Library Policies

As an educational and cultural institution and as part of its public service, the Library welcomes announcements of interest, information, and enlightenment to the community through bulletin board announcements in the designated bulletin board area of each library in the Pend Oreille County Library District.

1. Bulletin Board
1. Priority and Approval - Approval for all bulletin board announcements rests with the Library Director or appointed designee(s). Unapproved materials will be disposed of at the Library's discretion.
2. Eligibility and Space Availability - Bulletin board materials may be provided by the Library or other nonprofit organizations, community groups, individuals, or governmental agencies. Bulletin board display space is available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting this service.
3. Limitations
• Bulletin board material is limited to the size of the bulletin board display space area.
• Bulletin board material cannot be placed on top of another display item and must maintain a neat and orderly appearance.
• Bulletin board material will be removed once the event has expired or at the end of each calendar month.
• Each piece of bulletin board material must be dated, include a sponsorship line, i.e. name of organization, group, agency, or individual, and a phone number (if phone is available).
4. Endorsement - Distribution or posting of materials by the Library does not necessarily indicate the Library's endorsement of the issue or events promoted by those materials.
5. Fees - All bulletin board display materials are offered to the Library on a voluntary, non-fee basis.
6. Security and Liability - The Library assumes no liability in the event of damage, destruction, or theft of the bulletin board display.
2. Sales
1. The Library does not allow soliciting or the sale of goods or service by members of the public in the library building, on the grounds, or in the parking lot. The only merchandising activities permitted are Library or Friends of the Library sponsored sales or activities.

Adopted by the Pend Oreille County Library District Board of Trustees 1/14/2002

1. The Library cannot control the information available over the Internet and is not responsible for its content, which may be inaccurate, incomplete, dated, offensive, disturbing, and/or illegal. Access the Internet at your own risk.

2. Access to obscenity, child pornography, material harmful to minors, or on-line gambling is not permitted on Library computers. Unauthorized disclosure, use or dissemination of personal information regarding minors is not permitted on Library computers.

3. The Library provides access to the Internet to facilitate research, learning, cultural enrichment, recreational pursuits, and personal development. It is the intent of the Library to be a non-public forum that offers filtered access to the Internet on all computers.

4. The Library is acting in good faith by using a filter to block obscene material, child pornography, material harmful to minors, or on-line gambling but is not responsible for Internet content or any filtering errors.

5. Disabling the filter: The Library Director or designated Library staff may disable the filter, upon request, in the following situations:

5.1 When an Internet site was erroneously blocked by the filter; provided, however the site is not obscene, does not depict child pornography, is not material harmful to minors, or does not involve on-line gambling.
5.2 For patrons 17 or older, the filter may be disabled in a timely manner for any lawful purpose.

6. Access by patrons under the age of 17: Parents or guardians shall be responsible for assuring that children are cared for, safe, and secure when visiting the Library.

6.1 Patrons under 17 years of age are allowed only filtered access to the Internet.
6.2 A parent/guardian with a child under 17 years of age, working together on a computer, is required to use filtered Internet access.

7. In-Library Access: Prospective users must have a valid Library card (or be properly identified), in good standing with the Library, and must sign an Internet Use Contract. Good standing – shall mean the prospective user has no overdue materials, no fines outstanding, or lost materials not returned or paid for.

7.1 Visitors age 17 and over may use the public use computers for 30 minutes for personal use without having a Library card when there is a computer available.
7.2 Patrons under 17 years of age shall have parental or guardian permission to access the Internet. Parents or guardians shall guide, determine, and monitor their child's use of the Internet, email and other forms of direct electronic communications.
7.3 Internet access is available on a first come, first serve basis and use is limited to one-hour per day. Depending on availability, exceptions can be made for additional time.
7.4 Users of Library computing resources must comply with federal and state laws, Library rules, and policies, and the terms and conditions of any Library contract, including software licenses, while using Library computing resources. Examples of applicable laws, rules, and policies include but are not limited to the laws relating to libel, privacy, copyright, trademark, obscenity and child pornography, trespass, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Users who engage in electronic communications with persons in other jurisdictions or on other systems or networks may also be subject to the laws of those jurisdictions and the rules and policies of those other systems and networks.

8. Users may not use computing resources to gain unauthorized access to local or remote computers or to impair or damage the operations of Library computers, networks, or peripherals. This includes, but is not limited to, blocking communication lines and running, installing or sharing virus programs. Any attempt to circumvent data protection or other security measures is prohibited. The Library “Patron Code of Conduct” shall also apply to the use of all computers.

9. Instant messaging and chat rooms shall be prohibited.

10. Patrons shall not install software on Library computers.

11. Data shall only be stored on a floppy diskette purchased from the Library.

12. Inappropriate use of the computers may result in revocation of computer use privileges. “Inappropriate use” includes, but is not limited to: 1) using the computer for illegal activities; 2) hacking or accessing a computer system without permission; 3) damaging or attempting to damage computer equipment or software; 4) interfering with systems operations, integrity or security; 5) gaining unauthorized access to another person’s files; 6) harassing other computer users and persons; 7) altering or attempting to alter the Library computer settings; 8) violating copyright laws and software license agreements; and (9) violating this policy in any manner.

13. The Library computer stations are set up for optimal usage by a single individual. In some cases, such as a parent/guardian with a child, it may be important for two or more people to work together at a computer. Because of limited space, a maximum of two persons may sit/work together at any one computer. If two or more people are using a computer, at least one person must have a Library card. In circumstances where anyone under the age of 17 is working with another person on a computer, both people shall have a valid Library card and parent/guardian of the person under age 17 shall have signed the Internet Use Contract.

14. Library records are confidential in accordance with R.C.W. 42.17.310(l).

POLICY SUBJECT TO REVISION

The Pend Oreille County Library District affirms its commitment to help patrons use the Internet effectively. The Library will continue to monitor changes and trends in Internet technology that could improve our ability to provide electronic access for Library patrons and will revise this policy as necessary.

Approved by the Board of Trustees 7/12/1999
Revised 8/9/1999; Revised 3/13/2000; Revised 6/12/2000; Revised 8/12/2002; Revised 5/18/2004; Revised 11/21/2006

Purpose: To protect the privacy of patron’s library records.

1. Library records are held confidential by Pend Oreille County Library District in accordance with the R.C.W. 42.17.310(l). Information gathered about patrons shall be limited to that which is absolutely necessary to retrieve borrowed materials.

2. Employees of the Pend Oreille County Library and members of the Board of Trustees for Pend Oreille County Library shall not divulge information that identifies patrons with the material borrowed to anyone, except by a legal order from an appropriate court of law.

3. Library circulation records and other records identifying the names of library users’ with specific books or non-print material are confidential in nature.

4. Also confidential in nature are files of patron names, addresses and personal information, including data-related logs, digital records, and system backups.

5. Measures will be taken to protect the privacy of patrons having access to the Internet.

6. Such records and files shall not be made available to any individual, organization
nor to any agency of federal, state, 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.

7. The library staff member receiving the request to examine or obtain information relating to circulation or other records identifying the names of library users will immediately refer the person making the request to the Library Director, who shall explain the confidentiality policy.

8. The Library Director, upon receipt of such process, order, or subpoena, shall consult with the Pend Oreille County Library District’s attorney concerning the proper response.

9. Any problems relating to the privacy of circulation and other records identifying the names of library users, which are not provided for above shall be referred to the library director.

Adopted 1/14/1981
Revised 2/17/2004

As an educational and cultural institution and as part of its public service, the Library welcomes exhibits and displays of interest, information, and enlightenment to the community. The Library provides information to the community through displays, handouts, announcements, and exhibits in designated areas.

1. Exhibits and Displays
1. Priority and Approval - The Library retains priority rights to all exhibit and display space for library purposes. Approval for all exhibits and displays rests with the Library Director or appointed designee(s). Unapproved materials will be disposed of at the Library's discretion.
2. Eligibility and Space Availability - Materials may be provided by the Library or other nonprofit organizations, community groups, individuals, or governmental agencies. Exhibit and display space is available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting this service.
3. Limitations - The Library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items, the schedule of any display, and the frequency with which groups or organizations may display materials.
4. Endorsement - Distribution or posting of materials by the Library does not necessarily indicate the Library's endorsement of the issue or events promoted by those materials.
5. Fees - All exhibits and displays are offered to the Library on a voluntary, non-fee basis.
6. Security and Liability - The Library assumes no liability in the event of damage, destruction, or theft of a display.
7. Sponsorship Line - A sponsorship line, i.e. a sign stating the sponsorship of the display, may be included; however, values of displayed items will not be included.
2. Petitioning
1. The Library allows petitioning, distribution of literature or leaflets, canvassing or similar types of appeals by members of the public outside the library. This activity must not interfere with egress into or out of the Library or Library parking lot.
3. Sales
1. The Library does not allow soliciting or the sale of goods or service by members of the public in the library building, on the grounds, or in the parking lot. The only merchandising activities permitted are Library or Friends of the Library sponsored sales or activities.

Adopted by the Pend Oreille County Library District Board of Trustees 11/12/2001

BASIS FOR DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY:
Pend Oreille County Library District is a junior taxing district and its major source of revenue is a property tax dedicated to library services. Eligibility for obtaining a library card to use District facilities, services, and the Internet is based on residency or property ownership in Pend Oreille County or any specific service agreement entered into with other cities, towns, and counties within the state of Washington or outside the state of Washington.

In addition, the Library District will extend borrowing and Internet privileges to anyone who has a library card from any library system. By showing us your library card and identification, in person, this authorizes you to receive a library card from the Pend Oreille County Library District after you have filled out and signed the proper registration forms. This is done as a courtesy to residents of other communities that provide tax supported public library service.

Any person living outside Pend Oreille County who does not have a library card, is not in a tax supported library district, or is not someone traveling through the area who has a library card from another library system may obtain a non-resident library card. The cost for a non-resident card is $25 per year per person; $15 per year per person for senior citizens age 62 and over; $10 per person for a three-month card.

LIMITATIONS TO USE:
The use of District facilities and/or services may be limited when excessive demands of groups or individuals may curtail services to others.

Only residents (those living within Pend Oreille County) or walk-in patrons are allowed access to the Library's databases, which are subscribed to and paid for by the Library District. An “Authorized User” according to the vendors for the Pend Oreille County Library District is considered to be staff, Pend Oreille County patrons or walk-in patrons. Remote use is limited to the residents of Pend Oreille County only.

DENIAL OF SERVICE:
The use of District facilities and/or services may be denied for due cause. Due cause includes, but is not limited to, failure to return library materials or pay associated charges, and violations of the District’s Patron Code of Conduct Policy, Requirements for Computer Use or other policies adopted by the Pend Oreille County Library Board.

PROCEDURES:
The Director is responsible for establishing administrative procedures necessary to carry out this policy.

Adopted by the Pend Oreille County Library District Board of Trustees 7/9/2001
Revised 4/8/2002; Revised 6/15/2004

The FREEDOM TO VIEW, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression. Therefore, we affirm these principles:

1. It is in the public interest to provide the broadest possible access to films and other audio-visual materials because they have proved to be among the most effective means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.

2. It is in the public interest to provide for our audiences films and other audio-visual materials, which represent a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of the content.

3. It is our professional responsibility to resist the constraint of labeling or pre-judging a film on the basis of the moral, religious or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker of on the basis of controversial content.

4. It is our professional responsibility to contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public’s Freedom to View.

5. In accordance with Washington State Law, RCW 19.188.030, we actively encourage parents and guardians to preview videos or to watch them with their children, so that they may use this opportunity to teach their children their own views on violent or improper behavior. Parents who visit the library with their children are encouraged to help them with selecting videos to take home or to watch in the library.

6. Library clerks will not attempt to impose their political, religious, or moral beliefs on members of the public, regardless of their age, in matters of selecting videos or other materials, but will check out whatever circulating material is brought to the desk by the patron.

Adopted by the Pend Oreille County Library District June 1992
Revised 1/9/1995

Purpose: To make provisions for the acceptance of gifts or donations to Pend Oreille County Library.

Within the provisions of the State Laws, the Board of Trustees adopts the following policies:

1.The Pend Oreille County Library welcomes gifts of both materials and money to purchase materials. These gifts are examined and may be added to the collection under the same criteria used for purchasing materials. Gifts are accepted if the donor agrees that they may be added, sold at book sales, or otherwise disposed of at the discretion of the director of the library district or designated personnel. Gifts that are added to the collection are shelved with other materials in normal sequence.

2. The Library does not provide special shelving or separate locations for gift items. Gift books may be plated with a library bookplate if the donor wishes. Books donated as memorials are identified with an appropriate plate with the donor?s approval. Gift items, including memorials, are weeded according to the same criteria used for purchases.

3. Monetary gifts to purchase books are welcomed. Donors may specify types of materials to be purchased with the understanding that the specific titles may not be available.

4. Donations of special or unique collections that are of local or historical interest that further the mission of the Library will be considered for addition to Library holdings. Such material will be added to the Library?s collections according to established policies and procedures and space availability. All donated material becomes the property of the Pend Oreille County Library District upon donation.

5. Gifts of money, real property, and/or stock will be accepted if conditions attached thereto are acceptable to the Board of Trustees and the County Commissioners.

6. The library will not accept for deposit materials, which are not outright gifts.

7. The library personnel cannot evaluate library materials for tax purposes for IRS regulations do not permit this. If a donor requires an official tax statement, the donor must make arrangements with a book dealer to evaluate the gift. The donor will meet the cost of making the evaluation, which is a tax deduction.

Adopted 1/14/1981
Revised 6/10/2002

The Pend Oreille County Library District provides Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services to patrons in accordance with the provisions of this policy.

• PURPOSE: The purpose of Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is to address and obtain the information needs of patrons beyond the collection of the Pend Oreille County Library District. The rural demographics of Pend Oreille County Library District limit research, recreation, and other information-seeking information. Interlibrary loans enable patrons to reach beyond the collection to statewide and national sources. Interlibrary borrowing and lending are made possible through cooperative agreements in which participating libraries permit the use of their collections, usually a library-to-library transaction. Interlibrary Loan service is essential to the service provided by a public library. Resource sharing facilitates access to information crucial to rural libraries. Pend Oreille County Library District has developed this policy to insure that Interlibrary Loans are made available to patrons in an efficient manner.
• ELIGIBILITY: Eligibility for interlibrary loan services is established by presentation of a valid Pend Oreille County Library card, which is in good standing with the Library. Good standing – shall mean the prospective user has no overdue materials, no fines outstanding, or lost materials not returned or paid for.
• SCOPE:
1. Borrowing:
1. Under the terms of this policy, it is permissible to request, via interlibrary loan, material not available in the collection of the Pend Oreille County Library District.
2. Pend Oreille County Library must abide by any rules, regulations and restrictions placed on material at each individual lending library.
3. If the lending library charges Pend Oreille County Library for any material sent, whether that is (i.e., hardcopy of a book or photocopies of any pages), the Pend Oreille County Library will pass on those charges to the patron. The patron will be responsible to pay the fee direct to the lending library or reimburse the Pend Oreille County Library District.
2. Lending:
1. Under the terms of this policy, it is permissible for other libraries to request, via interlibrary loan, material that is available in the collection of the Pend Oreille County Library District. Each request is subject to this policy and will be decided on an individual basis whether the material can be loaned or not.
2. Pend Oreille County Library District will not lend the following types of materials.
1. Reference materials
2. Audiocassettes
3. CDs
4. DVDs
5. Microfilm
6. Entire issues of periodicals (photocopies will be made of individual articles at 10 cents per page plus the cost of shipping)
7. Bulky or fragile items that are difficult to ship.
8. Material in high demand at the lending library.
• CONDITIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BORROWING LIBRARY
1. Each library should provide the resources to meet the ordinary needs and interests of its primary patrons. Materials requested should be limited to items that are outside the Library's collection development policy.
2. Borrowing libraries should make every effort to fulfill requests with their own resources before using the Interlibrary Loan system.
3. Standard Interlibrary Loan formats must be used (as adopted by the states and national libraries) with each request.
4. Safety and condition of borrowed materials is the responsibility of the borrowing library from the time the material leaves the lending library until it is received back by the lending library. The borrowing library is responsible for packaging the material appropriate for shipment and if damage or loss occurs, the borrowing library must meet all costs of repairs or replacement.
5. The borrowing library is responsible for compliance with the copyright law (Title 17,US Code) and its guidelines.
6. Each library should inform patrons of the purpose of interlibrary loans and of the Library's interlibrary loan policy.
7. Any member in good standing of the borrowing Library's service population should be eligible for interlibrary loans.
• CONDITIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES OF LENDING LIBRARIES:
1. Prompt and efficient processing of interlibrary loan requests must be evident.
• CONDITIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES OF BORROWING PATRON: In accordance with the Interlibrary Loan Policy of the Pend Oreille County Library District, the director implements the following procedures to ensure efficient operation of this service:
1. The number of interlibrary loan requests must not exceed 4 at one time from one patron (that includes any the patron already has in his/her possession and/or any already ordered and not yet received).
2. Request for renewal of materials is permitted, however, request is granted by individual lending libraries, and the renewal date is subject to whatever date the lending library decides.
3. Costs of Interlibrary Loan Requests (ILL) are $2.00 for each item (this is to help cover postage costs).
   a. $2.00 fee per item/s will be collected at the time patron, staff, or trustee picks up the item in the library.
   b. If item/s are not picked up within 14 days after arrival, the $2.00 fee per item will be charged on patron’s library card.
4. Replacement cost for lost/damaged materials are assigned by the lending library and will be the patron’s responsibility to pay in full.
5. Patron is responsible for paying any charges that a lending library may charge the Pend Oreille County Library. This is in addition to the $2.00 loan request fee.
6. Borrowing ILL privileges may be suspended temporarily until overdue or damaged ILL materials are returned and/or paid for.
   a. Borrowing of Pend Oreille County Library material will also be suspended until ILL material is returned and/or paid for.
7. Borrowing ILL privileges will also be suspended temporarily if the patron has any outstanding overdue materials, fees, or lost books on his/her Pend Oreille County Library card.
8. Requests will be filed electronically to insure prompt delivery. However, borrower must expect a 7-10 day delivery time and must fill out interlibrary loan form clearly and completely to avoid delay in document delivery. (Individual patron may fill out the form by going through POCLD's WorldCat database, or the staff will take patron request and fill out the form).
9. Submission of a request does not guarantee retrieval.
10. Due date on ILL record reflects 3 days prior to lending library due date (to allow time for shipment).

Adopted by Pend Oreille County Library District Board of Trustees 9/21/2004

The Pend Oreille County Library's selection process has been developed as a guide for those concerned with selecting books, materials, and information access for public use. Pend Oreille County Library District links websites that fulfill the service roles of our library district.

The Board of Trustees of the Pend Oreille County Library recognizes that within the service area are groups and individuals with widely separate and diverse interests, backgrounds, cultural heritages, social values, and needs. The Board further recognizes that the library was created to serve all the people within the county regardless of age, race, creed, national origin, or political or social views. Therefore, the selection policy for library materials shall be as follows:

1. Library material selection is and shall be vested in the Director of the Pend Oreille County Library, and under his/her direction such members of the staff who are qualified by reason of education and training. Materials so selected shall be held to have been selected by the Board.
2. Selection of library materials shall be made on the basis of their interest, information, and enlightenment of the people of the service area. Factors to be considered shall include timeliness, effective expression, significance of the subject, sincerity, responsibility of opinions, evaluations in professionally recognized critical guides, and widespread patron interest, within the boundaries of budgetary and legal constraints. No materials shall be excluded because of race or nationality of the author, or because of political, religious, or social views expressed.
3. The Board of Trustees of the Pend Oreille County Library believes that censorship is a purely individual matter and declares that, while anyone is free to reject for himself/herself, materials of which he/she does not approve, he/she cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrict freedom of others to read or inquire.
4. The Board of Trustees further defends the principles of the freedom to read and will not be involved in censorship of materials.
5. The Board of Trustees of the Pend Oreille County Library declares that it will adhere to the support of:
1. The Library Bill of Rights, ALA Council, January 1980
2. The Freedom to Read Statement, 1972 Revision
3. The Washington Library Association Statement of Policy on Intellectual Freedom in Libraries, 1959
4. Free Access to Libraries for Minors, ALA’s interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights, June 1972.
5. Resolution Reaffirming the Principles of Intellectual Freedom in the Aftermath of Terrorist Attacks, Adopted by ALA Council, January 23, 2002

This selection policy is to be periodically reviewed and revised by the Library Director at the direction of the Library Board.

Adopted April 1982
Revised August 1996; Revised 7/12/1999; Revised 8/9/1999; Revised 7/9/2001; Revised 3/11/2002

It is the policy of the Board of Trustees of the County Library to provide meeting rooms in the various libraries for the community as a free public service for non-commercial purposes, giving preference to library-sponsored programs. All meetings must be open to the public at no charge; meetings must not be restricted to any particular group.

While using the meeting rooms, no admission may be charged; no dues, fees, or contributions may be solicited, collected, or accepted; no products, services, or memberships may be advertised, solicited or sold.

Groups using library meeting rooms must avoid advertising and publicity which imply their programs are sponsored, co-sponsored or approved by the library, unless written permission to do so has been previously given by the Library Director.

Use of the meeting room may be scheduled only when a library employee is on the premises.

The Board delegates to the County Library Director or his/her designee the authority to develop and implement procedures and practices, which carry out the provisions of this policy. Exceptions to this policy may be granted only by the Library Board.

If permission for use of the meeting room is denied, the applicant may appeal to the County Library Director; if that officer further denies permission and the applicant is dissatisfied with the reasons offered, an appeal may be made to the Board of Trustees.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees 10/8/1984
Revised 12/11/1995 (with an addendum)

Each user of the Pend Oreille County Library District is entitled to:

FAIR, COURTEOUS AND EQUAL TREATMENT

SAFE, PROPER, AND PLEASANT USE OF THE LIBRARY

PLEASE:

RESPECT OTHER USERS

REFRAIN FROM DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR

REFRAIN FROM LOUD, ABUSIVE, OR OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE

DO NOT MISUSE, DAMAGE OR DISABLE LIBRARY RESOURCES, EQUIPMENT, OR SOFTWARE

NO SOLICITING

NO POSTING OR DISTRIBUTING UNAPPROVED MATERIALS

NO FOOD, DRINK, OR PETS INSIDE LIBRARY FACILITIES

Violation of these rules may be cause for temporary or permanent prohibition from future use of library facilities; such decisions made by Library Staff.

• Authority and Purpose
1. RCW 42.56.040(1) requires each agency to make available for inspection and copying nonexempt public records in accordance with published rules. "Public record" includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of government or the performance of any governmental or proprietary function prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of physical form or characteristics.
2. These rules provide information to persons wishing to request access to public records and establish processes for both requestors and staff that are designed to best assist members of the public in obtaining such access.
3. The purpose of the act is to provide the public full access to information concerning the conduct of government, mindful of individuals' privacy rights and the desirability of the efficient administration of government. The act and these rules will be interpreted in favor of disclosure. In carrying out its responsibilities under the act, the library will be guided by the provisions of the act describing its purposes and interpretation.
• Contact Information/Public Records Officer
1. Any person wishing to request access to public records or seeking assistance in making such a request should contact the libraries current public records officer at 116 S. Washington Ave., Newport, WA 99156 or by calling (509) 447-2158, or (509) 447-2111 or toll free at 1-800-366-3654.
2. The public records officer will oversee compliance with the act but another library staff member may process the request. Therefore, these rules will refer to the public records officer “or designee.” The public records officer or designee will provide the "fullest assistance" to requestors; ensure that public records are protected from damage or disorganization; and prevent fulfilling public records requests from causing excessive interference with essential functions of the library.
• Availability of Public Records
1. Hours for inspection of records. Public records are available for inspection and copying during normal business hours Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays. Records must be inspected at the Administrative Office, 116 S. Washington Avenue, Newport, WA.
2. Organization of records. The library will maintain its records in a reasonably organized manner and will take reasonable actions to protect records from damage and disorganization.
3. Making a request for public records. Any person wishing to inspect or copy public records should make the request in writing on the Library's request form, or by letter addressed to the public records officer and including the following information:
   * Name and address of requestor;
   * Other contact information, including telephone number and any e-mail address;
   * Identification of the public records adequate for the public records officer or designee to locate the records; and
   * The date and time of day of the request.
1. If the requestor wishes to have copies of the records made instead of simply inspecting them, he or she should so indicate and make arrangements to pay for copies of the records or a deposit. Standard photocopies will be provided at 10 cents per page.
2. A form shall be available for use by requestors at any Pend Oreille County Library location.
3. The public records officer or designee may accept requests for public records that contain the above information by telephone or in person. If the public records officer or designee accepts such a request, he or she will promptly document receipt of the information and the substance of the request in writing.
• Processing of Public Records Requests
1. Providing "fullest assistance." The library is charged by statute with adopting rules which provide for how it will “provide full access to public records,” “protect records from damage or disorganization,” “prevent excessive interference with other essential functions of the agency,” provide "fullest assistance" to requestors, and provide the “most timely possible action” on public records requests. The public records officer or designee will process requests in the order allowing the most requests to be processed in the most efficient manner.
2. Acknowledging receipt of request. Within five (5) business days of receipt of the request, the public records officer or designee will do one or more of the following:
1. Make the records available for inspection or copying;
2. If copies are requested and payment or a deposit for the copies, if any, is made, send the copies to the requestor;
3. Provide a reasonable estimate of when records will be available; or
4. If the request is unclear or does not sufficiently identify the requested records, request clarification from the requestor. Such clarification may be requested and provided by telephone. The public records officer or designee may revise the estimate of when records will be available; or
5. Deny the request.
3. Consequences of failure to respond. If the Library does not respond in writing within five (5) business days of receipt of the request for disclosure, the requestor should consider contacting the public records officer to determine the reason for the failure to respond.
4. Protecting rights of others. In the event that the requested records contain information that may affect rights of others and may be exempt from disclosure, the public records officer may, prior to providing the records, give notice to such others whose rights may be affected by the disclosure. Such notice should be given so as to make it possible for those other persons to contact the requestor and ask him or her to revise the request, or, if necessary, seek an order from a court to prevent or limit the disclosure. The notice to the affected persons will include a copy of the request.
5. Records exempt from disclosure. Some records are exempt from disclosure, in whole or in part. If the library believes that a record is exempt from disclosure and should be withheld, the public records officer will state the specific exemption and provide a brief explanation of why the record or a portion of the record is being withheld. If only a portion of a record is exempt from disclosure, but the remainder is not exempt, the public records officer will redact the exempt portions, provide the non-exempt portions, and indicate to the requestor why portions of the record are being redacted. Any library record, the primary purpose of which is to maintain control of library materials, or to gain access to information, that discloses or could be used to disclose the identity of a library user is exempt from disclosure under RCW 42.56.310.
6. Inspection of records.
1. Consistent with other demands, the library shall promptly provide space to inspect public records. No member of the public may remove a document from the viewing area or disassemble or alter any document. The requestor shall indicate which documents he or she wishes the agency to copy.
2. The requestor must claim or review the assembled records within thirty days of library notification to him or her that the records are available for inspection or copying. The agency will notify the requestor in writing of this requirement and inform the requestor that he or she should contact the agency to make arrangements to claim or review the records. If the requestor or a representative of the requestor fails claim or review the records within the thirty-day period or make other arrangements, the library may close the request and re-file the assembled records. Other public records requests can be processed ahead of a subsequent request by the same person for the same or almost identical records, which can be processed as a new request.
7. Providing copies of records. After inspection is complete, the public records officer or designee shall make the requested copies or arrange for copying.
8. Providing records in installments. When the request is for a large number of records, the public records officer or designee will provide access for inspection and copying in installments, if he or she reasonably determines that it would be practical to provide the records in that way. If, within thirty days, the requestor fails to inspect the entire set of records or one or more of the installments, the public records officer or designee may stop searching for the remaining records and close the request.
9. Completion of inspection. When the inspection of the requested records is complete and all requested copies are provided, the public records officer or designee will indicate the library has completed a diligent search for the requested records and made any located non-exempt records available for inspection.
10. Closing withdrawn or abandoned request. When the requestor either withdraws the request or fails to fulfill his or her obligations to inspect the records or pay the deposit or final payment for the requested copies, the public records officer will close the request and indicate to the requestor that the library has closed the request.
11. Later discovered documents. If, after informing the requestor that all available records have been provided, the library becomes aware of additional responsive documents existing at the time of the request, it will promptly inform the requestor of the additional documents and provide them on an expedited basis.
• Exemptions
1. The Public Records Act provides that a number of types of documents are exempt from public inspection and copying. In addition, documents are exempt from disclosure if any "other statute" exempts or prohibits disclosure. The Public Records Officer or designee should be aware of the exemptions, outside the Public Records Act, that restrict the availability of some documents held by the library.
• Costs of Providing Copies of Public Records
1. Costs for paper copies. There is no fee for inspecting public records. A requestor may obtain standard black and white photocopies for 10 cents per page and color copies for the amount set forth in the library fee schedule. Before beginning to make the copies, the public records officer or designee may require a deposit of up to ten percent of the estimated costs of copying all the records selected by the requestor. The public records officer or designee may also require the payment of the remainder of the copying costs before providing all the records, or the payment of the costs of copying an installment before providing that installment. The library will not charge sales tax when it makes copies of public records.
2. Costs for electronic records. The cost of electronic copies of records on either a floppy disc or CD-ROM shall be the amount set forth in the library fee schedule.
3. Costs of mailing. The library may also charge actual costs of mailing, including the cost of the shipping container.
4. Payment. Payment may be made by cash, check, or money order to Pend Oreille County Library District.
• Review of Denials of Public Records
1. Petition for internal administrative review of denial of access. Any person who objects to the initial denial or partial denial of a records request may petition in writing to the public records officer for a review of that decision. The petition shall include a copy of or reasonably identify the written statement by the public records officer or designee denying the request.
2. Consideration of petition for review. The public records officer shall promptly provide the petition and any other relevant information to the Pend Oreille County Library Board of Trustees. The trustees will promptly consider the petition, either affirm or reverse the denial, or shall provide the petition and any other relevant information to the Library's attorney of record within two (2) business days following receipt of the petition, or within such other time as the library and the requestor mutually agree to.
3. Judicial review. Any person may obtain court review of denials of public records request pursuant to RCW 42.56.550, regardless of any internal administrative appeal.

Adopted 2/17/2004
Revised 10/10/2006

Purpose: To reach the general public, the civic leaders and the county's governing officials so that they might understand the objectives and services to the library; and to encourage increased use of the services offered by the library by making the community aware of and interested in the Library's services.

1. The Board of Trustees recognizes and accepts the responsibility to promote understanding of the Library's objectives throughout the community. The library director has the responsibility for promoting adequate publicity for library activities.

2. The Library Board and professional staff are encouraged to make talks and to participate in community activities. A reasonable amount of library time is allowed staff members for preparation and speaking.

3. Any public release made, which is related to library policy or the Library District should be approved by the Library Director.

4. Citizen comments and complaints are referred to the Board of Trustees for action and information. Similarly, the director should be informed by the Board of any inquires directed to them.

Adopted 1/14/81

These general criteria are taken into account for all materials selected for the Pend Oreille County Library District. All items selected must meet several of the criteria listed below.
1. Current and anticipated needs and interests of the public.
2. Accuracy of content.
3. Timeliness of information.
4. Author’s, artist’s, or publisher’s qualifications and/or reputation.
5. Evaluations in review media.
6. Contribution to diversity or breadth of collections.
7. Presentation of unique or controversial points of view.
8. Inclusion of title in standard bibliographies or indexes.
9. Receipt of or nomination for major awards or prizes.
Other specific criteria are considered for individual categories of materials.

VIDEO
Within budgetary constraints, the video collection includes preschool, juvenile, and adult titles in non-fiction and fiction format. All fiction videos for adult and juvenile will be based upon a book title with a rating of PG, PG13, or general.

AUDIO CASSETTES
Audio Cassette selections include Preschool, Juvenile and Adult titles, including some music; popular fiction and non-fiction books on tape; and non-fiction renditions of speeches and self-help material of interest to adult members of the community will be selected within budgetary constraints. The collection will not include current popular music titles.

CS’s (computer software)
Educational computer software will be selected within budgetary constraints to be installed on kids’ computers placed within the library buildings.

CDs (books on CD)
CD selections include preschool, juvenile, and adult titles, including some music; popular fiction and non-fiction books on CD; and non-fiction renditions of speeches and self-help material of interest to adult members of the community will be selected within budgetary constraints. The collection will not include current popular music titles.

DVDs
Within budgetary constraints, the DVD collection includes preschool, juvenile, and adult DVD titles in non-fiction or fiction format. All fiction DVD’s for juvenile and adult will be based upon a book title with a rating of PG, PG13 or general.

INFORMATION ACCESS within budgetary and legal constraints:
1. Select Web sites for Pend Oreille County Library's Home Page that fulfills the service roles of the library district.
2. Select online databases for library use and/or remote use with a valid library card.
3. Select Internet sites.

GIFT MATERIALS
The Library may accept gifts of materials with the understanding that the same standards of selection are applied to gifts as to materials acquired by purchase. The Library reserves the right to evaluate gifts, and to give those, which are not appropriate for inclusion in the current collection, to the Friends of the Library for their annual book sale. Proceeds from the book sale are used to support library programs.

Adopted August 1996
Revised 7/12/1999; Revised 7/9/2001

1. Policy

Violence in the workplace or in the library facilities or on library grounds can have harmful or devastating effects on the productivity, quality of life and on the environment relating to employees, patrons, and visitors. It is the policy of the Library District to make a reasonable effort to provide an environment that is free from threats to personal safety resulting from aggressive or threatening behavior or any other overt actions or statements involving patrons, visitors, or employees. Conduct, behavior or threatening statements that constitute violence or threats of violence will not be tolerated.

Any person who makes substantial threats, exhibits threatening behavior, or engages in violent acts on Pend Oreille County Library District property shall be removed from the premises as quickly as safety permits, and shall remain off the premises pending the outcome of an investigation. Pend Oreille County Library District will initiate a timely response considering the facts and circumstances as determined by director or management representative. 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, rescission of patron’s card privileges or use of any library facilities, and/or criminal prosecution of the person or persons involved.

All Pend Oreille County Library District personnel are responsible for notifying the management representative, director, or library trustee 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 potentially threatening or violent when that behavior is job related or might be carried out on a library controlled site by patrons or staff. 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 representatives are not available, personnel should report the threat or action to a member of the management team.

Pend Oreille County Library District acknowledges the sensitivity of the information requested and has developed confidentiality procedures, which recognize and respect the privacy of the reporting employee(s) or patron.

2. Introduction

One of the purposes of this document is to provide employees with the identification, guidelines, and work plan for addressing workplace violence which will reduce certain workplace violence hazards. The document focuses on violence committed by non-strangers, co-workers, managers, clients, patrons, friends, and relatives within a common work site.

3. Definitions:

3.1 Violence
Violence is defined as any act or speech that is assaultive, hostile, or aggressive behavior by employees, patrons, or visitors occurring in the normal course of regular job duties that results in physical or emotional injury to employees or non-employees in the workplace or damage to District property. It may involve, but is not limited to, name calling, use of offensive language, threats, use of a weapon, assault and/or battery, or other types of physical actions. “Violence” does not include reasonable force in the defense of oneself or others.

3.2 Weapon
A weapon is defined as any firearm, switchblade knife, or knife with a blade longer than four inches, dangerous chemicals, explosives, blasting caps, chains, and other objects intended to injure or intimidate others.

4. Responsibilities:

4.1 Library Responsibilities
The following guidelines will assist management to minimize the potential of violence and threats.

4.1.1 Conduct pre-employment screenings on all new employees.
4.1.2 Provide training on what to do in the event of violent confrontation, how to avoid being a victim, and to know how and where to report violent acts or threats.
4.1.3 Provide a means to alert others to a dangerous situation.
4.1.4 Establish ground rules of acceptable behavior by employees and patrons.
4.1.5 Conduct formal security surveys, document findings, and insure review.
4.1.6 Limit former employees from unlimited access to the workplace.
4.1.7 Develop policy regarding visitor access within facility.
4.1.8 Establish a written policy requiring the exclusion of all weapons from all buildings and parking lots
4.1.9 Take reasonable security measures when a threat of violence has been made to or by an employee.

4.2 Employee’s Responsibilities
4.2.1 Employees are not permitted to bring a weapon or any object not normally used in the workplace.
4.2.2 Employees are expected to treat other people and property with respect. No employee is permitted to commit or threaten violence against any other employee, patron, or visitor. This includes but is not limited to verbal threats to inflict physical harm, vandalism, arson, and the use of weapons.
4.2.3 Employees shall immediately report threats or incidents of violence to their supervisor, the Director, or the Library Board of Trustees.
4.2.4 Even without an actual threat either verbal or physical, employees shall report any behavior they have witnessed which they regard as threatening or violent or does not come under the concept of normal behavior.**
4.2.5 Employees are responsible for completing the POCLD Threat/Assault/Sexual Harassment Incident Report immediately after a threat has been initiated, or the subject of threatening behavior regardless of the relationship between the parties involved.
4.2.6 If the employee has reservations about any person, he/she should discuss the matter with his/her immediate supervisor.
4.2.7 Whenever an employee leaves the building during normal business hours, they will inform the branch manager or director of their planned destination and estimated time of return.
4.2.8 If an employee notices a weapon either real or potential in the facility, they will expedite the removal of said object from the building and grounds immediately and inform the Director or the management representative of the situation.

**[normal defined as: according to, constituting, or not deviating from an established norm, rule, or principle; conformed to a type, standard, or regular form; performing the proper functions; regular, average, natural.]

5. Implementation:

5.1 Training of employees will be provided to enhance the awareness of violence in the workplace.

5.2 Prior to the hiring of any new staff member, management will validate the following items and incorporate them into the individual’s safety training record:
5.2.1 Check references and inquire of any incidents of violence or threats.
5.2.2 Conduct a law enforcement background check to ascertain if there has been any conviction of a crime within the last seven years.
5.2.3 Medical, substance abuse, or other lawful examinations may be required by the Library District.

5.3 All doors are secured at closing of each business day. Whenever an employee enters the building during non-business hours, they will lock the door behind them preventing any unauthorized entry.

The Violence Policy and plan have been reviewed and approved by the Library District Board of Trustees.

Adopted February 12, 2001

WARNING SIGNS OF POTENTIALLY VIOLENT INDIVIDUALS

There is no exact method to predict when a person will become violent. One or more of these warning sings may be displayed before a person becomes violent but does not necessarily indicate that an individual will become violent. A display of these signs should trigger concern as they are usually exhibited by people experiencing problems.

Irrational beliefs and ideas
Verbal, nonverbal, or written threats or intimidation
Fascination with weaponry and/or acts of violence
Expressions of a plan to hurt him/herself or others
Externalization of blame
Unreciprocated romantic obsession
Taking up much of supervisor’s time with behavior or performance problems.
Fear reaction among co-workers/clients
Drastic change in belief systems
Displays of unwarranted anger
New or increased source of stress at home or work
Inability to take criticism
Feelings of being victimized
Physical reactions indicating use of alcohol or other substances
Expressions of hopelessness or heightened anxiety
Productivity or attendance problems
Violence towards inanimate objects
Steals or sabotages projects or equipment

[Attachment to Violence Policy
Adopted February 12, 2001]

RECOMMENDATIONS TO STAFF
PERSONAL CONDUCT TO MINIMIZE VIOLENCE
Follow these suggestions in your daily interactions with people to de-escalate potentially violent situations. If at any time a person’s behavior starts to escalate beyond your comfort zone, disengage!

[Attachment to Violence Policy Adopted February 12, 2001]

The Library District welcomes members of the community serving as volunteers in any of the community libraries in Pend Oreille County. The services volunteers perform are valued and valuable.

Volunteering is a serious business. To the public, a volunteer is part of the Library's staff and represents the Library. The Library makes an investment in the training and experiences of the volunteer so that the services offered meet the needs of the public.

Volunteers are viewed as the most valuable resource of this agency, its staff, and its clients. Volunteers have the right to be given meaningful assignments, the right to be treated as equal co-workers, and the right to effective supervision. Volunteers have the right to full involvement and participation, and the right to recognition for work done. In return, volunteers shall agree to perform their duties to the best of their abilities. They will remain loyal to the goals of the agency and operate according to its policies and procedures.

The following guidelines have been established to provide consistent information to volunteers in all community libraries and to assure that volunteers fully understand the commitment they are making:

1. A volunteer represents the Library District to the community while actively serving as a volunteer.
2. A volunteer is expected to follow approved policies and procedures of the Library District during the time of volunteering within library buildings and at library events elsewhere;
3. A volunteer is oriented, trained, supervised, and evaluated on a continual basis concerning those policies and procedures necessary for the activities carried out;
4. Of special importance in carrying out volunteer activities is observance of the Library Bill of Rights, adopted by the Library District Board of Trustees. Under the Library Bill of Rights, the Library District must protect the confidentiality of each library user, and assure equal access and the freedom to read and inquire of each user regardless of age, religion, race, nation of origin, background and views;
   In carrying out the requirements of the Library Bill of Rights, volunteers actively working in a community library may not express their religious, political, social or other personal views to members of the public. They must protect the confidentiality of each library user. Violation of these special trusts, policies, or procedures is reason to discontinue the volunteer services.
5. In light of the time and expense involved in training and supervising volunteers, the Library may decide to discontinue or change a volunteer?s service assignment, which it determines is not beneficial;
6. Volunteer fill out an information form, which is used by the Library to assure that the volunteers are involved in activities appropriate to their skills, experience, and interests;
7. The Library will pay labor and industry costs according to Washington State Law as pertains to volunteers – RCW 51.12.035. Labor and Industry requires a monthly time sheet be turned in to the branch manager where volunteering.

ORIENTATION FOR VOLUNTEERS

1. Introduction of person doing orientation and introduce volunteers.
2. Review volunteer policy, Library Bill of Rights, and confidentiality.
3. Discuss specific job description and parameters of that job.
4. Pass out time sheets for volunteers, review time sheet and indicate where and to whom it is to be turned in.
5. Inform volunteers of dress code.
6. Inform volunteers about breaks.
7. Discuss with volunteers the seriousness about the Library Bill of Rights, confidentiality, and policies and procedures and what constitutes dismissal. Example of dismissal:
1. Giving out a patron's address or phone number to another person.
2. Not letting a person check out a book of their choice (it does not matter what the volunteer thinks about the book).
3. Discussing with anyone what someone else has checked out.
4. Violating Library policies.
8. Hand out volunteer badge.
9. Be sure volunteer has filled out Volunteer Information Form, has been given Library Bill of Rights, has been given the procedures for the job they are to do.

Approved by the Library District Board of Trustees 1/11/1999

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STAFF
WORKING WITH VOLUNTEERS

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To provide an accurate job description.
2. To prepare professional staff.
3. To prepare all participants - through an orientation.
4. To offer a well-planned program of training and supervision.
5. To be ready to place the volunteer.
6. To treat volunteers as co-workers with acceptance and trust.
7. To avoid confusing jargon.
8. To give the volunteer a significant task.
9. To continue to inform the volunteer.
10. To give the volunteer proper recognition.
11. To evaluate with the volunteer.
12. To provide opportunities for the volunteer's personal growth.
13. Annual all-county appreciation day.