Library Code of Conduct
Library Code of Conduct
The mission of the Livonia Public Library is to provide for the educational, informational, and recreational needs of the community through its materials, programs, and services. This policy aims to protect the rights of patrons and library visitors to use library materials and/or services and attend library programs and for the library staff to conduct business without interference while providing excellent customer service.Patrons shall respect the rights of other patrons and library employees. Patrons must adhere to all library policies.
The library is equipped with security cameras.
Prohibited Conduct in the Library
- Verbally or physically threatening others through any activity. Abusive or threatening language or writing that expresses prejudice and intends to vilify, humiliate or incite hatred against a group or class of persons based on race, religion, skin color, sexual identity, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, or national origin will not be tolerated.
- Staring, stalking, physically or verbally harassing (including but not limited to making inappropriate personal comments or sexual advances) library users or staff.
- Creating loud or disruptive noises that can reasonably be expected to disturb other people, including but not limited to loud talking, screaming, or banging on computer keyboards. This does not include sounds and noise common in the Children’s Department, such as a child crying, Storytime, or the sounds of play.
- Talking on cell phones inside the library. Talking on cell phones is restricted to the Atrium. Cell phone use is permitted in Study Rooms if the volume is kept at a low level. Staff reserves the right to ask a patron to lower their voice or end the phone call. Cell phones should be set to silent or vibrate while inside the library.
- Stealing, damaging, altering, disconnecting, or inappropriate use of library property. Library materials may not be taken into the restroom.
- Possessing or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Use of tobacco products or vaping devices.
- Visiting the library without a shirt or shoes.
- Neglecting to properly supervise children (see Unattended Children Policy).
- Indecent exposure, sexual acts, or behavior.
- Bringing animals into the building except service animals.
- Blocking aisles, doors, or entrances with personal items or leaving such items unattended at the library at any time. The library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended, and library staff will not guard or watch personal belongings.
- Entering areas designated as “staff only” without prior authorization.
Livonia Library Commission
Resolution #15-23
UCL
Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adults in the Library
The Livonia Public Library takes pride in introducing young readers to the joys of reading. Library staff members are committed to providing a safe and friendly environment for patrons of all ages; however, they cannot monitor every area or act as babysitters to young children.Therefore, Children under the age of five must be accompanied by a parent or a responsible caregiver over the age of 17 at all times. Children under the age of five cannot be left in the library while a parent or caregiver attends a meeting, program, or uses the Internet computers.
Children ages five through ten may use the library and attend library programs independently while a parent or caregiver over the age of 17 remains in the library.
Children ages 11 and older may attend library programs and use the library independently.
It is against the law for a parent or guardian to leave children unattended. “Unattended” means that the caregiver is not in the same library service area as the child. If library staff determines that a child under the age of 10 – or an older child who is obviously upset or concerned – has been left alone in the library, the building will be searched for the adult’s location. If the adult is located, library staff will explain that the staff is not responsible for children’s safety, and they must always be accompanied by an adult.
Staff retains the option to contact police if they determine that the child has been left alone for an extended period of time. Parents of all minors, present or not, are responsible for their children’s behavior in the library; damage to materials; and for injury to themselves and others.
If a child is left at the library after it has closed for the day and conditions are present which makes it unsafe for the child (age, darkness, cold weather, uncertainty about arrangements), the staff will notify the police who will keep the child in their custody until a parent can be reached.
Please note: Unless specifically stated, all library programs will end BEFORE the library closes. In the event of an “after hours” program, please be at the library promptly at the end time of the program.
The above policy also applies to vulnerable adults. This is defined as an individual age 18 or over who, because of developmental disability, mental illness, physical disability, or other similar reasons, (1) requires supervision or personal care or (2) lacks the personal and social skills required to live independently.
Your cooperation helps make the library a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
Approved 6/27/2023
Livonia Library Commission
Circ
Circulation Policy
See our Library Card page for the full Library card and materials circulation policy.Computer Use
The Livonia Public Library, in an effort to harmonize the rights and interests of its patrons with the rights and interests of City of Livonia employees who service those patrons, sets forth the following policy:I. Filtered, wired access to the internet is provided throughout the buildings; parents/guardians should be aware that the filtering software has inherent limitations which prohibit total and complete blocking of sites which may contain obscene, sexually explicit and/or other possibly objectionable materials. Parents/guardians, not Library staff members, are responsible for providing appropriate guidance to their children/wards relative to the use of both filtered and non-filtered (wireless) internet access.
It is the responsibility of a parent or legal guardian to decide what library resources are appropriate for their child.
II. Users with a Livonia or other “local” (TLN) library card will be able to use the internet by signing on with their own card. Individuals may NOT utilize library cards that do not belong to them. Doing so may result in suspension of internet privileges.
Users will be required to limit their sessions to the time determined by the library (1 hour) when all the other workstations are in use and other patrons are waiting. Users may continue their sessions beyond the time limit if there are available workstations for other patrons up to a maximum determined by the library. (4 hours per day, not necessarily consecutive, with library card).
Non-library card holders may obtain a “visitor pass” entitling them to 4 hours of internet use daily (not necessarily in consecutive sessions.).
III. Workstations may be reserved in advance through reference desk staff. If a user does not have their library card with them, a staff person will look up their account number if they supply proper ID (driver’s license, state id, etc.) or issue them a guest pass.
IV. Users will be able to print documents from their workstations. Users must pay at the reference desk for their documents at a cost of 15 cents per page printed for black and white copies, 25 cents per page for color copies.
V. The Livonia Public Library Internet services are intended for information gathering. Users are responsible for any personal data transmitted over the public internet. Users put themselves at risk of criminal or civil liability when they use the Internet illegally, in violation of local, state and/or federal law. Use of our network and computers contrary to this policy may subject a patron to loss of computer privileges, and/or ejection from the Livonia Public Library. These activities include, but are not restricted to:
Transmitting/accessing obscene materials. Interfering with, disrupting, or destroying network, users, services or equipment. Engaging in disruptive behaviors; such as playing computer audio without using headphones or earbuds, talking on cell phones and speaking loudly. Computer fraud. Distribution of unsolicited advertising or propaganda, or propagation of computer worms or viruses. Hacking or spamming. Infringement of copyright laws.
VII. The staff of the Livonia Public Library cannot provide in-depth computer training or enter personal information for patrons, but will attempt to answer basic questions or help patrons locate resources on the Internet. Library staff can also provide information on where to get appropriate training.
IX. Failure to comply with the provisions of this policy may result in a loss of computer privileges.
Donation
Library Donation Policy
The Livonia Public Library appreciates and welcomes donations that enhance its collection and services. This policy outlines the guidelines for accepting, evaluating, and managing donations to ensure they align with the library’s mission and needs.Types of Donations Accepted
• Books and Media: New or gently used books, DVDs, and CDs.
• Monetary Contributions: Cash, checks, or online donations designated for specific purposes or general support.
• Special Collections: Rare books, manuscripts, archives, or other unique items of historical or cultural significance.
• Equipment and Furnishings: Items that support library operations and services, subject to prior approval.
Donation Guidelines
• Condition: All donated items must be in good condition, free from mold, mildew, excessive wear, and damage.
• Relevance: Items should be relevant to the library’s collection and support its mission. Outdated materials, textbooks, encyclopedias, or items not in demand may not be accepted.
• Ownership: The donor must have clear ownership and the right to donate the items as all gifts become the property of the Livonia Public Library.
Acceptance of Donations
• Evaluation: The library reserves the right to evaluate all donations and determine their suitability for the collection.
• Approval: Donations of equipment, furnishings, or special collections must be approved by the Library Director or designated staff. The Library Commission reviews the acceptance of monetary donations at each regular meeting.
• Disposition: The library reserves the right to dispose of donated items as it sees fit, including adding them to the collection, selling them at book sales, or recycling.
Acknowledgment and Recognition
• Acknowledgment: Donors will receive a written acknowledgment of their donation upon request. The library does not appraise donated items for tax purposes.
• Recognition: Significant donations may be recognized through plaques, naming opportunities, or other forms of acknowledgment as deemed appropriate by the library and City of Livonia.
Use of Monetary Donations
• Allocation: Monetary donations will be used for the specific purposes designated by the donor. If no designation is made, funds will be used where the library deems most needed.
Rights and Responsibilities
• Library Rights: The library reserves the right to refuse any donation that does not meet its needs or guidelines.
• Donor Responsibilities: Donors are responsible for delivering or arranging the delivery of their donations to the library.
• Library Responsibilities: The library will follow applicable auditing standards and procedures outlined by the City of Livonia Finance Department.
Contact Information
For questions or to arrange a donation, please contact:
Livonia Public Library
734-466-2452
lvcc@livoniapubliclibrary.org
Adopted: August 15, 2024
MH
Mobile Hotspot Use
The Livonia Public Library, in an effort to harmonize the rights and interests of its patrons with the rights and interests of City of Livonia employees who service those patrons, sets forth the following policy:The Livonia Public Library Mobile Hotspots are intended for information gathering. Users are responsible for any personal data transmitted over the wireless internet. Users put themselves at risk of criminal or civil liability when they use the Internet illegally in violation of local, state and/or federal law. Use of the Mobile Hotspots contrary to this policy may subject a patron to loss of library privilege. These activities include, but are not restricted to:
Transmitting/accessing obscene materials.
Interfering with, disrupting, or destroying network users, services or equipment.
Computer fraud.
Distribution of unsolicited advertising or propaganda, or propagation of computer worms or viruses.
Hacking or spamming.
Infringement of copyright laws.
Mobile Hotspot access is intended for use with laptop computers, tablets and other wifi-enabled devices.
Failure to comply with the provisions of this policy may result in a loss of library privileges.
Hotspots are available for Livonia patrons only. Hotspots circulate for 2 weeks with no renewals. Livonia patrons may place a hold for the next available hotspot for pickup at the owning location (Carl Sandburg or Bennett Civic Center). Hotspots will remain on the holds pickup shelf for 24 hours before being released from “hold” status.
Wireless Network Policy
The Livonia Public Library, in an effort to harmonize the rights and interests of its patrons with the rights and interests of City of Livonia employees who service those patrons, sets forth the following policy:The Livonia Public Library Wireless Internet services are intended for information gathering. Users are responsible for any personal data transmitted over the unsecure wireless internet. Users put themselves at risk of criminal or civil liability when they use the Internet illegally in violation of local, state and/or federal law. Use of the Wireless Network contrary to this policy may subject a patron to loss of Wireless Network privileges, and/or ejection from the Livonia Public Library. These activities include, but are not restricted to:
Transmitting/accessing obscene materials.
Interfering with, disrupting, or destroying network users, services or equipment.
Computer fraud.
Distribution of unsolicited advertising or propaganda, or propagation of computer worms or viruses.
Hacking or spamming.
Infringement of copyright laws.
Wireless Network access is intended for use with Laptop computers, tablets and other handheld devices. It is against this policy to use a non-library desktop/personal computer on library premises without the specific consent of the Librarian-in-Charge at the time of use.
Failure to comply with the provisions of this statement may result in a loss of computer privileges.
Display Case Use Policy
As an educational and cultural institution and as part of its public service, the Livonia Public Library provides exhibit space for non-commercial displays of interest, information and enlightenment to the community.The Library retains priority rights for use of display cases for library purposes but encourages non-profit organizations, community groups, individual or government agencies to provide displays whenever space is available.
Display cases provide a public forum in which to exhibit educational, cultural or charitable materials. Provision of space for a display does not indicate endorsement by the library.
The Library reserves the right to determine the acceptability of a display. Approval rests with a designated staff member or the Library Director.
The Library reserves the right to schedule displays and determine the frequency an individual or group may provide a display.
The Library assumes no liability in the event of damage, destruction or theft of a display.
Unless other arrangements are made, a display will be exhibited for one month.
Failure to dismantle a display by the agreed upon date may result in its removal by library staff.