the Frank Carlson Library or library collection.

All programs, events, or activities must be free and open to the public.

The Frank Carlson Library complies with all applicable Federal and state copyright laws and restrictions, including those that apply to recordings. Unauthorized duplication or public showings of recordings are prohibited. Recordings without public performance rights are circulated “For Home Use Only”.

It is the responsibility of the Frank Carlson Library to maintain a healthy and clean environment for all Library users and to protect the City’s investment in Library collections, equipment and property. In order to fulfill this responsibility, the Library may restrict a user’s ability to borrow materials and/or to visit Library facilities when such use may jeopardize the health and cleanliness of Library facilities, collections and users.

Examples of situations where borrowing of materials may be suspended include, but are not limited to:

• Evidence that items on loan to a patron may have been returned with insects that are known to be damaging to library materials, or that can result in pest infestations in library facilities, e.g. roaches, silverfish and some types of beetles

Examples of situations where access to Library facilities may be suspended include, but not be limited to:

• Patrons or patron possessions with fleas, cockroaches, lice, or bed bugs
• Patrons with clothing that is stained with urine or feces

Should it become necessary to suspend Library privileges of a customer in order to protect Library collections, facilities or other users, notification of the suspension will be made by the Director.

Any patron who has privileges suspended under the terms of this policy may request a re-evaluation of the suspension by showing proof of extermination or other official notice showing insects have been eliminated.

The Frank Carlson Library supports the President of the United States and congressional leaders in our nation’s efforts to preserve and protect the many hard-fought freedoms we enjoy as Americans.  Public Libraries are facing the dilemma of having the responsibility of protecting the privacy of our patrons while responding to legitimate national security concerns.  The Frank Carlson Library recognizes the confidentiality of information sought or received and materials consulted, borrowed, or acquired by a library user.

The Frank Carlson Library strives to create a library environment that is a place for learning and pursuit of knowledge and information on any topic and a place where patrons can ask any question and discuss any topic.

The library will do its utmost to uphold the privacy and confidentiality of patrons’ free access to information.  The library will rely on existing laws and library policies to control behavior that involves public safety or criminal behavior.

Public Law 107-56 was passed by Congress in response to the events of 9/11/2001.  The full title of the law is: Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001.

The Act may provide law enforcement broader boundaries when investigating information accessed and transmitted by patrons with regard to national security concerns.  Access to patron information may include but not be limited to database search records, circulation records, computer use records, interlibrary loan records, and reference interviews.

I. Information Access and Confidentiality

Database Search Records:  These records refer to the searches of the collection a patron may conduct using the “catalog” computers.  These searches are conducted by using the library’s automated circulation system, Pathfinder.  Pathfinder is a product of KOHA, a open source software product.  Once a search is conducted, the software does not retain a copy of the search.  Any records of the search will not exist.

Interlibrary Loan Records:  Patrons may borrow items not owned by the Frank Carlson Library from other libraries via Interlibrary Loan (ILL).  The Frank Carlson Library performs most ILL transactions using the SHARE-IT software supplied by the Kansas State Library.  The Frank Carlson Library tracks items currently being borrowed and generates a paper record with patron information.  Once the materials are returned and all appropriate fines and/or fees are paid, the paper record is destroyed.

Reference Interviews:  A reference interview occurs when a patron looking for information approaches a member of the library staff and asks for help.  The staff person questions or interviews the patron in order to narrow down the specific information needed.  No record of the interview is made.  In the case of requests made over the phone, any identifying information given by the patron is destroyed as soon as the requested information is delivered.

II. Complying with Law Enforcement

The Library staff will comply with law enforcement when supplied with legal subpoena or warrant.

Staff Procedures:

a. If anyone alleges to be a law enforcement official requesting information, do not disclose to that individual any information.  Immediately contact a supervisor or the library director.

b. The supervisor or director will ask to see official identification and will photocopy the ID.

c. If law enforcement presents a subpoena, library staff should direct that person to the supervisor or library director who will in turn direct the subpoena to legal counsel.

d. If library staff is presented with a warrant, do not interfere with their search and seizure.  Contact your supervisor or library director as soon as possible.

e. Keep a record of all legal requests.

f. Keep a record of all cost incurred by any search and/or seizures.

g. If a “gag order” is not in effect, the library director will inform the President of the Library Board and the American Library Association.

Emergency Disclosures of Communication

If in the normal course of business, the library staff observes what can be reasonably construed to be a threat of imminent danger to life and limb they are to contact law enforcement immediately.  They should then contact their supervisor or library director.  An incident report will be filled out.Content reviewed by Larry Uri, Concordia City Attorney, Concordia, Kansas prior to adoption of this policy by the Frank Carlson Library Board of Trustees (Nov. 4, 2003).

Introduction

Public access to the Internet and online services have become an integral part of the Frank Carlson Library’s programs and services. The intent of this policy is to meet the provisions of the Kansas Children’s Internet Protection Act, as well as provide guidelines for patrons and staff regarding online computer use of Internet accessible computers.

The purpose of the Internet Safety Policy of Frank Carlson Library is to implement and enforce technology protection measures to: ensure that no minor has access to visual depictions that are child pornography, harmful to minors, or obscene; and ensure that no person has access to visual depictions that are child pornography or obscene while using a public access computer. 

Developed under the direction of the Library Board, this Internet Safety Policy was discussed and adopted during an open meeting of the Library Board on Oct. 1, 2013. This policy supersedes all previous Internet Safety Policy statements of the Frank Carlson Library and is effective on Oct. 1, 2013.

This policy document will be reviewed by the Library Board at least every three years.

Legal Requirements

The Frank Carlson Library’s Internet Safety Policy complies with the applicable requirements of subsection (b) and L. 2013, ch. 98, sec. 1, and amendments thereto, commonly known as the Kansas Children’s Internet Protection Act.

The Library has in place a policy of Internet safety for minors, including the operation of a technology protection measure or other process that blocks or filters online access to visual depictions that are child pornography, harmful to minors or obscene as defined in L. 2013, ch. 98, sec.1.

Supervision and Monitoring

Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled only for bona fide research or other lawful purpose.

It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Library staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and the Kansas Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Patrons who encounter web sites which they believe should be blocked but which are not, or who are prevented from accessing web sites which they believe should not be blocked may submit a complaint. This should be given in writing to the library director and include the URL of the site in question and whether the request is to block or unblock it. Staff shall examine the site and determine whether it should be blocked or unblocked. If the technology protection measure being used is a regional service, the information and recommendation shall be forwarded to the appropriate regional staff.

Complaints about enforcement of this policy or observed patron behavior which violate this policy shall also be submitted in writing to the library director, providing as much detail as possible. The library shall inform patrons of the provisions of this policy, including the standards used and procedures for complaint, by making the policy available at the circulation desk.

Mission Statement for Computer Use

            The Frank Carlson Library provides public access to computers to access the library catalog, provide access to educational resources for children, and to supplement the reference collection.  In addition to using the Internet as an information resource, the library also seeks to provide the opportunity for Internet use, with limitations, to the public.  These policies apply to employees and patrons alike.  Persons who violate this policy will be denied the use of public access computers at the Frank Carlson Library.  First offence will result in loss of privileges for six-months.  Subsequent offence will result in permanent loss of privileges.

II.  Acceptable Use, Internet Access and Internet Safety

            The Frank Carlson Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content.

            The Frank Carlson Library complies with state and federal laws, specifically Kansas laws relating to obscenity, federal copyright laws, the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (NCIPA).  CIPA and NCIPA are laws adopted by Congress to protect children and others as they use the Internet from a computer located in a public library or public school.  The Frank Carlson Library and its users must comply with these laws.

            Computer resources available at the Library are provided equally to all library users.  In compliance with CIPA and NCIPA, all Internet computers in the library are filtered using Kanguard, the filtering system provided by the Kansas State Library.  Filtering technology is not reliable.  The library staff have no control over the content of the Internet.  The Frank Carlson Library cannot be held responsible for what the user sees when connected to the Internet. Parents or guardians, not the Library or its staff, are responsible for Internet information selected and/or accessed by their minor children.  For this reason, parents are to directly supervise Internet use by their non-adult children.  A responsible adult must be physically present to supervise children under fourth grade.  In compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling on CIPA (UNITED STATES V. AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION., INC., June 23, 2003), patrons 17 or older may request the library staff to disable the filter on a public access computer.  Patrons under 17 may not request disabling filters.  Staff may require patrons to show proof of age when requesting that filters be turned off.  Staff will follow approved protocols when disabling filters.

III.  Prohibited Activities

            Computers must be used in a responsible manner without degrading or interfering with others’ use.  Library computers will not be used to

• Access, display, download or print information that is obscene as defined by Kansas law
• Participate in email that use information that is obscene as defined by Kansas law
• Access material that is considered offensively inappropriate by community standards
• Disclose, use, and or disseminate personal information that could threaten or create a vulnerability for a minor, for any other person, or for the Library
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any data, computer or network
• Gain unauthorized access to secure data, including “hacking”
• Tamper with settings (windows, desktop, web browser, etc.)
• Transmit computer viruses
• Transmit junkmail
• Access “chat” or instant messaging
• Cause damage to library computer equipment, software programs, and data.

            Patrons may not use their own software programs at the library, nor may they insert any object or material into any part of a computer, including floppy disks and/or CD’s with the exception of portable memory devices (“flashdrives”).

            Any use of computer resources that violates intellectual property rights of the owner or creator of the information, or violates other local, state, or federal laws is prohibited.  It is your responsibility to be aware of the display of any notices concerning copyrighted information and to respect copyright laws of the United States.

            Using Internet computers with filters turned off does not give patrons the right to access any sites that are deemed objectionable or obscene according to any state, federal or local laws.

IV.  Guidelines for Public Use

            The public may use designated computers to access the library catalog during normal business hours.  The public may also use designated computers to access the Internet or other library resources according to the rules outlined within this policy. 

            Internet use by the public at the Frank Carlson Library does not include access to listservs, newsgroups, online chats, or File Transfer Protocol.

            Patrons must sign up to use computers on a first-come, first-served basis, in 30-minute time increments, with a maximum of one hour per family per day.  Use is limited to 30 minutes if someone is waiting.  After the initial 30 minutes, the user may continue but must make the workstation available within 5 minutes of being told another person is waiting.

            People using the library computer workstations have the right to expect a certain amount of privacy.  For this reason, no more than two people can use a single computer.  Persons waiting for their turn to use the computers will be called in the order in which they have signed in.  Persons waiting for a computer to be free should let staff know which part of the library they will be in and not cluster around the computers that are in use.

            Users may download information which complies with the library’s acceptable use policy either by printing at a cost of 15 cents per page or by using a flashdrive. There will be a charge for each copy made from the computer.  All sheets printed are to be paid for regardless of their value to the patron.  Users are encouraged to request staff assistance before printing.  Patrons may save information to their own portable memory devices (“flashdrives”).

            Members of the Library staff are under no obligation to monitor library computer workstation usage and accept no responsibility for investigating the manner in which those workstations are used.  When, however, a member of the library staff observes a person using a workstation in violation of this policy, the patron will be deemed to be using the workstation in an unacceptable manner resulting in any or all of the following consequences:

1. Immediate termination of the computer session.
2. Additional suspension of computer use or other library privileges
3. Notification of appropriate law enforcement officials.

Illegal acts involving library resources may be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal officials.

            Computers may not be available due to technical problems.  Computers will be turned off five minutes before closing.

V.  Additional Guidelines for Public E-mail Use

            Only Web-based e-mail accounts may be accessed (such as Hot Mail, Yahoo Mail, etc.)  Accessing other types of e-mail accounts (such as ICQ) is prohibited. 

            Because of limited staff and technical resources, chat, e-mail, and commercial transactions are not a service priority.  Library staff will not provide assistance with those activities.

            Public access e-mail cannot be used to send or receive matter inappropriate for minors (as defined under K.S.A. 21-4301, K.S.A. 21-4301a, and K.S.A. 21-4301c), explicit or obscene messages or images.  Libeling, slandering or harassment of others is prohibited.

VI.  Wireless Internet Access

            Free wireless internet access is provided to any person with a wireless laptop, PDA, or other portable device.  Library staff cannot offer technical support for establishing or maintaining a connection and the library is not responsible for any hardware or software damage, or for loss or theft of unattended equipment.  The wireless connection is not secure.  Since the radio signals can be intercepted, activity requiring transmission of credit card numbers, personal information, etc. is not advised.  Users of the wireless network are responsible for maintaining up-to-date antivirus software and firewalls.  Patrons may only access web-based e-mail.  Printing for the wireless network will not be supported.  The wireless Internet access is unfiltered, but all library policies concerning legal and acceptable use of computers and the Internet apply.

Addendum: The library complies with state and federal laws.  We have a particular awareness of Kansas laws relating to obscenity (KSA 211-3516, K.S.A. 21-4301, 21-4301a, and 21-4301c).  Applicable state statutes are attached.  Attached are the approved protocols for unfiltered computer use.

The Frank Carlson 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, furniture, equipment, and materials of the library.

Any activity or behavior that hinders the use of the library, is disruptive, or jeopardizes the safety of patrons or employees, inside or outside, is prohibited.

General Restrictions

• Shoes and shirt must be worm
• Privileges may be limited for the following reasons:
  • Damaging library property
  • Stealing library materials
  • Physically threatening or harming staff or patrons

Activities not allowed in the Library:

• Playing of audio equipment so others can hear it
• Use of tobacco products or e-cigarettes
• Carrying a weapon into the library unless authorized by law.
  • Any patron authorized to carry a weapon must notify library staff.
• Bringing animals into the library except those needed to assist patrons with disabilities or for use in a Library sponsored program that has been authorized by the Director
• Misusing or defacing any part of the building
• Leaving a child under the age of 7 unattended in the library
• Talking loudly, making noise, or engaging in disruptive behavior
• Interfering with another person’s use of the library or with Library personnel’s performance of duties.
• Abusive or offensive language
• Loitering
• Body odor so offensive as to disturb others
• Personal displays of affection.

Patrons indulging in improper conduct may be asked to cease that conduct, to move to another location or activity, or to leave the library; severe or recurring problems may be dealt with by barring use of the library or individual involved, or by making library use conditional.  In general, the least restrictive means which effectively deals with the conduct should be employed.  Minor problems should be dealt with by the staff member observing it; more serious or recurring problems should be handled by the senior staff member on duty.  Only the Director or Library Board may bar an individual indefinitely from use of the library.  Police should be called when conduct is illegal, when it poses a threat to the library or an individual, or when an individual refuse to leave the library when asked to do so.

When any serious incident or one in which an individual is asked to leave the library occurs, the senior staff member on duty will prepare a written account for the Director by the end of the next working day.

Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the library on a regular basis.  However, parents are expected to supervise any children who accompany them to the library.  It is the responsibility of the parents, not the library staff, to restrain children from dangerous, disruptive or destructive behavior.  Parents who do not control their children will be asked to leave the library.

UNATTENDED CHILDREN

Parents may not leave children under age seven unattended in the library.  Parents or caregivers are responsible for their children’s behavior in the library.

Disruptive children are defined as children who are violating library rules and regulations as defined in library policy.  Disruptive children age seven or over will be asked to leave after receiving one warning. 

The library shall adopt staff procedures that deal positively with issues of security and safety specifically related to minors.

To support the health and wellbeing of our employees and customers, the Frank Carlson Library is committed to providing a smoke-free environment in the workplace.

In accordance with the Kansas Clean Indoor Air Act (2010 House Bill 2221), all Frank Carlson Library employees and customers shall adhere to the following policy:

• No smoking is permitted anywhere inside the Frank Carlson Library, or outside within a 10-foot radius of any doorway, open window, or air intake.
• No smoking is permitted at any location that signage prohibits smoking.

i. Definition

Interlibrary loan is the process by which a library requests materials from, or supplies materials to, another library.

II. Purpose

The purpose of interlibrary loan is to obtain, upon request of a FCL Library card holder, materials not available in the patron’s local library.

III. Scope

1. Interlibrary loan is a mutual relationship and libraries should be willing to supply materials as freely as the request materials
2. Any materials, regardless of format, may be requested from another library. The supplying library determines whether the materials can be provided.

IV. Responsibilities of the Requesting Library

1. The requesting library should process requests in a timely manner.
2. Requests for materials for which locations cannot be identifies, should be sent to the Central Kansas Library System at Great Bend.
3. The requesting library must ensure compliance with the U.S. copyright law and its accompanying guidelines. Copyright compliance must be determined for each copy request before it is transmitted and a copyright compliance statement must be included on each copy request. Copyright files will be maintained for five years
4. The requesting library is responsible for borrowed materials form the time they leave the supplying library until they have been returned and received by the supplying library.
5. The requesting library is responsible for honoring due dates and enforcing all use restrictions specified by the supplying library
6. The requesting library should request a renewal before the item is due. If the supplying library does not respond, the requesting library may assume that the renewal has been granted for the same length of time as the original request.
7. The requesting library should return materials by the due date and respond immediately if the item has been recalled by the supplying library.

V. Responsibilities of the Supplying Library

1. The supplying library should establish and maintain an interlibrary loan policy, make it available in paper and/or electronic format, and provide it upon request.
2. The supplying library should process requests within the timeline determined by the electronic network. Requests not transmitted electronically should be handled in a similar manner
3. The supplying library should include a copy of the original request, or information sufficient to identify the request, with each item.
4. The supplying library should state any conditions and/or restrictions on the use of the materials lent and specify any special return packaging or shipping requirements.
5. The supplying library should state the due date or durations of the loan on the request or on the material.
6. The supplying library should package the items to prevent damage in shipping
7. The supplying library should respond promptly to requests for renewals. If the supplying library does not respond, the borrowing library may assume that the renewal has been granted for the same length as the original loan period
8. The supplying library may suspend service to any requesting library which fails to comply with the provisions of the policy.

Abbreviations

FCL stands for Frank Carlson Library

ILL stands for interlibrary loan

The Frank Carlson Library is the only repository of Senator Frank Carlson’s personal effects that is open to the public.  While papers from his political career are housed in Topeka, the Frank Carlson Library maintains a more personal collection, illuminating his life as a private citizen as well as a political figure.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Frank Carlson Library’s Carlson collection is to share the story of Senator Carlson’s life and career though effective displays, exhibits, programs and tours.

To make this possible, it is the goal of the Frank Carlson Library to preserve documents, personal correspondence, artifacts, memorabilia, recordings, and other items that pertain to his life and that enhance the public’s understanding and appreciation of Senator Frank Carlson’s life and career.

Additions to and deletions from the collection will be made to support this mission.  In general, the Frank Carlson Library will retain those items that relate to Senator Carlson’s life and work.  Items that have little direct significance to Senator Carlson will not be added to the collection or will be de-accessioned from the collection.

Legal Authority

Public libraries are organized under the laws of Kansas and authorized under K.S.A. 12-1219 et seq. to acquire by purchase, gift or exchange the materials and equipment deemed necessary by the board for the maintenance and extension of modern library services.

Mission Statement

It is the goal of the Frank Carlson Library to obtain the maximum use of its collection by the greatest number of persons.

It is the objective of the library to select, organize, preserve, and to make available to individuals and groups within the library service area printed and other materials to meet their educational, informational, research and recreational needs.

I. Responsibility for Selection

The final responsibility for the selection of materials rests with the librarian assisted by staff members operating within the framework of policies adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Frank Carlson Library.  The staff will use selection aids such as basic general lists, current general lists, special bibliographies for reference books and particular subject materials, and review journals as a guide to purchase.  While reviews are a major source of information about new materials, they are not followed blindly.  No one publication is relied upon exclusively; furthermore, the critical opinions of reviewers are checked against each other.

II. General Selection Criteria

• The chief points considered in the selection of materials for the library are:
• Permanence or timely value
• Accuracy of information
• Literary quality
• Authoritativeness and effectiveness of presentation
• Social significance
• Balance of subject needs
• Present and future needs of the community
• Price and availability
• Good balance (includes objectivity)
• Physical format

Contemporary and popular authors are included, as well as those who have demonstrated enduring worth.  Titles are selected on the basis of the content as a whole and without regard to the personal history of the author.

The library asserts its right and duty to keep on its shelves a representative selection of books on all subjects of interest to its readers and not prohibited specifically by law, including books on all sides of controversial issues.  The library will not emphasize one subject at the expense of another or one side of a subject without regard to the other side.  It will carry the important books on all sides and subjects within the limitations of space and budget.

The library will not indicate, through the use of labels or other devices, particular philosophies outlined in a book.  To do so is to establish in the reader’s mind a judgement before the reader has had the opportunity to examine the book personally.

In the selection of factual materials there are several more general points to be considered.  These include:

• Authority and competence of the author
• Comprehensiveness in breadth and scope
• Objectivity
• Readability
• Potential usefulness and relation to existing collection
• Relative importance in comparison with other books on the subject
• New and worthwhile information to the library
• Availability of contents, indexes bibliographic materials.

New editions are always considered but sometimes offer very little new material.  Caution is exercised when considering these editions to ensure worthwhile purchasing.

Criteria for the selection of books for leisure reading, both fact and fiction include:

• Artistic expression
• Originality and imagination
• Reader interest
• Good characterization
• Best sellers of merit
• Popular authors of merit
• Timeliness

Textbooks are considered the responsibility of the educational institution and the student.  They are purchased, or accepted as gifts, for the collection only if they provide materials difficult to duplicate in other sources.

Paperbacks are bought, as necessary, to supplement the basic collection and provide duplicate copies of extremely popular materials.

Periodicals are considered on the basis of inclusion in recognized bibliographies such as Reader’s Guide.  Titles not included in such sources are considered if they relate in a meaningful way to the needs of the community.

Duplications are determined by the limitations of the book budget, but serious consideration is given to duplicate materials that are in public demand.  Occasionally, the same title is purchased for both the adult and children’s collections.  The library cannot be expected to meet the demand created by mass reading assignments for a specific work at a specific time.

Media, including videos, DVD’s, CD’s, tapes, and other non-print materials, will be purchased for the collection whenever appropriate and feasible within budgetary limitations.  The appropriateness of the form to the subject and presentation as well as the quality of the presentation must be considered.

Books of local and state history are acquired but no attempt is made to have a comprehensive Kansas collection.

Recommendations from the public will be considered under the same criteria used for the purchase of other library materials.

III. Gifts and Tax Exemptions

Gift materials are subject to all of the criteria set down in this policy.  Gift materials are accepted with the explicit understanding that they may, or may not, be added to the collection dependent upon the need for such materials.  Further, materials not added to the collection may be disposed of at the librarian’s discretion.

Under existing law, gifts to libraries may be deductible; the deductibility is governed by the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended.  If a potential donor of books or other non-cash items asks the library for an appraisal, IRS regulations and the Tax Reform Act of 1984 (Section 155a) clearly state that the appraiser must not be the library that receives the items.  Donors are required to obtain a formal appraisal if the value of donated property is valued at $5,000 or more.

IV. Interlibrary Loan and Cooperation

Through membership in the Central Kansas Library System, the Frank Carlson Library has access to books from libraries across the state through KICNET. 

It is more economical to borrow an infrequently used book than to buy it.  Interlibrary loan, while not designed to substitute for providing books in constant demand, is used by the library to provide essential books for unusual situations and to make available those books which cannot be held by the library for reasons of space and budget.

The library will cooperate with, but will not perform the functions of the school library community.  The public library collection always seeks to complement but never to take the place of the school library.

V. Confidentiality of Library Records

No information should be disclosed regarding or including:

• A patron’s name (or whether an individual is a registered borrower or has been a patron)
• A patron’s address or telephone number
• The library’s circulation records and their contents
• The library’s borrowers’ records and their contents
• The number or character of questions asked by a patron

The frequency or content of a patron’s visits to the library or any other information supplied to the library (or gathered by it) shall not be given, made available or disclosed to any individual, corporation, institution or government agency without a valid warrant or court order.

All library paid staff and volunteers should be carefully trained to comply with the library’s policies on confidentiality.

VI. Challenged Materials

Patrons have the right to request that the value of a book to the collection and the community be reconsidered by the library.  Request forms for such reconsiderations are provided by the library.

The library firmly endorses the Library Bill of Rights, the Statement on Labeling, and the Freedom to Read Statement of the American Library Association.  These statements are to be considered as a part of this selection policy.

All challenges of materials should be handled by the director or a designated department head.  An in-person appointment should be offered to the person making the complaint.

A private area should be chosen for the meeting.  The director, with another staff person or board member as witness, should listen calmly and with complete courtesy.  The individual or group must be treated with dignity.

The director should explain the general criteria of the library’s selection policies.  It should be made clear that the Library Board of Trustees subscribes to the freedom statements in the library’s policy.

If the person making the complaint wants to continue the procedure for reconsideration of materials after talking with the director, he or she will be requested to complete a “Reconsideration of Library Materials” form.  The person or group must be properly identified and the complaint form must be filled out in its entirety.

After the director receives the completed form, he/she shall appoint a committee consisting of the director or a staff appointee of the director’s choice, the person who recommended the material be purchased, a board member, someone from the community who is a library user and a person selected by those making the complaint.

The process for reconsideration should be explained to those making the complaint and they should be informed that after a recommendation is made by the committee for reconsideration, they will be notified.

If those making the complaint are not satisfied with the committee decision, they may appeal to the Board of Trustees within three weeks of the committee decision.

If the decision is appealed to the board, the materials in question and all supporting information concerning the decision to purchase this material should be forwarded to the board.  The board’s decision will be final.

VII. Withdrawals

Any property owned by the Frank Carlson Library may be disposed of at the discretion of the Library Board when the Board deems it is no longer required or is no longer useful.

In order to maintain a vital, interesting, and useable collection, the library continually removes from its collection those items which through usage or the passage of time are no longer suitable for use or necessary.  Some basis for withdrawal of materials include: volumes of no use to the library, books of poor content, books of very poor appearance.

 Questions to ask when weeding: These are questions of a very general nature.  Every title or item requires professional judgement tempered with experience and common sense.

1. What was the last date of circulation?  What was the interval of time between checkouts?
2. Is the book in attractive and useful condition?
3. Are the information and presentation still accurate?
4. Is it reliable?  Viewpoints and information change with time.
5. Does it have appropriate language and usage?  Vocabulary and usage are a reflection of a particular time and place.
6. Is it a duplicate?  Older edition duplicates of once popular titles should go.
7. Is it appropriate for the library at this time?

The librarian shall use knowledge of books, guidelines from Regional Library Systems, and the advisory assistance available to make the decision to remove and suitably dispose of such materials.