Wilton Public Library’s Policys | Wilton Public Library

Wilton Public Library

Policy Manual

Revision date: September 15, 2023

Adopted by Board: September 20, 2023

Previous version: May 17, 2023

Table of Contents

Mission and Goal Statements
Who May Use the Library
Patron Responsibilities and Conduct
Services of the Library
Responsibilities and Authorities of the Library Board
Volunteers and Friends
Personnel Policy
Material Selection/Collection Development Policy
Circulation Policy
Reference Service Policy
Programming Policy
Public Relations Policy
Equipment Use Policy
Internet Use Policy
Meeting Room Policy
Displays and Exhibits Policy
Recording Device Policy
Weapons Policy
Advice Policy
Revision of Library Policies

Appendix

Library Bill of Rights
1. Freedom to Read Statement
1. Form: Statement of Concern About Library Resources
1. Letter: Damaged or lost materials
1. Form: Display and Exhibits Release
1. Freedom to View Statement

Revision History

Mission and Goal Statements

It is the mission of Wilton Public Library to provide services, programs, and materials that entertain, educate, enrich lives, and simply bring people together. We work to preserve our past, build our present, and prepare for our future by providing materials and services that reflect the Wilton community and today’s world.

It is the vision of Wilton Public Library to be the heart of Wilton where all come to learn, grow, create, and connect.

The Wilton Public Library will guide the accomplishment of our Mission and Vision by:
1. Being a warm and welcoming place for community members to gather.
2. Employing warm, creative, and positive staff focused on library users’ interests and needs.
3. Being good stewards of the Wilton Public Library’s financial and material resources.
4. Ensuring equal and equitable access to library materials.
5. Protecting confidentiality of library patron records.
6. Championing everyone’s right to intellectual freedom.

Who May Use the Library
The library will serve all residents of the community and the public library system area. Service will not be denied or abridged because of religious, racial, social, economic, or political status; or because of mental, emotional, or physical condition; age; or sexual orientation.
The use of the library may be denied for due cause. Such cause may be failure to return library materials or to pay the penalties, destruction of library property, disturbance of other patrons, or other illegal, disruptive, or objectionable conduct on library premises.

Patron Responsibilities and Conduct
It is the patron’s responsibility to maintain necessary and proper standards of behavior in order to protect his/her individual rights and the rights and privileges of other patrons. If a patron creates a public nuisance, that patron may be restricted from the library and from the use of the library facilities. Those who are unwilling to leave or do not leave within a reasonable amount of time, after being instructed to do so by the staff will be subject to the law.
Young Children:
- The Wilton Public Library encourages visits by young children and it is our desire to make this important visit both memorable and enjoyable for the child. Library staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the library.
- Therefore, it is the policy of all children under age six must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.
Disruptive Children:
- Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier during busy times and that children by nature can cause more commotion. However, children (whether with parents or not) who are being continually disruptive will be give a warning that he/she must settle down or will be asked to leave the library. If after a second warning, the child continues to be disruptive, he/she will be asked to leave the library. If the child needs to contact a parent, they may do so and then wait with a staff person until the parent arrives.

Services of the Library

The library provides materials and resources for information, entertainment, intellectual development, and enrichment of the people of the community. The library should endeavor to:

Select, organize, and make available necessary books and materials.
1. Provide guidance and assistance to patrons.
1. Sponsor and implement programs, exhibits, displays, book lists, etc., which would appeal to children and adults.
1. Cooperate with other community agencies and organizations.
1. Secure information beyond its own resources when requested, using interlibrary loan and other resource sharing methods provided through the system and state.
1. Lend to other libraries upon request.
1. Develop and provide services to patrons with special needs.
1. Maintain a balance in its services to various age groups.
1. Cooperate with, but not perform the functions of, school or other institutional libraries.
1. Provide services during hours which best meet the needs of the community, including evening and weekend hours.
1. Regularly review library services being offered.
1. Use media and other public relations mechanisms to promote the full range of available library services.

Responsibilities and Authorities of the Library Board

Refer to Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin Statutes (specifically section 43.58), the Wisconsin Public Library Trustee Manual, and the individual library bylaws to provide a basis and framework for the responsibilities and authority of the library board and individual trustees.

The Wilton Public Library encourages each library trustee to take advantage of training opportunities for trustees offered by the public library system or statewide agencies and organizations. Likewise, the library encourages trustees to be active in the state library organization and its efforts to inform the governor and legislature of the benefits and needs of public libraries.

Volunteers and Friends

The library board encourages individuals and groups to volunteer their time and efforts in the service of the Wilton Public Library. In appreciation of volunteer services, the library acknowledges of the need to organize volunteer activities and provide for appropriate recognition befitting the benefit of the library and the communities it serves.

A library friends group is a formal association of people who unite to plan and execute, in conjunction with library goals and the needs of the library director, programs, and events to benefit the library. In particular, a friends group is often heavily involved in fund-raising for the library and often oversees periodic book sales. Friends groups always serve at the pleasure of the library board which is the only body with legal authority to set policy for the development of the library.

Personnel Policy
Management Policy: The duly appointed library board shall have all management rights, authorities, and responsibilities as stated in Wisconsin Statutes, Chapter 43.
- The library board shall select, appoint, and when necessary for valid reasons, dismiss the director of the library.
- The board shall establish all other positions and all wage and benefit levels of all the library staff.
- The library board shall provide an effective orientation for new directors to assure that the director understands.
  - The policies and processes related to the daily operation of the library
  - Reporting and budgetary requirements that assure accountability and compliance with the law.
  - The expectations of the board in regard to administrative processes and protocol, particularly as they relate to conductive effective and efficient board meetings
  - Rules and requirements for state certification and any assistance which is provided by the library to acquire and maintain appropriate certification.
- The library board shall conduct annual appraisals of the library director’s performance, at which time personal and management goals can be discussed and negotiated.
Administrative Policy: The person as the library director shall be charged with the sole administration of the library.
- The director shall be responsible to the library board in matters pertaining to and concerning the library:
  - Be present at all board meetings.
  - Prepare and present such reports and meeting documents as requested.
- The director shall maintain financial records in an efficient manner
  - Present periodic reports to the library board and the municipal governing body
  - Prepare the draft of the annual budget and present it to the library board
  - Assist trustees with the presentation of the adopted request for appropriation of the municipal governing body.
- The director shall hold regular meetings with staff and/or volunteers for the training and interpreting board policy.
- The director will be responsible for preparing annual performance assessments of library staff and volunteers.
- The director shall have the responsibility for collection development for all materials in the library:
  - Selection and ordering
  - Processing
  - Weeding
  - Inventory of the collections according to the guidelines in this policy
- The director will recommend changes in and additions to the library policies as needed.
- The director will perform preparatory work to assist the board with regular library planning.
Health Insurance Policy: The director shall be eligible for the village employee’s health insurance plan. The director shall pay 25% of the premium. A supplemental health insurance policy will be offered to the director if required to obtain Medicare when they become eligible.
- In lieu of health insurance will be provided for the director if they opt out of health insurance plan as follows:
  - Health Reimbursement Plan will be established when they opt out of the health insurance.
  - An annual amount of $2500 a year, to be paid monthly, will be deposited into the Village’s Health Reimbursement Plan.
  - Such payments will be made the first day of each month following 60 days of becoming eligible or having a qualifying event, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.
  - When a director retires from the Wilton Public Library, the account stays open of the retiree to use after employment with the Village of Wilton, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.
Vacation Policy: Vacation pay for regularly scheduled part-time employees shall accrue at the rate of 3 hours of vacation for every 120 hours worked for the first year. After the first year, the following chart defines the number of vacation days:

Days of Vacation	Years of Service on January 1st
36 hours maximum	Date of hire to 1 year
2 (30 hour) weeks	2-5 years
3 (30 hour) weeks	6-8 years
3 (30 hour) weeks + 1 (9 hour) day	9 years
3 (30 hour) weeks + 2 (9 hour) days	10 years
3 (30 hour) weeks + 3 (9 hour) days	11 years
3 (30 hour) weeks + 4 (9 hour) days	12 years
4 (30 hour) weeks	13 years and over

Holiday Policy:
- The following restrictions apply to holiday pay:
  - The library director will not be granted vacation pay in addition to holiday pay if the holiday occurs during their vacation.
  - When one of the six (6) standard holidays or two (2) half (1/2) day holidays that are observed by the Village of Wilton occur while the director is on vacation, the director will receive a compensatory day of vacation.
  - The pay for holidays will be calculated using the open library hours for the director. The two half day holidays are based on a four (4) hour workday.
  - When required to work on a holiday, an alternate day off should be taken for time worked.
- The paid holidays to be observed include:
  - New Year’s Day
  - Memorial Day
  - Independence Day
  - Labor Day
  - Christmas Day
  - Christmas Eve (1/2 day)
  - New Year’s Eve (1/2 day)
- If a holiday falls on a day when the library is closed, the director will be paid for the holiday and will be allowed to take another day off during the same pay period.
PTO (Personal Time Off): Criteria for PTO
- The director is awarded one-half day (four hours) of PTO per month on the last payday of each month.
- The director is eligible to use any earned and unused PTO on the ledger.
- PTO may be carried over from year to year.
- There is a CAP of 450 hours of PTO.
- Employees will not be granted PTO pay in addition to holiday pay, if the holiday occurs while the person is on PTO. If the employee would have been eligible for holiday pay and not on PTO, holiday pay will be granted. The holiday will not be “lost” due to PTO.
- PTO does not accumulate during the time when an employee is out on disability or personal leave; the PTO credit will be reduced on a pro-rata basis.
- PTO will be paid to the employee or beneficiary upon death, retirement, or separation from the Village of Wilton, if the following is met:
  - Minimum number of years of service is five (5) years from the date of hire.
  - Maximum PTO payout is $3500.00
  - PTO payout can be made by check to the employee, deposited into a Health Savings Reimbursement fund or to the pension fund.
- PTO will not be paid if the director is dismissed from employment by the board.
- Seasonal and regularly scheduled part-time employees will be allowed time off without pay.
- Seasonal and regularly scheduled part-time employees may earn PTO at the following rate:
  - Two (2) hours of PTO earned each month for employees who work 1200 – 1500 hours per year.
  - Three (3) hours of PTO earned each month for employees who work 1501 – 2000 hours per year.
  - Four (4) hours of PTO earned each month for employees who work 2001 – 2080 hours per year.
Leave of Absence:
- Leave of absence without pay may be granted to library employees for maternity, adoption, illness, travel, or graduate or certification training.
- All requested leaves are considered on a case-by-case basis and must be approved by the director.
- A leave for the director must be approved by the library board.
- Requests for leave must be submitted in writing well in advance of the time when the leave is to begin.
  - All written requests should indicate both a beginning and ending date for the leave.
  - Vacation time must be used before any unpaid leave will be approved for reasons other than maternity, adoption, or military training.
  - The employee is responsible for all insurance and other benefit costs during a leave of absence that apply.
  - In some instances, it may be necessary to deny requests for leave of absence. Leaves are a privilege and can be granted only if the best interests of the library can be maintained.
Bereavement Leave: Library employees are eligible for three (3) days of bereavement leave without loss of pay or sick leave credit in the event of the death of a member of their immediate family. Immediate family is defined as:
- The employee’s spouse
- The employee’s child/children
- The employee’s sibling
- The employee’s parent(s)
- The employee’s spouse’s parent(s)
Military Leave: Library employees who are duly enrolled members of the National Guard, State Guard, or any other organized reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States shall be allowed a military leave of absence, if the following conditions have been met:
- The leave is to complete orders from the United States’ Armed Forces
- The leave does not exceed fourteen (14) days excluding Sundays and legal holidays.
- A copy of the order shall accompany all requests for a military leave.
- The library can assure no loss of wages if the employee gives the library all earnings from the training period to the library board.
- The library shall maintain all benefits of the employee if the leave does not exceed the fourteen (14) day limit.
Jury Duty:
- The library board will grant leave for employees called to jury duty.
- The summons for jury duty should be accompanied by a written request for leave.
- The library will assure that no wages are lost if the fees and expenses paid to the employee for jury duty do not exceed the employee’s normal pay and the employee signs over the fees to the library board.
Work Schedule Policy:
- Major changes to the director’s schedule or other circumstances may not be made without the approval of the library board.
- Requests for change to the director’s schedule shall be made in writing to the library board.
- Requests for changes in the work schedule of other staff and volunteers shall be made in writing to the library director.
Meetings, Conventions, and Workshops: The director, staff, and trustees attending continuing education opportunities to aid the library shall be allowed expenses at the discretion of the library board according to the amount appropriated in the budget for such. The director, staff, and trustees are encouraged to attend and participate in continuing education activities.
Disciplinary Policy:
- An employee of the Wilton Public Library may be dismissed for any action or behavior that causes the library’s image or operation to be diminished. This includes but is not limited to:
  - Incompetence
  - Misconduct
  - Inattention to assigned duties
  - Unapproved absences from work
- Normally termination would be the final step following these actions:
  - A substandard performance appraisal
  - Verbal and/or written warnings
  - Suspension and/or
  - Extended probation
- The library board and/or director must maintain complete and clear records for all disciplinary processes for the protection of the employee and the library.
- The library wants each employee to be successful in his/her job and will work with employees to eliminate deficiencies.
- While notice of intent to terminate can be expected, the Wilton Public Library reserves the right to dismiss an employee without notice in cases involving theft, drug or alcohol abuse, criminal activity, or in instances of significant misconduct.
Resignation and Retirement Policy:
- A library employee wishing to resign or retire from employment must notify the director or the library board as soon as practicable.
  - The library requests a minimum of two (2) weeks’ notice for seasonal or regularly scheduled employees.
  - The library board requests a minimum of one month notice for the director.
- The employee must submit a formal, written letter of resignation giving the exact date employment is to be terminated.
- During the time between the submission of the letter of resignation and the date of termination, the final performance evaluation will be conducted.
- If the employee is entitled to benefits (i.e.: earned, unused vacation, etc.) a lump sum payment can be made to that employee.
Grievance Procedure: It is the intent of the Wilton Public Library that every employee shall have the opportunity to express concerns relating to the physical surroundings in which the employee works, procedures and conditions of the specific position, relationships with fellow workers or supervisors, and the library rules as they apply to staff. A concern or grievance should follow the procedure below:
- If possible, discuss the problem with the director. In the case of the director having a concern, the director should discuss the problem with the board president.
- If the director is part of the problem, or if the board president is part of the director’s problem, the concern/grievance should be submitted in writing for the library board and be delivered to the director, who will deliver the statement to the board president. The board president will, in turn, present the concern, during closed session, to the full board at the next or a special board meeting.
- The board’s representative will respond to the employee within five (5) days of the board meeting at which the issue is discussed, either providing a determination, solution, or a strategy for how the board will address the issue over time.
Equal Opportunity Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Wilton Public Library to provide an equal employment opportunity to all qualified and qualifiable persons. Equal employment opportunity shall be according to the provisions of State and Federal laws and regulations.
Drug-Free Workplace Policy:
- In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited while performing work for the Wilton Public Library, whether that work is carried out in the workplace building or not. All employees shall abide, as a condition of employment, by the terms of this notice and shall notify the library director or board within five (5) days of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace.
- Failure to comply with the above requirements shall be grounds for appropriate personnel action against such employee, up to and including termination, or such employee may be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.
Sexual Harassment Policy:
- Harassment based on sex is a violation of Title VII (federal law) and Statute 111.36(b) (state law). Sexual harassment, either verbal or physical, is unlawful employment practice and will not be tolerated by the Wilton Public Library.
- The Wilton Public Library accepts and adheres to all the definitions and procedures outlined in the law as regards sexual harassment. Any employee who engages in sexual harassment will subject themselves to disciplinary action up to and including discharge.
Wilton Public Library Benefits: Benefits paid for by the Wilton Public Library, contribute to an employee over all compensation packages. And the benefits, because they are purchased as part of a group program with the Village of Wilton are more economical than if they were purchased individually by the employees.
- The library contributes to such mandatory benefits (as required by law) such as Social Security, Worker’s Compensation, and Unemployment Compensation Insurance.
- The library provides the following kinds of benefit coverage to any employee working at least 60 hours per pay period:
  - 5% of gross wages in the form of a pre-tax retirement account established by the Wilton Village Board.
  - Health insurance shall be provided to the employee with the library paying 75% of the premium and the employee paying 25% of a group health plan chosen by Wilton Village Board. A supplemental health insurance policy will be offered to any employee required to obtain Medicare when they become eligible.

Materials Selection/Collection Development
Objectives

The purpose of the Wilton Public Library is to provide all individuals in the community with carefully selected materials to aid the individual in the pursuit of education, information, research, pleasure, and the creative use of leisure time. These materials reflect the Wilton community and the world at large at the time of purchase. Materials refer to items such as books, videos, internet, CDs, magazines and more that are available through the Wilton Public Library.

Due to the volume of published materials, as well as limitations from budgeting and physical space, the library must have a selection policy with which to meet the needs of the community.

The materials selection/collection development policy is used by the library staff in the selection of materials and serves to inform the public with the principles of selection.

Wilton Public Library supports the principles set forth by the American Library Association in the Library Bill of Rights, The Freedom to View Statement, and The Freedom to Read Statement, which are in Appendix A, B, and F of this policy manual.

Responsibility for Selection

The library director is responsible for selecting materials for the Wilton Public Library. The director must operate in the framework of the policies which are decided by the Wilton Public Library Trustees. The director may share the responsibility with other staff members and take suggestions from the community on materials it would like to have in the library. However, the library director can accept or reject any suggestion made by staff or the community as the director is responsible to the library board and the public for selections made.

Scope

The scope of the Materials Selection/Collection Development policy is to create a dynamic collection that both appeals to the residents of the Village of Wilton and surrounding areas. The collection in Wilton Public Library includes adult fiction and nonfiction, DVDs, games, and puzzles alongside the same materials aimed at a child’s interest. In addition, the Wilton Public library has a small maker space and library of things to round out the local collection.

Criteria for Selection

The main points considered for the selection of materials are:

Individual merit of each item

Popular appeal/demand

Suitability of material for the community

Existing library holdings

Accurate and authoritative information

Historical and cultural significance to Wisconsin and the Wilton area

Human or social insight

Special needs of patrons who need materials in accessible formats

Budget

Selection of materials will not consider the following influences:

The possibility of coming into contact or possession of minors.

The possibility of theft or damage to the items.

Reviews are one source of information about new materials. The primary sources of reviews are Cooperative Children’s Book Center, New York Times Book Review, Bookmarks Magazine, but other sources may be used as well.

A title is not rejected based on its review or lack of review. Consideration is given to patron requests, materials discussed in public forums such as social media, the press, and other sources of similar information. Materials must be judged based on the complete work, not on a portion taken out of context and how they fit the needs of the community and reflect the world at large.

Interlibrary Loan:

Because of limited budget and space, the library cannot provide all materials that are requested. Therefore, interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of this library’s collection.

In return for utilizing interlibrary loan to satisfy the needs of our patrons, the Wilton Public Library agrees to lend its materials to other libraries through the same interlibrary loan network, and to try to have its current holdings listed in a tool that is accessible by other libraries throughout the state.

Electronic Resources

Electronic resources are a part of the Winding Rivers Library System, of which Wilton is a member. Electronic resources are available to all patrons on the Winding Rivers platform with their library card and pin number. Electronic resources are chosen by votes from all the libraries in the Winding Rivers System and are used to complement the physical collections contained in the library.

Gifts and Donations:

The library accepts gifts of books and other materials with the understanding that they will be added to the collection only if appropriate and needed. If they are not needed because of duplication, condition, or dated information the director can dispose of them as he/she sees fit. The same criteria of selection which applies to purchased materials applies to gifts. Memorial gifts of books or money are also accepted with suitable bookplates placed in the book. Specific memorial books can be ordered for the library on request of a patron if the request meets the criteria established by the board. It is desirable for gifts of or for specific titles to be offered after consultation with the library director. Book selection will be made by the director if no specific book is requested. The Wilton Public Library encourages and appreciates gifts and donations.

By law, the library is not allowed to appraise the value of donated materials, though it can provide an acknowledgement receipt of the items if requested by the donor.

Weeding

An up-to-date, attractive, and useful collection is maintained through a continual withdrawal and replacement process. Replacement of warn volumes is dependent upon current demand, usefulness, and more recent acquisitions, and availability of newer editions. This ongoing process of weeding is the responsibility of the library director and is authorized by the Board of Trustees. Withdrawn materials will be handled in a similar manner and under the same authority as donated materials.

Materials are withdrawn based on wear and tear of the item, length of time since the last check out, relevance of the item to the world today.

Potential Challenges

The Wilton Public Library recognizes that some materials may be considered offensive by some patrons. Selection of materials is based upon serving the whole community, the basis of the principles stated throughout this policy, and a balanced reflection and informative view of the world. While the decision to use or not to use any material available in the library is personal, no one person can censor any material and restrict the community from use of those materials.

Parents and legal guardians are responsible for monitoring and supervising what the minors in their care may or may not read, watch, or otherwise consume from the Wilton Public Library. The selection of the materials of the Wilton Public Library is not based upon the possibility that these materials will come into the possession of minors.

No person shall mark or otherwise identify any Wilton Public Library material to display approval or disapproval of their contents. No library material shall be sequestered for any reason except for protecting select materials from damage or theft.

Challenged Materials

Differences in what materials are considered suitable may arise. Patrons requesting materials be withdrawn from or restricted within the Wilton Public Library selection may complete a “Statement of Concern About Library Resources” form which is available from any staff member in the library. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next meeting of the Wilton Public Library Board of Trustees within 15 business days of receipt of a fully completed statement.

One form must be used for each item to be considered.
Each form must be filled out by a resident of Wisconsin and the resident must be an individual.
During the time the material is held in review, it will remain available for circulation at the Wilton Public Library.
Only the first concern over a singular material will be considered. Any subsequent concerns raised will be placed with the first one.
Similar materials or materials with similar complaints will be grouped together.
The board approved spokesperson for the material and the library is the library director. No staff member or board member should speak for the library until such a time that a formal decision regarding the material in question can be reached.
During the board meeting scheduled, both the party bringing the challenge and the library director will be given equal time to speak. The time allotted will be at the discretion of the board and strictly adhered to. Once both sides of the issue have spoken, the board shall discuss and come to a decision regarding the material.
A decision can be appealed by either the disputing party or the library director within 15 business days of said decision when the board hears further arguments during the next regularly scheduled board meeting.
The decision of the appeal shall be considered the final decision and must be followed by the party challenging the material and the Wilton Public Library.
If additional concerns are brought forward about a material already decided upon, it is the decision of the library director if the concern is unique enough from the original complaint and should be considered by the board.

Equipment Use Policy

Computers are available to patrons on a first come, first-serve basis or may be reserved for use at a specific time by the librarian. There is no charge for use of the computers; however, to make the service available to as many patrons as possible, a time limit for usage has been imposed. That time limit is 1 hour (60 minutes) and may be extended by library staff if other computers are available. Library staff is available for general assistance in using the computer. Staff are not expected to train patrons in the use of application programs. If a patron desires to use a computer in the garden or gazebo, the patron must check out the computer and is responsible for all costs of damage or breakage while in their possession.

A printer/copy machine is available to use. A donation is requested for using the printer/copy machine. Suggested per page are:

Patrons are responsible for selecting if they prefer black and white or full color prints or copies. Patrons are responsible for any copyright violations while using the printer/copy machine.

Copies for classroom use are free but please get approval for making large numbers of copies from the librarian before you begin.

A fax machine is available for patron use. The library requests a donation be made for using the service. The suggested amount is $1.00 per page.

A laminator is available for patron use. The library requests a donation be made for using this service. The suggested donation is:

A library of things is available for use in the library and some things in the library of things may be checked out and used at home. These things include games, toys, puzzles, CD players, DVD players, binoculars, etc. Please check with library staff to know how long the things may be checked out and taken home.

Circulation Policy
Registration:

All borrowers must be registered and must have a valid local or system patron card to borrow library materials.

Patrons must fill out an application to register for a new library card. The following statement will be printed on the registration form for the patron’s information and acceptance.

I agree to be responsible for all items borrowed with this library card issued in the above name, including items borrowed with it by others with or without my consent unless I have previously reported the loss of my card. I promise to comply with all library rules and policies both present and future, and to give prompt notice of change of address or loss of library card.

Signature___________________________________________________

Identification is required. A driver’s license or student ID is preferred, however, any other official ID or recent nonpersonal piece of mail may be acceptable.

Applicants under 13 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued. This parental signature is not required for children who are renewing cards.

Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued.

Lost or Forgotten Cards

If a patron loses his/her library card, he/she should notify the library as soon as possible and request a replacement.

All patrons, adult and juvenile, are expected to bring their library cards with them if they intend to check out items. An individual who repeatedly ignores this expectation may be denied the privilege of checking out materials until they present their card at the library.

Loan Periods
- Generally materials are loaned for the following periods:
  - Books, kindles, and audiobooks are available for 3 weeks, and may be renewed up to 3 times, provided there is not a waiting list for the materials.
  - Interlibrary loans are due the date the leading library has indicated.
  - Periodicals may be checked out for one week and may be renewed up to 3 times if there is not a waiting list.
  - DVDs are loaned for a period of one week and may be renewed up to 3 times provided there is not a waiting list.
- Resource materials are not loaned out, except under special circumstances. Resource materials are loaned out overnight only and must be returned the following day.
- Newspapers are generally not loaned out.
- The director may establish the loan period for special collections, materials which are temporarily in great demand, such as for student projects, or materials added to the collection which are in a new format (e.g.: computer software)
- Equipment is generally loaned for 2 weeks. The director may have other rules for specific equipment.
- Kits are generally loaned out for 3 weeks but the director can change this at his/her discretion.
- There are no limits on the number of materials a patron may borrow.
Reserves

Reserves may be placed by patrons either in person, over the phone, or within the library’s online catalog. Patrons will be notified by telephone, email, or text when the materials are available. The materials will stay on Wilton Public Library’s reserve shelf for 2 weeks before automatically being returned to the owning library.

Fines and charges.

There are the following fines for overdue materials.

Books $0.05 a day
DVDs $1.00 a day

A notice is sent after the material is due. If the material is not returned in a designated period, a bill will be sent for the material with the cost of replacement of the material and a service charge for processing, cataloging, and postage. Patrons who have been sent an overdue notice shall be denied borrowing privileges until those overdue materials are returned or paid for if lost and/or damaged.

Damaged materials

If materials are damaged so as to be judged by the library as being unsuitable for the collection, the patron must pay the replacement cost. A notice of these charges will be sent to the borrower; a sample of the notice follows:

Confidentiality

AS specified in Wisconsin Statutes 43.30, “records of any library which is in whole or in part supported by public funds, including the records of a public library system, indicating the identity of any individual who borrows or uses the library’s documents or other materials, resources, or services may not be disclosed except by court order or to persons acting within the scope of their duties in the administration of the library or library system, to persons authorized by the individual to inspect such records, or to libraries authorized under sub. (2) and (3).”

The Wilton Public Library adheres strictly to all sections of this Statute regarding the protection of the confidentiality of its users.

Reference Service Policy

The Wilton Public Library:

Will provide information in the form of short answers to specific questions and guidance in locating material for patrons who appear in person, call on the telephone, or request information through correspondence.
Will assist patrons in the use of the library and teach basic research methodology, when appropriate (this includes providing help in developing a research and advice on whether a trip to the library would be worthwhile for individuals who telephone)
Will provide bibliographic verification of items both in the library and not owned by the library and will assist patrons in obtaining materials through interlibrary loan, when appropriate.
May refer library users to other agencies and libraries in pursuit of needed information.
May use not only the library’s resources in printed form, but consult appropriate digital resources as well as the regional library and other agencies by telephone in pursuit of “ready reference” information.

Programming Policy

A “program” is a planned interaction between the library staff and the program participants for the purpose of promoting library materials, facilities, and/or services, as well as offering the community an informational, entertaining, or cultural experience.

Programming includes such activities as story times, films, and activities on no-school days, summer library program for children, speakers, and book or author discussion groups for adults.

The board, in conjunction with the library director, will establish a budget and goals for programming to facilitate the effective implementations of this service.

Public Relations Policy
Public relations goals of the Wilton Public Library are:
1. To promote a good understanding of the library’s objectives and services among governing officials, civic leaders, and the public
1. To promote active participation in the varied services offered by the library to people of all ages.
The board recognizes that public relations involve every person who relates to the library. The board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that he or she represents the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.
The director will be expected to make presentations and to participate in community activities to promote library services. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for preparation and speaking. Materials to be used by press, radio, or television will be approved by the director.
The board will establish a publications budget to cover costs related to printing, publication, supplies, and miscellaneous needs related to the public relations effort.

Equipment Use Policy

A printer/copy machine is available to use. A donation is requested for using the printer/copy machine. Suggested per page are:

Black and white, 1 sided are $0.15 per page
Black and white, 2 sided are $0.30 per page
Color, 1 sided are $0.50 per page
Color, 2 sided are $0.75 per page

Patrons are responsible for selecting if they prefer black and white or full color prints or copies. Patrons are responsible for any copyright violations while using the printer/copy machine.

Copies for classroom use are free but please get approval for making large numbers of copies from the librarian before you begin.

A fax machine is available for patron use. The library requests a donation be made for using the service. The suggested amount is $1.00 per page.

A laminator is available for patron use. The library requests a donation be made for using this service. The suggested donation is:

8 1/2” x 11” $0.50 per packet
11” x 17” $1.00 per packet

Internet Use Policy

The Wilton Public Library is providing access to the Internet to enhance the information and learning opportunities for the citizens of the library’s service area. The Board of Trustees has established the Internet use policy to ensure appropriate and effective use of this resource.

Internet access is intended for short term use by individuals. Any access for long term use is prohibited and any technology used for purposes other than short term, individual use will be removed from the portal. Access to the Internet is available to all patrons; however, this service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with the guidelines. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the library’s Internet service.

Expectations:

Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. The user will be held responsible for his/her actions using the Internet. Users are expected to abide by the policies below which include generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Unacceptable uses of the service will result in the suspension or revocation of Internet use privileges.

Warnings:

The Internet is a decentralized, unmoderated global network; the Wilton Public Library has no control over the content found there. The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information, and it is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the Internet.

The library cannot ensure that data or files downloaded by users are virus-free. The library is not responsible for damage to equipment or data on a user’s personal computer from the use of data downloaded from the library’s Internet service.

The use of the Internet and e-mail is not guaranteed to be private. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the proper authorities.

Guidelines:

Users may use the Internet for research and the acquisition of information to address their educational, vocational, cultural, and recreational needs
Users may use the Internet for the receipt and transmission of electronic mail (e-mail) as long as they use a free e-mail service which will establish and maintain an account for them; the library is unable to manage e-mail accounts for any organizations or individuals
Internet use is offered in sixty (60) minute sessions on a first-come, first-served basis; each user is allowed one session–if there is no patron waiting for the service at the end of a session, the user can have another session, but once having had the service for 60 minutes the user must abandon use of the Internet if another patron requests use of the service
Users will respect and uphold copyright laws and all other applicable laws and regulations; they will not use it for illegal purposes
Users will respect the rights and privacy of others by not accessing private files
Users agree not to incur any costs for the library through their use of the Internet service
Users shall not create and/or distribute computer viruses over the Internet
Users shall not deliberately or willfully cause damage to computer equipment, programs, or parameters

Meeting Room Policy

Wilton Public Library does not have an enclosed, private meeting room available. However, the library does have a table and chairs available as a meeting space.

Any organization or individual may reserve the meeting space on a first come, first served basis with the understanding that any meeting held in the library is open to the public and will be promoted on the library calendar and social media outlets.
Any organization or individual using the meeting space must offer the meeting or event for free or no charge. Charging admission prices is not allowed on the Wilton Public Library premises.
No person or group may pressure, guilt, or use other measures of persuasion to gain a donation or other form of payment for the meeting, program, or event presented.
Any organization or individual may reserve the space for as many weeks, months, or other designated time as he/she/they would like if the event, program, or meeting is kept open to the public and free.
Any violation of these guidelines can result in cancelation of any future events and possibly refusal to allow reservations to the group or induvial.
The library will provide coffee, tea, and water at the request of the event organizer. The library requests donations for the service so that it may be continued for others.

Displays and Exhibits Policy

As an educational and cultural institution, the Wilton Public Library welcomes exhibits and displays of interest, information, and enlightenment to the community. Displays of handiwork, historical material, nature study, or any other material deemed of general interest may be exhibited. The director shall accept or reject material offered for display based on its suitability and availability.

The library assumes no responsibility for the preservation or protection, and no liability for possible damage or theft of any item displayed or exhibited. All items placed in the library are there at the owner’s risk.

A release must be signed by the exhibitor before any artifact can be placed in the library. An example of the release is in Appendix E.

Recording Device Policy

Wilton Public Library will allow recording/taking pictures inside the library when all of the following conditions have been met:

Person(s) desiring to record inside the library have requested and been approved to record by the director or a minimum of one library board member.
Recording must take place in a location that allows patrons to be in the library while not being on video without their knowledge or consent.
Recording must be free of all patron selections as patron privacy is protected by Wisconsin Statutes 43.30
Recording can take place on library grounds such as the gazebo or gardens as privacy is not expected in an outdoor location.
Library staff may take pictures to help promote the library and its programs.
- Patron photographs may not be used is the patron is in possession of selected material(s)
- If the patron is under the age of 16, parental permission must be obtained or the patron must be pictured in such a way their identity would be difficult to identify minors.

Weapons Policy

Wilton Public Library is a weapons free zone. The exceptions are law enforcement and military personnel while performing their civic duties.

Advice Policy

Patrons frequently ask library staff questions. While the library is a place to seek answers, the staff is not an expert in all fields. The staff may engage in conversation and can give the patron book recommendations and/or a computer to access the internet. Any answers from the staff to any question posed that exceeds this policy is considered conversational and not professional advice nor the stance of the library. Any ideas sparked by conversation with the staff should be followed up with professional in the subject matter’s field.

Revision of Library Policies

The preceding statements of Wilton Public Library’s policies are subject to review and revisions will be made as needed. The document will be reviewed in its entirety by the library board every five (5) years minimum.

Appendix A

The Library Bill of Rights

Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.

Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.

Appendix B

The Freedom to Read Statement

The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label “controversial” views, to distribute lists of “objectionable” books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.

Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in order to be “protected” against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free enterprise in ideas and expression.

These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome scrutiny by government officials.

Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with controversy and difference.

Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into organized collections.

We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose freely from a variety of offerings.

The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany these rights.

We therefore affirm these propositions:

It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous by the majority.

Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it.

Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated.

Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper.

It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.

No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say.

There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression.

To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the freedom of others.

It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.

The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need others to do their thinking for them.

It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people’s freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks to reduce or deny public access to public information.

It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. Further, democratic societies are more safe, free, and creative when the free flow of public information is not restricted by governmental prerogative or self-censorship.

It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to a “bad” book is a good one, the answer to a “bad” idea is a good one.

The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that reader’s purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans the fullest of their support.

We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours.

This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers.

Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read Committee; amended January 28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.

Appendix C: Statement of Concern About Library Resources

Wilton Public Library

STATEMENT OF CONCERN ABOUT LIBRARY RESOURCES

Name ______________________________ Date: ____________________

Address:_______________________________________________________

City: _______________________________ State: _____________ Zip Code: ____________

Phone number: __________________________________________________

Email: ___________________________________________________________

Type of Resource you are concerned about:

____ Book ____Audio-Visual Resource

____ Magazine ___ Content of Library Program

____ Newspaper ____ Other (please specify):

Title: ______________________________________________________________

Author/Publisher/Producer and Date: _____________________________________

Please answer the following questions, using the back of this form and additional sheets as necessary

What brought this resource to your attention?
To what do you object? Please be as specific as possible.
Have you read, listened to, or viewed the entire content? If not, what parts?
What effect do you think the material might have?
For what age group do you recommend this material?
In its place, what material of equal or better quality would you recommend?
What do you want the library to do with this material?
Please add any additional comments or thoughts you think the Library Board needs to know to make their decision.

Appendix D

DAMAGED OR LOST MATERIALS LETTER

Dear (borrower),

At the time a library patron borrows materials from the public library collection, the patron assumes the responsibility for the care and timely return of the materials. Recently materials checked out on your library card were returned to the library damages beyond the point of being usable in the library’s collection. The titles and costs of these materials are listed below:

________________________________ $ ______________

Your assistance in clearing this matter promptly will be appreciated and will be necessary in order to retain your borrowing privileges.

Thank you in advance for your prompt response to this matter.

Sincerely,

Appendix E

Wilton Public Library Display and Exhibit Release

I, the undersigned, hereby lend the following works of art or other material to the Wilton Public Library for exhibit purposes only. In consideration of the privilege of exhibiting them in the Library, I hereby release said Library from responsibility for loss, damage, or destruction while they are in the possession of the Library.

Exhibition to be held in the __________________________________
During___________________________________________________
Description of materials loaned_______________________________

Signature__________________________________Date________________
Address__________________________________Telephone_____________

Appendix F

Freedom to View Statement

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 these principles are affirmed:

To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
To provide film, video, and other audiovisual 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.
To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging film, video, or other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public’s freedom to view.

This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee of the American Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational Film Library Association) and was adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors in February 1979. This statement was updated and approved by the AFVA Board of Directors in 1989.

Endorsed January 10, 1990, by the ALA Council

Revision History

Revision Date	Changes Made	By	Approval Date
9-15-2023	Added Advice Policy, revised internet use policy to restrict it to short term use by individuals, updated challenged materials policy to restrict accepted challenges to WI residents and individuals.	K Lupton, WPL director	9-20-2023
5-15-2023	Freedom to View statement added to Appendix f, updated material selection policy, updated equipment use policy	K Lupton, WPL director	5-17-2023
8-29-2022	Format and grammatical corrections	K Lupton, WPL director	9-12-2022
6-27-2022	Added recording device and weapons policy	K Lupton, WPL Director	7-13-2022
5-11-2022	Added mission statement and meeting room policy. Updated Collection development policy	K Lupton, WPL Director	5-25-2022