Library Policies

Acceptable Use of the Internet and the Library Public Computers

The Arcola Public Library offers access to the internet in order to expand the library's collection of materials. Library staff may provide assistance to patrons in the use of the internet as time and staff knowledge permit.

Computer use is on a first come first serve basis. Patrons may initially use the computers for 60 minutes and may continue for an additional 60 minutes if no one is waiting.

A maximum of two people are allowed at the same public access computer.

Violations of any aspect of these procedures and/or inappropriate internet usage as determined by the library staff may result in the loss of use of the library computers and internet privileges, and will be dealt with at the discretion of the staff.

Behavior in the Library

To ensure that all patrons may have considerate use of the Arcola Public Library District appropriate behavior is expected. Violation of any of the following rules will result in a warning and/or expulsion from the property. Whenever necessary, police will be contacted. The Director and supervisory staff have authority to carry out all powers of this policy.

Food or drink may only be consumed in the library's Meeting Room.

No conduct which is disruptive to the operation of the library or threatening to patrons, staff or library property.

Unattended Children

Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the library. The Arcola Public Library District staff is committed to help children with activities related to the library. However, Library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to serve as baby-sitters, teachers or disciplinarians. Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges. Whenever advisable, the library will notify the parents of the incidents involving an unattended child.

Children over the age of eight may use the library unattended by an adult, subject to other library rules and policies concerning behavior, conduct, and demeanor. Unattended children must have a library card.

Statement on Privacy and Confidentiality of Library Records

Circulation records and other records identifying the names of library users with specific materials hereby are recognized as confidential in nature, and access thereto is hereby restricted to library staff and those members of the public with a legitimate interest therein, as hereafter provided for.

All library staff and employees are hereby advised that such records shall not be made available to the public, the press, or to any agency of the State, Federal, or Local government except pursuant to such process, order, or subpoena as may be authorized under the authority of and pursuant to Federal or State law relating to civil, criminal, or administrative discover procedures or legislative investigative power.