The Neptune Public Library welcomes the chance to provide local authors with space for meeting library customers, signing books, and talking about their work. Book talks and signings are important to the cultural, historic, and literary health of a community and are therefore welcomed as part of the library’s scope of programming.
Authors may be offered space in a meeting room or in public areas in the adult services area. Space may then be reserved at no cost, subject to the Neptune Public Library’s Meeting Room Policies. The Library will determine if space is available and which space is to be used. This selection will be based on public service needs and other activities scheduled.
The Library will provide space, tables, and chairs if needed. It will also post flyers advertising the event and will include it in the library newsletter, provided adequate notice is given and space permits. Food may be served but requires pre-approval from the Director. Visiting authors should not plan on staff being available to monitor displays or assist with refreshments or sale of materials, remove materials, or clean-up spaces.
The Neptune Public Library bears no obligation for marketing an author’s work. Authors are fully responsible for promoting their work.
Authors may display, sell, and sign books. Presenters should not plan on the Library acting as a sales agent, nor should the author expect the library to purchase books in bulk to sell for the author.
Authors are welcome to discuss their work with interested library customers. They may not interfere with regular Library activities or display materials that are not appropriate for a public venue serving all age groups.
Authors are encouraged to make arrangements for book signing events at least two months in advance by contacting the Director of Programming. With notice, book signing events will be added to the library’s online program calendar.
Authors are welcome to provide the library with a sign or flyers to put out before the event. A disclaimer is to be displayed in all public forum areas stating that the availability of handouts does not imply endorsement of the author/organization or its views by the Library or the Township of Neptune.
| Item | How many | How long | Renewal | Reserves | Daily Fine | Max. Fine |
| Books – Nonfiction | No limit | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Books – Fiction | No limit | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Books – w/Reserves | No limit | 1 week | no | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Holiday Books | No limit | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Audiobooks | No limit | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Music CDs | 10 per patron | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| Audiobooks | No limit | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| DVD’s | 5 | 3 nights | no | no | $2.00 | $10.00 |
| Magazines | 10 per patron | 4 weeks | yes | yes | 10 cents | $3.00 |
| InterLibrary Loans | No Limit | 2 weeks | See ILL Dept. | no | 10 cents | $3.00 |
PLEASE NOTE: Cardholders are responsible for all items on their library card and any fines/fees. Please report a lost card immediately.
- $38.00 returned check charge.
- Patrons owing any fines or fees will be denied access to computer usage.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
January 12, 2005
Amended July 11, 2007
Amended February 13, 2008
Amended June 16, 2010
Amended April 11, 2023
The Neptune Public Library is dedicated to providing access to knowledge and information through reading, writing, and quiet contemplation. We are also dedicated to providing patrons the right to use materials and services without being disturbed or impeded. Patrons and employees require a secure and comfortable environment. To ensure all of this, appropriate behavior is expected of all our patrons. Violation of any of the following rules will result in a warning and/or expulsion from the library. Whenever necessary, police will be contacted. The Library Director, Librarians, and staff have the authority to carry out all powers of this policy.
Any activity which interferes with the rights of other patrons to use the library, which could result in physical, emotional, or mental injury to oneself or others, or could result in damage to the facilities, equipment, material, or library property and grounds will be considered disruptive and unacceptable.
Conduct not acceptable in the library or on library grounds includes, but is not limited to:
- Engaging in any activity in violation of Federal, State, local or other applicable law or library policy. ALL ILLEGAL ACTS ARE FORBIDDEN.
- Eating or drinking in the Library, except in designated areas.
- Patrons must wear a shirt and shoes in the library.
- Patrons with offensive bodily hygiene, creating a nuisance to other persons, shall be required to leave the building
- Running, skateboarding, jumping, throwing objects, playing in the elevator, loitering in stairwells, entrances, or lobby. Fighting, harassing, bullying or threatening behavior, Disrespectful behavior and/ or use of loud, offensively coarse, or abusive language toward staff or other patrons. (2C:33-2 Disorderly Conduct)
- Damaging library property, including damaging restrooms, defacing furniture and walls, removing pages from books, destroying landscaping or outdoor fixtures, littering (Revised General Ordinances of the Township of Neptune 3-15.2 and NJSA 2C: 17-3 Criminal mischief)
- Intoxication (NJSA 2C:33-2 Disorderly conduct)
- Any behavior that harasses or annoys others, such as staring at another person with the intent to annoy that person, following another person about the building with the intent to annoy that person, singing or talking to others or in monologues, or behaving in a manner which reasonably be expected to disturb others. Striking, kicking, shoving, or other offensive touching, or threats to do so (NJSA 2C:33-4 Harassment)
- No person may carry any instrument which could reasonably and commonly be classified as a weapon or a dangerous instrument, or could be reasonably used as means of aggression or defense against another, into the Library or onto Library grounds, unless authorized by law to do so. (NJSA 2C:39-5 Unlawful Possession of Weapons )
- Stealing library materials (Revised General Ordinances of the Township of Neptune 3-15.1 andNJSA 2C:20-12,13,14 Theft of library materials).
- All bags and other articles are subject to inspection by library staff members. The library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items brought into the library.
- Animals, insects and other living organisms may not be brought into the library, other than service animals necessary for disabilities, except as authorized by the Library Director. (NJSA 10:5-29 Handicapped, blind or deaf person; accompaniment by service or guide dog).
- Smoking, chewing and other tobacco use in library facilities. (N.J.S.A. 26:D-55 et seq., (NJ SFAA) The New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act.
- Making excessive noise, talking loudly or playing loud music. Use of cell phones or other devices without headphones or with headphones set at a loud volume that disturbs others. Using cell phones, pagers and other communication devices in a manner that disturbs others.
- Any behavior that presents an eminent danger to the life or safety of others, including intentional non-emergency activation of alarmed exits or fire alarms. (NJSA 2C:33-3 False Public Alarms)
- Solicitation, gambling or panhandling, including distributing printed materials, signing petitions or conducting surveys not authorized by the library.
- Neglecting to provide proper supervision of children.
- Using wheeled devices in the library or on library grounds including, but not limited to: skateboards, roller-skates, rollerblades, bicycles, scooters and shopping carts. Exceptions include wheelchairs, walkers, strollers and other durable medical equipment.
- No person may use the lavatory facilities other than for ordinary and usual use. Bathing and laundering clothes are specifically not permitted.
The following disciplinary actions shall apply to all patrons:
Section 1.
A patron who engages in any activity which materially disrupts the use of library facilities, collections, or services by patrons or disrupts the ability of the staff to perform its duties shall cease such activity immediately upon request by library personnel.
Section 2.
In such instances involving minor patrons, identification will be requested and the incident may be reported to the parent or guardian.
Section 3.
If, following a request, the patron fails or refuses to comply or responds to the request in an abusive fashion, he or she will be required to leave the library premises immediately for the balance of that calendar day. If he or she fails to leave, the police will be summoned.
Section 4.
Library personnel will record instances in which patrons are required to leave the library. Further instances in which a patron is required to leave the library premises the Director shall bar the patron from use of library premises for periods as follows:
2nd offense – 30 days
3rd offense – 90 days
4th offense – 1 year
5th offense – permanently
Parents or guardians of minors will be notified in writing after the first recorded instance in which a minor is required to leave the library and advised of the consequences of any further recorded instances. The Director and/or Library Board of Trustees may modify or augment the discipline periods or actions.
Section 5.
Patrons wishing to appeal such action may do so upon written request to the Board of Library Trustees.
Section 6.
In the event a patron barred from the use of the library attempts entry to the library during any such period of exclusion, the police will be summoned and informed of the prior action.
Section 7.
In the event the patron persists in abusive conduct or disruptive behavior following such a period of exclusion, the Director shall report to the Board of Library Trustees such conduct following prior exclusion and the Board will consider a long-term exclusion of that patron.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
20 September 2011
The library maintains a bulletin board to provide organizations an opportunity to publicize community events of a civic, cultural, educational, or recreational nature. In order to avoid the appearance of an endorsement, the library will not post notices of partisan political or commercial events or activities, as determined by the library director.
The Library does not advocate or endorse the viewpoints of any group or individual. The Library welcomes a broad spectrum of opinions and a variety of viewpoints.
Display materials are considered disposable and library staff may remove and discard them as necessary. Postings must meet community standards for decency.
Use of community bulletin board space is free of charge.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
15 February 2006
The Library specifically recognizes any document, record, or other methods of storing information retained, received, or generated by the Library that identifies a person or persons having requested, used, or borrowed library material to be confidential. The Library shall not divulge such information to anyone other than the borrower, or in the case of a minor, a parent, or guardian. Such records shall not be made available to any agency of state, federal, or local government except pursuant to such process, order, or subpoena as may be authorized under the authority of, and pursuant to, federal, state, or local law relating to civil, criminal, or administrative discovery procedures or legislative investigatory power. The Library shall resist the issuance or enforcement of any such process, order, or subpoena until such time as a proper showing of good cause has been made in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
October 14, 2005
Emergencies or catastrophes, including, but not limited to, extreme weather, utility failure, bomb threat, fire, explosion, or terrorism may require closing the Library.
The primary consideration in any emergency or catastrophe is the safety of all persons in the building and on the property. The Library cooperates fully with public safety departments and emergency service providers.
In order to provide the best service, the Library is open for scheduled service whenever possible. The Library is, however, concerned about the safety of its employees and patrons. During extreme weather situations, the Director may close the Library. If the Director is not available, the Professional or Supervisor in charge may make the decision to close the Library.
The Board President, Police Department 988-5200 (x491), Municipal Administration (x230), and Building Maintenance (x285) will be notified at the time of any closings.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
15 February 2006
Gifts to the collection can be in the form of money or actual materials.
Gift plates and letters of acknowledgment are appropriate stipulations by a donor.
All gifts become part of the general collection and should not require special circulation procedures. Gifts of books and other library materials are gratefully accepted by the Library with the understanding that they will be considered for addition to the collection in accordance with the Materials Selection Policy. The Library reserves the right to sell or otherwise dispose of gift materials not added to the collection.
When a patron offers to give books or audiovisual materials to the Library, the following guidelines apply. If there is a question about these guidelines or a special situation, please refer the patron to a Supervisor.
Guidelines
- The Library will accept paperback books and audiovisual materials if they are in good condition. Nothing that is marked, yellowed, musty or damaged will be accepted.
- Gifts are inspected by staff or volunteers for odor, water damage, wear, and age.
- Appropriate material may be added to the collection, put in the book sale or, if not in acceptable condition, discarded. Proceeds from materials offered at the Library book sale benefit the Library collection in general and/or other Library projects and services.
Library staff will not appraise the books or indicate a value in the acknowledgment / thank you letter. A Donation Receipt will only mention the name and date of donation and will not assign a value to the donation.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
14 September 2005
Introduction
Interlibrary loan, or ILL, is the borrowing and lending of materials between libraries. The purpose of interlibrary loans is to obtain materials to meet patrons’ needs when local resources are inadequate.
Borrowing Materials for Neptune Public Library Patrons
Any patron in good standing with a current Neptune Public Library card may request material using interlibrary loan. Fines and overdues must be cleared before an interlibrary loan request will be processed.
It is possible to request these types of materials on interlibrary loan:
- Books acquired more than two year ago.
- Music CD’s, books on CD.
- Photocopies of specific articles in newspapers or other periodicals.
These materials are not available for borrowing from other libraries:
- Items which are owned by Neptune Public Library, even if those materials are checked out or available as reference only
- Reference and other non-circulating materials
- DVD’s
- Genealogy material.
- Computer software.
Interlibrary loan requests may be made by submitting a completed request form in person at the Circulation Desk. There is a cost associated with processing ILLs. Patrons who regularly request items and then fail to pick them up may be denied access to this service.
There is no charge for most interlibrary loans. However, some materials are only available if fees are paid. In such cases, the requesting patron will be consulted before the material is borrowed. All special charges will be passed on to the patron before the item is checked out. Fees include lending fees, photocopy fees, copyright charges, special postage and handling, and any other costs incurred in obtaining the material. The Neptune Public Library is not responsible for arrival times of material.
Neptune Public Library will abide by all conditions set by the lending library for the use of its materials.
Some borrowed materials may be limited to “Library Use Only.” The patron may use these materials inside the library only, after leaving ID at the Desk.
If renewals are not specifically restricted for a borrowed item, the patron may request one renewal in person or over the phone.
Patrons will be charged a fine for each day an interlibrary loan item is overdue. There is no grace period. Patrons will be liable for any lost or damaged interlibrary loan items borrowed for them. The replacement cost will be set by the lending library. There will be a $10.00 processing fee for lost materials. All material must be returned directly to Neptune Public Library’s circulation desk, not to the lending library.
Lending Materials to Libraries Outside of Neptune
Neptune Public Library does not charge for its interlibrary loans. Copies are free, up to 10 pages. There will be a copy fee of 20 ¢ per page for more than 10 pages.
Borrowing libraries will be responsible for lost or damaged materials. Charges will include the item’s replacement cost plus a $10.00 processing fee.
Neptune Public Library will accept interlibrary loan requests from other libraries electronically via JerseyCat.
All requests for the loan of Neptune Public Library materials must be placed by the borrowing library. No requests from individuals will be honored.
The following materials are available for interlibrary loan:
- books acquired more than two years ago
- Music CD’s, books on CD
- photocopies of articles in magazines
These materials are not available:
- books acquired less than two year ago
- reference books or periodicals
- microforms themselves
- videos & DVD’s
- computer software
- Games
One renewal will be allowed unless loan materials have been requested by a Neptune Public Library patron or another library. Any renewal requests must be made by the borrowing library.
Materials loaned to other libraries will be delivered by the statewide delivery service or by U.S. Mail.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
May 15, 2012
Philosophy
The Neptune Public Library provides public access to the Internet as a way of enhancing its existing collections with electronic resources from information networks around the world. Internet access is important to Library users for conducting research, retrieving information, exploring ideas, and facilitating communication.
The Library strives to balance the rights of individuals to access information and the need to provide a welcoming setting for people of all ages. The Library is committed to providing both users and employees an environment that is free from all forms of harassment, including sexual. Starting points for searches and key Internet sites are identified on the Library’s home page: https://www.neptunepubliclibrary.org
The Library is committed to offering both open and guided access to the Internet, supporting the right to privacy and confidentiality of Library users, and to following the provisions of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
The Library provides access to the Internet at every workstation. The demand for use of the Internet can exceed the Library’s computer resources. Decisions on the number, placement and type of computer workstations at each site are based on demand, staffing, available floor space, electrical/cable access, and budget constraints. To assure fair access for all persons, the Library establishes rules and procedures that regulate the time, manner, duration, and place of Internet access.
Technology protection measures
All Internet terminals include technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) that are intended to block obscene materials, child pornography, and materials harmful to minors. The use of technology protection measures by the Library does not relieve parents of the responsibility for monitoring Internet access by their children.
Although the Library uses technology protection measures (filters), upon request, Library users 18 and older shall be provided unfiltered use of the Internet for lawful purposes.
Use by children
The Library respects the responsibility of all parents/legal guardians to guide their own children’s use of the Library, its resources and services. The Library offers assistance and training to help children experience the Internet in a safe and rewarding manner, providing links to recommended sites for children.
Because information on the Internet constantly changes, even with technology protection measures it is not possible to totally protect or control what children may encounter. Children who use the Internet unsupervised may be exposed to inappropriate or disturbing information and images. Parents are encouraged to discuss with children the use of the Internet in relation to their values and boundaries and to monitor their children’s use of the Internet.
User responsibility
Use of any Library workstation must be for legal purposes only.
Because Internet workstations are located in public areas shared by persons of all ages and backgrounds, users are expected to show consideration for others when viewing web pages. All users are expected to respect the privacy of those using the computers.
No person shall use a Library workstation in a way that disturbs or interferes with users, employees or operations of the Library.
Users may not:
- View, print, distribute display, send, or receive images or graphics of obscene materials or material that violates laws relating to child pornography.
- Disseminate,exhibit, or display to minors materials that are harmful to minors.
- Use an Internet workstation to transmit threatening or harassing material.
- Engage in any activity that is deliberately offensive or creates an intimidating or a hostile environment.
- Violate copyright or software licensing agreements.
- Gain unauthorized access to any computing, information, or communications devices or resources.
- Damage, alter or degrade computer equipment, peripherals, software and configurations.
Failure to comply
All Library users must comply with this Internet Access Policy.
Violations may lead to revocation of Library privileges, including the right to visit the buildings and grounds.
Offenders ordered from the premises who do not comply may be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespassing.
Responsibility and authority of Library employees
Library employees shall provide assistance to identify appropriate sites for Internet searches and answer questions on the use of computers and other electronic resources in the Library. Time constraints may prevent employees from providing in-depth computer or other technology training to individual users.
Library employees shall take prompt and appropriate action to enforce the Internet Access and Internet Safety Policies. They are authorized to terminate an Internet use session by anyone who fails to comply with these policies.
Library employees may refuse to assist a user if they believe that it will require them to view pornographic images on a computer display screen or in printed form, and they are required to immediately request assistance from a supervisor or manager.
Liability
The Library assumes no responsibility for any damage, direct or indirect, that users or anyone else may suffer through access to the Internet at one of its outlets. All public Internet users at the Library agree to hold the Library harmless from any claims, losses, damages, obligations related to the following:
- Infringement of U.S. Copyright Law governing the reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of copyrighted material.
- The use and/or accuracy of information obtained from the Library’s electronic information system.
- Damage to non-Library software or hardware resulting from viruses downloaded via the Library’s Internet services.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
February 15, 2006
Neptune Residents
Free library cards are available to all residents of Neptune Township, as well as those who work for the Township of Neptune, own property in, or go to public school in the township. All Neptune Public Library cards issued to residents are valid for three years and must be renewed by presenting the required pieces of identification.
STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY
By acceptance of your library card, you agree to the terms of issue and assume responsibility for the card’s use prior to its surrender to the Neptune Public Library. The holder accepts liability for the unauthorized use of the library card for the full replacement value of the lost item(s). You will not be liable for unauthorized use which occurs after you give notice of its loss. Immediately notify the Library in the event of loss, theft, or possible unauthorized use of the card. The card is the property of Neptune Public Library and you agree to surrender it upon request. If the card is issued to a person under 18, the parent or guardian is responsible for the selection, use, and return of library materials and for any charges incurred.
RESIDENTS
- All individuals who reside in Neptune, who apply for a Neptune Public Library card, must provide one proof of residency. Appropriate forms of identification for verification of residency include current:
- New Jersey driver’s license
- New Jersey motor vehicle registration or automobile insurance
- New Jersey non-driver’s license photo ID or military photo ID with address and expiration date
- Neptune Public School photo ID
- Neptune Senior Citizens Center ID
- Rental or lease agreement
- Utility bill (electronic or paper format) addressed to the applicant at the applicant’s stated address during the last 4 weeks.
- Bank statement (electronic or paper format) addressed to the applicant at the stated address during the last 4 weeks.
- Credit card statement (electronic or paper format) addressed to the applicant at the stated address during the last 4 weeks
- Pay stub addressed to applicant during the last 4 weeks
- Post Office Boxes are not acceptable as proof of residency.
- Business cards are not accepted.
- The Library issues a Youth card to a child through age 13. Cards are issued when the child is accompanied by a parent or guardian who presents appropriate identification and assumes responsibility for the account.
- Young adults, ages 14 through 17, are issued a library card. All applicants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who presents appropriate identification and assumes responsibility for the account.
NON-RESIDENTS
Non-Residents are persons who do not live in Neptune Township. Please note: some parts of Monmouth County have a Neptune Postal address. However, for membership purposes at the Neptune Public Library, residents of these municipalities such as Wall, Tinton Falls, Neptune City are designated as non-residents because their property taxes are not paid to Neptune Township.
The library issues cards at no cost to non-residents who work for the Neptune Township municipality attend public school or own property in Neptune, if they provide proof of their employment, enrollment, or property ownership for Neptune, in addition to the proof of identification and home address that is required of resident applicants.
- Employees of Neptune Township municipal offices and school district – The Library issues full privilege annual library cards to individuals who work in Neptune. Applicants must present proof of residency and proof of their employment in Neptune. Appropriate proof of employment includes:
- Employee identification badge
- Letter from employer
- Pay stub with work address
- Non-Resident Student – The Library issues full privilege annual library cards to non-resident students attending Neptune public schools. Proof of enrollment in a Neptune public school is required and a parent or guardian must accept responsibility for the account. Appropriate proof of school enrollment includes:
- Student identification Card
- Report card
- Letter from school
- Property Owners – The Library issues full privilege library cards to individuals who own property in Neptune. Applicants must present proof of residency and proof of the property owned. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Appropriate proof of property ownership includes:
- Tax bill
- Sewer bill
- Title, deed or other proof of ownership
Other Nonresidents
The Neptune Public Library also issues cards to non-residents for an annual fee.
- Individual/Family card for $40 per year.
- Senior Citizens card (ages 62 and older) for $10 per year.
Special Cards
Library cards with special privileges are available for teachers, businesses, and temporary residents.
- Residents of Shelters are considered temporary residents. The library issues temporary cards to them if they present a letter from the temporary residence owner, confirming their residency. All other proofs of residency apply. Temporary cards must be renewed monthly.
- A Library card may be issued to a business or other organization in Neptune when requested and when a responsible individual is identified. The designated individual is personally responsible for materials borrowed on the card.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
June 10, 2009
Amended April 11, 2023
Listen NJ is a subscription service that provides downloadable audiobooks and E-books to participating New Jersey public libraries. Audiobooks, such as MP3 and wav files, are recordings to listen to. E-books are digital books that are read on either a computer screen or on a portable reader.
Individual libraries, such as the Neptune Public Library, subscribe annually to ListenNJ for access. The actual services and content are provided by a firm called OverDrive, Inc. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
ListenNJ is compatible with most, but not all, portable digital media devices. Users are responsible for determining their device compatibility and downloading the appropriate software. For a list of all compatible devices, visit: http://www.overdrive.com/resources/drc/.
Users are responsible for following all policies and procedures as detailed on the ListenNJ website HELP page: http://listennj.lib.overdrive.com. The Neptune Library will provide links to the ListenNJ Help and FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) website pages.
Digital rights to individual titles are managed by OverDrive, Inc. The Neptune Public Library is not responsible for the use or misuse of digital materials. Due to digital licensing signatures, eBooks must be downloaded onto user’s personal computers or devices and may not be downloaded to library computers.
Neptune Public Library users wishing to download audiobooks or eBooks from ListenNJ to their devices must have a valid Neptune Public Library card and PIN (Personal Identification Number). The user’s card must be in good standing and must not have overdue items, fines, or fees.
Loan or “access” periods, managed by ListenNJ, is currently 14 days. You must retain the item for the full loan time. Titles automatically expire from your device after the access period. If you require additional time, you will have to “check out” and download the book a second time if there is no waiting list for it. If you finish your download early, you cannot “return” it early. You will never be charged an overdue fine.
There is an individual limit of 5 ListenNJ titles that can be borrowed on your card at the same time.
Users wishing to place a hold on a title must provide a current email address. Notification will be sent via email when the title becomes available. You then have 5 days to activate this checkout after email notification. If you do not download within 5 days, you will forfeit your place on the hold list for that particular title.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees,
May 17, 2011
The Neptune Public Library Materials Selection Policy exists to serve as a guide in the selection of materials and to inform the public about the principles upon which selections are made.
Principles of Selection
The objective of the Neptune Public Library is to collect, organize, and make easily available to the people of the community materials which will help them in the pursuit of education, information, and the creative use of leisure time. Within the limits of space and budget, the collection offers patrons materials in a choice of format, treatment, and level of difficulty. In this way, most individual library needs can be met and services provided to individuals of all ages.
Within the community of Neptune, there are groups and individuals with diverse interests, backgrounds, and needs. The Library collection reflects, as closely as possible, that breadth of interests while not neglecting the equally important interests and views of others within the local, national, and international communities. The Library’s role is to provide materials that will allow individuals to access information to make their own decisions.
It should be recognized that some materials chosen may be offensive, shocking or boring to some individuals, but maybe meaningful and significant to others. It is the responsibility of individuals to limit their library use to books and materials which are consistent with their individual tastes. While everyone is free to reject for themselves and their children materials of which they do not approve, they may not restrict the freedom of others to read or inquire.
The inclusion of an item in the collection is not to be considered an endorsement, official or otherwise, by the Library. The Library neither approves nor disapproves the views expressed in materials included in the collection. The Library cannot exclude all materials that could conceivably result in mental or physical injury to some individual since theoretically, any material could be harmful to someone if improperly used.
Materials in the collection are arranged in a way to facilitate access to information. No restriction is placed on their use except for the purposes of protecting them from theft or damage.
Selection Criteria
Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Director who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Board of Trustees. The day-to-day work of selection and evaluation is the responsibility of the staff of professional librarians. The individual librarians are assigned subject areas and are responsible for developing procedures for material selection that are governed by this policy.
The selection of materials is characterized by open-mindedness and responsiveness to the changing needs of the citizens of Neptune. Materials are evaluated as complete works and not on the basis of a particular passage or passages.
All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated, are evaluated by the following standards. An item need not meet all of the criteria to be acceptable, nor will any single criterion be decisive.
- Public demand
- Quality of content, including accuracy, timeliness, literary or artistic merit
- Quality and suitability of the format
- Social significance
- Reputation of author and/or publisher
- Inclusion on popular book lists or talk shows
- Inclusion in list/s of recommended titles, standard bibliographies, and/or award winners
- Importance of subject matter to the collection
- Scarcity of material on the subject and availability elsewhere
- Price
The Library does not buy “obscene material” (as defined by the NJ Statutes Annotated, Title 2C:34-2) or materials that trade exclusively in sensationalism or would violate community standards.
Suggestions from patrons are encouraged and will be given due consideration.
In selecting library materials for children, the Library’s objective is to provide a collection that meets the informational, recreational, and cultural needs of children from preschool age through sixth grade. However, resources of the entire Library are accessible to them as the need arises. The selection of adult material will not be restricted by the possibility that these materials may come into the possession of minors.
The collection contains materials which express a wide variety of views and are suitable for all ages and abilities. It is, therefore, the responsibility of parents or legal guardians to guide the reading, viewing, and listening choices of their children and young adults, and to decide what their children may or may not use from this collection.
In providing materials for student use the Library cannot provide multiple copies of individual books or textbooks for school assignments, nor can it duplicate subject materials extensively.
Collection Maintenance
In order to maintain a vital, current collection that meets the needs of the community, examination of materials is an ongoing process. When library books lose the value for which they were originally selected, they should be withdrawn. An item is considered for discard when it is:
- Obsolete, misleading or outdated
- Worn beyond use
- Damaged
- No longer circulating and/or used for reference purposes
- One of many copies of a formerly popular title.
Space availability and low circulation over a period of time are other factors that may influence the withdrawal decision.
Withdrawn materials are not automatically replaced. Replacement is considered in relation to adequate coverage in a specific subject area, availability of more current or better titles, suitability according to this selection policy, and demand for the title.
Gifts, including memorial items, are subject to these withdrawal and replacement policies.
Discarded library books, magazines, pamphlets, audiovisual materials, etc., may be offered for sale, on a first-come, first-served basis, at the library. Donations of discarded materials may also be made, at the discretion of the Director, to neighboring libraries, educational institutions, or charitable organizations.
Reconsideration of Library Materials
Any library patron who is a resident of Neptune may question the presence of an item in the Library’s collection. If the patron concludes that a specific item does not meet the guidelines of the Materials Selection Policy, he or she may complete a “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form. The completed form will be reviewed by the professional staff including the Library Director, and the patron will be informed of the disposition of the request.
Patrons not satisfied with this disposition may then appeal to the Board of Trustees through the Library Director, who will forward the request to the Board along with staff recommendations. After reading the item in question and full consideration of the specific material, the Board of Trustees shall make the final determination of the matter. The patron shall be notified of this action in a timely manner. The decision of the Board is final.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
14 September 2005
As a public institution, the Neptune Public Library is dedicated to free expression and free access to information and ideas, on all points of view concerning the problems and issues of interest to the residents of Neptune. To this end, the Library maintains a meeting room for library and community use.
The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the Neptune Public Library or use the facilities does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies or beliefs by the Library Board of Trustees or the library staff.
INFORMATION
- The entire municipal building, including the Library, is a smoke-free facility.
- Priority for meeting room use is given to Library events, then other Township functions, and finally to community service and non-profit organizations.
- All programs must be free and open to the public.
- All meetings must end no later than ½ hr. before closing, unless a waiver has been given by the Library Director. Groups may book a maximum of two meetings per month.
- Attendance in meeting rooms will be restricted to the number of persons permitted by the Township of Neptune Fire Marshal.
- Only light refreshments may be served. No alcoholic beverages may be served on the premises. The entire municipal building, including the Library, is a Smoke-Free facility.
- Meetings shall be scheduled during regular Library hours. They may be scheduled any time for the current year, and after September for the following year. The group reserving the room is responsible for any and all damages that occur during their meeting. All groups are expected to leave the room clean and as they found it. Use of a meeting room doesn’t imply use of Library equipment or other facilities without prior approval.
- Handicapped-accessible public restrooms are located in the Library entrance.
- All publicity for non-library sponsored meetings must indicate the name and contact telephone number of the sponsoring agency. Events shall not be publicized in such a way as to imply Library sponsorship of the group activities.
Use of the meeting room implies an agreement to comply with library policies. Noncompliance can result in immediate removal from the room and loss of privileges in the future.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
February 15, 2006
Many people come to the library to find a quiet place to read and study. The use of cell phones in the library can often prove disruptive to customers and staff. Please respect others’ rights by observing these guidelines for cell phone use in the library. Patrons will be asked to leave the library if they fail to observe these guidelines.
- Set cell phones to vibrate or other silent mode.
- The use of cell phones in a quiet manner that does not disrupt the use of the library by others is allowed.
- Move to the Lobby if lengthy calls need to be made or received. Parents must attend to their children during phone calls.
- Keep voices at low level at all times. Do not engage in lengthy conversations.
- Library staff may require that people engaged in cell phone conversations move to the Lobby.
- Abusive or offensive language is grounds for immediate expulsion from the library.
- No cell phones shall be used in Quiet areas, including Meeting Room #2 upstairs and the Quiet Study area downstairs.
- Cell phones shall not be used in the restrooms or stairwells.
- Refusal to comply with this policy or its intent may result in the offending party being required to leave the library. Repeat offenders may lose library privileges.
The library’s phone is for library business only. An exception may be made in emergency situations or to allow a child to contact a parent/guardian.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
10 December 2008
All Library Employees have the right to work in an environment free from harassment. It is the law and therefore the policy of the Library that any harassment, but especially on the basis of sex or gender is unacceptable conduct in the workplace and is not and will not be tolerated.
Any harassment directed at another person because of that person’s gender or sex is considered sexual harassment whether or not the harassment is “sexual” in nature. This policy also applies to same-sex sexual harassment as well as the harassment of members of the opposite sex.
If a person of the victim’s gender would consider the conduct intimidating, hostile, or as creating an offensive working environment, then harassment has occurred.
The intent of this policy is to create an environment and climate within the workplace that fosters responsible behavior, respect for all individuals, and an environment that is free from harassment.
It is the Library’s policy to prohibit harassment of any employee by another employee, management representative, business invitee, vendor, or member of the public.
Harassment on the basis of sex or gender directed to any employee, male or female, is a violation of State and Federal Law.
Under the law and under this policy, harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- submission is made either explicitly or implicitly a condition of employment; or
- submission or rejection is used as a basis for employment decisions; or
- such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with someone’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.
The intent of a person conducting such harassing behavior is irrelevant.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
15 February 2006
It is the policy of Neptune Public Library, as a part of its information mission and as a public service, to provide access to community information by providing spaces for the free distribution of handouts and the public posting of flyers, notices, and posters not prohibited by law.
Content
Acceptable non-library materials produced by individuals or organizations are limited to those engaged in cultural, educational, intellectual, non-commercial, or charitable activities. All postings will be approved by the Library Director or designee.
Distribution or posting of materials at the Library does not indicate a Library endorsement of the ideas, issues, or events promoted by those materials.
Placement, Quantity, and Size
The Library Director will designate which spaces such as bulletin boards, literature racks, countertops, desktops, or shelves are available for free distribution or posting of non-library materials within the Library or on library grounds.
The Library will give preference to materials that
- are of general community interest
- originate with organizations located in NeptuneTownship
- announce events, activities, and services in a timely fashion
- are of a suitable size and, in the case of handouts, of suitable quantity
Duration and Responsibility
The Library Director or designated staff member(s) must approve each item for posting or free distribution.
Materials will be posted or placed for free distribution for 30 days, or until the last day of the event. After 30 days, materials will be discarded.
The Library assumes no responsibility for the preservation or protection of materials posted or placed for free distribution.
Materials posted or left for free distribution without approval from the Library will be discarded.
Materials known to be illegal will not be posted or placed for distribution.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
14 September 2005
The Neptune Public Library offers printing, scanning, copying, and faxing services for patrons for a nominal fee.
Printing
Printing costs are 20 cents per page for black and white. Printing costs are 50 cents per color page.
This printing charge applies even if you supply your own paper.
Scanning
Document scanning services are available. We will scan your documents or photos up to a maximum size of 11 inches x 17 inches in size. The charge is $1.00 for the first page, and 50 cents for each additional page. Small items like identification cards or receipts can be combined in a single scan. We do not do image editing or retouching work. Scanned materials can be saved either as individual image files or compiled into Adobe PDF files. Your scanned item may be emailed to you or saved to a USB flash drive that you provide. There is no additional charge for scanning color documents.
Copying
The charge for copying a black and white (one-side) page is 20 cents. The charge for copying a double-side black and white page is 40 cents. The charge for copying a color (one-side) page is 50 cents. The charge for copying a double-side color page is one dollar ($1.00).
Faxing
The Library offers outgoing and incoming fax services. Faxing of documents will be done by the library staff. A confirmation page is given with each fax that is sent to indicate the success or failure of the fax. The Library will receive incoming faxes if contacted and informed of when to expect the transmission, whom the incoming fax is addressed to and who will be paying for it. However, you must be present when the fax is received at the Library. Contact the circulation desk at 732-775-8241 if you are having a fax sent to the Library. Our fax number is 732-774-1132.
Fax cover sheets must be filled out for each transmission and are available at the circulation desk. Documents may be faxed within the continental United States only. International fax service is not available.
The Library is not responsible for errors due to poor image quality, problems on the receiving fax end, incorrect fax numbers or other related problems.
Charges for sending and receiving faxes are the same. For local or toll-free numbers, the charge is $1.00 for the first page, and 50 cents for each additional page. We only fax to U.S. area codes.
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The use of the scanners and copier machines are subject to U.S. Copyright law. All customers will be responsible for all scanned materials in accordance with all copyright laws. Library staff will not assist in making copies, scans, and faxes of materials from an electronic source deemed in violation of federal copyright laws and regulations
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
21 August 2012
The Mission of the Neptune Public library is Connecting People with Opportunities. As a part of achieving this mission, the Library regularly offers educational and entertaining programs for patrons of all ages.
Programs complement other library services by providing an opportunity to highlight collections, promote services and share knowledge and expertise. They are a strong mechanism for outreach and promotion which allows the library to forge partnerships with a wide variety of groups and individuals and attract both regular and new users of all ages and backgrounds. Programs raise the library’s profile in the community and have a positive impact on library use.
Library programs benefit the community by:
- being responsive to current interests
- serving as a forum for idea sharing, information gathering and education
- promoting cultural awareness
- developing information literacy
- offering training and assistance with new technologies
- fostering a love of reading and learning
- providing early literacy experiences to young children
- providing a safe, welcoming environment for meeting with others
- community awareness / development
RESPONSIBILITY AND CRITERIA FOR SCHEDULING PROGRAMS
Ultimate responsibility for programming policy lies with the Trustees. The Trustees delegate to the Director of the Library the planning and promotion of library programs. Staff members and the Friends of Neptune Public Library aid in this process as the Director deems appropriate.
GUIDELINES FOR THE SELECTION AND PRESENTATION OF PROGRAMS
- All programs are intended to further the mission of the Library. They should meet educational, recreational and/or civic needs.
- Since the community contains people with different backgrounds, sensibilities, personalities, interests, and needs, the Library will consciously try to offer an unbiased schedule of programs that balances all elements. The content of programs will not be limited by age, race, gender, nationality, personal history, political or religious views. Beliefs and opinions contained in programs are not endorsed by the Library.
- Whenever possible, programs will make use of the skills and talents of individuals and organizations from our community and region. The general public may recommend topics or speakers for consideration.
- All programs will be free and open to the public. Attendance may be limited if the nature of the program requires it. If attendance is limited, a fair and orderly registration process must be followed. Programs run by Library staff will have priority in the use of Library meeting space.
- Every program will have one or more individuals designated as supervisor. The supervisor will be responsible for setting up and cleaning up the meeting space, paying fees or honorariums as needed, and ensuring that the program proceeds in an orderly fashion.
- The supervisor of the program will keep a count of the number of people who attend and inform the Children’s Department staff of that count. Children and adults will be counted separately. The Director will maintain a record of the total attendance at all programs in a fiscal year.
- Programs will not interfere with normal library operations if at all possible. If a program will interfere with normal library operations, it will be scheduled at such a time and date that the negative effects are minimized.
- Unsolicited offers from individuals or organizations to present programs will be evaluated by the same standards used by staff and Friends when planning programming.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
14 October 2005
Mission Statement
The Mission of the Neptune Public Library is Connecting People with Opportunities.
Reference Service Statements
Library Patrons
Reference Service is available to all persons served by the Neptune Public Library regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, disability, socio-economic status, or any other legally-protected status.
Service Priorities
Service to the public has priority over all other tasks. Simultaneous requests will be managed at the librarian’s discretion with regard to urgency, complexity and availability of staff resources. In-person, telephone, e-mail, and Internet reference requests will be handled in the order they are received. If the librarian cannot answer a request immediately, he or she will obtain contact information from the patron and see that the patron receives a response within twenty-four hours.
Referrals to Other Libraries or Agencies
If the librarian deems it appropriate to refer the patron to another library or agency, the staff member must verify that the material is at the agency. If it is not possible to call the agency immediately, the librarian will encourage the patron to call ahead before traveling to the agency. The librarian will provide the name, address, and telephone number of the agency to the patron. The librarian will verify this information if possible. Librarians should never refer patrons to individual practitioners — physicians, attorneys, mental health professionals, or others.
Sources
Librarians will rely upon information obtained from reputable sources in order to give the most accurate and authoritative answers to questions. Librarians should avoid giving personal opinions, philosophy, or evaluations; rather, they should rely upon information obtained from reputable sources. The library will always cite the source of the answer.
Instruction and Orientation Services
Instruction and orientation in library use may include group tours arranged in advance, individual instruction on how to use catalogs, reference tools, and the Internet, and steering patrons to online tutorials and other resources.
Specific Reference Desk Policies
School Assignments
Homework is intended to be a learning experience for the student. The role of the librarian is one of guidance in helping students find material or potential sources of information to complete homework assignments. Librarians will make every effort to assist students in locating the material needed for a class project. Students should use the material themselves to complete their assignments.
Contest Questions
Librarians should treat simple, factual questions in the same manner as all other reference questions. Some contest questions are tricky and might have more than one answer that seems to be correct. The library cannot guarantee that the answer provided is the correct answer for any particular contest. Librarians will not conduct lengthy searches or interpret contest rules.
Consumer Evaluations
Librarians should help patrons locate objective product information by showing them how to use magazines, buying guides, and/or general indexes that may lead to product evaluations in other periodicals. Librarians should not give opinions about consumer products.
Book, Antique, and Art Appraisals
The library is not staffed with experts for making appraisals of books, works of art, antiques, coins, stamps, currency or other collectibles. Librarians may refer patrons to appropriate reference resources.
Critical Analysis of Literary Works
Librarians cannot provide personal critical analyses, interpretations, or judgments regarding the merit of literary or other works.
Genealogical Questions
Librarians should provide general assistance in genealogical research and guidance in locating items in the collection. Librarians should not engage in actual genealogical research for patrons.
Compilations and Literature Searches
Librarians cannot prepare extensive compilations (bibliographies, lists, statistics, etc.) for patrons, nor can they undertake exhaustive literature searches. If patrons ask librarians to search the library’s holdings on a topic and to have materials ready for them to pick up, librarians may do a quick search in library databases and/or scan periodical citations and retrieve some relevant books. Librarians will hold retrieved materials for patrons at the Circulation desk. Librarians may offer to assist patrons in their research.
Mathematical Calculations
Librarians should not perform mathematical calculations for patrons. Librarians may read information from tables and other reference tools, but patrons should do their own calculations.
Medical and Legal Questions
The library does not provide advice or interpretation in the areas of medicine or law. Librarians cannot undertake legal searches or interpret legal reference sources. This would be regarded as practicing law.
Regarding telephone requests for medical information, librarians can only read brief definitions from authoritative sources. They should quote the sources verbatim, and they should inform the patron of the name of the quoted source.
Librarians should not provide advice in the interpretation of tax law or assistance in the selection of appropriate forms.
Electronic Information Retrieval
General Searching
Librarians will use professional judgment to determine whether Internet resources are appropriate authoritative answers for questions. Librarians will offer suggestions to patrons who are using Internet workstations and will help within the limits of their expertise in determining whether a resource is authoritative. Librarians will not guarantee the validity of information retrieved from the Internet but will attempt to provide the patron with tools and contextual information that will help to evaluate the resource.
Loan of Reference Materials
The purpose of a reference collection is to assure library patrons of access to reference tools at all times that the library is open. Reference materials, therefore, will not circulate.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
14 October 2005
- Pages cannot check out their own material.
- If more than ten items are overdue, pages cannot check out anything new.
- Although there is no limit on the number of items pages can check out, there is a limit of two items per subject in non-fiction.
- Any page who has received a “Final Bill” will have all privileges suspended.
- Pages cannot check out patrons.
- Pages may take out G, PG and PG-13 rated videos at no charge. Videos must be returned in two days.
- Pages final paycheck will be held if their borrowing record is not clean.
- The policies are not to be overridden except by a Supervisor.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
13 July 2005
Stealing library materials (NJSA 2C:20-12,13,14 Theft of library materials) includes failing to return those items. Neptune Township Municipal ordinance 3-15.1 also prohibits failure to return library materials.
The Neptune Public Library will send an overdue notice and a final bill to the address we have for the borrower. We will also attempt to contact the borrower at the phone numbers on their account. At the time of the phone call, everyone at that address will be barred from using any library services.
If the items are not returned within two weeks of the phone call, the account of the responsible adult, parent or guardian will be turned over to our Collections Department. A collections fee of $15.00 will be added to the account. Items not returned will also accrue the maximum fine.
Accounts forwarded to our Collections Department may also be pursued in Municipal Court under Neptune Township Municipal ordinance 3-15.1 .
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
14 March 2007, Amended December 10, 2008
Policy Statement
The Neptune Public Library is available to the public for the reading and enjoyment of library materials and to support the research and educational needs of its patrons. As part of this educational purpose, the Library permits tutoring on the premises in accordance with this policy. These rules will allow the Library to keep to its mission to enrich the community by connecting people to the world of ideas, information, and creativity.
Regulations
- Library staff will assist tutors and their students, just as they assist any patron of the library. However, the staff must be available to all people who come into the Library for help and should not be relied upon to deliver messages, or to find a tutor. Library phones may not be used to schedule or reschedule sessions.
- Tutors are responsible for the behavior of their student(s) during the session. Children under the age of 18 who are tutored in the library are the responsibility of the tutor while on library property until they are released to a parent/guardian, or to someone providing authorized transportation.
- Library space is not to be used as a classroom or place of business for tutors to work from but as a safe and quiet workspace for students to receive instruction, which instruction requires use of library materials (i.e., library books) or equipment (i.e., library computers). Tutor belongings or use of space should not interfere with easy access through the library by other users, or interfere with access to collections and library equipment. The Library offers equal access to our collections and will not allow tutoring situations to infringe on others’ use of Library spaces or collections.
- Conversations or instruction should not be loud enough to distract other library users. People may be asked to move to a different location if they are distracting other library users.
- Tables or other library spaces can neither be reserved, nor can the expectation be made that others will be asked to move to accommodate a tutoring session.
- Library furniture shall not be moved from where it is placed by library staff. Due to space concerns, an individual tutor may not work with more than two students at a time in public areas. With larger groups (3 or more), meeting rooms must be reserved by tutors; all rules as outlined in our Meeting Room Policy will apply.
- Tutors and parents must bring their own supplies, such as paper, pens, pencils, etc. Tutors may use library materials (i.e. library books) and equipment (i.e. computers) in accordance with library policies.
- Tutors may not publish or distribute advertisements or letters identifying the Library as their place of doing business or imply library sponsorship of their activities. Any notices posted in the library that advertise tutoring services must be approved by library director.
- It is recommended that tutors check the library’s hours of operations and program schedules before making appointments with students.
- The Library does not sponsor, recommend, or assume liability or responsibility for the work and/or activities of tutors who use available library space. All arrangements must be made between the tutor, student and parents.
- Should tutors or students not abide by the regulations of this policy, or other Library’s use policy, individuals may be asked to leave at the discretion of the Library staff.
In addition to the regulations contained in this policy, all regulations and policies of the Library, specifically the Code of Conduct Policy and Unaccompanied Child Policy apply.
Adopted by the Board of TrusteesApril 14, 2004
Amended January 17, 2017
The Neptune Library exists to serve all residents. The purpose of the recommended policy is to guarantee that responsible caregivers accompany vulnerable children in the library. Restrictions on unaccompanied minors are necessary only to protect the health and safety of the children and protect them from exploitation and other dangers. The library is not responsible for the care of unattended minors.
Policy
An unattended child is a child of any age who is apparently unaccompanied by an adult. Parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers may not leave children alone or in the care of other children who are unable or unwilling to provide adequate care. Supervising adults must be close at hand.
As in all public places, “stranger danger” is a real concern. Library staff cannot prevent children from interacting with or leaving the library with persons who are not the appropriate chaperone.
- If the Library is closing, at a regular time or in an emergency situation, and a parent or guardian of a child cannot be located in the building, the Neptune Police Department will be called. The library is not responsible for any consequences of parents forfeiting their responsibilities.
- Children ages thirteen (13) and under must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult at all times, in all areas of the library.
- Unattended children between ages fourteen (14) and seventeen (17) are free to utilize the library as long as needed, provided their behavior is not disruptive to other patrons or staff members.
- Parents are responsible for their children’s behavior on library premises.
- The library is not intended to be a daycare, after school care facility, summer camp or babysitting service.
- The Neptune Public Library Code of Conduct Policy will be adhered to. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. If disruptive behavior occurs, library staff is given the options of requesting the child leave, calling the parents, or calling the police to escort the child home.
- Staff are authorized to call police when the library closes if unattended children have not been picked up.
- Staff may refer those children who are left unattended in the Library and whose basic needs for food, rest, parental supervision or attention are not being fulfilled, to the NJ Division of Family and Youth Services.
Patrons who violate this policy will be addressed in accordance with disciplinary actions of the Code of Conduct Policy.
Procedure
- If a child is thirteen or under and is left unattended, the staff shall try to identify and locate a parent or responsible caregiver.
- If a parent is not found in the library, a staff member shall stay with the child until the parent can be located. Staff may use library records to identify addresses and phone numbers in the event a parent is not in the library.
- If a parent or caregiver is located, the person shall be informed of the library’s policy and asked to come to the library to attend to the child. Caregivers shall be told to remain in the same section of the Library if they leave a child less than seven years old alone while they use another section of the library.
- If a parent has not been located within a reasonable amount of time or if the library is closing, the police shall be notified and at least two staff members shall remain with the child.
- Staff shall inspect the lobby and immediate vicinity at closing time to ensure that no vulnerable children are left alone outside when the library is closed.
- Under no circumstances shall a staff member:
- take a child out of the building or transport the child to another location,
- escort a child across the street,
- attempt to give a child food, due to possible allergic reactions.
In the event an unaccompanied child less than fourteen (14) years old violates the Library’s Code of Conduct in a manner that requires exclusion from the library, the parent or caregiver shall be summoned to the library to take the child home.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
20 September 2011
Amended October 17 2017
PHOTOCOPYING
It is the intent of the Neptune Public Library to comply with Title 17 of the United States Code, titled “Copyrights,” and other federal legislation related to the duplication, retention, and use of copyrighted materials. A notice of copyright will be prominently placed on the library’s photocopiers. Library staff will refuse to duplicate any materials if doing so would violate copyright. Library patrons copying any materials on library machines are solely and fully responsible for using the materials in compliance with relevant copyright law.
COPIER CHARGE:
- The Library provides coin operated self service photocopiers for patron use.
- Copies are twenty cents ($.20) per each side copied.
INTERNET PRINTING:
- Printing is available from public computers. Costs are twenty cents ($ .20) per page for black and white printing and fifty cents ($.50) per page for color printing
MICROFILM PRINTING:
- Microfilm and microfiche are available for viewing in the Children’s department. Printing is twenty-five cents ($.25) per page from the microfilm machine.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
15 February 2006
The Neptune Public Library strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for its staff and patrons. In pursuit of this objective, selected public areas of the library premises are under continuous video surveillance and recording. This policy is in force to deter public endangerment, vandalism, theft, and mischief in unsupervised areas and to identify those individuals involved in such activity for law enforcement purposes while adhering to the applicable federal, state, and local law concerning the confidentiality of library records, the disclosure of public records, and the protection of individual privacy.
Signage in Areas under Surveillance:
The public will be notified, using clearly worded signs prominently displayed at the perimeter of the video surveillance areas, so that library visitors have reasonable and adequate warning that surveillance is or may be in operation before entering any area under video surveillance. Signage will be posted at the library entrance at all times, disclosing this activity. Signs posted in relevant areas read “Attention: this area is under video surveillance. All activity is recorded.“ A sign at the main entrance reads “The Neptune Public Library uses video surveillance equipment to gather the information that may be used to prosecute or investigate instances of theft, vandalism, or public endangerment.”
The library’s video surveillance system shall be used only for the protection and safety of customers, employees, assets, property, and to identify persons breaking the law or violating the library’s Code of Conduct.
When an incident occurs on Library premises:
- Video image recordings will be used to identify the person or persons responsible for Library policy violations, criminal activity, or actions considered disruptive to normal Library operations.
- Video records may be used to assist law enforcement agencies in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
- Video recordings of incidents can be retained and reviewed as long as considered necessary by the Library Executive Director.
- Images may be shared with other Library staff to identify person(s) suspended from Library property and to maintain a safe and secure environment.
- While it is recognized that video surveillance will not prevent all incidents, its potential deterrent effect, and resource as a means of identifying and prosecuting offenders is considered worthwhile.
Security Camera Locations
Reasonable efforts shall be made to safeguard the privacy of customers and employees. The video security cameras will be positioned to record only those areas specified by the Director and will complement other measures to maintain a safe and secure environment in compliance with library policies. Camera locations shall not be changed or added without the permission of the Director. Cameras may be installed in locations where staff and customers would not have an expectation of privacy. Examples include common areas of the Library such as entrances, near book and media collections, public seating, delivery areas, and parking lots. Cameras will not be installed in areas where staff and the public have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, nor are they positioned to identify a person’s reading, viewing, or listening activities in the library.
Access to Digital Images
The system will be secure and will only be viewed by those authorized to do so. The Library administrative staff, in the course of their normal duties, will monitor and operate the video security system. Only the following individuals are authorized to access the recorded archival data in pursuit of incidents of criminal activity, litigation, or violation of the Library Code of Conduct: Director and or other authorized individuals, with notice to the Director, may access or ask other staff to review recorded data in order to ascertain security concerns related to a specific incident. Such persons shall not violate any laws relevant to this policy in performing their duties and functions related to the video security system. Library employees are to review and comply with this policy.
Use/Disclosure of Video Records
- Video records may be used by individuals authorized under this policy or law enforcement to identify the person or persons responsible for library policy violations, criminal activity on library property, actions considered disruptive to normal library operations or violation of the Library’s Code of Conduct.
- Video records may be shared with authorized library employees when appropriate or, upon approval by the Director, other library staff to identify person(s) suspended from library property and to maintain a safe, secure and policy-compliant environment.
- Under certain circumstances, individuals authorized under this policy may use a still shot or selected portions of recorded data to request law enforcement review for assessing the security risk of a specific individual or for investigating a crime on library property.
- Video records shall not be used or disclosed other than as specifically authorized by this policy.
All requests for security camera footage or still shots by law enforcement will be referred to the Library Director. In his or her absence, direct requests to the Senior Administrative Person.
In the event of a search warrant, which is executable immediately, the library’s Administration will comply with the search warrant and consult with legal counsel. Upon receipt of a subpoena or other court order, the library Administration shall consult with legal counsel to determine if the document is in proper form and that good cause for its issuance in a court of proper jurisdiction is demonstrated. If not, the library Administration shall insist any defect be remedied before releasing patron records that contain patron information.
Retention and Storage of Digital Images
Images from the library video security system are stored digitally on hardware in the library. Security camera footage will be kept confidential and security recording equipment is housed in a locked area. Logs will be kept of all instances of access to, and use of, recorded data to enable a proper audit trail. Recordings are kept in accordance with the library’s approved records retention schedule unless required as part of an ongoing investigation or litigation.
General Public Requesting Access to Security Camera Footage
Confidentiality/privacy issues prohibit the general public from viewing security camera footage that contains patron information. If the library receives a request from the general public to inspect security camera footage which contains patron information, the general public will be advised to file a police complaint.
Unauthorized Access and/or Disclosure
A breach of this Policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Any library employee who becomes aware of any unauthorized disclosure of a video record and/or a potential privacy breach has a responsibility to ensure that the Director is immediately informed of the breach.
Dealing with a Breach of Privacy
Once a privacy breach has occurred (loss, theft, or inadvertent disclosure of personal information) immediate action must be taken to control the situation. Identify the scope of the breach and take steps to contain the damage, (e.g. retrieve copies of recorded information, determine if unauthorized access to an electronic system has occurred, etc).
Insure that the Library Director and appropriate staff are notified immediately of the breach. If applicable, notify individuals whose personal information has been disclosed. Conduct an internal investigation into the matter, report on the findings, and quickly
implement any recommendations. The objectives of this investigation should include: A review of the circumstances surrounding the event as well as the adequacy of existing policies and procedures in protecting personal information. Try to resolve a complainant’s concerns informally at the onset of the complaint.
Compliance
Failure by staff to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
21 February 2012
Nothing is more important to the Neptune Public Library than the safety and security of its employees and patrons. Threats, threatening behavior, or acts of violence against employees, visitors, patrons or other individuals by anyone on Neptune Public Library property will not be tolerated. Violations of this policy may lead to disciplinary action including arrest and prosecution.
Any person who makes substantial threats, exhibits threatening behavior, or engages in violent acts on Neptune Public Library property shall be removed from the premises as quickly as safety permits. Persons doing such shall remain off Neptune Public Library premises pending the outcome of an investigation. Neptune Public Library will initiate an appropriate response. This response may include, but is not limited to suspension and/or termination of any business relationship, reassignment of job duties, suspension or termination of employment, and/or criminal prosecution of the person or persons involved.
No existing Neptune Public Library policy, practice, or procedure should be interpreted to prohibit decisions designed to prevent a threat from being carried out, a violent act from occurring or a life threatening situation from developing.
All Neptune Public Library personnel are responsible for notifying the management representative designated below of any threats which they have witnessed, received, or have been told that another person has witnessed or received. Even without an actual threat, personnel should also report any behavior they have witnessed which they regard as threatening or violent, when that behavior is job related or might be carried out on a Library controlled site, or is connected to Neptune Public Library employment.
Employees are responsible for making this report regardless of the relationship between the individual who initiated the threat or threatening behavior and the person or persons who were threatened or were the focus of the threatening behavior. If the designated management representative is not available, personnel should report the threat to their supervisor or another member of the management team.
All individuals who apply for or obtain a protective or restraining order which lists Neptune Public Library locations as being protected areas, must provide to the designated management representative a copy of the petition and declarations used to seek the order, a copy of any temporary protective or restraining order which is granted and a copy of any protective or restraining order which is made permanent.
Neptune Public Library understands the sensitivity of the information requested and has developed confidentiality procedures which recognize and respect the privacy of the reporting employee(s).
The designated management representative is:
John Bonney, Director
Neptune Public Library
25 Neptune Blvd.
Neptune, NJ 07753
732-775-8241 ext. 301
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
15 February 2006
Material Complaint Procedure for Patrons:
The staff of the Neptune Public Library takes seriously all customer concerns involving our selection of materials. The following is our process for reevaluating materials:
- 1. Fill out a RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS form. You may drop the form off at either circulation desk or mail it to the Director.
Download the Reconsideration Of Library Materials Form here - You may request a copy of our MATERIAL SELECTION POLICY at any time. The Material Selection Policy, as approved by the Neptune Public Library Board, indicates the criteria the library staff uses to select material for the collection.
- The Library Director will send you an acknowledgment that he or she received your RECONSIDERATION form. The Director will also indicate the time frame within which you can expect a written response.
- The Director will evaluate the item in accordance with the Library’s Material Selection Policy, discuss the material with the library staff, and make a decision as to whether or not to retain the item in the collection.
- A response letter from the Director will be mailed within the time frame indicated in his/her acknowledgment letter.
- If you are dissatisfied with the Director’s decision you may appeal the decision to the Library Neptune Library Board by asking that your request for reconsid-eration of a library item be placed on the agenda of the next Board Meeting that you can attend. The Board will listen to your reconsideration request and respond to your complaint.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
14 September 2005