OSTERVILLE VILLAGE LIBRARY MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Osterville Village Library is to provide a current collection of materials in all formats to meet the needs of all ages and a staff knowledgeable about popular authors and titles to assure access to information and to educate the public in the use of information resources. In addition, the Library collects materials on a wide variety of topics of general interest, and offers assistance in locating materials to satisfy the public’s demand. Finally, it is the mission of the Library to provide an environment that encourages public discourse, community involvement, cultural diversity and civic pride.
STATEMENT OF BASIC POLICIES
Introduction
The Board of Trustees of the Osterville VillageLibrary Corporation has prepared and adopted this Statement of Basic Policies in order to express in written form those principles and guidelines which are important in the accomplishment of the library’s service to the community. The Bylaws of the Corporation have set forth the duties of the Board of Trustees, its officers and its Executive Committee, and their manner of election. Standing Committees are appointed to supervise the operation and maintenance of the building and grounds, to supervise the financial affairs of the Library, to advise the Board regarding the investment of the Endowment Fund, and to supervise the overall operation of the Library, as set forth in the Bylaws Article XVI Functions and Responsibilities of Standing Committees.
CIRCULATION POLICY
Eligibility for Borrowing
Anyone who is a resident of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or who owns property in the Commonwealth is eligible for a free library card. In order for a new borrower to register for a card, they must present proper identification for verification of address.
Examples include: Valid driver’s license
Checkbook with name and address printed
Property tax or utility bill with name and address
Rent receipt
Valid student ID
Previous Osterville Free Library or other CLAMS card
New borrowers, under the age of 14, can register for a new card with their parent or guardian’s consent. A parent or legal guardian must sign the child’s registration form. The library firmly believes that the responsibility for a child’s reading rests solely with the parent or legal guardian. Thus the parent or legal guardian may decide when the child would most benefit from obtaining a library card. There is no minimum age for a library card. Anyone registering for a library card enters into a legal agreement with the Osterville VillageLibrary in which the borrower agrees to comply with library rules. Library privileges may be suspended or withdrawn if the borrower does not comply. Cards should be present each time an item is borrowed. If borrowers do not have their library card with them, they will be allowed to check out materials only after their name and address has been verified.
Non-Resident Borrowers
The Osterville Free Library is supported in part by the property taxes of the citizens of the Town of Barnstable and of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Massachusetts residents, or those who own property in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are eligible for an OFL library card free of charge. Non-Residents who are temporarily working or vacationing in Osterville are welcome to register for a Non-Resident library card at an annual fee of $10.00
The Osterville Free Library is supported in part by the property taxes of the citizens of the Town of Barnstable and of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Massachusetts residents, or those who own property in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are eligible for an OFL library card free of charge. Non-Residents who are temporarily working or vacationing in Osterville are welcome to register for a Non-Resident library card at an annual fee of $10.00
Loan Periods and Fines
The Osterville Village Library is a member of the Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing (CLAMS) Network. As of 10/01/03, library loan periods and fines have been standardized throughout the network. Currently, Network-wide Loan Periods and Fines are as follows:
The Osterville Village Library is a member of the Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing (CLAMS) Network. As of 10/01/03, library loan periods and fines have been standardized throughout the network. Currently, Network-wide Loan Periods and Fines are as follows:
Material Category / Loan Period / Overdue Fine
Books / 14 days 10 cents/day
Magazines / 7 days 10 cents/day
Newspapers / In-house use only
Books on Cassette / CDs14 days / 10cents/day
Videos & DVDs / 7 days / $1.00/day
Music on CD / 14 days / 10cents/day
Museum Passes / 2 days / $10.00/day
Renewals
You may renew library materials by phone, at home by the on-line catalog, or in person for an additional loan period if there are no outstanding requests.
Books / 14 days 10 cents/day
Magazines / 7 days 10 cents/day
Newspapers / In-house use only
Books on Cassette / CDs14 days / 10cents/day
Videos & DVDs / 7 days / $1.00/day
Music on CD / 14 days / 10cents/day
Museum Passes / 2 days / $10.00/day
Renewals
You may renew library materials by phone, at home by the on-line catalog, or in person for an additional loan period if there are no outstanding requests.
Reserves
You are welcome to reserve library materials in person, by telephone, or by using our on-line catalog. When the item you requested comes in, we will notify you by telephone. To reserve books online (www.ostervillevillagelibrary.org) you will need to have a Personal Identification Number (PIN). You may request a PIN number at our main desk.
You are welcome to reserve library materials in person, by telephone, or by using our on-line catalog. When the item you requested comes in, we will notify you by telephone. To reserve books online (www.ostervillevillagelibrary.org) you will need to have a Personal Identification Number (PIN). You may request a PIN number at our main desk.
Interlibrary Loans
If we do not have what you need we will be happy to request it for you from another library. A librarian will be happy to assist you. Returns
Library materials may be returned to any CLAMS Network Library.
If we do not have what you need we will be happy to request it for you from another library. A librarian will be happy to assist you. Returns
Library materials may be returned to any CLAMS Network Library.
Lost Material
You will be assessed the replacement cost of material permanently lost or destroyed as well as a processing fee of $3.00 per item. Lost Library Cards
You are responsible for all materials taken out on your card until the date it is reported lost. Report your lost card immediately. The replacement card fee is $1.00.
You will be assessed the replacement cost of material permanently lost or destroyed as well as a processing fee of $3.00 per item. Lost Library Cards
You are responsible for all materials taken out on your card until the date it is reported lost. Report your lost card immediately. The replacement card fee is $1.00.
The CLAMS Network
Your Osterville Village Library card allows you to check out items from the OVL, as well as from any other library that is part of the CLAMS Network.
Your Osterville Village Library card allows you to check out items from the OVL, as well as from any other library that is part of the CLAMS Network.
MEETING ROOM POLICY
The meeting room of the library is available for civic cultural and educational activities of a nonprofit nature. In offering the facilities of the library for meetings of community groups, the Trustees outline below certain policies and regulations.
1. The meeting room is primarily for library-related activities such as discussion groups, story hours, film programs, or lectures sponsored or co-sponsored by the library. These activities receive priority in the use of the meeting room. The library’s meeting room is also home to its non-fiction collection. Keep in mind that your meeting may be interrupted by staff or patrons looking for books.
Note: the rooms available are: a) The Reference Room (with large center table), which will seat up to 16 people. No food or drink allowed in this room. b) The North Room (with lectern and 4 tables), which will seat 60 people.
2. Reservations for the use of the meeting room must be made by a responsible member of the organization requesting the use of the room at least one week in advance. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to review, accept, or reject Any or all applications.
3. Organizations and groups requesting use of the meeting room will designate one Member of the group who will be personally responsible for the following:
a) Filling out the meeting reservation form.
b) Reviewing security procedures with staff before use is allowed.
c) Setting up the room for the meeting.
d) Seeing that the room is put back in order after the meeting, and making
Sure that no loose papers, trash, etc. are left.
e) Seeing that the kitchen and its equipment, if used are left clean and
restored to original order. Coffee grounds should not be put down the
sink.
f) Turning off the lights, except those designated to remain on, before
leaving.
4. General Provisions:
a) All meetings much be open to the public.
b) No admission fee may be
charged no any money collected by the group without the expressed
permission of the Board of Trustees.
c) Groups using the facilities accept full responsibility for any breakage or
damage to the facility or equipment occurring at the time.
d) No smoking allowed in the building.
e) No alcoholic beverages are allowed.
f) The Library is not responsible for materials, supplies, or equipment
owned by the group and used by them in the library.
g) Only light refreshments may be served in the North Room. No food or
drink is allowed beyond the kitchen/North Room.
h) The Library has a slide projector, VCR, and DVD player, cassette player
and a portable sound system that may be used by groups. Reservations
must be made in advance for the use of the equipment. Groups wishing
to make use of the Library’s overhead projections system (DVD, VCR or
computer projection) must make arrangements to receive training prior
to the meeting. Training on Library equipment is at the convenience of
the Library director.
i) Thermostats are set and should not be manipulated.
j) Books and materials should not be removed from the shelves.
5. Use of the meeting room by any group in no way constitutes an endorsement of that group’s policies or activities by the Library.
6. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to refuse the use of the meeting room or cancel any reservations when they deem this action to be in the best interests of the Library.
7. The Board of Trustees are concerned with the security of the building and will not grant use of the meeting rooms without reviewing security procedures.
8. In order to encourage diverse programming and the use of the library by as many groups as possible, a group may use the Library’s meeting room no more than twelve times in a year.
9. Library sponsored programming may pre-empt any group meeting.
MEETING ROOM REGISTRATION FORM
Group:______________________________________________________
Date and time of Meeting _______________________________________
Room requested in library_______________________________________
Person Responsible: __________________________________________
Address:____________________________________________________
Telephone:__________________________________________________
Conditions of Facility Use:
1. Each group using the room must sign this statement accepting responsibility for damage or loss to Library equipment and furnishings. The person who signs the statement is responsible for the conduct of the group, and should make him/herself known to a member of the Library staff at the beginning of the event.
2. The user shall restore the facility to the conditions existing prior to use. Chairs and tables must be returned to their original arrangements. The kitchen, if used, must be properly cleaned. A fee of $25.00 will be assessed if the kitchen and meeting room are not left in proper order.
3. Please feel free to arrange the meeting room to suit the needs of your group. Chairs and tables must be set up and put away by each group.
4. All meetings must terminate fifteen minutes before the closing time, and the rooms must be placed back in their original condition before Library closing. The only exceptions will be for groups who have made prior arrangements with the Library administration. If a staff member is required to come back to the building due to the alarm being set off, there will be a $50.00 charge plus any fee charged by the police department and/or the alarm company.
5. Failure to comply with the Library Meeting Room Policy will result in the suspension of the group’s right to use the Library’s facilities.
USA PATRIOT ACT – POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Public libraries are facing a dilemma of having the responsibility of protecting the privacy of our patrons while responding to legitimate national security concerns. The OVL recognizes the confidentiality of information sought or received and materials consulted, borrowed or acquired by a library user. This privacy is protected under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, section 78-7. The library will do its utmost to uphold the privacy and confidentiality of patrons’ free access to information. The library will rely on existing laws and library policies to control behavior that involves public safety or criminal behavior.
About the USA Patriot Act of 2001
HR-3162 became Public Law 107-56 in response to the events of 9/11/01.
HR-3162 became Public Law 107-56 in response to the events of 9/11/01.
The full title of the law is: Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001. The Act may provide law enforcement broader boundaries when investigating information accessed and transmitted by patrons with regards to national security concerns.
Access to patron information may include but not be limited to: Database Search Records, Circulation Records, Computer Use Records, Inter-Library Loan Records, Reference Interviews, Email and Voice Mail Messages.
The Osterville Village Library’s Policy & Procedures Regarding Information Access and Confidentiality.
Database Search Records: These records refer to the searches of the collection a patron may conduct on the Online Public Access Terminals (OPAC). These searches are conducted by utilizing the library’s automated circulation system, Millenium. Millenium is a product of Innovative Interfaces, and is administered by the Cape Libraries Automated Materials Sharing Network (CLAMS) from a central office located in Hyannis, MA. Once a search is conducted, the software does not retain a copy of the search. Any records of the search will not exist.
Reference Database Search Records: These records refer to the searches of newspaper, journal, and reference articles a patron may conduct using the library’s public computers. These searches are conducted using various vendor systems including but not limited to Dialog, eLibrary, and Ebsco. Once a patron exits out of the database, the software does not retain a copy of the search.
Circulation Records: Patron material is circulated via the Millenium system. The circulation software tracks materials currently checked out, automatically erasing a reader’s borrowing record once a book is returned and all fines are paid.
Computer Use Records: The library offers six computers for public use. The library keeps a written sign-in log for the computers that allows patrons to sign up a week in advance. The sign-in log for a particular date is destroyed at the close of business. Patrons who wish to use the library’s “one hour” computers are required to have a current CLAMS library card, however, a patron’s computer use is not recorded on their library card.
Inter-Library Loan Records: Patrons may borrow items not owned by the Osterville Village Library from other libraries worldwide via Inter-Library Loan (ILL). The OVL tracks items currently being borrowed and generates a paper record with patron information. Once the materials are returned and all appropriate fines and/or fees are paid, the paper record is destroyed.
Reference Interviews: A reference interview occurs when a patron looking for information approaches a library staff and staff questions or interviews the patron in order to narrow down the specific information needed. No paper record is kept during the interview that has any patron information on it. If a patron name and number is taken by phone, and patron information is written down, as soon as the requested information is delivered, the paper record is destroyed.
Email and Voice Mail Messages: Members of the library’s staff have email access via the CLAMS network. Staff email accounts are to be used only for library business. Email messages are read daily and deleted as soon as they have been answered. The library’s telephone system allows patrons to leave messages for library staff. These messages are checked daily and erased immediately. The Osterville Village Library’s Policy & Procedures for Complying with Law Enforcement.
The OVL staff will comply with law enforcement when supplied with legal subpoena or warrant issued by a court with jurisdiction over the offense under investigation.
PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT
BEHAVIOR POLICY
Everyone has the right to receive assistance from the library staff and to use the library and its services without being disturbed by others. Each person has responsibility to behave in a manner that does not violate the rights of others and their use of the library or interfere with library services and operations, including library personnel's performance of their duties. The Library staff is not responsible for personal belongings of people using the library. All public areas of the library, including meeting rooms, restrooms, entrances, furnishings, and equipment must be used for their intended purposes and are covered by this policy.
THE TRUSTEES OF THE OSTERVILLE FREE LIBRARY WELCOME YOU TO YOUR LIBRARY, AN ACTIVE CENTER FOR INFORMATION, STUDY, CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, RECREATION AND LEARNING. IT WILL BE A PLEASANT PLACE FOR EVERYONE IF WE ALL COOPERATE BY OBSERVING THE FOLLOWING CODE OF CONDUCT:
Talking loudly, or engaging in disruptive conduct that disturbs others is not allowed.
Food and beverages are not allowed in public areas of the library unless they are provided at library-approved event.
Smoking or other use of tobacco is not permitted.
Shoes and clothing appropriate for a public setting must be worn.
Children age six and younger must be supervised by a responsible person. Animals are not allowed unless they are used to assist persons with disabilities or are part of a library sponsored program.
Solicitation or sale of items is not permitted on library property with the exception of fundraising efforts or similar activities approved by the Board of Trustees Library phones may be used for short, local calls with permission of a staff member.
Use of cell phones is not permitted in the library building.
Non-public areas of the library may not be entered without permission of a staff member.
Running or other activities that present safety hazards are not permitted. Activities (such as blocking sidewalks, doorways, or aisles) that impede access to the building and its materials are not permitted.
Bicycles, roller blades, scooters and skateboards may not be brought inside the library.
Threatening behavior, including, but not limited to, violence, threats of violence, and possession of weapons, is not allowed.
Other acts which constitute a violation of local ordinances or the Massachusetts General Laws, such as, but not limited to, theft, disorderly conduct, vandalism will be reported to the Barnstable Police Department or other authorities.
When the behavior of a person constitutes a disruption which interferes with the use of the library by other people or when a person's behavior constitutes a disruption which interferes with a staff member's completion of his/her duties, the patron will be issued a verbal warning, with the statement that the person(s) will be asked to leave if the behavior in questions does not cease. If the behavior continues, you will be asked to leave the library.
In the case of a child causing a disruption that interferes with others, staff may elect to call the parent first before the steps outlined above are taken. A staff member may intervene with a child in order to prevent injury or property damage. Any time a staff member feels that a person's behavior is threatening to the safety of the others, the staff member will call the police immediately.
SELECTION POLICY FOR LIBRARY MATERIALS
The purpose of the Osterville Village Library’s Materials Selection Policy is to guide the library staff and to inform public about the principles upon which selections are made. Acknowledging the multimedia nature of libraries and the library’s role in supplying access to technology, the formats will include, but are not limited to print- hardcover, paperback, magazines, newspapers; other media- audio cassettes, video cassettes, audio compact discs, video disks; computer- software, online databases, and access to the Internet.
In its selection of books and other materials, the OVL subscribes fully to the principles adopted by the American Library Association in its Library Bill of Rights and its Freedom to Read statement. Both documents are appended. It is the function and duty of a public library to provide the means, whenever possible, through which all people may have free access to the thinking on all sides of an issue.
Censorship of books and other materials, urged or practiced by volunteer arbiters of morals or political opinion, or by such organizations must be challenged by libraries in maintenance of their responsibility to provide public information and enlightenment throughout the various media.
Responsibility for Collection Development
Ultimate responsibility for the materials selection policy lies with the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees delegates to the Director and the staff members involved with collection development the responsibility of selecting materials for the library’s collection. The Library staff will consider requests from library patrons in the selection process.
Ultimate responsibility for the materials selection policy lies with the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees delegates to the Director and the staff members involved with collection development the responsibility of selecting materials for the library’s collection. The Library staff will consider requests from library patrons in the selection process.
Criteria for Selection
The words “book”, “library materials,” or other synonyms as they may occur in the policy have the widest possible meaning; hence it is implicit in this policy that every form of permanent record is to be included, whether printed or in manuscript, bound, or audiovisual format.
The words “book”, “library materials,” or other synonyms as they may occur in the policy have the widest possible meaning; hence it is implicit in this policy that every form of permanent record is to be included, whether printed or in manuscript, bound, or audiovisual format.
“Selection” refers to the decision that must be made either to add a given book or other material to the collection or to retain one already in the collection. It does not refer to reader guidance.
The object of selection is to collect those books and other library materials that will inform, educate, entertain, and contribute to the enrichment of the mind and spirit.
As an aid in selection, the library staff consults competent reviewing media and basic lists of standard works. Using standards of purpose and quality, the library’s collections will be built to meet the needs and interests of the community – while working within the constraints of the library’s annual materials budget.
The library will review a decision regarding specific materials upon written request. A form for this purpose is available at the Circulation Desk.
Every book or other library material must meet the following criteria as are applicable to its inclusion in the collection:
1. Current usefulness or permanent value
2. Authority and competence of presentation
3. Importance as a record of our times
4. Relative importance in comparison with other works in our collection on
the same subject
5. High standard of quality in content, format, and binding
6. High demand from the public – popularity of title. A special effort is made
to collection materials about Cape Cod and by Cape Cod authors, based
on the above criteria. Selections are made based on content without
regard to the personal history of the author. In no case, is any included or
excluded merely because of the race, nationality, or political or religious
views of the author.
In the case of controversial issues, a variety and balance of materials are sought whenever available. Serious works that present an honest aspect of life are not necessarily excluded for frankness of expression.
The needs of various age and interest groups in the community must be reflected in the library’s acquisitions.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection should not be inhibited by the possibility that books may inadvertently come into possession of children.
Library materials are not marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of the contents and no book or other item is sequestered, except for the purpose of protecting it from damage or destruction.
Providing textbooks and curriculum materials is generally held to be the responsibility of the schools. The library does not acquire textbooks or other curriculum related materials unless they are of general interest. Legal and medical works are purchased for their value to the layman.
Systematic withdrawal of lost, damaged, worn, and outdated materials is part of the collection development process. Frequency of circulation, accuracy of information, and availability of newer materials are among the factors considered before a book is withdrawn from the collection. Local history is an exception.
Duplication of titles is determined by popularity, importance of the book, and by budget. The Library is part of the CLAMS network, and agrees to share resources with Cape and Islands libraries in order to reduce duplication.
Gifts of Books and Other Library Materials
Gifts of books and other library materials are judged on the same basis as purchased materials. These are considered with the explicit understanding that such factors as duplication, lack of community interest, processing costs, and inadequate shelf space may prevent their addition to the collection. Gifts that are not added to the collection are sold through the Friends of the Osterville Free Library book sale.
Gifts of books and other library materials are judged on the same basis as purchased materials. These are considered with the explicit understanding that such factors as duplication, lack of community interest, processing costs, and inadequate shelf space may prevent their addition to the collection. Gifts that are not added to the collection are sold through the Friends of the Osterville Free Library book sale.
FREEDOM TO READ
The OFL does not advocate the ideas found in its collection. The presence of a magazine, book or other material found in the library does not indicate an endorsement of its contents by the library.
The Board of Trustees defends the principles of the Freedom to Read statement.
REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
Request initiated by: __________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________
City: _______________________________________________________
State: ___________________________ Zip: ______________
Osterville Free Library Card Number: ________________________________
Do you represent yourself or an organization? (circle one)
Name of Organization: ________________________________________
Item to be reconsidered: Title: ___________________________________
Author: ______________________________________________________
Publisher: _____________________________
Publication Date: _____________
To what in the work do you object? Please be specific and cite pages.
Did you read the entire work? _________
If not, how much of the work did you read?
What do you feel might be the result of reading this work?
What do you believe is the theme of this work?
For what age group would you recommend this work?
Have you searched for any reviews or literary criticisms of this work? (Please attach any relevant reviews to this request)
Do the critics share your opinion of the work?
Signature of person making the request: _____________________________
Date of request: ______________________
The Board of Trustees of the Osterville Free Library considers “Requests for Reconsideration in the following manner:
This Request for Reconsideration form must be completed in its entirety.
This form and any other relevant documents (such as book reviews) should be submitted to the Library Director.
Completed requests will be considered by the Osterville Free Library’s Books and Operations Committee at its next scheduled meeting.
The recommendations of the Books and Operations Committee will then be discussed and voted on by the Library’s Board of Trustees at its next scheduled meeting.
The Chairman of the Library’s Board of Trustees will contact the party making the request regarding the Board’s decision on the matter.
CODE OF ETHICS OF THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION
The Osterville Village Library supports the Code of Ethics of the American Library Association. Click here for full statement.