Volunteers

The Alexandrian Public Library welcomes volunteers, but does not accept any liability for the health or safety of the volunteer resulting from any of the volunteer’s actions.  Volunteers are utilized to perform routine tasks which can be easily taught and remembered; or special projects tailored to talents the volunteer may possess.  Volunteers may also be asked to assist a staff member in his/her duties, or to help supervise at Library programs.  There is not always a task waiting for a volunteer, but every attempt will be made to find a task when there is a person willing to give of his or her time and knowledge to help the Library.  Still, APL reserves the right to turn away volunteers when no suitable work can be found, or if there is any question as to the suitability of the worker for the library.

Community Service Workers

The Alexandrian Public Library will attempt to provide duties for community service workers whenever there are persons needing to work such hours, but APL also reserves the right to turn away such workers when no suitable work can be found, or if there is any question as to the suitability of the worker for the library.  Community service workers must let the library know how many hours they are required to work, arrange in advance of their arrival, show up on time, and carry out the work assigned in an efficient and courteous manner, in order to be allowed to work at the Library.  Specific information must be supplied on a library form, similar to a job application, before APL will accept Community Service Workers. The Library will not be liable for injuries to the person or property of Community Service Workers.

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above policy, and I accept all the terms and conditions of volunteer and community service work set out herein.

 

Signature of Volunteer

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above policy, and I hereby consent to my juvenile child volunteering his/her time at the Alexandrian Public Library given the terms and conditions set forth above.

 

Signature of Parent of Juvenile Volunteer

Name:_________________________________________ Date___/___/___

 

Address:______________________________________________________

 

City/State/Zip:_________________________________________________

 

Telephone:__________________________

I am a Community Service Referral:  Yes ___No ___

If “Yes,” my Probation Officer’s Name: ___________________________

Total number of Community Service Hours I need:__________________

Please list any physical disabilities or limitations under which you operate that will need to be taken into account when assigning you work.

 

 

 

 

 

How many hours per week are you available? __________

Please circle the day (or days) below, and write in the hours on that day (or those days), which are the best to schedule you for volunteer work.

Monday          Tuesday            Wednesday               Thursday              Friday Saturday

 

_______          _______            __________              ________             ______ ________

If you like, on the back of this form, describe types of work you feel especially well-suited to do.

THE ALEXANDRIAN PUBLIC LIBRARY ENCOURAGES THE FOLLOWING BEHAVIORS

ð            Asking questions

ð            Browsing

ð            Card or board game playing

ð            Chatting quietly

ð            Daydreaming

ð            Critical thinking

ð            Gathering information

ð            Homework

ð            Participating in programs

ð            Surfing the internet

ð            Computer work/play, with your computers or with ours designated for public use

ð            Reading

ð            Research

ð           Writing

ð            Checking out books, CDs, audio books, videos/DVDs, magazines, etc

ð            Using digital resources
 

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR FOR ALL AGES

Most of our patrons are proud of their library, pleased to have a quiet place to study, enjoy up-to-date resources, and having a safe environment for all.  They appreciate the courtesy of those around them.  However, if someone makes it difficult for patrons to have access to a quiet study atmosphere or engages in deliberate mutilation of the collection, building, or furnishings, the library will implement the following procedures.

 

 

 

For these behaviors:

ð     Bringing pets into the library building (service animals are welcome)

ð        Tobacco use, imitation smoking or tobacco products, or e-cigarette usage anywhere on the library campus (library building and surrounding grounds)

ð        Excessive noise/shouting

ð        Running

ð        Sleeping

ð        Solicitation of any type

ð        Neglecting to wear shirt, shoes, and appropriate clothing (including children) while in the library building

ð        Trying to access public workstations when barred, underage or through false pretenses

Everyone will receive one warning.  Upon the second notice, patrons will be asked to leave the library campus and will lose borrowing privileges and be unable to visit the library campus for a period of no less than 24 hours but no more than 3 days.  After three such losses in one year, a person may be considered a habitual offender and may be barred from the library campus for up to six months.

For these behaviors:

ð        Removing library materials without check-out

ð        Looking at inappropriate material on the public workstations

ð        Using profane or offensive language, and/or verbally or physically abusing library staff or patrons

ð        Deliberately damaging library materials, building, or furnishings

ð        Injuring, fighting, harassing or intimidating another patron or staff member anywhere on the library campus

ð        Brandishing a weapon

ð        Being intoxicated

ð        Being in possession of illegal substances

ð        Any violation of federal, state or local laws

ð        Creating an unsafe environment anywhere on the library campus or toward another patron(s)

 

In the case of theft, patrons will be charged the replacement cost of the item regardless of whether the item can be repaired, plus a $2.00 processing fee.  In addition, patrons may be barred from the library for up to six months. 

For all other listed behaviors, patrons may be barred for a period of time spanning one week to six months, or may be permanently banned from using either the library workstations or from visiting the library campus altogether if found to be habitual offenders, grossly damaging (physical or financial) the library, viewing inappropriate material, or repeatedly creating an unsafe environment.

The amount of time a patron will be barred from APL depends on the severity of the offense and will be determined by the Director and/or Board of Trustees. In addition, permanent bans are at the discretion of the Director, in consultation with the Board of Trustees.

In the case of a patron being barred, all efforts will be made to notify the patron or the patron’s guardian via a verbal warning with a written letter, postal service, or with the assistance of the Mount Vernon Police Department.

NOTE:  The above procedures may be appealed to the Library Director.

APL is occasionally contacted by an author who wants us to add their book to our collection by either purchase or donation. APL requests that the author send us a complimentary review copy that will not be returned regardless of our decision. Once a review copy has been received, it will receive due consideration like any other title (seeking positive reviews, product potential, local interest or a complete reading of the title, for example). Many titles often do not fit our needs.

If APL wishes to purchase a copy, we will attempt to do so through our contracted vendors, then through secondary vendors, then through the publisher. Only if we can’t make contact with the publisher will we contact the author directly for purchase. We do not provide authors with reviews or critiques, nor will we engage in conversation to explain our decision. Titles that have been added to the collection are also subject to the same weeding procedures as all titles in our collection, regardless of local connection or author provision.

If someone from APL contacts the author regarding a program, it will be considered a sanctioned APL event with all due promotion and planning. If the author chooses to host a program or book signing without APL’s involvement, all meeting room charges and requirements will apply. The hosting of their own program does not guarantee the author that their book will be added to the collection through purchase or donation.

In the case of an APL-sponsored event, the author will be required to provide all titles for purchase or book signing following the planned event. Each author will be required to either provide a book reading, a discussion, a question-and-answer period or some other type of audience-attended program, rather than just a purely profitable program for the author. After the program presentation, Treasures gift shop may choose to sell the title for up to two months.

The Alexandrian Public Library recognizes and supports the public’s right to free speech that includes presenting speeches, distributing petitions or other information, and advocating views or positions. However, the Alexandrian Public Library also has an obligation to provide library services to the public in an environment where access and privacy are maintained and where safe and unobstructed ingress and egress to Alexandrian Public Library property is provided. Therefore, the Alexandrian Public Library has established this policy to allow free speech while ensuring that the rights of others to use Alexandrian Public Library facilities are not impeded.

 

Note:   This policy pertains to the use of the Alexandrian Public Library grounds and not the inside of the Alexandrian Public Library buildings. Persons wishing to reserve a designated meeting space on Alexandrian Public Library property should refer to the Meeting Room Policy, or speak with a staff member regarding which room they would like to use.

 

Regulations:

 

1.                  Persons wishing to distribute material, canvass, perform, or speak on Alexandrian Public Library property must obtain permission in advance from the person in charge of the location.  A copy of this policy will be provided at the time of the request.

 

2.                  The library designates an area at least twenty-five feet away from any entry door to speak, canvass, perform, or distribute materials that is safe and ensures that library users will have unobstructed facility ingress and egress.

 

 

3.           The conduct of persons speaking, canvassing, performing, or distributing information on Alexandrian Public Library grounds must be in compliance with Alexandrian Public Library policies and federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and statutes.

 

4.           Distributing materials, canvassing, performing, or speaking may be done only during the operating hours of the Alexandrian Public Library location where the activity is taking place.
 

5.           In the library’s aesthetic interest to maintain the premises free of debris and clutter, materials including, but not limited to, posters, flyers, placards, brochures, banners, or signs of any type may not be left unattended on Alexandrian Public Library grounds. The Alexandrian Public Library will remove and dispose of any unattended materials, including political campaign signs.

 

6.           Notwithstanding the foregoing, APL recognizes that this policy may need suspension, relaxation, or adjustment on election days. APL facilities and space are customarily used as a voting precinct for federal, state, and local elections. APL believes that providing such facilities and space for the conduct of such elections provides an important service to the community and the democratic process. APL acknowledges that voting precincts on elections days are often accompanied by outdoor electioneering and campaigning in the form of signs, candidate and referenda support, polling, media coverage, and other activities. In such event APL will permit such activities provided they do not (1) violate federal, state, or local law, including but not limited to lawful restrictions on electioneering; or (2) unreasonably interfere with APL’s library services or its patron’s quiet enjoyment of, and ingress and egress to and from, the library.

The copiers located in the public area of the Library are for public use.  New staff should familiarize themselves with the operations of all public copiers and printers, as patrons will ask questions regarding their use that staff will need to answer competently.  The copier in the staff area is not for public use.

Black and white copies are billed at the rate of 10¢ per side for letter and legal size papers, while 11 x 17” copies are 15¢ per side.  Color copies are billed at the rate of 25¢ per side for letter and legal size papers, while 11 x 17” copies are 30¢ per side.

Patrons making copies of non-circulating materials—such as reference and Indiana Room collections—or copies of blank tax forms, may make up to five black and white copies free of charge.  After making their five free copies, additional letter and legal sized black and white copies are 10¢ per side, while 11 x 17” copies 15¢ per side.  These fees apply whether patrons bring their own paper or not.

There are microfilm reader/printers located in the Indiana Room and available for patron use. Patrons who use these machines to print will receive their first five pages free, then pay 10 cents per page thereafter.

Patrons receive a 50¢ “credit” each day for printing from Library workstations or through mobile printing. Any additional pages are charged 10¢ per side for black and white, and 25¢ per side for color. If patrons provide their own paper, copies are still charged 10¢ per side for black and white, and 25¢ per side for color.

These rates apply whether printing from APL workstations or through mobile printing.

Donated materials are welcomed and encouraged by the library. All donated materials become the property of the Friends of the Alexandrian Public Library if items are not added to the collection. Materials are accepted with the understanding that they may or may not be added to the collection. If not needed, they may be sold or given away.

Receipt Forms will be provided for those patrons wishing to deduct their donations for tax purposes. The Library does not provide appraisal of donations for income tax or other purposes.

Patrons may send and receive faxes on the library fax machine. Staff may assist patrons in sending a fax if requested, and will accept all fees for faxing.

All faxes will be a flat fee of $1.00, regardless of number of pages sent, or fax number dialed (local, long distance or 800 number).

Incoming faxes get placed in the “incoming faxes” folder at the Circulation Desk cabinet. Faxes not picked up with 30 days will be discarded.

We do not call patrons to inform them that their fax came in.

The Alexandrian Public Library strives to create a welcoming, clean, and comfortable environment for the public while maintaining the equipment, furniture, and collections within. Consistent with this goal, the following guidelines have been adopted for the consumption of food and drink within the library:

·       Food and nonalcoholic beverages may be consumed in all meeting spaces.

 

·       Food and lidded nonalcoholic beverages are permitted throughout the library, except when in close proximity to technology (public computers, scanners, etc.) or Indiana Room materials.

 

Library staff may, at their discretion, ask a patron to refrain from drinking or eating, to move their drink or snack, or ask the patron to dispose of said items if the staff believes library materials or equipment is in jeopardy of being damaged. In the event of damage from food or drink, costs may be assessed to the responsible patron.

Food and drink is permitted in the study rooms, but private events at which food will be served for a group must rent either the Ohio or Wabash room to accommodate their event.

Food and drinks as part of a special event within the library will be permissible at the discretion of the Director.

Requests for information and materials on general subjects should be filled from our collection whenever possible. If a patron needs or insists on a specific author, title, or roll of microfilm not in our collection, an Interlibrary Loan request may be taken.

Refer requests to the Reference/Information Desks whenever possible. Request forms are at the reference desk.

APL will not charge its patrons a fee for borrowing through ILL. If the lending library specifies that it requires costs for processing or mailing a particular requested material, patrons will be consulted about their willingness to pay before materials are borrowed.

Patron record should be checked prior to submitting an ILL request by staff member submitting the request. We will not fill a request for patrons who have outstanding fines of $4.00 or over or if their privileges have been revoked. We cannot fill a request for reciprocal borrowers. Patrons should request ILLs from their home library. Non-residents are eligible for ILLs if they purchase an APL library card.

Patrons are notified by telephone/electronic communication when the item is available; if a request cannot be filled, the patron will be notified.

When a patron picks up an ILL they will be informed of the fines associated with late returns, as follows: ILLs returned late will be fined $2.00 per day, and may accrue up to $10.00. If the book is not returned and is considered lost, all processing fees and the replacement cost of the item (as determined by the loaning library) will be the patron’s responsibility to pay, in addition to overdue fees assessed by APL.

If a patron requests an ILL and does not pick up the item within 7 days of being notified that the item is available, the item will be returned to the loaning library.

ILL cannot fulfill requests for books classified as reference use only, books published within the last 6 months, issues of magazines or newspapers, or rare/valuable books.

Each loan period is determined by the loaning library – APL is unable to process requests for renewals on ILL materials. If necessary, the patron may re-request a loan of materials after it has been returned.

Patrons may only have five ILL materials at one time.

 

ITEMS LOANED THROUGH THE STATEWIDE REMOTE CIRCULATION SYSTEM (SRCS)

APL participates as a loaning institution through SRCS, but may choose to decline any request for an item at any time.

If APL items are damaged or lost by a borrowing library, they will not be noted as successfully received in SRCS. APL staff will contact the borrowing library within ten days about the condition of the damaged/lost item, and invoice the borrowing library for the replacement cost of the item, as well as the standard $3 processing fee.

Once payment is received, the invoice and payment will be turned in to the Business Manager for deposit. The collection manager for the item will decide whether or not to reorder a new copy and will inform the ordering clerk of the order. If the item will not be reordered, the Head of Patron Services will mark the item as discarded from the catalog.

If an APL item is received with damage but not enough to warrant a replacement, a notation will be made on the book pocket of the item.

Items Loaned Through Indiana Share

APL participates as a loaning institution through Indiana Share, but may choose to decline any request for an item at any time.

APL does not lend items to other libraries via Indiana Share. 

Items requested are to be first requested via SRCS prior to being requested via Indiana Share.

APL has a limited number of free requests per year it can make via Indiana Share. 

APL will pay up to $5 in postage for materials requested from out of state libraries in order to get the item for patrons.

All electronic traffic originating from the Alexandrian Public Library connection shall be in accordance with these Acceptable Use Standards. APL will not be held liable for misinformation or information deemed inappropriate that is obtained while using APL technology. Failure to abide by these standards may result in the loss of internet, computer and Library privileges.

Acceptable use:

Use of APL internet access or technology shall be guided by the following:

·       Respect for the privacy of others

·       Adherence to the legal protection provided by copyright and license to programs and data

·       Consideration for the security and functioning of computers, networks, and systems

·       Parents/legal guardians of minors are responsible for their child’s behavior on computers

·       Adherence to APL policies regarding this policy, the Appropriate Behavior Policy, and any other applicable APL policies

Unacceptable use:

It is not acceptable to use APL’s internet access or technology in the following ways:

·       Any purposes which violate US, State, or local laws

·       Transmitting threatening, obscene, or harassing materials, including the use of profanity or offensive language

·       Intentional or unintentional disruption of network users, services or equipment or harm to other computer systems, including excessive bandwidth utilization

·       Tampering with computer or network security, or changing settings or icons on computers

·       Having volumes loud enough to disrupt other patrons

·       Disconnecting library equipment, including but not limited to monitors, network cables and electrical cords

·       Making unauthorized entry into any systems accessible via APL computers

·       Developing or distributing programs that harass other users or cause harm to other computer systems (such as viruses or worms)

·       Copying, file sharing, downloading or distributing commercial software or other works or material in violation of state, federal, or international copyright laws

• Attempting to gain unauthorized access to, or to distribute, any of APL’s confidential personal information, computing information, or other private information
• Disrupting others’ use of computer resources in any way

·       Accessing or loading pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit material; abusive or defamatory material, material harmful to minors, or any material intended to annoy, harass or alarm another person; material that insults, or potentially defames, slanders, or libels another person

·       Other uses deemed inappropriate at the discretion of APL staff

Illegal acts involving APL computers may be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

Internet Safety:

In keeping with the provisions of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) the library employs filtering on all of its computers with Internet access.  The purpose of these filters is to guard against accessing, inadvertently or otherwise, visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors. 

Filtering software is not foolproof. It diminishes the likelihood that searchers will inadvertently retrieve text or images that some may find offensive but does not eliminate that possibility. Filters sometimes block access to sites that users would consider both inoffensive and useful. APL staff reserves the right to check all workstations of suspicious/inappropriate activity. In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, no one under the age of 18 is permitted to access computer sites, chat rooms, or email that contain obscene or sexually explicit material or other material harmful to minors.

Therefore:

1. Parents/legal guardians should monitor their children’s use of the Internet just as they monitor their children’s use of APL’s other collections.
2. In order to allow an adult user to use the Internet for bona fide research or other lawful purposes, the Library may turn off the filter without significant delay upon request of the adult user.  Once the filter is turned off, the adult user continues to access and use the Internet at their own risk.

As with the use of all Library materials, it is the responsibility of parents and guardians to monitor and guide their children in the use of Library computers and the Internet. Parents and children are encouraged to read/view and discuss the resources that APL has available regarding safe and appropriate use of the Internet by minors. Parents who do not want their children to access the Internet using library computers may fill out an Internet Exclusion Form at the Circulation Desk. While their library card will be blocked from internet access, APL cannot guarantee that the child will not receive a guest pass.

Disclaimer:

APL provides access to the internet as a service of convenience to the public. The internet and its available resources contain a wide variety of material and opinions from varied points of view. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of the information. Not all sources on the internet provide accurate, complete, or current information. Users may encounter material that could be considered inappropriate. Presently, it is not possible to apply the same selection criteria to Internet resources which are applied to other Library materials.

APL expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic information systems, or any consequences thereof. Conducting business or personal transactions such as credit card purchases, stock trades, bank transactions, etc., or accessing systems where such personal or business data are stored is not recommended. The Library’s computing environment does not maintain sufficient safeguards to protect such activities.

Users of library computing resources should be aware of the possibility of contamination by computer viruses and Trojans. Viruses may also spread to other computers including the user’s own personal or business computers via email, or via media such as floppy, CDROM, or USB Flash Drives. Users are therefore warned that it is not possible to provide a 100% virus free environment and that the user accepts such risks while using the Library’s computing resources.

The Alexandrian Public Library will not provide headphones or recordable media for use at public internet stations. Patrons may bring their own flash drives, recordable media or headphones for use on public internet stations. Patrons may also purchase a set of headphones for $2.00.

Review:

In according with Indiana law IC 36-12-1-12, APL will review this policy annually.

It is the function of the Alexandrian Public Library to provide materials for all ages, from preschool through maturity. Each title is judged individually according to its intrinsic merit, the subject matter treated, interest, and the contribution of the material to the established collection.  Each work is judged as a whole, and isolated passages in themselves are not used as criteria. The materials selection policy reflects the mission of the library:

The Alexandrian Public Library is the primary provider of information resources and services for enriching the lives of residents of Posey County and the surrounding area.

Because the library serves clients from a diverse array of ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and beliefs, its collections will naturally reflect this diversity.  Moreover, representative democracy is strengthened by encouraging citizens to range widely throughout the free marketplace of ideas.  No one will agree with all ideas in this marketplace, and almost everyone will deem some of the ideas found here repellant.  It must be emphasized that the purchase of materials by the library does not constitute endorsement of a particular viewpoint or belief by the library.

The Board delegates responsibility for the selection of materials to the Director, who appoints individuals from the staff to select materials for specific collections. The Coordinators of Adult, Children’s and Bookmobile Services exercise guidance over the material selection of the entire library system. The staff consults a variety of professional reviewing resources.

Materials within the library collection are continuously monitored. Items may be withdrawn if they contain outdated or inaccurate information, are superseded by a newer edition, are worn or badly marked, are duplicates, or are seldom used materials. Space, replacement costs and the quality and appearance of the collection are factors in this decision.

The Trustees of the Alexandrian Public Library endorse the Library Bill of Rights as adopted by the American Library Association Council in 1948 and amended in 1961, 1967, and 1980. However, patrons may ask collection managers to review materials contained within the library collection based on the standards contained within this document. They will be asked to fill out the “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form, detailing the nature of their challenge and what action they would like the library to take.

Details on the library roles for services, selection criteria, areas of collection, weeding and requests for reconsideration may be found in our “Collection Development Plan and Procedure”.

The Alexandrian Public Library provides meeting rooms free of charge to non-profit groups for library-related, civic, cultural, and educational meetings and programs.  Businesses and individuals may rent rooms for a fee.  The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the Library does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies and beliefs by the Library.

ALL APPLICANTS FOR MEETING ROOM RENTAL MUST READ THIS POLICY.

For the convenience of other Alexandrian Public Library customers, it is requested that those attending all-day meetings use on-street parking, or the Mt. Vernon City parking area across Fifth Street.

1.           Reservations:  Library-sponsored and library-related meetings and programs will receive preference when scheduling is done. An adult representative from the group must complete a reservation form requesting a room and necessary equipment. The representative must be 18 or older and will be responsible for the room and the equipment. Filling out a reservation form does not guarantee the rooms availability if payment is required.

Rooms may be booked up to three months in advance by the same group seven (7) days a week. At the beginning of each new month, they can add an additional month as their needs require.

Meetings may be held seven (7) days a week during the following hours Monday thru Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday thru Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. Meetings may not be scheduled during days when the library is closed or after regular library hours. Special circumstances that necessitate additional hours will require library director approval.  In the event of an emergency or weather-related closing of the library, any scheduled meetings are automatically canceled. If you are unsure if a weather situation may cause the library to close please call (812) 838-3286 or consult social media or local news sources.

The meeting room seats up to 120 people and can be divided into two smaller rooms seating 80 and 40 people.

2.           Fees: A fee of $5.00 (this amount includes sales tax) per hour, per room will be charged to commercial, for-profit groups and individuals, including parties, bridal showers, etc. Required payment, where applicable, must be received within three (3) business days of a meeting room request or the reservation will be cancelled. Cancellations of paid reservations received with a seven (7) days’ notice will receive a chance to reschedule at another date without incurring a rental fee. No refunds will be given for time reserved but not used or canceled. The room may be rented for no less than one hour initially and for no less than half hour increments thereafter.  There is no charge for non-profit groups.

Exercise groups must sign an Indemnity Agreement at time of reservation.

3.           Equipment:  Chairs and tables are available.  Groups are responsible for setting up and taking down chairs and/or tables, vacuuming, and returning the room to its original condition. Should a meeting room not be found satisfactory when a group takes possession a group representative must notify library staff immediately. Any group which leaves the room untidy or damages the room, furniture, or equipment will be charged accordingly.

The following equipment is available:  TV, DVD, digital projector, screen (Ohio Room only), podium, laser pointer/slide advancer, and microphone (Ohio Room only). The audio-visual equipment storage closet is to remain locked at all times. Groups should request staff assistance for access to audio-visual equipment and must notify staff at the close of their meeting so equipment may be stored. Staff will be unable to provide adaptors, etc. for patron-provided technology, and staff may be unable to assist with AV equipment setup.

A kitchenette is available for serving light refreshments.  All necessary equipment, decorations and supplies must be provided by group. All trash must be properly gathered from meeting room/kitchenette by group. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

The Library is not responsible for equipment, supplies, or other items owned by a group or individual and may not be stored at the library.

The Library is not responsible for injuries incurred during use of meeting rooms.

Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the library campus.

The Library does not provide telephone answering services for those attending meetings.

Parents bringing children to meetings are responsible for behavior of their children throughout the library. Unsupervised children creating a disturbance in the library will be asked to stay with their parents in the meeting room.

The Alexandrian Public Library provides small group meeting space free of charge. The fact that a group is permitted to meet at the Library does not in any way constitute an endorsement of the group’s policies and beliefs by the Library.

1.           Reservations:  Library-sponsored and library-related meetings and programs will receive preference when scheduling is done. Any patron aged 14 and older may reserve a small group meeting room (Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Meeting Room C) for up to three hours. Time may be extended at the discretion of APL staff if no other groups are waiting. The patron reserving the room will be responsible for the room and the equipment.

The small group meeting rooms may be reserved up to three months in advance. Patrons must check in at the Information Desk to confirm use of the meeting room and request access to the room by a staff member. Patrons are requested to also let staff know when they are finished with the meeting room. Rooms with a prior reservation will be held for 15 minutes before the reservee is declared a no-show (unless they make contact with the Information Desk to report their amended arrival time) and their room reopened for reservations.

2.           Walk-In Usage:  When there is no reservation for a small group meeting room, they will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to any patron aged 14 or older for up to three hours. Time may be extended at the discretion of the APL staff if no other groups are waiting. The patron reserving the room will be responsible for the room and equipment.

Walk-in patrons must check in at the Information Desk to use a meeting room and request access. Patrons are requested to also let staff know when they are finished with the meeting room.

3.           Available Hours:  The rooms may be used during open hours, but meetings may not be scheduled during days the library is closed or after regular library hours. In the event of an emergency closing of the library, any scheduled meetings are automatically cancelled. If you are unsure of a closure, please call APL at (812) 838.3286.

4.           Capacity and Equipment:  Chairs, a table, and power/data plugs are available for use, as well as a mounted monitor in Meeting Rooms A and B. The Library is not responsible for equipment, supplies, or other items owned by a group or individual and may not be stored at the library. Food and drink are permitted, but patrons are requested to dispose of trash accordingly and be respectful of the space. Capacities for each space:

·       Meeting Room A: 8

·       Meeting Room B: 4

·       Meeting Room C: 8

PROCTORING:

Proctoring of tests may be administered by any Department Head or Departmental Assistant. The proctor is obligated to follow the instructions and rules of the examination sponsor, and thus the student must abide by all staff member instructions.

 

An appointment to have a test proctored must be made at least forty-eight hours in advance; staff will try to meet the student’s scheduling needs, but final dates and times will be made by the staff. A test may not be scheduled during the last operating hour of any week day nor on any weekend days.

 

The student will provide the proctor with exam instructions, passcodes, etc. prior to the beginning of the exam. When received, the staff will print out and keep the instructions in the Adult Information Desk for safekeeping (in case a backup proctor is needed).

 

If a student needs to cancel an appointment, they should contact the library at least four hours before the test. Otherwise, staff will expect the student to be prompt and prepared at the beginning of the exam time. If the student is a “no show”, it is within staff purview not to agree to proctor in the future for that student.

 

The student will pay for all postal and exam fees in advance and APL cannot arrange any UPS, FedEx, USPS, etc. pickup services.

 

There is no charge for proctoring services, but a donation to APL is encouraged and greatly appreciated.

 

NOTARY PUBLIC:

The Notary Public is only available during the regularly scheduled hours of the the Notary Public on staff. While an appointment is appreciated, it is not necessary.

 

Anyone needing a document notarized must be able to provide a valid photo ID.

 

There is no charge for notary public services, but a donation to APL is encouraged and greatly appreciated.

Purpose

The Alexandrian Public Library develops, implements, partners in, and sponsors programs designed to support the Library’s mission and to meet the educational, informational, cultural, and recreational needs and interests of the community. Library programs are an extension of the Library’s public service role and its commitment to lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, and public engagement.

Guiding Principles

Library programming is guided by the principles of intellectual freedom and equitable access as reflected in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights. The Library seeks to present a broad range of topics, perspectives, and experiences representing the diversity of human thought and expression. Programs are selected and developed based on factors including community interest, alignment with the Library’s mission, available resources, and suitability for the intended audience.

Because the Library strives to offer programs that reflect a wide range of interests and viewpoints, not all programs will appeal to all patrons. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute or imply endorsement of the views, beliefs, or opinions expressed by presenters or participants.

Definition of Library-Sponsored Programs

Library-sponsored programs include any event, activity, class, club, or gathering that:

·       Is planned, hosted, facilitated or promoted by the Library;

·       Is advertised through Library channels; and/or

·       Is held in Library spaces with Library staff oversight

Library-sponsored programs are public in nature and are not private or exclusive gatherings. No individual or group participating in a library-sponsored program may limit, control, or deny access to others.

Program Planning and Selection

Library staff may use, but are not limited to, the following criteria when planning or approving programs:

·       Relation to the Library’s mission and service goals

·       Community needs and interests

·       Presentation quality and appropriateness for the intended audience

·       Presenter background, qualifications and reputation

·       Available programming space, staffing and budget considerations

·       Connections to other community programs, exhibits or events

Requests from individuals or organizations to present library programs are welcomed and will be considered using the above criteria. Library staff reserve the right to determine which programs receive final approval from outside presenters.

Presenters & Partnerships

The Library may seek to form partnerships with community groups, organizations, and institutions in the development and implementation of programming that benefits the public. All partnerships must align with Library policies and the Library’s mission.

Commercial Activity

Library-sponsored programs may not be purely commercial or used for the solicitation of business.

·       No expectation of making a purchase may be implied as a condition of attending a program

·       With approval from Library staff, presenters may provide business cards or information or, in limited cases, offer items for sale, provided attendees are not required to purchase anything to participate

·       Program presenters are responsible for handling all sales

·       Programs that include vendor options such as craft fairs, conventions and the like will allow items for sale with the expectations that vendors will handle all sales, and that items available will be appropriate for a general, family-friendly public audience and consistent with the library’s mission to provide a welcoming environment for patrons of all ages.

Fees and Donations

Programs and events are normally offered free of charge. In rare cases where a program involves significant expense, the Library may charge a nominal fee to help offset the cost of speakers and/or materials. Donations to support program costs may be accepted via the Friends of the Alexandrian Public Library.

Attendance and Registration

Programs and events sponsored by the Library are open for attendance by all individuals without regard to residence.

When safety, limited seating, program success, or limited supplies are a concern, the Library may utilize an advance registration process or limit attendance. Priority registration may be given to residents when appropriate. When no advance registration is required, attendance will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Parental involvement, participation, and attendance are encouraged at programs intended just for children. In some cases, attendance or participation may be limited based on age when appropriate to the program’s purpose, safety considerations, or developmental needs. Some examples may include teen programs being adult-free events to foster independence in a safe space, or adult programming specifically to serve adults in order to create an environment conducive to open discussion, relaxation and peer engagement.

In no case will attendance be limited because program content may be controversial.

 

Program Administration

Library-sponsored programs are administered by Library staff. The Library reserves the right to modify, reschedule, or cancel programs as necessary due to staffing, safety, space, or other operational considerations. Library staff may also:

·       Intervene at any time to ensure programs remain open, safe and welcoming

·       Enforce library policies during programs

·       Modify or discontinue programs that do not align with library policy or values

Photography and Recording

The Library reserves the right to use photographs or video recordings of program participants for internal use, evaluation, publication, and use in Library promotional materials.

Concerns and Complaints

The Library handles concerns, questions, and complaints about programs according to the same written policies and procedures that govern reconsideration of other Library resources and materials.

Exclusions

This policy does not apply to Library-hosted fundraising events or donor recognition events.

In the case of inclement weather, programs or services at the Alexandrian Public Library may need to be suspended or cancelled for the safety and security of APL staff and patrons traveling to the library.

 

If the MSDMV Vernon schools CLOSE, morning programs and storytimes will be automatically cancelled.

If the MSDMV schools DELAY opening, morning programs and storytimes will be automatically cancelled.

 

In the case of a delay, closure or early release of schools due to weather, afternoon programs may be affected as well. Patrons are instructed to contact the library the day of an afternoon program to inquire if a program will still be held. Decisions regarding afternoon programming will be made no later than noon by APL staff members. The library phone number to inquire about programs is 838-3286.

 

Depending upon the weather conditions, the library vehicles (both the Bookmobile and delivery van) may be off of the road for part, or all of the day when:

·       Extreme Cold Notification – the weather forecast calls for temperatures below 10 degrees, including the wind chill.

·       Extreme Heat Notification – the weather forecast calls for a temperature exceeding 95 degrees, including the heat index.

Other inclement weather conditions that would result in hazardous driving conditions for library vehicles are as follows:

·       Packed snow or ice on the roads or snow in excess of three inches

·       Sleet, freezing rain, heavy rain, or flooding on the roads

·       A Winter Storm or Tornado Warning, issued by the National Weather Service

·       Dense fog with visibility less than ¼ mile

·       Wind gusts that exceed 40mph or high wind warnings

Under the judgement of the vehicle driver, stops and/or service may terminate early due to weather.

The Alexandrian Public Library has security cameras to provide peace of mind to library users and staff by discouraging violations of the Appropriate Behavior Policy, to assist library staff in preventing the occurrence of any violations, and when necessary, to provide law enforcement assistance in prosecuting criminal activity.

Patron Expectations:

·       Cameras will be installed within and outside the library on an as needed basis.

·       Cameras will not be installed in areas of the library where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as in restrooms.

·       Signs will be posted at entrances informing the public that security cameras are in use.

·       Because security cameras are not monitored in real time, staff and the public should take appropriate precautions for their safety and for the security of personal property. The Alexandrian Public Library is not responsible for loss or damage of personal property.

Access to Recordings:

·       Access to the footage in pursuit of documented incidents of criminal activity or a violation of our Appropriate Behavior Policy is restricted to the Director, Department Heads or other staff as designated by the Director. Patron access to video footage is not allowed. If patrons request the viewing of security camera footage, they will be advised to file a police report.

·       Access is allowed when pursuant to a subpoena, court order, or when requested by law enforcement officials. In the case of a request from a law enforcement official, the Director must be notified. If the Director is unavailable, the Chain of Command will be followed for access.

·       Video records will not be maintained, and will automatically record over themselves on an ongoing basis. Video records will not be maintained, provided no criminal activity or policy violation has occurred.

·       In situations involving banned patrons, stored still images may be shared with all staff for identification purposes.

·       In the event of a search warrant, the library will comply with the search warrant and consult with legal counsel if necessary.

In addition to the above listed cameras, City of Mount Vernon entities may install and maintain security cameras at the Imagination Station. The Alexandrian Public Library is not responsible for the maintenance or replacement of these cameras, and all questions regarding their footage is to be directed to the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Mount Vernon.

The Alexandrian Public Library maintains a presence on a variety of social media platforms to encourage community involvement in the library, to create a dialogue between the library and patrons, and to promote library-sponsored events and activities.

Program participants should expect that photographs/video will be taken at events and used on the library’s social media sites, publications and/or website. The library will not identify members of the public in social media posts without accompanying text or photograph highlighting within the platform itself (typically called “tagging”) without verbal or written consent. The library is not responsible for members of the public being identified by third parties either in comments or by tagging. If the subject is under 18 years old, consent must be given by the parent or legal guardian.

Comments and postings from the public are allowed, but will be reviewed by library staff for content. Patrons are expected to follow the basic rules of civility, and the library reserves the right to remove any patron-contributed content that violates the APL Appropriate Behavior Policy.

The library does not endorse the advertisements promoted on any social media site. These advertisements are displayed by vendors and do not express the library’s view or opinions.

The staff of the Alexandrian Public Library is concerned about the safety and well-being of all its library users. All children are welcomed and encouraged to make use of the library collections. Programs are created especially for children to encourage lifelong appreciation of books, reading and library resources.

 

In all situations, the parent/guardian/caregiver of a minor child on library property, whether indoors or outdoors, is responsible for the care and safety of the child.

 

Library staff members cannot monitor the location and behavior of each child on the library property, cannot assume parent/guardian/caregiver responsibilities for children who are in the library, and cannot assure the safety of an unattended child. It is not the duty of any staff member to baby-sit, supervise or entertain any child left alone in the library.

 

No child – regardless of age – may engage in disruptive behavior at any time, as outlined in the “Appropriate Use Policy”.

 

Preschool children should be in sight of and supervised by a parent/guardian/caregiver.  The parent/guardian/caregiver of preschool children is expected to remain in the library while the children are attending library programs.

 

Older children who are able to maintain proper library behavior may use the library unattended; otherwise they should be adequately supervised by a parent/guardian/caregiver. 

 

If staff members observe a child unattended for an extended period of time, they may deem it necessary to contact a parent/guardian/caregiver. In that situation, the Library Director or person in charge may, as needed, notify the parent/guardian/caregiver whose children need supervision.  A written copy of the library’s Unattended Child Policy will be given to the parent/guardian/caregiver.

 

In cases where the parent/guardian/caregiver could not be reached, or the parent/guardian/caregiver had been previously informed by the library about their unattended child, the library director or person in charge may contact authorities such as the police either to assist with the enforcement of discipline in the library or to ensure the safety of an unattended child.

AGE 12 AND UNDER

 

If there is a child age 12 or under inside the library unattended by an adult or responsible teen when it is necessary to close the library for any reason – closing time, bad weather, bomb threat, power outage:

 

Two staff members must remain with the child.  An attempt should be made to call the child’s parent, guardian, or other responsible adult or teenager named by the child to advise that the child must be picked up within 15 minutes.

 

If unable to contact such a responsible person, or if the persons contacted are unable or unwilling to arrange to have the child picked up within 15 minutes, staff should call the police, and arrange to transfer care of the child to police custody.

 

Staff should fill out an “Incident Report” form, detailing any incidents concerning unattended children left in the Library.

 

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTNCES ARE STAFF MEMBERS TO TAKE CHILDREN ANYWHERE.

 

OVER AGE 12

 

Two staff members must remain with a teenage child under the age of 18, and should ask if the child needs to make a phone call to arrange for pickup.

 

Staff should make the child aware that if not picked up within 15 minutes, the child will need to wait outside the building until picked up.

 

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTNCES ARE STAFF MEMBERS TO TAKE CHILDREN ANYWHERE.

 

REGARDLESS OF THE AGE OF THE PATRON, IF THERE IS ANY QUESTION ABOUT THE COMPETENCE OF THE INDIVIDUAL TO CARE FOR HIMSELF/HERSELF, CALL POLICE IF THERE IS NO ONE THERE TO ATTEND TO THE PATRON.

The Trustees of the Alexandrian Public Library endorse the Library Bill of Rights as adopted by the American Library Association Council in 1948 and amended in 1961, 1967, and 1980.  It reads as follows:

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

1. 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.

 

1. 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.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

1. 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.

 

Please print except for signature. Attach additional pages as necessary. Requests for reconsideration are available for submission by any resident of the library’s taxing district. We cannot accept requests for reconsiderations from those outside of the library’s tax boundaries.

Patron Name (please print): _________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip: ___________________________________________________
Phone Number:_________________________________ Email:________________________________________

Do you represent an organization? Yes_____ No_____

If yes, what organization? ________________________

Media Type (please select one):

___Audiobook ___Book ___DVD ___Magazine ___Audio CD ___Other
Author:_________________________________________________________________

Title:___________________________________________________________________

Call Number:______________________

Copyright Date:____________________
1. How did this material come to your attention? 
2. Did you read/listen/view this material completely? Yes_____ No_____
 

3. In your view, what is the topic or theme of this material? 
4. What is your objection to the material? Be as specific as you can; list page numbers as appropriate. 
 

 

5. Did you find something good or worthwhile about this material? Yes_____ No_____ If yes, what? 
6. What age group do you think the material is appropriate for? 
 

7. What action would you like taken regarding this material? 
8. Are there other materials you recommend to provide additional information or points of view on this topic? (Attach another page as needed.) 
Signature:___________________________________________________________

Staff Member Receiving Request:________________________________________

Today’s Date: ________________________________________________________

Board of Finance
The duly appointed members of the Alexandrian Public Library Board of Trustees are the fiscal body of the Library and thus constitute the Board of Finance of the Alexandrian Public Library. The members serve without compensation. (IC 5-13-7-5, IC 36-1-2-6)
Annual Meeting
The Alexandrian Public Library Board of Finance shall meet annually at the regular January Board Meeting to elect a president and secretary, review the written report of the Library’s investments during the previous calendar year and review the Library’s finance and investment policy. (IC 5-13-7-6), (IC 5-13-7-7)

Fiscal Officer
The duly elected Treasurer of the Alexandrian Public Library Board is the fiscal officer of the Library. (IC 20-14-2-5) The Treasurer shall serve without compensation.
Deposits
All funds received by the Library shall be deposited in one or more designated depositories at least once per week, and shall be deposited in the same form in which they were received. (IC 5-13-6-1)

Investments
The Business Manager/Director, on behalf of the Treasurer, are authorized to invest Library funds in the following (IC 5-13-9):
1.  Securities or discount notes backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Treasury or fully guaranteed by the United States and issued by:
     (a) The United States Treasury;
     (b) A federal agency;
     (c) A federal government sponsored enterprise
2.  Repurchase Agreements (including standing repurchase agreements, commonly known as sweep accounts):
     (a) With depositories designated by the State Board of Finance as depositories for state investments under IC 5-13-9.5; and
     (b) Involving the political subdivision’s purchase and guaranteed resale of any   

interest- bearing obligations issued; or fully insured or guaranteed; by the United States, a United Stated government agency, an instrumentality of the United States, or a federal government sponsored enterprise.

 

Investments made by the Library’s fiscal officer must have a stated final maturity of not more than 2 (two) years after the date of purchase of entry into a repurchase agreement. (IC 5-13-9-5.6)

 

The Director and/or Business Manager will notify the Board at least one month in advance of the maturity of any investment and will report, in writing, any transactions regarding investments at the next scheduled board meeting.

Interest Earnings
All interest derived from an investment by the Library’s fiscal officer shall be receipted to the fund of which they are a part. 
Depositories
All public funds of the Alexandrian Public Library shall be deposited in the designated depositories located in the territorial limits of the Library District. (IC 5-13-8-9)
Transaction Accounts
The fiscal officer of the Library shall maintain deposits that are invested or reinvested in at least two (2) of the Library’s designated depositories. (IC 5-13-9-4)

 

Local Government Investment Pool

The Library Board of Finance may approve participation in the state designated investment pool. (IC 5-13-9-11) The investment pool is established and in the custody of the Treasurer of the State.  Its purpose is to invest in a common pool of investment assets that preserves the principal of the public funds, remain highly liquid, and maximize return on investment.  Dividends earned are receipted as reinvestment to the fund of which they are a part.
Electronic Transfer of Library Funds
The following types of transactions may be conducted by electronic transfer between financial institutions in order to expedite the transfer of funds as well as maximize interest earnings:
1.  Payroll for library employees
2.   Bond payment / debt service payment

3. Transfer for payment of claims and accounts payable.

4. Other transfers with approval of the Library Director.
The Business Manager/Director, on behalf of the Treasurer, may make this transaction if payment by check cannot reach its destination by the due date. Appropriate documentation of the transaction will be maintained so these may be audited as required by statute (IC 36-12-3-16.5).

Cash Register
The cash register shall maintain a minimum balance of $150 (in varying denominations).
 

The personnel policy manual, as approved by the Board in April of 1996, states:

In compliance with Indiana Law, dependents of the Director and/or Library Board of Trustee members are ineligible for employment with the library.  In addition, no immediate family member of a current staff member will be considered for any position in the library.

Library Board meetings are by law open to the public. Anyone wishing to address the Library Board should fill out a form stating their name, who, if anyone, they represent, their address, and the nature of their business. This form should be given to the Board President prior to calling the meeting to order.

The citizen/delegation will be allowed to speak at the point on the agenda that is noted as the Delegation/Citizen Comments. Requests for time to speak will usually be granted in the order they were received, although priority may be given to residents of the library taxing district. Time will be apportioned among those who wish to speak with a maximum of three minutes per person.

The board will not respond at this meeting to questions, requests for information or requests for action. Appropriate response may be made at a later time after board members have sufficient opportunity to consider and deliberate on the issue.

Constituents will not be allowed to comment during other portions of the board meeting unless comments are specifically requested by the Board. Board members are always willing to hear from constituents outside the meeting, but meeting agendas are usually full and do not allow time for a continuous open forum.

Name and/or Library Card Number:

____________________________________________________________________________________

Group You Are Representing:

____________________________________________________________________________________

Address:

____________________________________________________________________________________

Issue You Wish to Discuss:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Access to public records is governed by IC 5-14-3 which states 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."

The following public records are exempted from the disclosure requirements upon approval of this policy by the APL Board of Trustees as provided for in IC 5-14-3.

1. Personnel files of library employees and files of applicants for employment except for:

1.1 The name, compensation, job title, business address, business telephone number, job description, education and training background, previous work experience, or dates of first and last employment of present or former officers or employees of the library;

1.2 Information relating to the status of any formal charges against the employee; and
1.3 Information concerning disciplinary actions in which final action has been taken and that resulted in the employee being disciplined or discharged.

However, all personnel file information shall be made available to the affected employee or his/her representative. General personnel information on all employees or groups of employees, without individual names, may be disclosed.

2. Administrative or technical information that would jeopardize a recordkeeping or security system.

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

4. Records specifically prepared for discussion or developed during discussion in an executive session under IC 5-14-l.5-6.

5. The identity of a donor of a gift made to the library if the donor requires nondisclosure of his/her identity as a condition of making the gift or after the gift is made, the donor or a member of the donor's family requests nondisclosure.

6. Library records which can be used to identify any library user. Circulation records or other records identifying the names of library users with specific materials are for the sole purposes of protecting public property and compiling statistical information. Such records shall not be used either directly or indirectly to otherwise identify the types of materials used by individual customers.

A customer's address may be given to law enforcement officials when:

• Staff have good reason to believe that a customer, who has left the library before law enforcement officials can arrive, is a serious threat to himself or others and 
• No other way to identify the customer is available (such as auto license number or address in phone book)

Library records shall not be made available to any agency, group or individual 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 powers.

Upon receipt of such process, order, or subpoena, the Library Director will consult with legal counsel to determine if such document is in proper form and if there is a showing of good cause of its issuance; if the process, order, or subpoena is not in proper form or if good cause has not been shown, the Director will insist that such defects be cured.

Any costs incurred, as a result of such order, in a search through customer records, shall be borne by the agency, group or individual demanding the search.

Disclosure of library circulation records will be made in the case of parents or legal guardians inquiring about materials currently on loan to their child. This applies to any child under the age of 18, whether or not the child is present.

7. Records deposited with, or acquired by, the Library upon a condition that the records be disclosed only:

7.1 To qualified researchers.

7.2 After the passing of a period of years that is specified in the documents under which the deposit or acquisition is made or

7.3 After the death of persons specified at the time of the acquisition or deposit.

The Library is not responsible for information gained from a customer record by anyone other than the customer, if the customer has lost or loaned his/her card or if someone has obtained the customer information by illegal or inappropriate methods.

In the event that an employee receives a request from law enforcement, the Department of Child Services, or any other public agency for the disclosure of confidential information, whether or not accompanied by a subpoena or other court order, the employee must immediately provide such request to his or her supervisor.  The supervisor must immediately report such request to the Executive Director.  No such disclosure shall be made unless authorized by the Executive Director or the Board of Trustees.  The Executive Director or the Board of Trustees may obtain and rely upon the advice of legal counsel in making or denying such disclosure.

As a member of the APL Board, I will...

• listen carefully to my teammates, and those served by APL.

• respect the opinion of other board members.

• respect and support the majority decisions of the board.

• recognize that all authority is vested in the board when it meets in legal session and not with individual board members.

• keep well-informed of developments that are relevant to issues that may come before the board.

• participate actively in board meetings and actions.

• call to the attention of the board any issues that I believe will have an adverse effect on APL or its customers.

• attempt to interpret the needs of customers to APL and interpret the action of APL to its customers.

• refer customer or staff complaints to the proper level on the chain of command.

• recognize that the board member's job is to ensure that APL is well managed, not to manage APL.

• vote to hire the best possible person to manage APL.

• represent all constituents of APL and not a particular geographic area or special interest groups.

• consider myself a "trustee" of APL and do my best to ensure that APL is well maintained, financially secure, growing and always operating in the best interests of constituents.

• always work to learn more about the board member's job and how to do it better.

• declare any conflict of interests between my personal life and my position on the APL board, and avoid voting on issues that appear to be a conflict of interest.

As a member of the APL Board I will not...

• be critical, in or outside of the board meeting, of other board members or their opinions.

• use APL or any part of APL for my personal advantage or the personal advantage of my friends or relatives.

• discuss the confidential proceedings of the board outside the board meeting.

• promise prior to a meeting how I will vote on any issue in the meeting.

• interfere with duties of the executive or undermine the executive's authority.