Leaving Children Alone

The Loogootee Public Library is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming and sage environment for people of al ages. The safety of children left alone in the library is a serious concern for the library staff. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children rests with the parent/caregiver cannot be responsible for children of any age who are left unattended. Parents/caregivers are reminded that there are public restrooms and many exit doors to consider when making the decision to leave young children alone.

Through the age of eight, children must be in the immediate vicinity of a parent/caregiver. The assigned caregiver must carry emergency contact information. If a child in this age group is left unattended, library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver and inform them of the library’s policy.

Children ages 9 to 11 need to be in the immediate vicinity of a parent/caregiver. The assigned caregiver must carry emergency contact information. If a child in this age group is left unattended, library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver and inform them of the library’s policy.

From ages 12 to 18, children are free to use the library unsupervised as long as their behavior is not disruptive to other patrons or staff members. Children who do not have transportation at closing time will be allowed to use the telephone to call for a ride. If transportation is not available within 15 minutes after closing, staff will use their judgment as to whether the police should be called to escort a child home. Staff is not permitted to drive children home.

Supervised Visits Policy

The Loogootee Public Library is not available as a location for supervised visitation. Due to past experiences and in accordance with the decision of the Library Board, supervised visits are not permitted on library property.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions, please contact the library during regular business hours.

Public Records Policy

Indiana Code 4-15-3 governs access to public records. The official policy of the state is that all persons are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent them as public officials and employees, subject to certain limitations.

In accordance with this policy, the records of the Loogootee Public Library are open to the public for inspection with the exception of the classes of materials specified by law as confidential. For a listing of the types of materials available to be examined see IC 5-14-3-3. Any person may inspect and copy the public records of the library during the regular business hours of the library office. Requests for material require 25 hours from request time to gather documents- weekend requests will be deferred until the next business day then the 24 hour timeline. Requests for information as well as the general nature of the information being sought. The requestor must pay any cost incurred in copying materials at the time the request is made.

Material declared confidential by state or federal stature as outlined in IC 5-14-3-4 is exempt from disclosure and will not be made available for public inspection. In addition, the following public records are exempt from disclosure:

Personnel files of the library employees and files of applicants for employment, except for: A. The individual’s name, compensation, education, description, job title, training background, previous work experience, dates of first and last employment of present or former officers or employees of the library; B. Information relating to the status of any formal charges against an employee; C. Information regarding disciplinary actions in which final action has been taken and which resulted in the discipling or discharging of an employee.

All personnel information is available to the affected employee or his/her appointed representative. General personnel information on all employees or groups of unnamed employees may be disclosed.

2. Any administrative or technical information which could jeopardize a record- keeping or security system.

3. Computer programs, codes, filing systems, and other software owned by the library or entrusted to it.

4. Records prepared specifically for discussion, or created during discussion at any legally called executive session.

5. The identity of a donor of a gift made to the library if the donor requires anonymity as a condition of making the gift.

6. Any library records can be used to identify any library customer. A; The library specifically recognizes that its circulation records and other records linking the names of library users with specific materials are confidential in nature. No such records shall be made available to any agency of state, federal, or local government, or to any individual not specifically authorized by the director, 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.

Adopted August 10, 2015

Patron Code of Conduct

Our goal is to offer the best service possible to library patrons and visitors in an inviting environment. You can help us achieve this by following these rules:

The following list, that is by no means complete, includes examples of behaviors for which any individual may be asked to leave the library or library properties, or have library services revoked.

The following behaviors will not be tolerated. Engaging in one or more of these behaviors may result in suspension of use of the Library either for a defined period of time or permanently:

Preschool children must be accompanied by a parent/adult when in the Children’s Department. Parent/adult caregivers should not leave young children unattended while using other areas of the library, unless that child is participating in a supervised, scheduled program such as story time or an after school special. Children under the age of seven (7) must be accompanied by an adult or supervisor at all times. Parents control your children in the library. Children screaming and running down the hallway will not be tolerated. Those not observing the guidelines may be asked to leave. Please be respectful of other patrons using the library.

The following are not permitted on library property:

Loud, abusive, or obscene language

Verbal or physical abuse of staff or patrons

VIolation of copyright laws

Solicitation, gambling or panhandling, including distributing printed material or conducting surverys

Unauthorized removal or attempted removal of materials

Any form of sexual misconduct, including exposure, offensive touching or sexual harassment of other patrons or staff

Unauthorized animals

Use of tobacco products

Horsplay, running, fighting, screaming, or rough playing

Sleeping

Bicycles, scooters, skates, or roller blades. All bicycles should be parked in the bike racks while owners are using the library facilities.

Any Behavior that presents an eminent danger to the life or safety of others

Possession of controlled substance

Begging, solicitation, or sales

Any legal behavior

Distruptive conduct

Weapons

Verbal altercations

Entering or exiting from unathorized doors

Persons consuming illegal drugs or alcohol or under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not permitted on the library proterty

Improper internet usage

Reconfiguring computer software offered by the library

Library managment had the discretion to discard personal items left unattended on library property in order to preserve a safe environment for library guests and staff. Any unauthorized vehicle left in the employee parking lot may be towed at the owner’s expense. In the event that a patron violated any of these rules, a staff member will tell the individual that his/her behavior violates the Patron Code of Conduct , and that it must stop. If the individual continues the behavior, a staff member will inform the patron that he/she will be asked to the leave the library if the behavior does not stop immediately. Theft, damage, or destruction of library property is a crime and will be prosecuted. Shirts and shoes are required while on library property. Inappropriate behavior, which disrupts other library users or staff, is not permitted. Any person who poses a health or sanitary risk or a nuisance to other persons, causes damage to library property, or does not cooperate with library staff when asked to follow library policy will be requested to leave the premises.

Finally, if the patron continues the behavior, he/she will be asked to leave the library. If the patron refuses, the police will be called to remove the patron from the premises. Under no circumstances will a library employee touch the patron in any way. The staff member who deals with the patron, and any staff members who witness the interaction, will complete an incident report. If asked to leave the library, a patron may not return to the library for a specific amount of time or be banned completely. This decision will be made by the director. If this happens, a certified letter will be sent to the patron informing him/her of the ban, explaining what behaviors have prompted the library to take this action, and outlining what will be expected of the patron in order to return to the library. A copy of the letter will be kept on file at the library. In some cases, a violation of the conduct rules may result in legal prosecution.

If an unattended child is left at the library at closing time, one of the staff members will make sure that an adult has been contacted to pick him/her up. A staff member will remain with the child until he/she is picked up. If the child has not been picked up after fifteen (15) minutes, the library employee will call the police. A patron child is never to be placed in a staff member’s automonile and take anywhere.

Members of the library staff will enforce this policy. When deemed appropriate by the staff member(s), the appropriate authorities will be contacted. Repeat violators and/or those who refuse to leave will be subject to arrest and prosecution under Section 35-43-2-2 of the Indiana Code entitled “Criminal Trespass”. With everyone’s cooperation to the above policy, the library will continue to be a pleasant environment for our patrons and visitors. The Board of Trustees of the Loogootee Public Library reserves the right to change this policy without notice. These policies and rules stated above will be lposted ina publioc area of the building.

Amended: 5/2024

Loogootee Public Library Purchasing Policy

The Loogootee Public Library Board is a govermental body that is authorized to enter into contracts under the indiana Public Purchasing Law. (1C 5-22-1-1) The Loogootee Public Library Board is the “Purchasing Agency.”

The “Purchasing Agent” of the Loogootee Public Library is the Diretory of the Library. Loogootee Public Library Board President is also authorized by the Purchasing Agency to make routine purchases in an emergency situation.

The Purchasing Agent may purchase supplies costing up to $1,000. Any supplies costing $1,001 or more require the approval of the Director and/or the Loogootee Public Library Board. The Director and Loogootee Public Library Board President may charge such purchases to the library’s credit card but such charged purchases may not exceed $1,501 in price as the credit limit for the card is $1,500. All purchases under $25,000 will be made on the open market. All items costing between $25,000 and $75,000 will be purchased only after inviting three quotes from persons known to deal in the lines or classes of supplies to be purchased unless another procedure is authorized by statute.

In accordance with state statute, all items costing over $75,000 will be purchased following competitivie bidding procedures unless another procedure is authorized by statue. (1c 5-22-7-1) The Loogootee Public Library will follow all the proper steps for competitive bidding procedures or the inviting of quotes as required by statute or by the guidelines of the appropriate state agency.

the Board of Trustees or the Purchasing Agent will purchase services on the basis of provisions of the contract, cost, and experience of the offered or any other factor deemed appropriate to the services being purchases.

Adopted: October 4, 2010

Displays and Handouts in the Library

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 at large. The library provides information to the community through displays, handouts, announcements, and exhibits in designates areas.

Priority and Approval

The Library has first priority for all exhibit and display space for library purposes. Approval for all exhibits and displays rests with the Library Director or an appointed staff member. Unapproved materials will be disposed of at the library’s discretion. Interpretation of the policy rests with the Library Director or Library Board.

2. Eligibility and Space Availability

Materials may be provided by the library or other non-profit organizations, community groups, individuals, educational institutions, or governmental agencies. Handouts provided by businesses may be considered if events are free or are available job opportunities. Exhibit and display space is available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of groups requesting this service.

3. Limitations

The Library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items, the schedule of any display, the frequency with which the group or organization may have a display.

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.

Adopted: August 10, 2025

Investment Policy

Policy Statement: It is the policy of the Loogootee Public Library to invest its funds in a manner that will provide the maximum security with the highest investment return, while meeting the daily cash flow needs to the Loogootee Public Library and complying with Indiana Code 5-13-19.

Board of Finance: The duly appointed members of the Loogootee Public Library Board of Trustees are the fiscal body of the Library and thus constitute the “Board of Finance” of the Loogootee Public Library. The members serve without compensation (IC 5-13-7-5, IC 36-1-2-6)

Authorized Investment Instruments: The fiscal officer is authorized to invest Library funds only in depositories designed by the Treasurer of State as depositaries for state deposits, in securities or discount notes backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Treasury or dully guaranteed by the United States and issued by the United States treasury, a federal agency, a federal instrumentality or a federal government- sponsored enterprise, or deposit accounts issued or offered by a designated depository.

Investing Officer: The library Treasurer and Director are designated as the investing officers, in order to receive bids and to negotiate the sale of investments for the purpose of depositing the proceeds into the library’s accounts.

Bidding Procedures: When investments are made in a certificate of deposit (CD), the investing officer must obtain quotes of the specific rates of interest for the term of the CD. The term of the CD must be more than two years (IC 5-13-9-6). The deposit shall be placed with the designated depository squoating the highest rate than interest. If two or more depositories tie for the highest quote, the investing officer shall select one at his/her discretion (IC 5-13-9-6)

Interests: All interest derived from a Library investment shall be receipted to the Library fund of which it is part (IC 5-13-9-6).

Deposits:

Public Access Internet Policy

Whereas electronic information technologies are becoming a common feature in modern public libraries, and whereas Loogootee Public Library has always endeavored to provide citizens of the libary district with the best possible access to information resources, public access to the internet is offered. This new service is established in response to advances in technology and the changing needs of the community and in the spirit of free access to informational needs. As with other services offered by the LPL, the primary purpose is for research and informational needs.

The internet is a global network with a highly diverse population of users. LPL does monitor, nor maintain, control over, and cannot censor the information available over the Internet through its public access station. Individuals should also be aware that it is possible to access material which they may find controversial, inappropriate or offensive. Users should also be aware that not all sources on the Internet are accurate, complete, or current. As with other information resources offered by the library, parents and only parents are responsible for supervising their children’s access.

APPROPRIATE USE

Users are expected to confine their internet exploration and access to appropriate use. It is not appropriate to use the library computer to access obscene, pornographic or illegal materials. Use of computer to harass others, to violate copyright laws , to obtain illegal copies, modify date, or access passwords of other users to mispresent other users is illegal as well as inappropriate.

Examples of inappropriate use include: writing and sending chain letters, writing and sending harassing messages of any kind, unauthorized attempts to break into any computer system anywhere, use of the Library’s public account for commercial purposes, any attempt to incur expense to the Library, misrepresentation of oneself for LPL.

Staff cannot provide assistance with the internet.

Meeting Room Policy

The Loogootee Public Library’s meeting room may be used for the information, educational and cultural needs of the community. The meeting room (seating capacity 10) is available for use by the public as provided under the following rules and regulations.

The meeting room is available at no charge for non-profit groups. On the second Tuesday of the month from 3-5p.m, the meeting room is not available.

The meeting room is unavailable for:

Political functions

Relgious services and/or instructions on a regular basis

Social Functions (showers, family parties, reception, etc.)

For business prcurement and financial gain by individuals or businesses

Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Responsible adults must be in attendance whenever minors are present.

NO BATHROOM FACILITIES ARE AVAILABLE.

No kitchen facility. Food can be brought in. The meeting room is available on a first come, first serve basis and should be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Reservations can be made in person or by telephone during regular library hours. Reservation forms must be completed and signed by the person responsible for the meeting arrangment. It is the responsibility of the person scheduling the meeting to inform the library of any cancellations. Please give us as much notice as possible so that other groups can use the room. The key may be picked up the day of the meeting and returned the next day. IF the meeting is after library hours, a deposit shall be made withn the library in the ammount of $25.00 dollars. If there are no damages, extra cleaning services required, or violations of the meeting room rules and policies, the money will be returned when the key is given to the librarian.

Each organization assumes full responsibility for any damages incurred from the use of the meeting room. Abuse of the room will be cause to deny further use of the meeting room. Groups are resposible for cleaning up after the meeting. The library is not liable for injuries to people or damage/loss of property of organizations using the meeting. The library cannot provide storage for any organization’s property.

The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the library does not constitute an endorsment of it’s policies or beliefs. The Loogoote Public Library Board and Staff retain the right to review and amend the meeting room policy at any time.

Gift Policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and regular procedures for management and disposition of funds or other properties received by the Library as gifts. Funded by tax money from the County and State, the Loogootee Public Library depends on volunteer support and assistance from the community to enhance library services. The Loogootee Public Library Board of Trustees encourages and aprpreciated all monetary gifts, donations, endowments, bequests, trusts or other assets for Library purposes to provide and enhance services in ways not financially possible with in the current annual operating budget.

Direct Monetary Donations: The Library welcomes gifts of cash or stock.

Materials: Gifts of miscellaneous books or materials in good conditon are accepted within understanding that items that are not added to the collection will be disposed at the discretion of the Library Director.

Collections: Gift collections will be accepted only by the Director and with the understanding that the collection may not be kept intact.

Memorial, Honorarium or Recognition: The Library welcomes monetary gifts of purchases of materials to honor, memorialize, recognize, or commemorate an individual or organization.

Real Estate or Other Personal Property: The Library welcomes and accepts gifts of personal property and real estate. Such offers will be handled on a case-case basis by the Library Director, who in consultation with the Board of Trustees, will determine the suitability of the gift and terms of acceptance compatible with the Library’s mission and policies, the donor’s intent and applicable laws.

Art and Decorative Objects: In general, gifts of art objects shall be of local interest to the community, of a professional quality, well executed and in good condition. No gifts tht require extensive, regular special care or conservation will be accepted. No gifts posing a danger or threat to patrons will be accepted. The Library therefore cannnot guarantee that the gift will be part of the collection or furnishing materials.

Equipment and Furnishings: Donation of equipment and/or furnishings are appreciated if the item(s) satisfies a definite need or deemed necessary for replacement, development of a program or establishment of a collection.

Gift Appraisal: The appraisal of a gift to the Library for tax purposes is the resonsibility of the donor.

Bequest, Endowment and Estate Planning: Bequests, endowments, and inclusion in estate planning are welcome to provide continuing support of the library. The donor should consult with their attorney to establish these gifts to the Library.

Programs: Monetary gifts may be dedicated to program support.

Major Contributions: Major contributions as determined by the Library Board may be recognized with permanent plaques displayed in the Library.

Conditions: No gift will be accepted by the Library unless it is freely given to the extent that the Library may dispose of the gift as it sees fit (selling it, discarding it or giving it away, storing the gifts or moving it to various locations, etc)

All donations are irrevocable and will become the sole property of the Library. The Library director, with the Board of Trustees, shall determine how to best handle, utilize, shelve, display, sell or dispose of any item in the best interest of the Library. No conditions may be imposed on the Library in its acceptance of any gift or donations. Gifts of cash, securities, real property and bequests that support the mission of the Library will be handed by the Director who, with the Board of Trustees, will work out terms of acceptance that are compatible with Library policies, the donor’s intent and applicable laws.

The Loogootee Public Libary Board of Trustees reserves the right to accept or reject any gift.

Student and School Personnel Cards

Pursuant to Indiana Code 36-12-2-25, student’s currently enrolled in the Loogootee Community Schools, located in the library district and homeschool strudents who reside in un-served areas of Martin County, may, with parental signature, be issued a student card at no charge to be used at the library. Proof of current enrollment in or any non-public school located in the library disctric such as a report card or mail from the school to the student from the current school year, is required. Parent or guardian must provide current photo identification and identification stating their current address of residency as defined above. Parent or guardian indentification also applies to homeschool students. Currently enrolled students 18 and older may be issued a borrower’s card without parental signature by presenting photo identification and proof of address of resident as defined above.

Current school personnel of Loogootee Community Schools and any non-public school located in the library district who reside in un-served areas of Martin County may be issued a school personnel card at no charge. As proof of emploment, the customer must show a current school issued photo identification card or another form of proof of employment.

All students card and school personnel cards expirea year from date provided and me be renewed annually.

Tobacco Free Policy

All facilites and grounds of the Loogootee Public Library are tobacco free. Use of tabacco in any form is not permitted in any library facility, which includes all vehicles, parking lots and entrances.

Social Media Policy

The Loogootee Public Library utilzes web-based and mobile social media applications to encourage community involvment in the library, and to create a dialogue between the Library and its patrons regarding services, resources, Library-sponsered events and programs, as well as community information. Patron feedback may be used to evaluate current and future programs and events and to guide collection development decisions.

Patrons are expected to follow the basic rules of civility. The Library reserves the right to remove any patron-contributed content that violates the Library’s Patron Code of Conduct.

Staff members posting on the Library’s social media sites on personal time should be aware that information they display or comments they make on Library social media may be viewed by others as representing Library-sponsered informations or comments. Therefore, in utilizing Library social media websites, staff must follow guidelines set forth in Library personnel policies