Library FAQs and Policies
Library FAQs
HOW DO I GET A LIBRARY CARD?
Library cards are free to Wisconsin residents. Identification and proof of residence are required for adults when the card application is completed. Minors need a parent's or guardian's signature on their application. There is no minimum age requirement to obtain a library card.
HOW LONG DOES A LIBRARY CARD LAST?
Your card expires after one year. We will then check your address and phone number and notify you of any charges on your account.
WHAT IF I LOSE MY CARD?
A replacement card is $3.
SHOULD I NOTIFY YOU IF I CHANGE MY ADDRESS?
YES. Let us know whenever you change any information on your library card application.
MAY OTHERS USE MY CARD?
Yes, but remember: everything checked out on your card is your responsibility.
MAY I USE MY CARD AT OTHER PUBLIC LIBRARIES?
Yes. You may use your card at the public libraries in these counties: Outagamie, Waupaca, Shawano, Door, Florence, Oneida, Marinette, Kewaunee, Menominee, Oconto, and the Oneida Reservation.
DO I NEED MY LIBRARY CARD WHEN I COME TO THE LIBRARY?
Yes. It is important to have your card to maintain your account accurately and privately.
HOW LONG MAY I KEEP LIBRARY MATERIALS?
All videos (adult, children, DVDs): 1 week
Children's CD-ROMs: 2 weeks
Books with a short loan: 2 weeks
Magazines/Pamphlets & CD-ROMs: 2 weeks
Everything else: 4 weeks
Children's CD-ROMs: 2 weeks
Books with a short loan: 2 weeks
Magazines/Pamphlets & CD-ROMs: 2 weeks
Everything else: 4 weeks
HOW MANY THINGS MAY I CHECK OUT?
The total number of library items that you may have on your account at one time is 75. You may check out 25 CDs and 25 movies (DVD and Blu-Ray format) at any one time.
HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN MY MATERIALS ARE DUE?
When you check out materials, you will be given a slip listing what you have checked out and when those items are due back at the library.
You can also look at your Account Activity at InfoSoup to find out about your current loans.
You can also look at your Account Activity at InfoSoup to find out about your current loans.
MAY I RENEW LIBRARY ITEMS?
Most items may be renewed by using the My Account feature of the library's catalog. Unless there is a waiting list, books and audiocassettes may be renewed 2 times; other materials may be renewed once. Overdue materials must be brought in to the circulation desk to renew.
HOW MUCH IS AN OVERDUE FINE?
All movies & music CDs: 50¢/day-$20 Maximum
Other items: 10¢/day
Other items: 10¢/day
HOW WILL I KNOW IF I HAVE FINES OR OVERDUE ITEMS?
When you check out materials, you will be given a slip listing what you have checked out and when those items are due back at the library. If your library account includes your email address, you will receive a courtesy notice one day before you items are due. You can also check your library account on InfoSoup.
HOW DO I GET MY NOTICES BY EMAIL?
To receive email notices from Suring Area Public Library by email, tell us your email address. We will then send you reserve notices when an item you reserved is available for checkout, an overdue notices when an item is past due and a courtesy notice one day before your items are due.
MAY I RETURN MATERIALS TO ANOTHER LIBRARY?
Yes, your materials may be returned to the public libraries in these counties: Outagamie, Waupaca, Shawano, Door, Florence, Marinette, Kewaunee, Menominee, Oconto, and the Oneida Reservation. You can wait until the day they are due, since they will be checked in that same day at those libraries.
Suring Area Public Library Policies
Click items in the list to go to their corresponding sections.
I. Mission and Goal Statements
A. The mission of the Suring Area Public Library is to connect people with information, ideas, and experiences to provide education and enjoyment.
B. The general library goals of the Suring Area Public Library shall be: (Reviewed & Approved 5/23/2023)
B. The general library goals of the Suring Area Public Library shall be: (Reviewed & Approved 5/23/2023)
- To serve all residents of the community and the surrounding region.
- To acquire and make available to all residents of the above area such as books, periodicals, pamphlets, and other services that will address their needs to a) become well informed, b) locate answers to important questions, c) cultivate the imagination and creative expression, d) develop skills for career and vocational development advancement, and e) enjoy leisure by means of reading and other media services.
- To acquire the means to provide the most frequently requested material locally and upon demand.
- To maintain a program of service which locates information, guides reading, organizes and interprets material for people of various backgrounds, and stimulates thinking and intellectual development in individuals of any age.
- To strive consistently to discover new methods and improvements for better service for the library's customers.
- To review regularly these goals of the Suring Area Public Library and, if necessary, revise them in light of new developments.
II. Library Users
(Reviewed & Approved May 23, 2023)
A. The library will serve all residents and visitors of the community and the public library system area. Service will not be denied or abridged because of religious, racial, social, economic, or political status; or because of mental, emotional, physical condition, age, or sexual orientation.
B. The use of the library may be denied for due cause. Such cause may be failure to return library materials, pay penalties, destruction of library property, disturbance of other patrons, or any other illegal, disruptive, or objectionable conduct on library premises.
B. The use of the library may be denied for due cause. Such cause may be failure to return library materials, pay penalties, destruction of library property, disturbance of other patrons, or any other illegal, disruptive, or objectionable conduct on library premises.
III. Patron Responsibilities and Conduct
(Reviewed & Approved 5/23/2023)
It is a patron's responsibility to maintain necessary and proper standards of behavior in order to protect an individual's rights and the rights and privileges of other patrons. If a patron creates a public nuisance, that patron may be restricted from the library facilities and from the use of library materials. Those who are unwilling to leave or do not leave within a reasonable amount of time, after being instructed to do so by the staff, will be subject to the law. In the case of a minor child needing to contact a parent, they may do so and then wait in a place designated by a staff person until the parent arrives.
Young Children: The Suring Area Public Library encourages visits by young children and it is our desire to make this important visit both memorable and enjoyable for the child. Library staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the library.
Therefore, it is library policy that all children under age seven must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.
Therefore, it is library policy that all children under age seven must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.
Disruptive Children: Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier at busy times and that children by nature can cause more commotion. However, children (whether with parents or not) who are being continually disruptive will be given a warning to settle down or will be asked to leave the library. If after a second warning the child continues to be disruptive, the child will be asked to leave the library. If the child needs to contact a parent/guardian, it is permissible to do so and then wait with a staff person until the parent arrives.
Animals: Bringing any animal or pet into the library is not permitted except for persons with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, as approved by the Library Director or for an approved library event. Animals may not be left unattended on library property.
IV. Services of the Library
(Reviewed & Approved July 25, 2023)
The library provides materials and resources for information, entertainment, intellectual development, and enrichment of the people of the community. The library should endeavor to:
- Select, organize, and make available necessary books and materials.
- Provide guidance and assistance to patrons.
- Sponsor and implement programs, exhibits, displays, book lists, etc., which would appeal to children and adults.
- Cooperate with other community agencies and organizations.
- Secure information beyond its own resources when requested. (Using interlibrary loan and other resource sharing methods provided through the system and state.)
- Lend to other libraries upon request.
- Develop and provide services to patrons with special needs.
- Maintain a balance in its services to various age groups.
- Cooperate with, but not perform the functions of, school or other institutional libraries.
- Provide service during hours which best meet the needs of the community, including evening and weekend hours.
- Regularly review library services being offered.
- Use media and other public relations mechanisms to promote the full range of available library services.
V. Responsibilities and Authorities of the Library Board
(Reviewed & Approved July 25, 2023)
Refer to Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin Statutes (particularly section 43.58), the Wisconsin Public Library Trustee Manual, and individual library bylaws for the responsibilities and authority of the library board and individual trustees.
The Suring Area Public Library encourages each library trustee to take advantage of training opportunities for trustees offered by the public library system or statewide agencies and organizations. Likewise, the Library encourages trustees to be active in the state library organization and its efforts to inform the governor and legislature of the benefits and needs of public libraries.
Refer to Suring Area Public Library Bylaws posted on the website (www.suringpubliclibrary.org).
The Suring Area Public Library encourages each library trustee to take advantage of training opportunities for trustees offered by the public library system or statewide agencies and organizations. Likewise, the Library encourages trustees to be active in the state library organization and its efforts to inform the governor and legislature of the benefits and needs of public libraries.
Refer to Suring Area Public Library Bylaws posted on the website (www.suringpubliclibrary.org).
VI. Volunteers and Friends
(Reviewed & Approved July 25, 2023)
The Library Board encourages individuals and groups to volunteer their time and efforts in the service of the Suring Area Public Library. In appreciation of Friends of the Suring Area Public Library volunteer services, the Library acknowledges the need to organize volunteer activities and provide for appropriate recognition befitting the benefit to the library and the communities it serves.
Annual recognition may be given. This may include a listing of volunteer names in a newspaper release.
Annual recognition may be given. This may include a listing of volunteer names in a newspaper release.
VII. Personnel Policy
(Reviewed & Approved July 25, 2023)
A. Management Policy: The duly appointed Library Trustees shall have all management rights, authorities, and responsibilities as stated in Wisconsin Statutes, Chapter 43.
B. Administrative Policy: The person appointed as library director shall be charged with the sole administration of the library.
Refer to Suring Area Public Library Bylaws posted on the website (www.suringpubliclibrary.org).
C. Salaries: A classification and salary schedule has been adopted by the library board. The plan is subject to regular revision so that it will remain equitable for both the library and the staff.
D. Vacation Policy-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
E. Holiday Policy-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
Legal Holidays are those recognized by Wisconsin Statutes and will be observed according to WI Statutes ......
The Village of Suring pays the following holidays:
F. Sick Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
G. Leave of Absence-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
H. Bereavement Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
I. Military Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
J. Jury Duty-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
K. Work Schedule Policy: Major changes in the director's schedule or other circumstances may not be made without approval of the library board. Requests for such shall be made in writing to the library board. Requests for changes in the work schedule of other staff or volunteers shall be made in writing to the library director.
L. Meetings, Conventions, and Workshops: The director, staff and trustees attending continuing education opportunities to aid the library shall be allowed expenses at the discretion of the library board according to the amount appropriated in budget for such. The director, staff and trustees are encouraged to attend and participate in continuing education activities. The director and staff shall be paid for their continuing education time, not to exceed eight hours per day.
M. Disciplinary Policy: An employee of the Suring Area Public Library may be dismissed for any action or behavior that causes the Library's image or operation to be diminished. This includes but is not limited to: incompetence, misconduct, inattention to assigned duties, or unapproved absences from work.
Normally termination would be a final step which would follow:
It is important that complete and clear records be maintained of all disciplinary processes for the protection of the employee and the library.
The Library wants each employee to be successful in his/her job and will work with employees to eliminate deficiencies. While notice of intent to terminate can be expected, the Suring Area Public Library reserves the right to dismiss an employee without notice in cases involving theft, drug or alcohol abuse, criminal activity, or in instances of significant misconduct.
N. Resignation and Retirement Policy: A library employee wishing to resign or retire from employment must notify the director or the library board as soon as practicable. The library requests a minimum notice of two weeks. For the library director a notice of at least one month is preferred.
The employee must submit a formal, written resignation statement giving the exact date that employment is to be terminated. Between the time of notice and the time when employment ends a final performance appraisal will be conducted.
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
O. Grievance Procedure: It is the intent of the Suring Area Public Library that every employee shall have the opportunity to express concerns relating to the physical surroundings in which the employee works, procedures and conditions of the specific position, relationships with fellow workers or supervisors, and library rules as they apply to staff. A concern or grievance should follow the procedure below:
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
P. Equal Opportunity Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Suring Area Public Library to adhere to the Federal Nondiscrimination Policy. Federal laws prohibit discrimination based on a person's national origin, race, color, religion, disability, sex, and familial status. Laws prohibiting national origin discrimination make it illegal to discriminate because of a person's birthplace, ancestry, culture or language.
Q. Drug-Free Workplace Policy: In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited while performing work for the Suring Area Public Library, whether that work is carried out in the workplace building or not. All employees shall abide, as a condition of employment, by the terms of this notice and shall notify the library director or board within five (5) days of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace.
Failure to comply with the above requirements shall be grounds for appropriate personnel action against such employee up to and including termination, or such employee may be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.
R. Sexual Harassment Policy: Harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of Title VII (federal law) and Statute 111.36(b) (state law). Sexual harassment, either verbal or physical, is an unlawful employment practice and will not be tolerated by the Suring Area Public Library.
The Suring Area Public Library accepts and adheres to all definitions and procedures outlined in the law as regards sexual harassment. Any employee who engages in sexual harassment will subject themselves to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
- The library board shall select, appoint, and when necessary for valid reasons, dismiss the director of the library.
- The board shall approve all other positions and all wage and benefit levels for all library staff.
- The library board shall provide an effective orientation for new directors to assure that the director understands a) the policies and processes related to the daily operation of the library, b) reporting and budgetary requirements that assure accountability and compliance with the law, c) the expectations of the board in regard to administrative processes and protocol, particularly as they relate to conducting effective and efficient board meetings, and d) rules and requirements for state certification and any assistance which is provided by the Library to acquire and maintain appropriate certification.
- The library board shall conduct annual appraisals of the library director's performance, at which time personal and management goals can be discussed and negotiated.
B. Administrative Policy: The person appointed as library director shall be charged with the sole administration of the library.
- The director shall be responsible to the library board in matters pertaining to and concerning the library; be present at monthly board meetings and prepare and present such reports and meeting documents as requested.
- The director shall maintain financial records in an efficient manner; present periodic reports to the library board and to the municipal governing body; prepare the draft of the annual budget to be presented to the library board, and assist trustees with presentation of the adopted request for appropriation to the municipal governing body.
- The director shall hold regular meetings with staff and/or volunteers for training and interpreting board policy.
- The director will be responsible for preparing annual performance assessments for library staff and volunteers.
- The director shall have the responsibility for collection development for all materials in the library; this includes selection, ordering, processing, weeding, and inventory of the collections according to the guidelines in the policy.
- The director will recommend changes in or additions to library policies as needed.
- The director will perform preparatory work to assist the board with regular library planning.
Refer to Suring Area Public Library Bylaws posted on the website (www.suringpubliclibrary.org).
C. Salaries: A classification and salary schedule has been adopted by the library board. The plan is subject to regular revision so that it will remain equitable for both the library and the staff.
D. Vacation Policy-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
E. Holiday Policy-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
Legal Holidays are those recognized by Wisconsin Statutes and will be observed according to WI Statutes ......
The Village of Suring pays the following holidays:
- New Year's Day
- Good Friday (Friday before Easter) (1/2 day)
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Friday after Thanksgiving
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Eve Day (1/2 day)
F. Sick Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
G. Leave of Absence-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
H. Bereavement Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
I. Military Leave-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
J. Jury Duty-Refer to Policies for Village of Suring
K. Work Schedule Policy: Major changes in the director's schedule or other circumstances may not be made without approval of the library board. Requests for such shall be made in writing to the library board. Requests for changes in the work schedule of other staff or volunteers shall be made in writing to the library director.
L. Meetings, Conventions, and Workshops: The director, staff and trustees attending continuing education opportunities to aid the library shall be allowed expenses at the discretion of the library board according to the amount appropriated in budget for such. The director, staff and trustees are encouraged to attend and participate in continuing education activities. The director and staff shall be paid for their continuing education time, not to exceed eight hours per day.
M. Disciplinary Policy: An employee of the Suring Area Public Library may be dismissed for any action or behavior that causes the Library's image or operation to be diminished. This includes but is not limited to: incompetence, misconduct, inattention to assigned duties, or unapproved absences from work.
Normally termination would be a final step which would follow:
- a substandard performance appraisal
- verbal and/or written warnings
It is important that complete and clear records be maintained of all disciplinary processes for the protection of the employee and the library.
The Library wants each employee to be successful in his/her job and will work with employees to eliminate deficiencies. While notice of intent to terminate can be expected, the Suring Area Public Library reserves the right to dismiss an employee without notice in cases involving theft, drug or alcohol abuse, criminal activity, or in instances of significant misconduct.
N. Resignation and Retirement Policy: A library employee wishing to resign or retire from employment must notify the director or the library board as soon as practicable. The library requests a minimum notice of two weeks. For the library director a notice of at least one month is preferred.
The employee must submit a formal, written resignation statement giving the exact date that employment is to be terminated. Between the time of notice and the time when employment ends a final performance appraisal will be conducted.
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
O. Grievance Procedure: It is the intent of the Suring Area Public Library that every employee shall have the opportunity to express concerns relating to the physical surroundings in which the employee works, procedures and conditions of the specific position, relationships with fellow workers or supervisors, and library rules as they apply to staff. A concern or grievance should follow the procedure below:
- If possible, discuss the problem with the director. In the case of the director having a concern, this should be discussed with the board president.
- If the director is part of the problem, or if the board president is part of the director's problem, the concern/grievance should be submitted in writing for the library board and be delivered to the director, who will deliver the statement to the board president. The board president will, in turn, present the concern, during closed session, to the full board at the next or a special board meeting.
- The board's representative will respond to the employee within five (5) days of the board meeting at which the issue is discussed, either providing a determination, solution, or a strategy for how the board will address the issue over time.
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
P. Equal Opportunity Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Suring Area Public Library to adhere to the Federal Nondiscrimination Policy. Federal laws prohibit discrimination based on a person's national origin, race, color, religion, disability, sex, and familial status. Laws prohibiting national origin discrimination make it illegal to discriminate because of a person's birthplace, ancestry, culture or language.
Q. Drug-Free Workplace Policy: In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited while performing work for the Suring Area Public Library, whether that work is carried out in the workplace building or not. All employees shall abide, as a condition of employment, by the terms of this notice and shall notify the library director or board within five (5) days of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace.
Failure to comply with the above requirements shall be grounds for appropriate personnel action against such employee up to and including termination, or such employee may be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.
R. Sexual Harassment Policy: Harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of Title VII (federal law) and Statute 111.36(b) (state law). Sexual harassment, either verbal or physical, is an unlawful employment practice and will not be tolerated by the Suring Area Public Library.
The Suring Area Public Library accepts and adheres to all definitions and procedures outlined in the law as regards sexual harassment. Any employee who engages in sexual harassment will subject themselves to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Refer to Policies for Village of Suring.
VIII. Materials Selection/Collection Development Policy
(Reviewed & Approved August 21, 2023)
The materials selection/collection development policy is used by the library staff in the selection of materials and also serves to acquaint the general public with the principles of selection.
The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement have been endorsed by the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees and are integral parts of the policy. The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement were created and endorsed by the American Library Association and can be found in Appendix B and Appendix C. If you would like a copy of this document please see the Librarians at the Suring Area Public Library.
A. Responsibility for Selection: The ultimate responsibility for selection of library materials rests with the library director who operates within the framework of the policies determined by the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees. This responsibility may be shared with other members of the library staff; however, because the director must be available to answer to the library board and the general public for actual selections made, the director has the authority to reject or select any item contrary to the recommendations of the staff.
B. Criteria for Selection:
C. Interlibrary Loan: Interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of this library's collection.
In return for utilizing interlibrary loan to satisfy the needs of our patrons, the Suring Area Public Library agrees to lend its materials to other libraries through the same interlibrary loan network, and to make an effort to have its current holdings listed in a tool that is accessible by other libraries throughout the state.
D. Gifts and Donations: The library accepts gifts of books and other materials as needed. If they are not needed because of duplication, condition, or dated information the director can dispose of them. The director reserves the right to refuse donated items if they do not meet the above criteria. The same criteria of selection which are applied to purchased materials are applied to gifts. Memorial gifts of books or money are also accepted with suitable bookplates placed in the book. Specific memorial books can be ordered for the library on request of a patron. Book selection will be made by the director if no specific book is requested. The Suring Area Public Library encourages and appreciates gifts and donations.
By law, the library is not allowed to appraise the value of donated materials, though it can provide an acknowledgment of receipt of the items if requested by the donor.
E. Weeding: An up-to-date, attractive and useful collection is maintained through a continual withdrawal and replacement process. Replacement of worn volumes is dependent upon current demand, usefulness, more recent acquisitions, and availability of newer editions. This ongoing process of weeding is the responsibility of the library director and is authorized by the Board of Trustees. Withdrawn materials will be handled in a similar manner and under the same authority as donated materials.
G. Potential Problems or Challenges: The Suring Area Public Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons. Selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children.
Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of their contents, and no library material will be sequestered except to protect it from damage or theft.
G. Challenged Materials: Although materials are carefully selected, there may arise differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection may complete a "Formal Reconsideration of Materials Form" (Appendix E), which is available in the library. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees.
The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement have been endorsed by the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees and are integral parts of the policy. The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement were created and endorsed by the American Library Association and can be found in Appendix B and Appendix C. If you would like a copy of this document please see the Librarians at the Suring Area Public Library.
A. Responsibility for Selection: The ultimate responsibility for selection of library materials rests with the library director who operates within the framework of the policies determined by the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees. This responsibility may be shared with other members of the library staff; however, because the director must be available to answer to the library board and the general public for actual selections made, the director has the authority to reject or select any item contrary to the recommendations of the staff.
B. Criteria for Selection:
- The main points considered in the selection of materials are:
- a. individual merit of each item
- b. popular appeal/demand
- c. suitability of material for the clientele
- d. existing library holdings
- e. budget
- Reviews are a major source of information about new materials. The primary source(s) of reviews is (are) "Book Page," "Children’s Cooperative Book Center Choices," "Library Journal" and other critical use review sources as seen appropriate by the Director of the Suring Area Public Library.
- The lack of a review or an unfavorable review shall not be the sole reason for rejecting a title which is in demand. Consideration is, therefore, given to requests from library patrons and books discussed on public media. Materials are judged on the basis of the work as a whole, not on a part taken out of context.
C. Interlibrary Loan: Interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of this library's collection.
In return for utilizing interlibrary loan to satisfy the needs of our patrons, the Suring Area Public Library agrees to lend its materials to other libraries through the same interlibrary loan network, and to make an effort to have its current holdings listed in a tool that is accessible by other libraries throughout the state.
D. Gifts and Donations: The library accepts gifts of books and other materials as needed. If they are not needed because of duplication, condition, or dated information the director can dispose of them. The director reserves the right to refuse donated items if they do not meet the above criteria. The same criteria of selection which are applied to purchased materials are applied to gifts. Memorial gifts of books or money are also accepted with suitable bookplates placed in the book. Specific memorial books can be ordered for the library on request of a patron. Book selection will be made by the director if no specific book is requested. The Suring Area Public Library encourages and appreciates gifts and donations.
By law, the library is not allowed to appraise the value of donated materials, though it can provide an acknowledgment of receipt of the items if requested by the donor.
E. Weeding: An up-to-date, attractive and useful collection is maintained through a continual withdrawal and replacement process. Replacement of worn volumes is dependent upon current demand, usefulness, more recent acquisitions, and availability of newer editions. This ongoing process of weeding is the responsibility of the library director and is authorized by the Board of Trustees. Withdrawn materials will be handled in a similar manner and under the same authority as donated materials.
G. Potential Problems or Challenges: The Suring Area Public Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons. Selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children.
Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of their contents, and no library material will be sequestered except to protect it from damage or theft.
G. Challenged Materials: Although materials are carefully selected, there may arise differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection may complete a "Formal Reconsideration of Materials Form" (Appendix E), which is available in the library. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Suring Area Public Library Board of Trustees.
IX. Circulation Policy
(Reviewed & Approved August 21, 2023)
A. Registration: All borrowers must be registered and must have a valid local or system patron card to borrow library materials. Patrons must fill out an application form to register for a new library card. The following statement will be printed on the registration form for the patron's information and acceptance:
I accept responsibility for library materials borrowed with the library card issued to me until I report the card lost or stolen. I agree to pay fines for materials returned to the library after their due date and to reimburse the library for materials that are lost damaged, or stolen.
Identification is required when applying for a library card. A driver's license, a student ID or any other official ID is acceptable.
Applicants under 13 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued. This parental signature is not required for children who are renewing cards.
Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued.
All library cards expire after one year. In order to renew a library card, patrons must produce identification and must clear all outstanding fines and bills.
B. Lost or forgotten cards: If a patron loses their library card, they should notify the library as soon as possible and request a replacement. Replacement card cost is subject to change.
All patrons are expected to bring their library cards with them if they intend to check out items, place items on hold, use the computers or request information about their library account. Library service cannot be received without a valid library card.
C. Loan periods:
D. Maximum items loaned: The following is the total number of library items that may be checked out to a patron at one time:
E. Holds: Holds may be placed by patrons. Patrons must give their library account number when requesting service e-mail. Patrons will be notified by e-mail or telephone when the materials are available. There is no charge to the patron for placing a reserve or for interlibrary loan services.
F. Fines and charges
G. Damaged materials: If materials are damaged to the point where they are unsuitable for the collection, the patron must pay the replacement cost plus a $7.00 processing fee. The borrower will be notified of these charges and may keep the damaged item that they pay for.
H. Confidentiality: The Suring Area Public Library adheres strictly to all sections of this Statute regarding the protection of the confidentiality of its users.
I accept responsibility for library materials borrowed with the library card issued to me until I report the card lost or stolen. I agree to pay fines for materials returned to the library after their due date and to reimburse the library for materials that are lost damaged, or stolen.
Identification is required when applying for a library card. A driver's license, a student ID or any other official ID is acceptable.
Applicants under 13 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued. This parental signature is not required for children who are renewing cards.
Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued.
All library cards expire after one year. In order to renew a library card, patrons must produce identification and must clear all outstanding fines and bills.
B. Lost or forgotten cards: If a patron loses their library card, they should notify the library as soon as possible and request a replacement. Replacement card cost is subject to change.
All patrons are expected to bring their library cards with them if they intend to check out items, place items on hold, use the computers or request information about their library account. Library service cannot be received without a valid library card.
C. Loan periods:
- Loan period for books is four weeks. Short Loan books will be circulated for two weeks for the first three months they are placed in circulation.
- Suring Area Public Library has a small collection of reference books that do not circulate. Upon request, some reference materials may be checked out overnight.
- Interlibrary loans are due the date indicated by the lending library.
- Books and audiovisual material may be renewed three times if there is not a waiting list for the title.
- Non-current magazines may be checked out for two weeks and may be renewed twice if there is no hold on the title.
- Audio books and Playaways may be checked out for four weeks.
- Music CDs and DVDs may be checked out for two weeks.
D. Maximum items loaned: The following is the total number of library items that may be checked out to a patron at one time:
- Total checkouts (books, audiobooks, software): 75
- Total checkouts of videos and DVDs: 25
- Total checkouts of music CDs: 25
- Total number of holds: 15
E. Holds: Holds may be placed by patrons. Patrons must give their library account number when requesting service e-mail. Patrons will be notified by e-mail or telephone when the materials are available. There is no charge to the patron for placing a reserve or for interlibrary loan services.
F. Fines and charges
- Books are $.10 per day.
- DVDs are $1.00 per day.
- Magazines, audio books, and music CDs are $.50 per day.
- Collection Fee for any delinquent accounts may be sent to State Debt Collection.
G. Damaged materials: If materials are damaged to the point where they are unsuitable for the collection, the patron must pay the replacement cost plus a $7.00 processing fee. The borrower will be notified of these charges and may keep the damaged item that they pay for.
H. Confidentiality: The Suring Area Public Library adheres strictly to all sections of this Statute regarding the protection of the confidentiality of its users.
X. Patron Privacy of Library Records and Library Use
(Reviewed & Approved August 21, 2023)
The Suring Area Public Library protects the privacy of library records and the confidentiality of library users as required by relevant laws. In addition, the Suring Area Public Library supports the principle of freedom of inquiry for library users, and has adopted this policy to protect against the unwarranted invasion of the personal privacy of library users.
Legal requirements
The relevant Wisconsin laws concerning the confidentiality of library records are Wisconsin Statutes Section 43.30 and the Wisconsin Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80).
Under Section 43.30, library records that indicate the identity of any individual who borrows or uses a library's documents or other materials, resources or services may only be disclosed:
Wisconsin’s Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80) requires all state and local government organizations (including public libraries) to develop procedures to protect the privacy of personal information kept by the organization. Libraries are required to develop rules of conduct for employees involved in collecting, maintaining, using, and providing access to personally identifiable information. Libraries are also required to ensure that employees handling such records "know their duties and responsibilities relating to protecting personal privacy, including applicable state and federal laws."
Records indicating the identity of library users include a library users name library card number, social security number, telephone number, street address, post-office box number or 9-digit extended zip code.
Records held by the library or library system that include personally identifiable information about library users may also contain information that must be provided to those who request that information, as required by Wisconsin’s public records law. Personally identifiable information about library users must be redacted from any records that are publicly disclosed, except as the records are disclosed pursuant to one of the five exceptions provided in Section 43.30 (see above).
Rules to be followed by library staff
Handling of court orders
[Note: All search warrants are court orders, but not all subpoenas are court orders. Library staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order.]
If law enforcement officers bring a court order in the form of a search warrant:
If FBI agents bring a court order in the form of a search warrant issued under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA):
Legal requirements
The relevant Wisconsin laws concerning the confidentiality of library records are Wisconsin Statutes Section 43.30 and the Wisconsin Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80).
Under Section 43.30, library records that indicate the identity of any individual who borrows or uses a library's documents or other materials, resources or services may only be disclosed:
- with the consent of the individual library user;
- by court order;
- to the custodial parent or guardian of a child who is under the age of 16, who requests such library records (in this respect, “custodial parent” includes any parent other than a parent who has been denied periods of physical placement with a child under s. 767.24 (4));
- to persons acting within the scope of their duties in the administration of the library or library system, or
- to other libraries (under certain circumstances) for interlibrary loan purposes [see ss. 43.30(2) and (3)].
Wisconsin’s Personal Information Practices Act (Sections 19.62 to 19.80) requires all state and local government organizations (including public libraries) to develop procedures to protect the privacy of personal information kept by the organization. Libraries are required to develop rules of conduct for employees involved in collecting, maintaining, using, and providing access to personally identifiable information. Libraries are also required to ensure that employees handling such records "know their duties and responsibilities relating to protecting personal privacy, including applicable state and federal laws."
Records indicating the identity of library users include a library users name library card number, social security number, telephone number, street address, post-office box number or 9-digit extended zip code.
Records held by the library or library system that include personally identifiable information about library users may also contain information that must be provided to those who request that information, as required by Wisconsin’s public records law. Personally identifiable information about library users must be redacted from any records that are publicly disclosed, except as the records are disclosed pursuant to one of the five exceptions provided in Section 43.30 (see above).
Rules to be followed by library staff
- As required by state law, library staff may only disclose library records indicating the identity of library users under the following conditions:
- disclosure to staff members of the Suring Area Public Library, and the staff of other libraries and library systems only according to written procedures that comply with the laws cited above and that are approved by the Library Director;
- disclosure as authorized by the individual library user;
- disclosure pursuant to court order (see below for handling of different types of court orders), or;
- disclosure to the custodial parent or guardian of a child who is under the age of 16, who requests such library records.
- Library staff must refer all requests for library records and all requests for information about particular library users to the Library Director.
- Library staff are not allowed to share information about use of library resources and services by identified library users except as necessary for the performance of their job duties and in accordance with procedures approved by the Library Director.
Handling of court orders
[Note: All search warrants are court orders, but not all subpoenas are court orders. Library staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order.]
If law enforcement officers bring a court order in the form of a search warrant:
- A search warrant is executable immediately, unlike a subpoena. The law enforcement officers may begin a search of library records as soon as they enter the library.
- Request that the law enforcement officers wait until the library’s legal counsel is present before the search begins in order to allow legal counsel an opportunity to examine the search warrant and to assure that the search conforms to the terms of the search warrant. (The law enforcement officials are not required to accede to any request to delay the search.)
- Cooperate with the search to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are disclosed.
If FBI agents bring a court order in the form of a search warrant issued under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA):
- A search warrant is executable immediately, unlike a subpoena. The law enforcement officers may begin a search of library records as soon as they enter the library.
- Request that the law enforcement officers wait until the library’s legal counsel is present before the search begins in order to allow legal counsel an opportunity to examine the search warrant and to assure that the search conforms to the terms of the search warrant. (The law enforcement officials are not required to accede to this request.)
- Cooperate with the search to ensure that only the records identified in the warrant are produced and that no other users’ records are disclosed.
- It is illegal to disclose to any other person (other than those persons necessary to produce the tangible things sought in the warrant) that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has sought or obtained records or other items under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
XI. Internal Use of Internet Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
The Suring Area Public Library is providing access to the internet as a means to enhance the information and learning opportunities for the citizens of the library's service area. The Board of Trustees has established the internet use policy to ensure appropriate and effective use of this resource.
Access to the internet is available to all patrons; however, this service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with the guidelines. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the library's internet service; prior to being granted access to the internet, anyone under 18 years of age, along with a parent or guardian, must sign the "Suring Area Public Library Internet Permission Form" (Appendix F). All users must sign the log-in prior to beginning their session.
Expectations: Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. The users will be held responsible for their actions using the internet. Users are expected to abide by the policies below which include generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Unacceptable uses of the service will result in the suspension or revocation of internet use privileges.
Warnings: The internet is a decentralized, unmoderated global network; the Suring Area Public Library has no control over the content found there. The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information, and it is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the internet.
Access to the internet is available to all patrons; however, this service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with the guidelines. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the library's internet service; prior to being granted access to the internet, anyone under 18 years of age, along with a parent or guardian, must sign the "Suring Area Public Library Internet Permission Form" (Appendix F). All users must sign the log-in prior to beginning their session.
Expectations: Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. The users will be held responsible for their actions using the internet. Users are expected to abide by the policies below which include generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Unacceptable uses of the service will result in the suspension or revocation of internet use privileges.
Warnings: The internet is a decentralized, unmoderated global network; the Suring Area Public Library has no control over the content found there. The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information, and it is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the internet.
XII. Reference Service Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
The Suring Area Public Library:
- will provide information in the form of short answers to specific questions and guidance in locating material for patrons who appear in person, call on the telephone, or request information through correspondence;
- will assist patrons in the use of the Library and teach basic research methodology, when appropriate (this includes providing help in developing a research strategy and advice on whether a trip to the Library would be worthwhile for individuals who telephone);
- will provide bibliographic verification of items both in the Library and not owned by the Library and will assist patrons in obtaining materials through interlibrary loan, when appropriate;
- may refer library users to other agencies and libraries in pursuit of needed information;
- may use not only the Library's resources in printed form, but consult appropriate digital resources as well as the regional resource library and other agencies by telephone in pursuit of "ready reference" information.
XIII. Programming Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
A "program" is a planned interaction between the library staff and the program participants for the purpose of promoting library materials, facilities, or services, as well as offering the community an informational, entertaining, or cultural experience.
Programming may include such activities as story times, films, summer library programs, book or author discussion groups, and informal continuing education.
The board, in conjunction with the library director, will establish a budget and goals for programming to facilitate the effective implementation of this service.
Programming may include such activities as story times, films, summer library programs, book or author discussion groups, and informal continuing education.
The board, in conjunction with the library director, will establish a budget and goals for programming to facilitate the effective implementation of this service.
XIV. Public Relations Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
A. Public relations goals of the Suring Area Public Library are:
B. The Board recognizes that public relations involves every person who has connection with the Library. The Board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that they represent the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.
C. The director will be expected to make presentations and to participate in community activities to promote library services. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for preparation and speaking. Materials to be used by press, radio, or television will be approved by the director.
D. The board will establish a publications budget to cover costs related to printing, publication, supplies, and miscellaneous needs related to the public relations effort.
- to promote a good understanding of the Library's objectives and services among governing officials, civic leaders, and the general public;
- to promote active participation in the varied services offered by the library to people of all ages.
B. The Board recognizes that public relations involves every person who has connection with the Library. The Board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that they represent the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.
C. The director will be expected to make presentations and to participate in community activities to promote library services. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for preparation and speaking. Materials to be used by press, radio, or television will be approved by the director.
D. The board will establish a publications budget to cover costs related to printing, publication, supplies, and miscellaneous needs related to the public relations effort.
XV. Equipment Use Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
A computer is available to patrons on a first-come, first-serve basis. Instructions for operating hardware are displayed near the computer. There is no charge for use of the computer. Library staff is available for general assistance in using the computer. However, staff is not expected to train patrons in the use of application programs. Tutorial manuals will be provided when available.
A photocopy machine/printer is available to patrons who wish to copy or print materials at the rate of $0.25 per page for black and white and $0.50 per page for color.
An up to date notice warning concerning copyright restrictions will be posted on or near public copy machines, including computer printers.
A photocopy machine/printer is available to patrons who wish to copy or print materials at the rate of $0.25 per page for black and white and $0.50 per page for color.
An up to date notice warning concerning copyright restrictions will be posted on or near public copy machines, including computer printers.
XVII. Displays and Exhibits Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
Two display cases are available in the foyer of the Suring Municipal Building. The Library Director or Village Clerk will be in charge of maintaining a rotating series of displays of Library events and activities as well as community artists, groups and clubs, events and activities. These will be limited to non-commercial exhibitors.
XVIII. Public Notice Bulletin Board Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
Bulletin board materials may be submitted for posting by nonprofit organizations only for civic, educational, or cultural purposes. Such organizations may submit literature publicizing a specific event. Limited space generally allows only short-term notices. The director must approve all postings and may prohibit postings which do not meet library standards. Library staff will place and remove postings promptly.
XIX. Disasters Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
Fire: Do not panic, but do not under-estimate the potential danger to customers or staff represented by a fire. At the first indication of smoke or flame, investigate the situation to determine location and extent of the fire. If the fire can obviously be contained and extinguished quickly and safely by staff, proceed to do so. However, if there is any doubt about whether the fire can be controlled, immediately call 911 or the fire department and then clear the building.
Library staff and volunteers will familiarize themselves with the type, location, and application of the fire extinguisher(s) in the building. They will insure that all building exits are free and clear of obstructions inside and outside of the building.
Health emergencies: Staff members should exercise caution when administering first aid of even a minor nature because of the safety of the injured individual and the potential liability of the staff member. Without specialized training it is not advisable for staff to undertake more than keeping the sick or injured patron comfortable and protected from needless disturbance until medical help can be obtained.
Since each case is unique, staff members should use their own judgment to do what is prudent and reasonable.
The rescue squad and police should be called immediately in the event of any serious problem.
No medication, including aspirin, should ever be dispensed to the public.
Bomb threats: Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask the caller to repeat the message and try to write down every word spoken by the person.
If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ASK FOR THIS INFORMATION.
Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises such as motors running, background music and any other sounds which may indicate where the location from which the call is originating.
Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents and speech impediments.
Immediately after the caller hangs up, call the police. Clear the building. The police will handle the actual bomb search.
Snow storms: The decision to close the Suring Area Public Library will be made by the Library Director or the Director's designated representative. The Library Director will take into consideration the recommendation of the Suring School District, but the final decision will be made by the Library Director.
Library staff and volunteers will familiarize themselves with the type, location, and application of the fire extinguisher(s) in the building. They will insure that all building exits are free and clear of obstructions inside and outside of the building.
Health emergencies: Staff members should exercise caution when administering first aid of even a minor nature because of the safety of the injured individual and the potential liability of the staff member. Without specialized training it is not advisable for staff to undertake more than keeping the sick or injured patron comfortable and protected from needless disturbance until medical help can be obtained.
Since each case is unique, staff members should use their own judgment to do what is prudent and reasonable.
The rescue squad and police should be called immediately in the event of any serious problem.
No medication, including aspirin, should ever be dispensed to the public.
Bomb threats: Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask the caller to repeat the message and try to write down every word spoken by the person.
If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ASK FOR THIS INFORMATION.
Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises such as motors running, background music and any other sounds which may indicate where the location from which the call is originating.
Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents and speech impediments.
Immediately after the caller hangs up, call the police. Clear the building. The police will handle the actual bomb search.
Snow storms: The decision to close the Suring Area Public Library will be made by the Library Director or the Director's designated representative. The Library Director will take into consideration the recommendation of the Suring School District, but the final decision will be made by the Library Director.
XXI. Social Media Policy
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
Please follow us on Facebook - but follow us nicely! Here is the new social media policy for the Suring Area Public Library in Suring, WI.
Social media are defined as any web application, site, or account created and maintained by the Suring Area Public Library which is an environment for library staff and library customers to share opinions and information about library related materials and activities. We encourage comments and we recognize and respect differences of opinion. Comments may, however, be blocked, edited, or removed if they contain:
Your submission of content constitutes your acceptance of these guidelines and your agreement to indemnify Suring Area Public Library and/or the Village of Suring and Townships of How, Breed, Maple Valley, Bagley, Mountain and Brazeau, its employees and officers, from and against all liabilities, judgments, damages, and costs (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by any of them which arise out of or are related to the posted content.
Neither the Suring Area Public Library nor the Village of Suring and Townships of How, Breed, Maple Valley, Bagley, Mountain and Brazeau are obligated to take any actions as described above and neither is responsible or liable for content posted by any user. Users should recognize that their comments are being published in a public space available to anyone. There are no private postings.
Any content posted on the library’s website is a public record and is regulated by the Wisconsin State Public Records Law.
Social media are defined as any web application, site, or account created and maintained by the Suring Area Public Library which is an environment for library staff and library customers to share opinions and information about library related materials and activities. We encourage comments and we recognize and respect differences of opinion. Comments may, however, be blocked, edited, or removed if they contain:
- Obscene, profane, or sexual content
- Conduct or encouragement of illegal activity
- Information that may tend to compromise the safety or security of the public or public systems
- Content that violates a legal ownership interest of any other party
- Personal attacks, insults, or threats
- Potentially libelous statements
- Organized political or religious activity or proselytizing
- Private, personal information published without consent or about a minor
- Content or hyperlinks unrelated to the forum
- Commercial promotions or spam
- Content that promotes, fosters, or perpetuates discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, ancestry, national origin, age, sex or gender, handicap or disability, arrest or conviction record, marital status, sexual orientation, military service, or the use or nonuse of lawful products outside of the workplace
- Images or sound recordings related to any of the above
Your submission of content constitutes your acceptance of these guidelines and your agreement to indemnify Suring Area Public Library and/or the Village of Suring and Townships of How, Breed, Maple Valley, Bagley, Mountain and Brazeau, its employees and officers, from and against all liabilities, judgments, damages, and costs (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by any of them which arise out of or are related to the posted content.
Neither the Suring Area Public Library nor the Village of Suring and Townships of How, Breed, Maple Valley, Bagley, Mountain and Brazeau are obligated to take any actions as described above and neither is responsible or liable for content posted by any user. Users should recognize that their comments are being published in a public space available to anyone. There are no private postings.
Any content posted on the library’s website is a public record and is regulated by the Wisconsin State Public Records Law.
XXII. Disc Resurfacing
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
The Suring Area Public Library owns and operates a disc resurfacing machine. This machine is first and foremost for the use of the Suring Area Public Library. Priority of the machine will go to the Suring Area Public Library. Use of the Disc Resurfacing Machine will be done by trained library staff members.
The Suring Area Public Library will clean discs (DVD, CDs, Blu-Ray, CD-ROMs or gaming system software) for the public. Public discs will be resurfaced as soon as possible by library staff, taking no more than 30 days to complete. People choosing to use this service must be 18 or older and have a valid library card that is in good standing.
The Suring Area Public Library is not liable for any loss or damage to discs during the resurfacing process. There is no guarantee or warranty that the cleaning/refinishing will fix or improve the performance of the disc. The Library assumes no responsibility for the disc. All people using this service must sign a liability disclaimer to be eligible to participate. All costs must be paid up front.
Payment is due in advance of services. Disc Resurfacing costs are as follows:
The Suring Area Public Library will clean discs (DVD, CDs, Blu-Ray, CD-ROMs or gaming system software) for the public. Public discs will be resurfaced as soon as possible by library staff, taking no more than 30 days to complete. People choosing to use this service must be 18 or older and have a valid library card that is in good standing.
The Suring Area Public Library is not liable for any loss or damage to discs during the resurfacing process. There is no guarantee or warranty that the cleaning/refinishing will fix or improve the performance of the disc. The Library assumes no responsibility for the disc. All people using this service must sign a liability disclaimer to be eligible to participate. All costs must be paid up front.
Payment is due in advance of services. Disc Resurfacing costs are as follows:
Type of Item |
Friends of the Library Members |
Suring Area Public Library Patrons*^ |
Non-Suring Patrons |
1 Sided DVD |
$2.50 |
$5.00 |
$7.00 |
2 Sided DVD |
$4.00 |
$8.00 |
$10.00 |
Blue-Ray |
$5.00 |
$10.00 |
$12.00 |
Music CD |
$2.50 |
$5.00 |
$7.00 |
Game Disc |
$4.00 |
$8.00 |
$10.00 |
CD-ROM |
$4.00 |
$8.00 |
$10.00 |
*Suring Area Public Library Patrons are library card holders with their home agency designated as Suring. This will be checked by the Suring Area Public Library Staff prior to payment.
^Home agency is the library at which you opened your library card. This can be changed at the library card holder’s request.
^Home agency is the library at which you opened your library card. This can be changed at the library card holder’s request.
Appendices
|
(Reviewed & Approved September 26, 2023)
|
Appendix B
Library Bill of Rights
(Adopted September 26, 2023)
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
Adopted June 18, 1948.
Amended February 2, 1961, and January 23, 1980,
inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996,
by the ALA Council.
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.
- Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
- Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
- Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
- Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
- A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
- Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
Adopted June 18, 1948.
Amended February 2, 1961, and January 23, 1980,
inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996,
by the ALA Council.
Appendix C
The Freedom to Read Statement
(Adopted September 26, 2023)
The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.
Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.
These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.
Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with controversy and difference.
Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.
We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.
The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights.
We therefore affirm these propositions:
We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.
A subpoena is a call to come before a court, and may include a direction to bring specified records. Not all subpoenas are court orders. The system legal counsel can determine if a particular subpoena is a court order. A subpoena normally indicates that a response is required within a certain number of days. Library system staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order if those records indicate the identity of library users.
A search warrant is a is an order signed by a judge directing a law enforcement officer to conduct a search of a designated person, a designated object or a designated place for the purpose of seizing designated property or kinds of property.
The USA Patriot Act amended the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to allow the FBI to apply for a court order requiring the "production of any tangible things (including books, records, papers, documents and other items) for an investigation to protect against international terrorism or clandestine intelligence activities, provided that such investigation of a United States person is not conducted solely upon the basis of activities protected by the first amendment..."
The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.
Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.
These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.
Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with controversy and difference.
Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.
We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.
The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights.
We therefore affirm these propositions:
- It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority.
- Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated.
- It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
- There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression.
- It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.
- It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.
- It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to a "bad" book is a good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one.
We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.
A subpoena is a call to come before a court, and may include a direction to bring specified records. Not all subpoenas are court orders. The system legal counsel can determine if a particular subpoena is a court order. A subpoena normally indicates that a response is required within a certain number of days. Library system staff may not disclose library records in response to a subpoena that is not a court order if those records indicate the identity of library users.
A search warrant is a is an order signed by a judge directing a law enforcement officer to conduct a search of a designated person, a designated object or a designated place for the purpose of seizing designated property or kinds of property.
The USA Patriot Act amended the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to allow the FBI to apply for a court order requiring the "production of any tangible things (including books, records, papers, documents and other items) for an investigation to protect against international terrorism or clandestine intelligence activities, provided that such investigation of a United States person is not conducted solely upon the basis of activities protected by the first amendment..."
Appendix D
Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending Policy
The Suring Area Public Library has established a Wi-Fi hotspot lending program to provide patrons in our community with high-speed internet access. With this program, students can use the internet for help with homework and projects, employees can travel with reliable internet access to meetings and presentations, and patrons can have home access to the Library’s digital resources such as our databases, eBooks, streaming music and movies, and more. Patrons will be able to take advantage of our Wi-Fi hotspot lending program with an InfoSoup Library card.
The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages or expense resulting from use or misuse of the device, connection of the device to other electronic devices, or data loss resulting from use of the device. Any use of the device for illegal purposes, unauthorized copying of copyright protected material in any format, or transmission of threatening, harassing, defamatory or obscene materials is strictly prohibited. See the Suring Area Public Library Public Library Internal Use of Internet Policy.
Eligibility: Wi-Fi hotspots may be borrowed by InfoSoup Library card holder’s ages 18 years of age or older, with a valid library card in good standing, and a permanent residence for 60 days. (I.D. address must be current home address).
Availability: Reservation for Hotspots will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reservations may be made by phone, email, or in person at the Library. The patron reserving the device must present an InfoSoup Library card and pick the unit up in person. You will be asked to sign a User Agreement that reiterates the provisions of the Mobile Hotspot Policy.
Loan Period: Hotspots are checked out for a 7 day period (with no renewal). A maximum of 1 hotspot per family may be borrowed at one time. Patrons who have returned a hotspot will be asked to wait 24 hours before checking out a hotspot again. Hotspot checkout is limited to one per household. When the hotspot is returned, there is a 24-hour waiting period to check out another hotspot device by that household. In the event of an emergency where the Library is without wireless internet, the Library reserves the right to cancel reservations or recall hotspots in order to provide wireless service at the Library for public use.
Returns: Hotspots must be returned INSIDE the Suring Area Public Library only. This is a fragile piece of equipment. If it is put in the book drop, it may become damaged as other items are returned, thus hotspots may NOT be returned in the Book Drop. Patrons will be responsible for damage to the item if it is returned via the book drop. Return of the hotspots via the book drop will result in a $5.00 fine.
Cancellation: Reservations may be cancelled or rescheduled by email, phone, or in person.
Late Fines: There will be a $5.00 per day charge if the hotspot is returned late, up to the full replacement cost. If after 2 weeks from the due date, the hotspot is not returned, the borrower will be charged a $100 replacement fee. Repeated late returns may result in loss of hotspot borrowing privileges.
Lost or Damaged Hotspot: The charge for a lost or damaged hotspot is $100. This includes any damage caused by returning the hotspot incorrectly and using the Book Drop. The cost for an unreturned charger and/or cable is $20.00.
Internet Use: The Suring Area Public Library is not responsible for information accessed using this device or for personal information shared over the internet. Hotspot users are encouraged to use safe internet practices. See Suring Area Public Library Internal Use of Internet Policy.
Privacy Policy: Your internet usage is not tracked by the Library. The Library does not have access to or collect specific usage data. The Library does not provide patron information to the service provider. The only data about the hotspot program that the Library collects is the following:
The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages or expense resulting from use or misuse of the device, connection of the device to other electronic devices, or data loss resulting from use of the device. Any use of the device for illegal purposes, unauthorized copying of copyright protected material in any format, or transmission of threatening, harassing, defamatory or obscene materials is strictly prohibited. See the Suring Area Public Library Public Library Internal Use of Internet Policy.
Eligibility: Wi-Fi hotspots may be borrowed by InfoSoup Library card holder’s ages 18 years of age or older, with a valid library card in good standing, and a permanent residence for 60 days. (I.D. address must be current home address).
Availability: Reservation for Hotspots will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reservations may be made by phone, email, or in person at the Library. The patron reserving the device must present an InfoSoup Library card and pick the unit up in person. You will be asked to sign a User Agreement that reiterates the provisions of the Mobile Hotspot Policy.
Loan Period: Hotspots are checked out for a 7 day period (with no renewal). A maximum of 1 hotspot per family may be borrowed at one time. Patrons who have returned a hotspot will be asked to wait 24 hours before checking out a hotspot again. Hotspot checkout is limited to one per household. When the hotspot is returned, there is a 24-hour waiting period to check out another hotspot device by that household. In the event of an emergency where the Library is without wireless internet, the Library reserves the right to cancel reservations or recall hotspots in order to provide wireless service at the Library for public use.
Returns: Hotspots must be returned INSIDE the Suring Area Public Library only. This is a fragile piece of equipment. If it is put in the book drop, it may become damaged as other items are returned, thus hotspots may NOT be returned in the Book Drop. Patrons will be responsible for damage to the item if it is returned via the book drop. Return of the hotspots via the book drop will result in a $5.00 fine.
Cancellation: Reservations may be cancelled or rescheduled by email, phone, or in person.
Late Fines: There will be a $5.00 per day charge if the hotspot is returned late, up to the full replacement cost. If after 2 weeks from the due date, the hotspot is not returned, the borrower will be charged a $100 replacement fee. Repeated late returns may result in loss of hotspot borrowing privileges.
Lost or Damaged Hotspot: The charge for a lost or damaged hotspot is $100. This includes any damage caused by returning the hotspot incorrectly and using the Book Drop. The cost for an unreturned charger and/or cable is $20.00.
Internet Use: The Suring Area Public Library is not responsible for information accessed using this device or for personal information shared over the internet. Hotspot users are encouraged to use safe internet practices. See Suring Area Public Library Internal Use of Internet Policy.
Privacy Policy: Your internet usage is not tracked by the Library. The Library does not have access to or collect specific usage data. The Library does not provide patron information to the service provider. The only data about the hotspot program that the Library collects is the following:
- Total amount of data transmitted and received by each device (not user).
- Anonymous circulation data related to checkout of the hotspot devices.
Appendix E
Formal Reconsideration of Materials Form
| Formal Reconsideration of Materials Form |
Appendix F
Suring Area Public Library Internet Permission Form
| Suring Area Public Library Internet Permission Form |
