Geneva Public Library District aims to provide service to the community at the level of “WOW!” Patron suggestions are always welcome and any complaints will receive a timely and thoughtful response.
The Service Policies of the Board of Trustees of Geneva Public Library District are available to the public at any public service desk or on the Library’s website. Policies are reviewed regularly by Library Staff, Administration, and Board of Trustees. Changes are subject to approval by the Board of Trustees. The Library supports and endorses "Libraries: An American Value" as adopted by the American Library Association Council on February 3, 1999, as well as the Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read, Intellectual Freedom Statement, and Freedom to View.
GPLD’s 3D printers may not be used to create weapons or materials that are:
• Prohibited by local, state, or federal law;
• Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or which pose a threat to the well-being of others;
• Obscene or inappropriate for the library environment;
• In violation of the terms of use of the manufacturer of the 3D printer; or
• In violation of another person’s property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce objects or materials that are subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.
GPLD reserves all rights to:
• Review and approve all materials before printing;
• Stop printing or resize requests due to time and printer capabilities;
• Limit the number of print requests; and
• Charge users for print requests. See GPLD website for current rates.
Unclaimed items will become the property of the Library. GPLD is not responsible for failed 3D prints and will not be liable for functional failure of or injuries or property damage caused by objects or materials made through the use of 3D printers.
3D printing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority printing will be given to library programs and events. See GPLD website for submission requirements, printing times, and payment information.
Adopted 02/2020
Rev. 05/2023
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) is committed to serving everyone with dignity and respect. GPLD strives to create welcoming experiences for all and has established acceptable use guidelines to ensure:
• Patrons and staff are safe;
• Everyone has equitable access to Library facilities, services, and resources;
• Facilities and resources are protected from harm, theft, or damage.
GPLD strives to provide a safe and healthy environment for its visitors and staff. GPLD strictly prohibits any criminal conduct or violence (causing physical injury to another person, shoving, pushing, making threatening remarks) on Library property.
GPLD generally prohibits the presence or use of firearms or other weapons on its property, regardless of whether the person is licensed to carry the weapon. In compliance with Illinois law, GPLD allows concealed weapons license holders who lawfully possess a firearm or ammunition to transport and store their firearm or ammunition in their personal vehicle in the GPLD parking lot. However, if the individual’s vehicle is not attended, the vehicle must be locked or the firearm and ammunition must be in a locked container outside of plain view.
GPLD prohibits smoking and/or vaping on Library property and within 15 feet of any entrance, exit, or window to the Library.
General guidelines, including but not limited to:
• Visitors to the Library cannot create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use of the Library by others;
• Library items, furnishings, equipment, and facilities should be used only for their intended function;
• Non-alcoholic covered beverages are allowed through the building except near computers;
• Polite cell phone use permitted except in designated quiet areas;
• Personal belongings should be monitored;
• Photography and videography on Library property subject to the Library’s “Photography and Video Policy.”
These guidelines apply to visitors of all ages. Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for the safety of those who require care when visiting the Library. Visitors whose behavior is unacceptable or inappropriate may be given a verbal warning, asked to leave, or in case of serious offenses banned temporarily from the Library. All Library staff are authorized to ask visitors to leave the Library and/or call 911 if visitor conduct violates library policy.
Rev. 01/2020
Rev. 01/2022
Rev. 05/2023
General guidelines for use of library materials include:
• A valid library account is required to check out, renew, or reserve library materials. Alternative identification or scanned barcode may be presented for verification of valid library account in lieu of a SWAN library card.
• GPLD reserves the right to limit the number of items that may be checked out, renewed, or reserved. Loan periods, renewals, and reserve limits vary based on material type and are posted on the Library’s website.
• Under special circumstances, loan periods may be extended up to a maximum of six weeks at checkout for GPLD cardholders at the discretion of Library Administration.
• Reserves may be placed on circulating items held by any SWAN library for any SWAN cardholder. The lending library may specify loan periods and/or limitations on availability or number of reserves. Patrons will be notified when material becomes available.
• Patrons may view a listing of what is currently checked out to their account through the online catalog. Patrons may also choose to “opt in” to track their borrowing history.
Fees
GPLD does not charge late fees for overdue items, but borrowers are subject to the borrowing rules of the library where items were checked out. Fees can be paid online through the borrower’s library account or in-person.
Lost Items
An item is considered lost when a patron reports an item lost or when an item reaches 42 days overdue. The cost of lost items and a processing fee will be billed to the borrower’s library account. Refunds for items previously lost will be made up to 90 days after payment has been received.
Damaged Items and Missing Pieces
If an item is returned in poor condition (wet and/or moldy, cover or pages defaced, or a piece missing), the most recent borrower will be contacted. The borrower may be charged the cost of the item or replacement part. GPLD does not accept replacements for damaged items.
Resource Sharing
Checking Out Materials From SWAN Libraries
GPLD participated in SWAN (System Wide Automated Network) which gives patrons the ability to borrow books and other materials from approximately 100 libraries in the Chicago area that are also SWAN members. GPLD cardholders may checkout or reserve materials from any SWAN library according to the regulations of the lending library. Materials from SWAN libraries may be returned to any library in the consortium. See Library website for current list of SWAN libraries
Checking Out Materials From Non-SWAN Libraries In-Person
GPLD cardholders may use their library cards to check out materials in person at other non-SWAN libraries in Illinois according to regulations of the lending library. At the patron’s own risk, materials borrowed from other libraries may be returned at the Geneva Public Library to be returned to the lending library through the RAILS delivery van.
Requesting Materials From Other Libraries For Delivery (Interlibrary Loan):
GPLD cardholders may request materials, including books, AV materials, and copies of articles, via Interlibrary Loan (ILL). The lending library will determine availability and use restrictions. Requests are limited to five at a time, with a maximum total of 10 in process for any one patron. Materials requested through ILL must be returned at the Geneva Public Library. The Library must abide by current copyright restrictions.
Requests For Materials From Geneva Public Library District
GPLD lends circulating library materials to patrons in good standing at libraries in the SWAN consortium and other RAILS participants. GPLD lends circulating library materials to other libraries and educational institutions via ILL.
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 05/2023
This policy is not all-inclusive. Approval of individual expressive activity situations not described here will be determined by Library Administration, who is authorized to establish reasonable regulations governing the use of meeting rooms.
Expressive Activity Guidelines
2. Grounds: Expressive activity is allowed on the Library's grounds, as follows:
a. Time: Expressive activity is allowed only during the Library's hours of operation.
b. Place:
(1) Expressive activity is allowed on private sidewalks flanking the main entrance to the Library. In order to ensure public safety, prevent disturbances, and promote the free flow of traffic, expressive activity is prohibited from the center walkway leading to the main entrance.
(2) This clearly defined area will ensure that people who wish to engage in expressive activity will have access to all visitors entering or exiting the main entrance to the building while, at the same time, ensuring that visitors will have clear, safe, unfettered access to and from the main entrance and the exterior stairway to and from the lower level.
c. Manner:
(1) No application or registration is required to engage in expressive activity; however, for review of compliance with this Policy, statistical purposes, and reasons of public safety people who plan to engage in expressive activity are encouraged but not required to inform the Library Director or the person-in-charge of their intent.
(2) For reasons of public safety, the Library reserves the right to limit the number of people allowed to engage in expressive activity at any one time.
(3) In participating in expressive activities, individuals must refrain from engaging in prohibited conduct, which includes conduct that violates the “Acceptable Library Use Policy,” infringes on the lawful rights of patrons or employees of the Library, endangers or threatens the safety of any patrons or employees of the Library, destroys or defaces Library property, and any activity that is not considered as protected speech and in the public interest pursuant to First Amendment principles, including but not limited to commercial speech—the primary purpose of which is to sell a product or service, or related thereto—and fundraising activities.
Approved 04/2022
Rev. 05/2023
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) designates areas for eating and drinking, including the first floor vending area and outdoor patios. Covered beverages are allowed throughout the Library. Patrons may only eat meals or drink from uncovered beverages in designated areas.
Patrons are expected to properly dispose of trash after eating or drinking. Food and drink may not interfere with others’ use of the library, or damage or threaten damage to library property.
Staff may provide food and beverages in public areas of the Library for approved programs and events.
Approved 1/27/2022
Hours
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) maintains consistent, posted hours of service during which allservices of the Library are available to patrons. Those hours are as follows:
Monday through Thursday: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m
Friday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Library hours and holiday schedule are subject to change as approved by the Board of Trustees. GPLDmay be closed for special circumstance or in an emergency as deemed necessary by the Trustees,Library Director, and/or person in charge. One external book drop is available in the drive-up area ofthe building for the return of materials anytime of the day. Drive-up window is available for picking uppre-arranged materials during regular business hours.
Holidays to be Observed
• New Year’s Day
• Easter
• Memorial Day
• July 4
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Eve (close at 5:00 p.m.)
• Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• New Year’s Eve (close at 1:00 p.m.)
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 02/2020
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) is committed to responding accurately and in a timely manner to information service requests. The purpose of this written policy is to assure the quality and consistency of information services. All information requests will be treated with impartiality and confidentiality.
Access
Service Response
Special Categories
a) Legal and medical information: Library staff does not give medical or legal advice, interpretation, or opinion. Staff does not attempt to condense or abstract information. Telephone responses are limited to short definitions or descriptions read from standard dictionaries or encyclopedias. Medical and legal sources are quoted verbatim, and the patron is informed of the source from which the information is taken. No referrals are made to private or individual sources. Patrons requesting names of legal or medical professionals will be referred to local lawyer referral services or physician referral services.
b) Consumer information: is available in several printed and electronic reference sources. Lengthy articles and product lists are not read over the telephone, and interpretation of the results of consumer research is not made. Appraisals are not made, but price guides are provided where possible.
c) Information on taxes is provided from print and/or electronic sources. Tax forms may be provided as a courtesy to the public. Library staff does not provide tax advice, interpretation, or opinion. Patrons are expected to make and pay for their own copies of tax forms needed See Library website for current printing fees. Patrons will be referred to established help lines if necessary.
d) Library staff provides general assistance to patrons engaged in genealogical research, guidance in locating items in the collection, and help in using the resources of interlibrary loan. Request for basic or simple genealogical information, such as photocopies of obituaries or birth announcements when a date is known, are answered when possible. Extensive genealogy research requests received by mail or email are returned to the sender or are referred to the local genealogical society
e)Every effort is made to assist students with homework question(s) and to provide instruction needed to use reference sources. The student is expected to use the sources to meet the requirements of the assignment. Quick factual homework questions will be answered.
f) Extensive compilations: (bibliographies, lists, statistics, etc.) and exhaustive literature searches are not prepared. Patrons are directed to appropriate resources for such research.
Library Instruction
Evaluation
Adopted: 02/1991
Rev. 03/1993
Rev. 05/1995
Rev. 04/1998
Rev. 09/1999
Rev. 01/2000
Rev. 01/2002
Rev. 04/2004
Rev. 01/2007
Rev. 01/2015
Rev. 05/2017
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 02/2020
Rev. 05/2023
• GPLD assumes no responsibility for any activities conducted by users of the Internet, Library equipment, computing resources, or wireless network and is not responsible for work or information lost due to computer or system malfunction.
• GPLD cannot guarantee the accuracy and/or authenticity of information discovered through the Internet or any computing resource. Patrons who find information or subject matter that is erroneous, out-of-date, illegal, offensive, and/or controversial should contact the original producer or distributor of that work directly.
• Parents and legal guardians have the right -- and the responsibility -- to monitor and control their minor child's access to the Internet and to information obtained from the Internet. Parents wishing to restrict Internet access for their child may indicate this on the Application for Youth under 18 years of age form.
• GPLD cannot and does not control or monitor the information accessed through the Internet. GPLD uses filtering software on Internet computers housed in Youth Services areas of the Library. Filtering software may be turned off with the approval of the adult accompanying the child to the Library.
• Children receive priority for use of the Internet, equipment, and computing resources in Youth Services areas of the Library. As space and availability permits, adults who have young children with them may use any Library resource to stay in the area with their children. Adults not accompanying children to the Library must receive authorization from Library Administration to use the Internet, equipment, and/or computing resources in Youth Services areas of the Library.
• GPLD makes every effort to protect the privacy of its users, but cannot guarantee confidentiality over the Internet. Patrons entering personal information (credit card numbers, social security numbers, etc.) do so at their own risk. GPLD’s network and wireless access are unencrypted. Users should be aware that information sent to and from a device may be captured by someone else.
• Use of the Internet, Library equipment, computing resources or wireless network is only for legal purposes. Any unlawful or inappropriate use is prohibited and may result in loss of privileges. Illegal acts involving Library resources are subject to prosecution. Examples of inappropriate or illegal use include, but are not limited to, the following:
o use of sounds or any other behavior which might be disruptive to others (headphones may be available for purchase);
o violation of another user’s privacy or interfering with the work of others;
o violation of computer system integrity or tampering with computer hardware or software;
o violation of copyright laws or software license agreements;
o unauthorized access to resources of entities;
o violations of federal, state, or local laws or viewing, printing, and distributing obscenity, child pornography, and materials harmful to minors.
Guidelines for use of Library equipment and computing resources include:
• Users must abide by the Acceptable Library Use Policy and Internet, Equipment, & Computing Resources Use Policy of the Library. Upon reasonable belief that a violation of the Library’s policies has occurred, GPLD reserves the right to terminate patron use of Library equipment and
computing resources, to suspend Library privileges, to ask the user to leave the Library, and/or to contact local law enforcement.
• Use is on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations accepted as space permits. Valid GPLD
card or guest pass required for use of computing resources and users must sign-in.
• At peak and closing times, GPLD reserves the right to limit the amount of time an individual may
use equipment or computing resources.
• Fees apply for copying and printing services and will be posted clearly near equipment. No
provision is made for patrons to receive faxed documents at the Library.
• Patrons may not use their own software on Library computers.
• GPLD does not provide data storage. Flash drives or other storage media may be available for loan or purchase. Data downloaded from the Internet may contain computer viruses and GPLD is not responsible for damage to any patron’s equipment.
• Users are responsible for configuring their own equipment. Instruction regarding use of Library equipment and computing resources will be supported in accordance with the Library’s Information Service Policy.
Rev. 04/2019
1. General Information
Every individual who resides in the Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) is entitled to a library account. Library account holders agree to comply with all rules and regulations of GPLD and to be responsible for all materials borrowed and any fines incurred.
To open a library account and/or obtain a new or replacement library card proof of identity and residency in the form of a current government issued photo identification or valid receipt of Library issued mail are required along with a current telephone number and birthdate. Cards shall be issued for a period of three years or until a minor’s 18th birthday. Residents under the age of 18 need a parent or legal guardian’s signature to open a library account. Mailed library card and/or renewal notification will not be forwarded.
GPLD cards are automatically renewed every three years for cardholders living within the District.
Privileges are rescinded upon termination of District residency.
A valid library account is required for use of many library services, including but not limited to checking out, renewing, and reserving library materials. A valid account is defined as:
• Account has not expired
• Patron address information on file is correct
• Patron does not have fines or fees in excess of $20
Library cards may be used at any System Wide Automated Network (SWAN) library as well as other participating library systems throughout the state. See Library website for current list of SWAN libraries. Borrowing privileges accorded to a GPLD cardholder at another library will be governed by the lending library.
2. Confidentiality
See Patron Privacy Policy for information about library account confidentiality.
3. Lost or Stolen Library Cards
Lost or stolen library cards should be reported to the Library immediately to prevent unauthorized use. For the cardholder’s protection library cards should not be used by others. The patron is responsible for all items checked out on a lost, stolen, or loaned card, along with any fines, fees, or damages incurred, until the Library has been notified of the loss. There is a maximum liability of $100 with proof of an official police report. There is no limit of liability in cases where fraudulent use is by family members or members of the same household; cardholder will be responsible for all costs and charges including charges for collection agency referral. A nominal fee may be charged for lost, stolen, or mutilated Library cards.
4. Suspension of Privileges
Library privileges may be suspended by Library Administration pursuant to the policies of the Board of Trustees. GPLD reserves the right to enforce its policies through use of collection agencies, civil actions, and/or criminal prosecution. Reasons for suspension include but are not limited to:
• Unpaid overdue fines or fees exceeding $20 or more on one account
• Excessive fines or fees at another library
• Violation of library policy
• Defacing of property
All accounts that a patron has signed responsibility for may be suspended from further use if total fines and fees and/or value of overdue or lost material exceeds $50.
5. Temporary Residents
A person temporarily staying in the household of a GPLD resident for a minimum of 30 consecutive days may be issued a temporary library card with an appropriate expiration date provided that the host will sign a responsibility statement for the applicant. A temporary resident living in their own house or apartment for a minimum of 30 consecutive days will be issued a temporary card with an appropriate expiration date. Proof of identification and verification of local and permanent addresses are required.
6. Non-Residents Cards
Any non-resident who, as an individual or as a partner, principal stockholder, or other joint owner, owns or leases property that is taxed for GPLD services or is a senior administrative officer of a firm, business, or other corporation owning taxable property within District boundaries may be issued a library card. Photo identification and proof of taxable property or a copy of the commercial lease of that taxable property are required.
7. Non-Resident Cards
The Board of Trustees is empowered to extend the privileges and use of the library to persons who are not served by another public library and to impose a non-resident fee for such services comparable to the cost paid by residents of the Geneva Public Library District.
a) Non-Resident Homeowner – Family and individual non-resident homeowners’ fees for the library privileges will be determined by applying the library’s current tax rate to the registrant’s most recent equalized assessed valuation.
b) Non-Resident Renter & Non-Resident Rent Free – Family and individual non-resident fees will be based upon the State Fee calculation. This figure will be calculated by the Library Director at the beginning of each fiscal year.
Total Library tax income from local sources : District population x Average # of persons per household = Renter’s Fee
8. Institution Cards
Cards based on intergovernmental agreements may be issued to institutions located within District boundaries provided that the institution agrees to be responsible for all fines and fees incurred. The institution must provide a list of authorized users that is updated annually.
9. Reciprocal Borrower Cards
Reciprocal borrowing privileges are extended to a holder of a library card that is issued from an Illinois library that subscribes to the Reciprocal Borrowing Program. Reciprocal borrowers must present a library card issued by their local public library and a current government issued photo identification. Library privileges will be granted for one year or less dependent upon verification of eligibility and expiration of card at home library. Some restrictions may apply.
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 03/2022
Library programs are located in a physically accessible location. GPLD will make reasonable attempts to make accommodations, such as a sign language interpreter, in the shortest time possible.
GPLD offers programs at various days and times to be most accessible to the intended audience and to the greatest number of people. GPLD reserves the right to limit the number of participants in library programs and/or restrict or give preference to GPLD cardholders.
Library programs are provided free of charge. A reimbursement fee for materials may be charged when appropriate. At the discretion of Library Administration, program presenters and performers contracted by the Library may have the opportunity to sell their creative product (i.e. books they have authored or musical recording of material they have performed) as a part of their presentation.
(NOTE: Groups renting the meeting room are not permitted to sell any materials. See Meeting Room Use Policy.) Photographs and video may be taken during library programs and used for promotional purposes, including but not limited to placement on the Library’s website, social media sites, and/or newsletter.
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 11/2021
Rev. 05/2023
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) has a significant interest in maintaining an environment that allows patrons to freely access library information and resources. This significant interest requires the Library to maintain policies that protect the privacy of its patrons and staff and ensures their freedom from harassment, intimidation, and threats to their safety and well-being. In order to provide appropriate safeguards against such behavior and enforce policies and procedures addressing that behavior when it occurs, GPLD has adopted the following policy regarding the taking of photographs or videos inside the library building.
I. General Policy
Permission is not required for taking photographs or videos in public areas of the library building for personal, noncommercial use if no tripods, lights, or other specialized equipment is used. However, there may be library locations and/or exhibition areas where taking of photographs or videos is restricted or prohibited (i.e. restrooms, rooms reserved for nursing, child care areas, library artifacts, and archival materials.) Taking photographs or videos of, or in, areas reserved for staff use only is also prohibited. If tripods, lights, or other specialized equipment is to be used, requests must be made 24 hours in advance. Persons taking photographs and videos shall not (i) compromise a patron or staff member’s right to privacy, (ii) harass, intimidate, or threaten a patron or staff member, or (iii) block library aisles, walkways, stairwells, doors, or exits.
II. Exterior Photography and Video
Taking photographs and videos outside of the library building and/or of the library grounds does not require permission. However, the activity may not impede the ingress or egress of patrons or staff to or from the library building.
III. Commercial Photography and Video
GPLD may permit use of its facilities for taking commercial photographs or videos if the project does not interfere with the mission of the Library and is in accordance with the rest of this policy. GPLD may charge a fee to offset costs incurred by GPLD to provide access to the facility and prior permission must be sought at least 72 hours in advance.
IV. Photography and Videos of Materials and Resources
GPLD permits the taking of photographs and videos of its publicly-available collections. However, patrons are solely responsible for obtaining consent or other permission when taking photographs or videos of copyrighted materials.
V. Library Photography, Videos, and Recording
GPLD may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the Library and during library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. GPLD reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any library web site or social media site). Any individual that does not wish the Library to use a photograph, video, or audio recording of them or their child should inform a GPLD staff member prior or while such photographs, videos, or audio recordings are being taken.
VI. Library Board Meetings
Pursuant to Section 120/2.05 of the Illinois Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/1et seq.), any person may record the proceedings of the Library Board and other meetings required by the Act to be open to the public. The recordings may be made by tape, film, or other means and shall not disrupt the meeting or create a safety hazard.
VII. Liability
Persons involved taking photographs or videos are solely liable for any inquiries to persons or property that result from their activities on library property. They also have sole responsibility for obtaining all necessary releases and permissions required by law from persons who can be identified in any photograph or video or for copyrighted materials. GPLD undertakes no responsibility for obtaining these releases or permissions.
VIII. Right Subject to Compliance with Policy
GPLD reserves the right to ask any individual or group violating the policy to cease taking of photographs or videos.
Approved 1/2022
Geneva Public Library District (GPLD) welcomes and encourages children to visit the Library, use library resources and services, and attend library programs. Library staff is trained to help children with library resources and services and is available to help and support children; the Library, however, does not have facilities nor staffing to provide childcare, or to be responsible for unattended children. Parents and caregivers are responsible for the safety, comfort, and behavior of their children while in the Library. Children are expected to respect library property and adhere to the rules outlined in the Acceptable Library Use Policy.
Unattended children are children of any age who appear to be unaccompanied by a parent, guardian, and/or responsible caregiver. All unaccompanied children at the Library should have or know the telephone number of someone who can assist them in an emergency. Children who are unable or unwilling to care for themselves may not be left alone in the Library and must have adequate supervision while in the Library. Children under the age of seven may not be left unattended in any part of the building unless they are participating in a Library-sponsored activity. The parent or caregiver must remain in Kids Landing or in the immediate vicinity of the child during the program. The Library is not responsible if children leave library property unattended.
Library staff will attempt to contact a parent, guardian, and/or caregiver in circumstances such as the following:
• An unattended child is engaging in behavior that is disruptive to other patrons, staff, or the normal operations of library business.
• An unattended child is involved in a situation that is potentially harmful to the health or safety of the child and/or others.
• An unattended child is left alone at the Library at closing time.
Such situations will be handled on a case-by-case basis. If parents, guardians, and/or caregivers cannot be reached, or are unresponsive, Library staff may call the Geneva Police Department and stay with the child until the police arrive to take custody. Missing children should be reported immediately to staff at any service desk. Library staff will initiate missing child protocols.
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 02/2020
A. INTRODUCTION
The Mission Statement of the Geneva Public Library District guides the selection of materials as it does the development of services and allocation of resources. The Board of Trustees of the Geneva Public Library District endeavors to build a collection in a variety of formats representing varying points of view. In accordance with the recommendations of Serving Our Public: Standards for Illinois Public Libraries, the Geneva Public Library District will strive to allocate not less than 12% of its operating budget on materials for patrons every year.
The choice of library materials by users is an individual matter. Responsibility for overseeing usage of materials by children and adolescents rests with their parents or legal guardians. While a person may reject materials for themselves and for their children, they cannot exercise censorship to restrict access to the materials by others. The Library supports intellectual freedom and endorses the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read Statement, the Intellectual Freedom Statement and the Freedom to View Statement of the American Library Association.
B. PURPOSE OF THE COLLECTION
The purpose of the collection is to assist patrons in:
1. Keeping pace with current developments
2. Learning about the past
3. Supporting their basic educational needs
4. Fulfilling their recreational interests
5. Forming an opinion on controversial subjects
6. Developing individual skills and talents
7. Stimulating spiritual and creative capacities
8. Developing aesthetic and cultural appreciation
9. Discharging political and social obligations
10. Developing and maintaining personal, physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being
11. Obtaining information to support personal, community, and employment-related interests
C. SCOPE OF THE COLLECTION
The collection will be current, general in scope, and balanced in terms of subject coverage, point of view and age/interest level. Materials will be selected in a variety of formats including, but not limited to, print, audiovisual, electronic, and online. It is beyond the general scope of the Library to provide materials of a highly technical or specialized nature. There will be duplication to meet reasonable demand. A large print collection is provided for patrons with visual impairments. Patrons who have visual or physical impairments that prevent their use of a book may also be referred to the Illinois State Library Talking Books and Braille Service.
D. LANGUAGE
Due to the demographics of the community, the Library primarily collects materials in English, materials that provide instruction in English to non-English speaking patrons and materials that provide instruction and/or reading opportunities in foreign languages of interest to English-speaking patrons. The Library also seeks to serve and reflect the ethnic and cultural diversity of the community. When the population of members of the Library District whose native language is not English nears 10% of the Library’s total service population, a basic collection of materials in their native language may be established.
E. RESPONSIBILITY FOR SELECTION
The Board of Trustees of the Geneva Public Library District delegates authority and responsibility for the selection of materials to the Library Director, and under their direction, to other staff members who are qualified for this activity. The Library Director determines the budget, guidelines, and organizational structure for the staff who select resources. The Technical Services Manager oversees and coordinates selection and acquisition of materials. Selectors choose appropriate materials for their collection areas within allocated budget, monitor use, and weed for currency, demand, and condition in an organized and timely manner. No employee may be disciplined or dismissed for the selection of materials when the selection is made in good faith and in accordance with the written policy required to be established pursuant to Illinois Library Law. Suggestions from patrons are welcome and will be considered using the same criteria as all other selections.
F. CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
In selecting library materials, each work will be evaluated as a whole utilizing the following criteria:
1. Relevance to community interests, needs, and standards
2. Favorable ratings in standard reviewing media, general or specialized, such as library journals
3. Authority and competence of the author, illustrator, or producer
4. Reputation and authority of the publisher
5. Comprehensiveness in breadth and scope
6. Relationship to the existing collection
7. Importance as a record of the times or for presentation of a unique point of view
8. Relative importance in comparison to other available material on the subject
9. Justifiability of cost in relation to budget and need
10. Availability of other area resources
11. Inclusion in standard library or subject lists
12. Factual accuracy and currency
13. Nature of physical qualities and format (e.g., technical quality, size, binding, illustrations, typography, design, level of indexing)
14. Literary value or importance as a document of mankind
15. Effectiveness of expression; readability
16. Local demand
In selection of electronic and online resources, the following criteria will also be considered:
1. Ease of use
2. Timeliness of updates
3. Retrospective data
4. Licensing restrictions and remote access
5. Technical support
6. Hardware and software requirements
In addition to the above, the following criteria are especially relevant to the selection of materials for young people:
1. Maturity of theme / topic
2. Reading level
3. Grade level
4. Interest level
5. Age of characters
6. Target audience
Items not collected include rare items, or those requiring special curatorial or conservation services. The Library does not act as an archive of historical materials. The Library does not attempt to replace curricula or formal education programs at any level, although a variety of complementary and supplementary resources are provided.
G. COLLECTION MAINTENANCE
The Library keeps the collection vital and useful by retaining or replacing essential materials, and by removing, on a systematic and continuous basis, those works that are worn, badly marked or damaged, contain outdated or inaccurate information, are superseded by a newer edition, of little historical significance, or no longer in demand. Materials which are removed from the collection may be donated to Friends of Geneva Library for their used book sales. Withdrawn reference materials may be given to other libraries. Items that are very worn and have no resale value will be discarded. The Library does not reserve discarded items for individuals.
H. GIFTS AND MEMORIALS
The Library accepts monetary gifts as well as donations of materials or other items per guidelines outlined in the Library’s Gift and Memorial Policy. Donors who wish to contribute to a 501(c)(3) organization will be referred to Geneva Library Foundation.
I. RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES
The Library does not promulgate particular beliefs or views, nor does the selection of an item express or imply endorsement of the viewpoint of the author. Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of contents, nor will items be sequestered, except for the purpose of protecting them from theft or damage.
Library District residents who request the reconsideration of library materials should bring their concerns regarding any specific title or item in the library’s collection to the attention of the Library Director in either an informal discussion or through the formal complaint process. A Library District resident wishing to use the formal complaint process is referred to the form “Resident Response to Library Materials.”
Following receipt of a written request, the Library Director will appoint a committee of appropriate staff to review the title in question. The committee will make a written recommendation to the Library Director who will then make a decision regarding the disposition of the material in question. The Library Director will communicate this decision, and reasons for it, in writing, to the resident who initiated the request. Decisions will be made in accordance with the Library’s mission and values. Copies of the “Resident Response to Library Materials” form and the Library Director’s written response will be forwarded to the Library Board for their information. If not satisfied, the complainant may appeal to the Library Board of Trustees by making a written request to place the item on the agenda for the next regular meeting of the Board. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to limit the length of presentation and number of speakers in accordance with the Library’s Public Comment Policy.
Rev. 06/2018
Rev. 05/2023
All social networking sites are for discussion purposes only and do not represent the official views of the Library. GPLD assumes no liability regarding any event or interaction that involves any participant in any Library-sponsored social networking service. GPLD does not endorse any content except those created by Library staff in their official capacity. Participation in GPLD’s social networking services implies an agreement with all Library policies. The Library is not responsible for the content on the pages of friends, fans, followers, etc. of the Library. The Library does not endorse or review content of third-party sites.
User Responsibilities
• Protect your privacy and the privacy of others
• Show everyone respect
• Use appropriate language
When Content May Be Deleted
• Harassment
• Profane, obscene, derogatory, racist, or sexist content
• Personal attacks, insults, threatening language
• Plagiarized material
• Copyright, trademark, and fair use violations
• Private, personal information published without consent
• Comments unrelated to the content of the forum
• Commercial promotions or spam
• Any behavior deemed inappropriate as proscribed by the Library's Service Policies
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 05/2023
1. Use of Library Meeting Rooms
This policy is not all-inclusive. Approval of individual meeting situations not described here will be determined by Library Administration, who is authorized to establish reasonable regulations governing the use of meeting rooms.
Scheduling priority for use of any part of the facility is:
1. Meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Geneva Public Library District
2. Library sponsored and related meetings and programs, including activities of Friends of Geneva Library and Geneva Library Foundation
3. Meetings sponsored by local tax-supported or local governmental agencies
All guidelines outlined within this policy apply to use of GPLD’s meeting rooms and study rooms by external groups and patrons. General guidelines are as follows:
• Available for use during regular operating hours as posted on the Library’s website. Clean-up activities must be completed and all persons must leave the building by closing time.
• Use of Library facilities does not imply sponsorship or endorsement of users or users’ beliefs by GPLD. Advertisements or announcements implying or stating such endorsement are prohibited.
• Groups and organizations may not use the name, address, telephone number, or website of the Library except for notifying members and attendees of the location for a meeting. GPLD does not provide publicity or information about meetings of external groups.
• Meeting rooms are not available for:
◦ Groups soliciting, promoting, or selling products or services
◦ Private social functions
◦ Partisan political meetings or functions
◦ Fundraising events other than those of the Friends of Geneva Library or the Geneva Library Foundation
◦ Programs not suitable for the Library’s physical facilities
◦ Meetings, programs, or functions that interfere with the function, purpose, and mission of GPLD or its commitment to inclusion
• Due to demand and limited meeting space, no more than one meeting per month for regularly scheduled events by a group or organization may be scheduled.
• GPLD reserves the right to limit, deny, or revoke permission to use the meeting room at its discretion. A group or individual denied permission to use the meeting room may file an appeal with the Library Director, in writing, for inclusion on the agenda for discussion at the next monthly Board meeting.
• Groups must comply with the American with Disabilities Act and are responsible for providing qualified interpreters and/or auxiliary aids, upon request, for their programs.
• GPLD does not provide storage space for property or assistance in carrying supplies into or out of the meeting room.
• The person reserving the room must ensure adherence with Library policies and guidelines, proper use of facility, and shall be responsible for any damages caused to the facility or equipment. Charges will be assessed to cover expenses should any unusual or extensive cleaning or repair be necessary.
• See Library website for reservation procedures, room availability, and availability of furniture and equipment. Cancellations should be made as soon as possible.
2. Guidelines for Use of First Floor Meeting Room and Conference Room
• GPLD cardholders who are 18+ years of age may reserve the First Floor Meeting Room or Conference Room up to 60 days in advance. A minimum of 48 hour setup notice may be needed to accommodate requests for furniture arrangements and/or equipment rental. Call the Library for more information and specific requests.
• Boxed meals, light refreshments, and covered non-alcoholic beverages which are catered or prepared elsewhere are permitted. Decorations that can stand on a floor or table are permitted. Nothing may be attached to the walls or ceiling of the Meeting Room or Conference Room.
• Use of the kitchen is strictly for serving boxed meals, light refreshments, and covered non-alcoholic beverages which are catered or prepared elsewhere. Call the Library for more information and specific requests.
• Capacity:
◦ Large Meeting Room: 200 (maximum); 175 (auditorium setup with chairs); 80 (classroom setup with tables and chairs)
◦ Conference Room: -20 (standard setup with tables and chairs)
3. Guidelines for Use of Second Floor Study Rooms
• GPLD cardholders may reserve a two-hour time slot up to seven days in advance. Time may be extended beyond two hours if no one is waiting to use the room. Multiple time slots may not be reserved. Walk-ins, including non-cardholders, are welcome when room is not in use or reserved. Reservations will be held for a maximum of 15 minutes.
• Study room users should be aware that the room is not sound proof and their voices or noises may be heard outside the room.
• Capacity varies: 4-10 (standard setup with table and chairs).
Rev. 04/2019
Rev. 02/2020
Rev. 12/2021
Rev. 05/2023
GPLD cardholders who are at least 14 years of age may reserve a two-hour time slot up to seven days in advance. Patrons under the age of 14 must have adult supervision to use the Studio. Time may be extended beyond two hours if no one is waiting to use the room. Multiple time slots may not be reserved. Walk-ins are welcome when room is not in use or reserved. Reservations will be held for a maximum of 15 minutes. Library staff has the discretion to impose additional limitations as necessary or in response to misuse of the facility.
Any individual reserving the use of the Studio must assume responsibility for use of the space and equipment available for use in the Studio. The Studio and equipment must be used in a reasonable manner and GPLD may deny use of the space or any equipment to any individual(s) who does not take proper care of the space, recklessly uses the equipment, or otherwise violates Library policies.
Non-cardholders may use the Studio on a walk-in basis and will be required to provide a photo ID to enter the Studio. Capacity is limited to five users.
This policy is not all-inclusive. Approval of situations not described above will be determined by Library Administration which is authorized to establish reasonable regulations governing use of the Studio.
Approved 01/2022
Rev. 05/2023
Volunteers are required to follow established library policies and procedures.
1. Application
Individuals wishing to volunteer with the Library are required to complete the Volunteer Application and participate in an interview prior to being assigned work. The Library’s needs and the individual’s ability to perform tasks guides the Library’s selection of volunteers. The Library may be unable to fulfill all volunteer requests. Immediate family members of the Library Board of Trustees and of Library staff will be considered for voluntary positions, only in departments where the family member is not working.
The Library also offers volunteer opportunities for students who wish to complete service hours for educational or religious purposes.
2. Background Checks
All persons aged 18 and older who are applicants for the volunteer program at Geneva Public Library District must authorize the Library to obtain a criminal history records check by completing a Criminal Background Check Waiver and Release Form. A criminal history records check and/or a background check may be conducted for applicants for volunteer positions as deemed appropriate by the Library Director or their designee.
Conviction of a crime does not automatically preclude a volunteer position. However, at the determination of the Library Director, or their designee, an applicant may be denied acceptance into the volunteer program based on an individualized assessment of the information obtained, including but not limited to, the nature and severity of a criminal offense, its relevance to a particular job, the number of convictions, the amount of time that has passed since the offense, and the duties of the position applied for. The Library reserves the right to conduct periodic criminal history records checks on all volunteers. The Library Director, or their designee, shall be responsible for ensuring that information obtained by the Library through a background check will be shared only with Library representatives having a need to know the information.
3. Motor Vehicle Use
A copy of the driver’s license and a certificate of automobile insurance must be on file for any volunteer who uses a personal vehicle for library business.
4. Injury
If a volunteer is injured in the course of their volunteer activity, their relationship to the Geneva Public Library District will be that of any member of the public using library facilities. Any injuries should be reported to the supervisor or senior library staff member present.
Adopted 06/2016
Rev. 02/2020
Rev. 05/2023
All checks must be signed by any two of the following people: Board President, Board Vice President, Board Secretary, Board Treasurer, and Library Director. Signatories must have a record of their signature and other required information at all banking institutions with which the Library District conducts business.
II. Checking Accounts
The Library District’s main checking account shall be maintained at the lowest balance required by the bank to offset fees. This requirement shall be reviewed semi-annually. Funds shall be transferred into the checking account from an interest-bearing money market account to cover expenses when checks are written biweekly. To gain maximum interest on investments, the remainder of the Library District’s monies shall be invested in a variety of interest-bearing accounts as outlined in the Investment Policy.
III. Bonding Requirements
As required by Illinois statutes, a surety bond equal to not less than 50% of the total funds received by the Library District in the last fiscal year shall be maintained on the Board Treasurer for protection of the Library District.
IV. Approval Limits
Expenditures over $5,000.00 must be approved by the Board of Library Trustees. Excluded from this approval requirement are checks written for utilities, Federal Withholding, and Social Security, IMRF, library materials, and payroll checks. Additionally, all attorney expenditures must be approved by the Board of Library Trustees.
Any and all contracts which will require payment of more than $5,000.00 in a 12-month period must also be approved by the Board of Library Trustees.
In the event of an emergency expenditure over $5,000 the Library Director, or designated representative, will obtain three verbal quotes if possible. In order, the President, Treasurer, or Chairman of the Buildings and Grounds Committee may approve the expenditure. All Trustees shall be notified of the nature of the emergency as soon as is practical. Discussion of the expenditure, its purpose, and the method by which it was approved must be included as an agenda item to be discussed during the next scheduled Board Meeting. A situation requiring an emergency expenditure is an unexpected situation or sudden occurrence of a serious and urgent nature that demands immediate action. These situations can arise from acts of nature, structural or mechanical failures, conditions that are detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of patrons or employees, or other unforeseen events that threaten the termination of library services.
V. Bidding
All bidding shall be in compliance with applicable laws. For purchases / contracts which exceed $25,000, the Library District shall advertise for and accept sealed bids. For purchases which exceed $10,000 but are less than $25,000, at least three (3) written proposals shall be procured for Board consideration. In the event that there is proper rationale for not bidding (i.e., emergency situation, unique item, compatibility issue, etc.) the Board minutes shall clearly set forth such rationale. Professional services (legal, audit, insurance, and other as exempt by law) need not be let for bid.
Adopted by: Board of Trustees 11/19/87
Revised: 9/28/89
12/27/90
1/23/92
10/27/94
3/28/96
11/18/99
11/13/01
Reviewed: 9/26/02
Revised: 9/25/03
Revised: 2/23/06
2/22/07
2/26/09
Revised: 5/24/18
The Board of Library Trustees of the Geneva Public Library District realizes that occasionally it may be appropriate to allow alcoholic liquor to be served in the Library during fundraising events or during programs of a cultural or educational nature sponsored by the Geneva Public Library District (Library), the Friends of the Geneva Public Library (Friends), or the Geneva Library Foundation (Foundation).
This Alcoholic Liquors Policy (“Policy”) is adopted pursuant to the Illinois Liquor Control Act of 1934, 235 ILCS 5/1 et seq. (“Act”), to allow the delivery and sale of alcoholic liquors at any building owned by the Library during fundraising events or programs of a cultural or educational nature. Advance approval by the Library Director is required. The Act authorizes the delivery and sale of alcoholic liquor in a building owned by the Library (“Building”) in accordance with this Policy.
This Policy governs when and under what circumstances alcoholic liquor may be delivered and sold in Library Buildings. All Library rules and regulations shall remain in effect at all times.
II. Application
Serving alcoholic liquors at any event must be approved in advance in writing by the Library Director. The Library Director is authorized to approve requests for delivery and sale of alcoholic liquor that conform to the requirements of this Policy. The Friends or the Foundation shall submit a request in a form to be provided by the Library (see attached Application).
III. Terms and Conditions
The following rules and regulations apply to the delivery and sale of alcoholic liquor in any Library Building:
A. The delivery and sale of alcoholic liquor in Library Buildings is limited to fundraising events or programs of a cultural or educational nature sponsored by the Library, Friends or Foundation.
B. The Library and/or Applicant reserves the right to refuse the delivery or sale of alcohol liquor to anyone who appears to be intoxicated, inebriated, or impaired.
C. The delivery, sale, and consumption of alcoholic liquor must take place in a restricted area in the Library Building that is inaccessible to the general public during the event or program, such as a meeting room or conference room.
D. Alcoholic liquor may not be removed from the restricted area.
E. The delivery or sale of alcoholic liquor to persons under the age of 21 is prohibited.
F. Attendees are prohibited from bringing beverages to the event.
G. Library staff may not serve or deliver alcoholic liquor.
H. The Friends and Foundation shall comply with applicable local laws and ordinances and obtain applicable permits and licenses.
I. Delivery or sale of alcoholic liquor may be done on a per drink basis, e.g., $7 for a glass of wine, or via drink tickets in exchange for a donation, e.g., two drink tickets in exchange for a $10 donation.
J. This Policy does not apply to events or programs where unopened containers of alcoholic liquors are provided, e.g., a gift basket containing unopened wine. Approval of such events or programs, by the Library Director, however, is required.
IV. Liability Insurance
A. The Library Director shall assure that the Library, Friends or Foundation maintains liability insurance in accordance with the Act.
B. Proof of liability insurance shall be provided by the Friends or Foundation. The Library shall be named as an Additional Insured on liability insurance coverage provided by the Friends or Foundation.
V. Reservation of Rights
The Board of Library Trustees reserves all rights and discretion with respect to enforcing this Alcoholic Liquor Policy.
Approved by the Board of Trustees
Geneva Public Library District
March 22, 201
All employees and officials must comply with this Policy. Violations will not be tolerated. Even where conduct is not sufficiently severe or pervasive to constitute an actionable legal violation, the Library discourages such conduct in the workplace.
A. Discrimination
Prohibited Conduct The Library prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. A violation of this Policy, however, does not necessarily rise to the level of a violation of the law.
Application of Policy This Policy applies to all employment-related decisions, actions, conduct and terms and conditions of employment, such as, but not limited to, hiring, training, promotion, wages, hours, assignments, benefits and termination of employment. Employment decisions at the Library will be based on considerations such as, but not limited to, the following: skills, experience, qualifications and merit, to the extent that any of those considerations would apply to the specific circumstances and position involved.
B. Harassment
Harassment is a form of discrimination and is prohibited. The Library seeks to provide a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity and which is free from sexual harassment as well as other types of harassment described in this Policy.
All employees and officials are responsible for conducting themselves in accordance with this Policy. The Library will not condone harassment, whether engaged in by employees, supervisors, management, officials or by those who do business with the Library, such as, but not limited to, vendors, contractors, patrons, visitors and other third parties. Violation of this Policy shall be considered grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employees and reporting officials to appropriate authorities.
1. Harassment Relating to a Protected Status: Harassment consists of unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, physical, or visual, that is based upon a person’s protected status, such as sex, sexual orientation, color, race, religion, national origin, age, physical or mental disability or other protected group status. The Library will not tolerate harassing conduct that affects tangible job benefits, that interferes unreasonably with an individual’s work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. The conduct forbidden by this Policy specifically includes, but is not limited to:
• Slurs, negative stereotyping, demeaning or degrading comments, nicknames or intimidating acts that are based on a person’s protected status;
• Written or graphic material that is circulated, available on the Library’s computer system or technology resources, or posted or distributed in the workplace that shows hostility toward a person or persons because of their protected status.
2. Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is conduct based on sex, whether directed towards a person of the opposite or same-sex. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature become sexual harassment when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition of a person's employment; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting such person; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.
This Policy forbids harassment based on sex, regardless of whether it rises to the level of a legal violation. The Library considers the following conduct to represent some of the types of acts that violate this Policy:
1. either explicitly or implicitly conditioning or providing preferential treatment in any term of employment (such as continued employment, wages, evaluation, advancement, assigned duties or shifts) on the provision of sexual favors;
2. physical contact, such as patting, pinching or brushing against any part of another’s body or physical assaults of a sexual nature;
3. sexual propositions, sexual innuendo, suggestive comments;
4. continuing to ask an employee to socialize on or off-duty when the employee has indicated that she or he is not interested;
5. displaying or transmitting demeaning, obscene or sexually suggestive pictures, objects, cartoons, or posters anywhere in the Library workplace;
6. sexually oriented kidding, teasing, practical jokes, or threats;
7. referring to or calling a person a sexualized name;
8. telling sexual jokes or using sexually vulgar or explicit language;
9. making derogatory or provoking remarks about or relating to an employee’s sex or sexual orientation;
10. harassing acts or behavior directed against a person on the basis of an employee’s sex or sexual orientation; or
11. off-duty conduct that falls within the above definition and affects the work environment.
Everyone is required to avoid behavior or conduct that could reasonably be interpreted as prohibited harassment under this Policy. Employees and officials are encouraged to inform others in the workplace when their behavior is unwelcome, offensive, inappropriate, or in poor taste. Employees and officials are expected to come forward promptly and report any violations pursuant to this Policy before the alleged offending behavior becomes severe or pervasive. In the event the sexual or unlawful harassment is made by or directed at a Library Trustee, the affected Library Trustee should contact the Library Attorney to request an independent 3rd party investigation.
C. Retaliation
The Library will not retaliate or allow retaliation against an individual who has made a report of a violation of this Policy or for cooperating in an investigation. This, of course, means that employees and officials also must not retaliate against any individual who has made a report of a violation of this Policy or who has cooperated in an investigation. Retaliation by anyone against anyone else for reporting violations of this Policy or cooperating in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Anyone who is found by the Library to have engaged in retaliation may be subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment, or reporting conduct of officials to appropriate authorities.
Whistleblower protections and remedies are available under the Whistleblower Act, 740 ILCS 174/1 et seq., the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, 5 ILCS 430/1-1 et seq., and the Illinois Human Rights Act, 775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.
D. Procedure for Reporting and Investigation of Harassment, Discrimination and Retaliation
1. Reporting: All employees and officials are responsible for helping to avoid all forms of harassment. Anyone who believes he or she has experienced conduct inconsistent with this Policy or otherwise learns of conduct prohibited by this Policy is responsible for reporting the conduct through the Complaint procedure.
This Policy does not require reporting harassment or discrimination to any individual who is creating the harassment or discrimination. Employees or officials may make an incident report for this purpose or may report conduct in any other manner, including making a confidential report to a supervisor, ethics officer, Inspector General, or the Department of Human Rights.
In addition, each supervisor must immediately report to the Human Resources Department, the Executive Director, or an official any complaint or observation of conduct which may violate this Policy. Supervisors or managers or officials who have knowledge of any conduct inconsistent with or prohibited by this Policy and do not report it to one or more of the above are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination or reporting officials to appropriate authorities.
2. Report Immediately: Verbal complaints, as stated, must be made immediately. The Library may follow up in writing in order to assure complete understanding of and resolution of the specific complaint.
3. No Exception to Reporting: Please note that there are no exceptions to this reporting requirement. There is no friendship exception. Even if the alleged victim or perpetrator of the conduct is a friend, acquaintance, family member, relative or co-worker, each and every employee and official is required to report the incident or complaint, as the case may be.
4. Investigation: Any conduct inconsistent with or prohibited by this Policy will be investigated promptly. The Library is committed to investigating and taking prompt and appropriate action with respect to all such claims and strongly urges internal utilization of this Policy. The Library may put reasonable interim measures in place, such as a leave of absence (with or without pay) or a transfer, while the investigation takes place.
5. Disciplinary Action: All reports of violations of this Policy shall be made in good faith. Therefore, all reports will be taken seriously and they will be promptly investigated. Employees and officials are required to cooperate with investigations conducted by the Library.
Employees or officials who engage in conduct that is found by the Library to be inconsistent with or prohibited by this Policy are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination or reporting to appropriate authorities. Persons knowingly making a false report are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination or reporting to appropriate authorities. Failure to cooperate in an investigation also will subject an employee to the same disciplinary action. The Library may discipline an employee for any inappropriate conduct discovered in investigating reports made under this Policy.
6. Confidentiality:
To the fullest extent practical, the Library will keep complaints and the terms of their resolution confidential. However, in order to effectively investigate such complaints, the Library must inquire of employees or officials involved. The Library also has sole discretion to determine the scope of the investigation and, within that scope, the individuals who should be informed of and asked about the allegations.
7. The EEOC, State, and Local Agencies: Employees and officials are encouraged to use the above complaint procedure(s) to report and resolve their complaints of harassment or retaliation to promote prompt resolution of any problems. However, employees and officials may also file a charge in writing with the Illinois Department of Human Rights within 180 days of the conduct and/or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission at:
Illinois Department of Human Rights
100 W. Randolph St., Suite 10-100
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 814-6200
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
500 West Madison Street, Ste. 2800
Chicago, Illinois 60661-2511
(312) 353-2713
Adopted 12/2017
Rev. 02/2020
ARTICLE 1 - NAME AND FISCAL YEAR
1.1 - Name
This organization shall be called “The Board of Library Trustees of the Geneva Public Library District, Geneva, Illinois”. The Geneva Public Library District is referred to herein as “District”, Geneva Public Library” or “Library”.
1.2 - Fiscal Year
The fiscal year “Fiscal Year” of the District is from July 1st of each year to June 30th of the following year.
ARTICLE 2 - MISSION AND VISION
2.1 Mission
Connecting our community to discover, inspire and grow.
2.2 Vision
A valued and innovative community resource empowering residents to seek knowledge, create ideas, and achieve dreams.
ARTICLE 3 - BOARD OF TRUSTEES
3.1 Terms of Office
The Board shall be comprised of seven (7) Trustees (also referenced herein as Board Members). [75 ILCS 16/30-10]. Board Members shall serve a term of four (4) years. Terms of office shall be staggered.
3.2 Duties and Power
The Board shall carry out the spirit and intent of the Public Library District Act of 19911 (hereinafter also referenced as “Act”) and all other applicable laws in establishing, supporting, and maintaining the Geneva Public Library for the purpose of providing library services. The Board shall have all powers provided by law described or referenced in Section 16/30-55 of the Act.
3.2.1 The Board shall appoint a qualified Library Director who will administer the policies adopted by the Board. The Library Director shall submit to the Board monthly reports on the operation of the Library and shall recommend to the Board such policies and procedures as in the opinion of the Library Director will promote the efficiency of the Library in its service. The Library Director shall report all new hires to the Board and shall report all termination of employees to the Board no later than the next Board meeting. Prior to terminating any employee who is a salary grade 16 or above, or who has been an employee of the Library for ten (10) or more years, the Library Director shall first notify and seek input from the Board if practicable. The Library Director shall review and revise a calendar of duties as necessary and at least annually.
3.3 Vacancies
Vacancies in the position of Trustee shall be declared and filled as specified in the Act [75 ILCS 16/30-25] which provides in relevant part that:
16/30-25(a): Vacancies shall be declared in the office of trustee by the board when an elected or appointed trustee (i) declines, fails, or is unable to serve, (ii) becomes a nonresident of the district, (iii) is convicted of a misdemeanor by failing, neglecting, or refusing to discharge any duty imposed upon him or her by this Act, or (iv) has failed to pay the library taxes levied by the district. Absence without cause from all regular board meetings for a period of one year shall be a basis for declaring a vacancy.
16/30-25(b):All vacancies shall be filled by appointment by the remaining trustees until the next regular library election, at which time a trustee shall be elected for the remainder of the unexpired term. If, however, the vacancy occurs with less than 28 months remaining in the term, and if the vacancy occurs less than 88 days before the next regular scheduled election for this office, then the person so appointed shall serve the remainder of the unexpired term and no election to fill the vacancy shall be held…
The Secretary shall report a vacancy on the board to the county clerk and the State Librarian within 60 days after it occurs and shall report the filling of a vacancy within 60 days after it is filled [16/30-40(d)]
3.4 Compensation
Board Members shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed from District funds for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. [75 ILCS 16/30-30]. Reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties shall be subject to Board approval. In addition, Board Members may seek prior Board approval for payment or reimbursement of travel-related expenses for attending traveling to and participating in district, state or national library association functions, including training and seminars.
Review of Bylaws and Library Policies
At the September meeting of each year the Board shall discuss whether these Bylaws should be reviewed by the Policy Committee prior to the end of the Fiscal Year. The Board shall also determine which of the Library Policies previously adopted by the Board should be reviewed prior to the end of the Fiscal Year. Pursuant to 16/30-60, the Board shall adopt, and review at least every 2 years, a resolution for the selection of library materials and the use of library materials and facilities. Each Library Policy and the Committee responsible for its review is set forth on Exhibit A attached hereto and made part hereof.
3.6 Strategic Planning/Review and Approval of Plans
3.6.1 The Board shall:
3.6.1.1 Formulate a long-range plan for the Library.
3.6.1.2 Formulate the annual goals of the Library.
3.6.1.3 Review and prioritize annual goals for the Library every six months.
3.6.1.4 Review the current edition of the “Serving Our Public: Standards for Illinois Public Libraries” in addition to other guidelines and criteria as may be recommended by the Library Director as relevant to current issues affecting Library’s services.
3.6.2 The Board may, at its discretion, include one or more residents of the District from time to time, recommended by a Board Member and approved by the Board to act in an advisory, non-voting capacity for a one-year term.
ARTICLE 4 - OFFICERS, TERMS OF OFFICE AND VACANCIES
4.1 Officers
The Officers of the Board shall be President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer and shall be elected from among the Board Members.
4.2 Nominations and Elections of Officers
The elections of officers will occur at the May meeting following the biennial election of Board Members. All nominations will be made from the floor.
4.3 Officer Term of Office
Officers shall serve a term of two (2) years ending the first Monday of the month following each regular election or until their successors are duly elected by the Board. A vacancy in any office shall be filled by the Board for the unexpired term.
Duties of Officers
4.4.1 President
The President of the Board shall preside at all meetings of the Board, and shall appoint such committees as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the Board. In the absence of the President, the Vice-President shall preside. In the Vice-President’s absence, the Treasurer shall preside. In the Treasurer’s absence, the Secretary shall conduct an election of a Chairman Pro Tem to preside. The President and Secretary shall sign the ordinances, resolutions and contracts of the Board. If the President or Secretary is unable within the required time to sign a given document, the Vice-President shall sign the document. The President is an ex-officio member of all Committees. The President shall not have or exercise veto power. In the temporary absence of Secretary, a Secretary Pro Tem shall be appointed by the President.
4.4.2 Vice-President
