Purpose

The Gail Borden Public Library District Cash Management Policy is meant to provide direction for the collection, custody, and reporting of cash and cash equivalents, and outline specific cash handling requirements for staff and board. These strong internal controls are designed to safeguard and protect our Library.

Policy

The Gail Borden Public Library Board Treasurer and/or Library CEO are authorized to establish rules and procedures for the receipt, handling, and deposits of Library funds by staff or board members. Both the CEO and the Library Board Treasurer may conduct periodic reviews of cash handling procedures. If these practices are not followed, it is the responsibility of the CEO or the Library Board Treasurer to bring this to the attention of the Gail Borden Public Library Board of Trustees. It is the responsibility of the Board to rescind authorizations to any trustee who fails to comply with established rules or policies, and it is the responsibility of the CEO to rescind authorizations to any employee who fails to comply with established rules or policies.

Collection

All incoming cash or cash equivalents must:

  • Be accounted for when received.
  • Be added to the cash register after each transaction, and before the cash handler leaves their workstation.
  • Never be left unattended or accessible to unauthorized persons.
  • Be in a secure location by the end of each shift.
  • Be always kept to a minimum. Excess funds should be stored in a secure location or deposited by authorized staff or board trustee as soon as possible.
  • Be counted and handled out of sight of the public when reconciling.
  • Be reconciled monthly by the Finance Department.
Custody

Below are the cash handling responsibilities:

  • The Finance Staff are responsible for the care and liability of all cash and cash equivalents received by or for the library until deposit by authorized personnel.
  • The Library Board Treasurer and the CEO provide for the safekeeping and timely, accurate deposit of cash and cash equivalents.
  • The Library Board Treasurer and the CEO are responsible for assigning authorized personnel to receive cash or cash equivalents for reconciling and/or deposit.
  • The Library Board is responsible for the adequate separation of duties and checks and balances, which include cash collecting, reconciling, depositing, and reporting.
  • It is the responsibility of the CEO to inform the Library Board Treasurer of theft or loss immediately upon discovery.
  • It is the responsibility of the board to approve, and the CEO to allow on-site inspections of cash handling procedures by the Treasurer or designated party.
Responsibilities of Cash Handlers
  • Cash Handlers must be authorized by the Board and/or CEO.
  • Cash Handlers are responsible for the integrity of the cash or cash equivalents in their possession.
  • Cash Handlers may be assigned the duty of depositing cash or cash equivalents for the library in a timely manner.
  • Under no circumstances should a Cash Handler deposit cash or cash equivalents with their own personal funds.
  • Cash Handlers must comply with cash handling operations according to policies outlined in this document.
Reporting
  • All receipts and reports of cash handled will be made available for the audit and stored for seven years except for petty cash receipts which are kept for two years, as required by the State of Illinois.
  • All award-related information will be collected, transmitted, and stored in open and machine-readable formats.
Requesting
  • To request cash for any reason (such as event spare change and event financial), request must be submitted in writing to the Finance Department ideally one month in advance. Reimbursements must also be submitted in writing to the Finance Department but will be made via check or less than $50.00 which is paid out of petty cash.

Board Approved 2/13/2024

Gail Borden Public Library Policy on Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adults

  1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable adults while they are in the library. The library strives to provide a welcoming, secure, and supportive environment for all visitors, and this policy outlines the expectations for unattended children and vulnerable adults.
  2. Scope This policy applies to all individuals visiting the library, including children and vulnerable adults, and sets forth guidelines for the behavior, supervision, and responsibilities of both the library staff and the caregivers of these individuals.
  3. Definitions
    • Children: Individuals under the age of 18.
    • Vulnerable Adults: Individuals who are over 18 and may have a physical, mental, or emotional disability that affects their ability to care for themselves or make decisions.
    • Caregiver: A responsible adult who accompanies a child or vulnerable adult to the library, ensuring their safety and appropriate behavior.
    • Unattended: A child or vulnerable adult is considered unattended if they are at the library without an accompanying responsible adult or caregiver.
  4. Unattended Children
    • Responsibility: Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for the supervision and behavior of children while they are in the library.
    • Behavior: If a child is found causing disruption, distressing other patrons, or engaging in unsafe behavior, library staff will attempt to contact the responsible adult. If the responsible adult is not reachable, the child may be asked to leave or may be kept in a designated area until the responsible adult arrives.
    • After Hours: Children must be picked up by the library’s closing time. If no responsible adult is present by closing time, the library will contact local authorities to ensure the child's safety.
  5. Unattended Vulnerable Adults
    • Responsibility: Vulnerable adults should be accompanied by a caregiver, family member, or other responsible adult while at the library unless they can demonstrate the ability to care for themselves independently.
    • Behavior: If a vulnerable adult is engaged in unsafe or disruptive behavior, library staff will attempt to contact the responsible adult or caregiver. If no caregiver can be located, library staff may contact emergency services for assistance.
    • Support: The library is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to assist vulnerable adults in accessing library services. This accommodation may include additional support from staff, accessible resources, or assistance in ensuring the individual's safety and comfort.
  6. Library Staff Roles and Responsibilities
    • Safety Monitoring: Library Security staff will monitor library spaces for unattended children and vulnerable adults to ensure their safety. Staff will intervene if necessary to prevent harm or resolve disruptive behavior.
    • Communication with Caregivers: If a child or vulnerable adult is found unattended, library Security staff will attempt to contact the responsible adult or caregiver immediately. If available, staff will use the contact information on file.
    • Handling Emergencies: In an emergency, library Security staff will prioritize the individual's safety and well-being and may contact emergency services as needed.
  7. Violations
    • Unattended Children: If a child is found unattended and no responsible adult is available, staff will attempt to contact the parent or caregiver. If the adult cannot be reached, staff may call law enforcement to ensure the child’s safety.
    • Unattended Vulnerable Adults: If a vulnerable adult is left without a caregiver and is in distress, library staff will take appropriate steps to assist, including contacting emergency services or social services if necessary.
  8. Exceptions
    • Programs and Events: For certain library programs and events, children and vulnerable adults may be left in the care of trained library staff or volunteers. The program guidelines will clearly communicate these exceptions.

This policy is used in conjunction with the Rules of Conduct ordinance and Article V. of the Library Bill of Rights, Free Access to Libraries for Minors.

Board Approved 1/14/25

Sexual Harassment Policy

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
GAIL BORDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT
KANE AND COOK COUNTIES, ILLINOIS

ORDINANCE NO. 2020-3-1

AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING AN AMENDED
POLICY PROHIBITING SEXUAL HARASSMENT

WHEREAS, the Gail Borden Library District (the “Library”) is committed to maintaining a work environment free of sexual harassment for employees and elected officials because sexual harassment is a very serious matter having far-reaching effects on the lives and careers of individuals; and

WHEREAS, the Illinois General Assembly has recently enacted Public Act 101-0221, known as the “Workplace Transparency Act;” and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Workplace Transparency Act, governmental units are required to adopt an ordinance or resolution amending their sexual harassment policies to provide for a mechanism for reporting and independent review of allegations of sexual harassment made against an elected official of the governmental unit by another elected official of a governmental unit; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the Gail Borden Public Library District desire to adopt the amended Policy Prohibiting Sexual Harassment attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit A, which incorporates a mechanism for the reporting and independent review of allegations of sexual harassment made against an elected official by another elected official in order to comply with Public Act 101-0221.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Trustees of the Gail Borden Library District that:

SECTION 1:The Board of Trustees of the Gail Borden Library District hereby approve and adopt the amended Policy Prohibiting Sexual Harassment attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit A in order to comply with the Illinois Workplace Transparency Act and to provide the required policy for the investigation of sexual harassment complaints made by an elected official against an elected official.

SECTION 2: All prior existing sexual harassment policies of the Gail Borden Library District will be superseded by the amended Policy Prohibiting Sexual Harassment attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit A.

SECTION 3: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and approval according to law.

PASSED by the Board of Trustees of the Gail Borden Public Library District, Kane and Cook Counties, Illinois this 10th of March, 2020.

Ayes: 7
Nays: 0
Absent: 0
Abstain: 0

/s/ Jean Bednar

President, Board of Library Trustees of the Gail Borden Public Library District, Kane and Cook Counties, Illinois

/s/ Tiffany Henderson

Secretary, Board of Library Trustees of the Gail Borden Public Library District, Kane and Cook Counties, Illinois

2.15 Sexual Harassment

A.Policy

It is the policy of the Gail Borden Public Library District (“the Library”) to prohibit harassment of any person by any Library official, employee, or agent on the basis of sex or gender. Sexual harassment is contrary to the standards of the Library and is unacceptable misconduct which affects individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. All Library officials, employees and agents are prohibited from sexually harassing any person, regardless of any employment relationship or lack thereof.

Sexual harassment violates the Library’s long-standing policy against discrimination on the basis of sex. Sexual harassment is also illegal and is prohibited in the employment context by both Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended in 1991, and by the Illinois Human Rights Act. The Library strives to maintain a work environment free of sexual harassment for employees because sexual harassment is a very serious matter having far-reaching effects on the lives and careers of individuals. A claim under this policy may be brought by the Library or by an employee or member of the community based on the conduct of any Library employee. Sexual harassment constitutes misconduct subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment.

B.Definitions and Examples

1. Definition of Sexual Harassment: For the purposes of determining whether a particular course of conduct constitutes sexual harassment, and consistent with both Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended in 1991, and by the Illinois Human Rights Act, sexual harassment is defined as follows:

Any unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature when:

  1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment,
  2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or
  3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.

2. Examples of Sexual Harassment: Some examples of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

  1. Unwanted sexual statements – sexual or “dirty” jokes, comments on physical attributes, spreading rumors about or rating others as to sexual activity or performance, talking about one’s sexual activity in front of others, and displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures and/or written material. Unwanted sexual statements can be made in person, in writing, electronically (email, instant messaging, blogs, web pages, etc.), and otherwise.
  2. Unwanted personal attention – letters, telephone calls, visits, pressure for sexual favors, pressure for unnecessary personal interaction, pressure for dates where a sexual/romantic intent appears evident but remains unwanted, and stalking.
  3. Unwanted physical or sexual advances – touching, hugging, kissing, fondling, touching oneself sexually for others to view, sexual assault, intercourse, or other sexual activity.
  4. Textual/Electronic: “sexting” (electronically sending messages with sexual content, including pictures and video), the use of sexually explicit language, harassment, cyber stalking and threats via all forms of electronic communication (e-mail, text/picture/video messages, intranet/on-line postings, blogs, instant messages and social network websites like Facebook and Twitter).
  5. Visual: posters, signs, pin-ups or slogans of a sexual nature, viewing pornographic material or websites.

Conduct alleged to be sexual harassment will be evaluated by considering the totality of the particular circumstances, including the nature, frequency, intensity, location, context, and duration of the questioned behavior. Although repeated incidents generally create a stronger claim of sexual harassment, a serious incident, even if isolated, can be sufficient.

3. Definition of Retaliation: For the purposes of determining whether a particular course of conduct constitutes sexual harassment, and consistent with both Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended in 1991, and by the Illinois Human Rights Act, Retaliation is defined as follows:

  1. When an employer takes a materially adverse action because an individual has engaged, or may engage, in activity in furtherance of state, federal, or laws.
  2. The reprimand, discharge, suspension, demotion, denial of promotion or transfer, or change in the terms or conditions of employment of any Library employee that is taken in retaliation for a Library employee’s involvement in protected activity pursuant to this Policy.

4. Examples of Retaliation: Some examples of conduct that may constitute retaliation include, but are not limited to:

  1. Reprimand the employee or give a performance evaluation that is lower than it should be;
  2. Transfer the employee to a less desirable position;
  3. Engage in verbal or physical abuse;
  4. Threaten to make, or actually make reports to authorities (such as reporting immigration status or contacting the police);
  5. Increase scrutiny;
  6. Spread false rumors, treat a family member negatively (for example, cancel a contract with the person's spouse); or have on an individual; no limited timeframe will be instituted for reporting sexual harassments complaints. Delayed reporting of complaints will not, in and of itself, preclude the Library from taking remedial action.

C.Reporting Sexual Harassment

An employee or individual who either observes sexual harassment or believes herself/himself to be the object of sexual harassment may complain to the Library.

  1. Reporting of Incident: All employees, officers or other persons are urged to report any suspected sexual harassment by another employee, officer, volunteer, or other person conducting business with the Library to the Director for Human Resources, a supervisor, or any member of the Library management, except where the person is the individual accused of the harassment. In that case the complaint should be reported to the Library’s designated alternate. A supervisor who receives a report under this policy must immediately inform the Director of Human Resources. All allegations of harassment will be investigated thoroughly. The facts will determine the response of the Library to each allegation. Substantiated acts of harassment will be met with appropriate disciplinary action up to and including termination. All information regarding any specific incident will be kept confidential within the necessary boundaries of the fact-finding process.
  2. Investigation of Complaint: The Library will initiate an investigation of the suspected sexual harassment within five (5) working days of the notification. If necessary, the Library representative receiving the complaint may designate another supervisory or management employee to assist him/her in the investigation. The investigation will include an interview with the person(s) who made the initial report, the person(s) towards whom the suspected harassment was directed, and the individual(s) accused of the harassment may also be interviewed.
  3. Report: The person responsible for investigating the complaint shall prepare a written report that sets forth findings and conclusions respective to the complaint. The report shall include a finding that sexual harassment occurred, sexual harassment did not occur, or there is inconclusive evidence as to whether sexual harassment occurred. A copy of the report will be given to the person(s) who made the initial report, the person(s) to whom the suspected harassment was directed, and the individual(s) accused of the harassment.
  4. Confidentiality of Records: Persons who report incidents of sexual harassment are encouraged to keep written notes in order to accurately record the offensive conduct. Every effort shall be made to keep all matters related to the investigation and various reports confidential. In the event of a lawsuit, however, the Library advises that records it maintains and the complainant maintains may be not considered privileged from disclosure.
  5. Timeframe for Reporting Complaint: The Library encourages a prompt reporting of complaints so that rapid response and appropriate action may be takes. However, due to the sensitivity of these problems and because of the emotional toll such misconduct may have on an individual; no limited timeframe will be instituted for reporting sexual harassments complaints. Delayed reporting of complaints will not, in and of itself, preclude the Library from taking remedial action.
  6. External Complaints: Any employee who believes they have been the subject of harassment or retaliation for complaining about harassment also has the right to file a charge of civil rights violations with the Illinois Department of Human Rights and, if substantial evidence to support the charge is found to exist, to have such an opportunity as provided by law and applicable regulations to engage in conciliation with the Library and/or to have the charge heard in a public hearing before an Administrative Law Judge of the Illinois Human Rights Commission or in a court of law, as provided by statute. For further information, you may call or write to the Illinois Department Human Rights, 100 W. Randolph Street, Room 10-100, Chicago, Illinois 60631, (312)814-6269.

D.Prohibition On Retaliation For Reporting Sexual Harassment Allegations

1. No Retaliation: No Library official, employee, or agent shall take any retaliatory action against a Library employee due to a Library employee’s:

  1. Disclosure or threatened disclosure of any violation of this policy,
  2. The provision of information related to or testimony before any public body conducting an investigation, hearing or inquiry into any violation of this policy, or
  3. Assistance or participation in a proceeding to enforce the provisions of this policy.

No individual making a report will be retaliated against even if a report made in good faith is not substantiated. In addition, any witness will be protected from retaliation.

2. Whistleblower Protection: Similar to the prohibition against retaliation contained herein, the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act (5 ILCS 430/15-10) provides whistleblower protection from retaliatory action such as reprimand, discharge, suspension, demotion, or denial of promotion or transfer that occurs in retaliation for an employee who does any of the following:

  1. Discloses or threatens to disclose to a supervisor or to a public body an activity, policy, or practice of any officer, member, State agency, or other State employee that the State employee reasonably believes is in violation of a law, rule, or regulation,
  2. Provides information to or testifies before any public body conducting an investigation, hearing, or inquiry into any violation of a law, rule, or regulation by any officer, member, State agency or other State employee, or
  3. Assists or participates in a proceeding to enforce the provisions of the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act.

Pursuant to the Whistleblower Act (740 ILCS 174/15(a)), an employer may not retaliate against an employee who discloses information in a court, an administrative hearing, or before a legislative commission or committee, or in any other proceeding, where the employee has reasonable cause to believe that the information discloses a violation of a State or federal law, rule, or regulation. In addition, an employer may not retaliate against an employee for disclosing information to a government or law enforcement agency, where the employee has reasonable cause to believe that the information discloses a violation of a State or federal law, rule, or regulation. (740 ILCS 174/15(b)).

3. Protection Under The Illinois Human Rights Act: According to the Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/6-101), it is a civil rights violation for a person, or for two or more people to conspire, to retaliate against a person because he/she has opposed that which he/she reasonably and in good faith believes to be sexual harassment in employment, because he/she has made a charge, filed a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under the Illinois Human Rights Act.

4. External Complaints of Retaliation to the IDHR or EEOC: An employee who is suddenly transferred to a lower paying job or passed over for a promotion after filing a complaint with IDHR or EEOC, may file a retaliation charge – due within 180 days (IDHR) or 300 days (EEOC) of the alleged retaliation.

E.Consequences of a Violation of the Prohibition on Sexual Harassment

  1. Discipline: Disciplinary action will be taken against any employee found to have engaged in sexual harassment of any other person. The Library has the managerial right to impose discipline up to and including termination, to deal with sexual harassment, unreasonable conduct or discrimination. Where a hostile work environment has been found to exist, the Library will take all reasonable steps to eliminate the conduct creating such environment. If an investigation results in a finding that the complainant falsely accused another of sexual harassment knowingly or in a malicious manner, the complainant will be subject to appropriate discipline, up to and including termination.
  2. Statutory Penalties: In addition to any and all other discipline that may be applicable pursuant to Library policies, employment agreements, procedures, employee handbooks and/or collective bargaining agreement, any person who violates this policy or the Prohibition on Sexual Harassment contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-65, may be subject to a fine of up to $5,000 per offense, applicable discipline or discharge by the Library and any applicable fines and penalties established pursuant to local ordinance, State law or Federal law. Each violation may constitute a separate offense. Any discipline imposed by the Library shall be separate and distinct from any penalty imposed by an ethics commission and any fines or penalties imposed by a court of law or a State or Federal agency.
  3. For Penalties for Knowingly Making A False Report:
    1. False Reports: A false report is a report of sexual harassment made by an accuser using the sexual harassment report to accomplish some end other than stopping sexual harassment or retaliation for reporting sexual harassment. A false report is not a report made in good faith which cannot be proven. Given the seriousness of the consequences for the accused, a false or frivolous report is a severe offense that can itself result in disciplinary action. Any person who intentionally makes a false report alleging a violation of any provision of this policy shall be subject to discipline or discharge pursuant to applicable Library policies, employment agreements, procedures, employee handbooks and/or collective bargaining agreements.
    2. Statutory Penalties: In addition, any person who intentionally makes a false report alleging a violation of any provision of the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act to an ethics commission, an inspector general, the State Police, a State’s Attorney, the Attorney General, or any other law enforcement official is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. An ethics commission may levy an administrative fine of up to $5,000 against any person who intentionally makes a false, frivolous or bad faith allegation.

F. Elected Officials. Any allegation of harassment by an elected official against another elected official may be reported to the Board President. If the Board President is the person making the allegation or is the person alleged to have committed the harassment, then the report may be made to any other elected official. The preference is that such complaints be submitted in writing with as much detail as possible regarding the nature of the incident(s) and who is responsible for the alleged harassment, when the incident(s) occurred, where they occurred, whether or not they were witnessed and by whom and whether or not there is any physical evidence (video, audio, text, email, social media etc.) that needs to be identified and preserved. While there is a preference for complete and detailed written complaints, all complaints, including verbal complaints, will be thoroughly investigated. Upon receipt of an allegation of harassment pursuant to this paragraph, the person to whom the report has been made shall immediately refer the complaint to the Library’s legal counsel for review. The Library’s legal counsel shall then appoint a qualified independent attorney or consultant to review and investigate all allegations set forth in the complaint.

Approved by Board of Trustees 1/9/18

The Gail Borden Public Library District defines capital assets as those assets with an individual cost of more than $5000 and with a useful life of over two years.

Capital assets include land, buildings, improvements, vehicles and equipment.

The Library will record these assets at historical cost or estimated historical cost in the Library’s financial records.

The Library will depreciate these capital assets using the straight-line method, with half year in the first year, with useful lives of 7-40 years.

03/08/16

    1. Purpose of Statement

      The Gail Borden Public Library District Resource Selection and Maintenance Policy documents the philosophies and procedures governing resource selection and maintenance including public programs, exhibits, displays and public announcement postings. The policy outlines the objectives, responsibilities and standards that have been established.

       

    2. Objectives in Materials Selections

      The general objective in materials selection for the Library is to create a high-use, popular materials collection that reflects the interests and needs of the library community. 

       

    3. Responsibility for Selection

      Material selection is done under the coordination of the Director of Collection Services utilizing librarian-created profiles and recommendations. Selection is also initiated through customer or staff-driven requests that must fall within the criteria for selection.

      The Community Services and Program Development Division and the KidSpace Department are responsible for program selection. The Director of Visual Arts and Exhibits is responsible for exhibits.

      The final responsibility for selection of resources rests with the Executive Director, as authorized by the Board of Trustees.

       

    4. Criteria for Selection

      Print and Non-print Materials:

      The general criteria considered in selecting print and non-print materials include: customer demand, significance and value to the existing collection; currency or timeliness, qualifications of author or producer; suitability of subject and style for intended audience; customer request; price; attention given to the item by reviewers and general news media; and technical quality of materials.

      The acquisition of a variety of non-print materials is under constant evaluation and is subject to change as technology develops. Among the determining factors in selection are technological compatibility, item cost, budget, number of requests, use and availability.

      In selection of all items, consideration will be given to the work as a whole. No work shall be excluded because of specific passages or pieces taken out of context.

      Electronic Resources:

      Electronic resources include digital media, subscription databases and the Internet. In general, these are computerized resources that are available for use in the library and/or through the library website.

      The Internet, which has been selected as a library resource, supplements and complements the physical collections in the Library by allowing users to connect to resources created and maintained outside the Library. Internet content is ever-changing; only sites which appear on the Library's homepage are selected and recommended by staff.

      Public access internet computers are provided with filtering software to limit access to web sites that could be considered inappropriate as well as to protect against computer viruses. Use of filtering software, however, is not a guarantee that all sites which users might find inappropriate have been blocked. The Library's Internet Access Statement is considered part of this policy.

      The general criteria considered in selecting subscription databases, digital media and web sites for the Library's homepage include: customer demand, significance and value to the existing collection; qualifications of the producer; suitability of subject and style for intended audience; ease of use; currency or timeliness; price; attention given to the resource by reviewers and general news media; and technical quality.

      Selection of print, non-print and electronic resources does not constitute an endorsement of the content or views expressed.

      Exhibits:

      Exhibits presented by the Library are offered to highlight library services, collections, and programs. It is the intention of the Library to provide high quality exhibits to enhance the education, cultural enrichment, entertainment, and awareness of district residents. The Library also seeks to attract and inspire new and diverse audiences to the Library and to engage them with exhibits they might otherwise never have the opportunity to see. Exhibits may reflect diverse themes, materials, and media. They may also complement current Library collections and services; and reflect the interests, character, history, and people in the community.

      Additional funding for exhibits will be sought through fundraising and/or grants.

      Library sponsorship of an exhibit does not constitute an endorsement of the content or the views expressed by the exhibit.

      Programs:

      The Library supports its mission of connecting people with ideas and information by developing programs for 21st century literacies and skills.

      Library-initiated programs should provide “for the interest, information and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves”, as stated in Article 1 of the Library Bill of Rights. Since the community comprises people with different backgrounds, sensibilities, personalities, interests, and needs, GBPL will consciously try to offer a schedule of programs that balances all elements. The content of programs will not be limited by race, nationality, personal history, or political or religious views.

      Programs will make use of the skills and talents of staff members as well as individuals and organizations from the community, region and beyond. All programs are open to the public, although some may be designed for specific audiences or ages. Fees may be charged for certain types of programs.

      Library-initiated programming will utilize Library staff, books, Library and community resources, displays and media presentations. The Library draws upon other community resources in developing programs and actively partners with community agencies, organizations, educational and cultural institutions and individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs. To reach target audiences, these programs may take place virtual, inside the library facilities as well as at other venues within the library district or area, in keeping with the Library’s Rules of Conduct Policy.

      Requests from individuals to present programs are considered and weighed against the public’s demonstrated interest in the topic, budget, and other allocated resources as well as the presenter’s demonstrated qualifications, expertise and reputation. Decisions on which programs to offer are made by the Library’s staff program coordinators and managers with oversight from Division Chiefs of Community Services & Program Development and Public Services.

      Registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited. Any sales of products at Library programs must be approved by the Library prior to the date of the program. Programs are not offered that are of a purely commercial nature intended to solicit business. However with permission by the Public Programs Manager or the Division Chiefs, authors may be allowed to sell their books as a resource to readers.

      Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program or the views expressed by participants.

      Displays and Public Announcement Postings

      Display space is a resource to be utilized in the fulfillment of the Library’s mission and as such should represent educational, cultural, information or recreational information. Individuals, groups and non-commercial organizations located within the library district may display materials in designated areas within library facilities on a temporary basis, subject to the approval of designated library staff.

      A limited amount of designated space is available for postings of educational, cultural or charitable events. Announcements must be approved by designated Library staff before posting. Preference will be given to announcements of events in the Elgin area and Chicago. If space permits, cultural or educational events in other suburban areas will be posted.

      The Library does not advocate or endorse the viewpoints of displays or public announcement postings.

       

    5. Selection Tools

      For library print materials, priority is given to vendor selection tools that also have the capability of loading and invoicing selected items electronically. Reviews may be consulted in professional library journals as well as in mainstream magazines, websites and newspapers to determine if selection criteria are met.

       

    6. Scope of Collection:

      The scope for the majority of the library print collection is to be a popular and actively used collection. The Local History and Genealogy collections primary focus is on areas within the Fox Valley area and are of more permanent value. Efforts are made to support local school curricula from preschool through adult learners. Presence of a resource does not indicate endorsement of its contents by the Library.

       

    7. Collection Maintenance:

      The continuous review of library materials is necessary as a means of maintaining an active library collection of current interest to users. The library follows “Evaluating Library Collections” as outlined in the Library Bill of Rights.

       

    8. Gifts and Donations

      Gifts and donations of print and non-print materials are accepted by the Library and guided by the “Gifts to the Library” policy. The Library reserves the right to evaluate and select gifts of materials in accordance with the criteria applied to purchased materials. A statement of the number and type of items donated is supplied to the donor if requested. However, the Library gives no statement of value for any individual item.

      An individual or organization may donate money to the Library for the purchase of new resources.  The donor may specify the type and subject matter of items to be purchased within the guidelines of this policy. Appropriate book plates will be placed in or on the gift items at the donor’s request. The immediate family is notified of any memorial gift and acknowledgment is made to the donor. 

       

    9. Reconsideration of Resources

      Strong objection to any library resources must be made in writing according to the “Procedures for Reconsideration of Library Resources” below. A copy of the reconsideration procedures as well as forms for registering objections may be obtained in the department where the resource in question is found or in the Administration office. All individuals have the right to choose which library resources they will use. However, no one has the right to restrict this freedom for others. No print or non-print resource in question is automatically removed from the Library because of an objection to it.

       

    10. Procedure for reconsideration of library resources

      A. If district residents wish to file a complaint about library materials, Form I, Objection to Library Materials, should be completed. This form stays on file with the Division Chief of Access Services. The Director of Collection Services will examine the material, as well as critical reviews of the material. Repeated complaints about specific works or materials in general will generate a reconsideration of a specific work and/or selection policies.

      B. District residents who wish to file a complaint about a specific library program or exhibit should complete Form II which will be reviewed by appropriate staff and the Executive Director.

      C. If residents wish to have materials reconsidered (as opposed to filing a complaint without definite action), they may fill out Form III, Request for Reconsideration of Library Resources.

      • 1. When Form III is completely filled out and returned to the library, the Director of Collection Services will review the objection and the material to determine whether the item should remain or be removed from the collection. Various resources including published reviews will be utilized to make a determination. The Executive Director and Division Chief of Access Services should be informed of the objection and of the recommendation.

      • 2. The Director of Collection Services will write a letter to the customer initiating the complaint, outlining the above procedures and stating the decision reached. The letter may also include a statement inviting the customer to the library to discuss the matter with the Director of Collection Services, Division Chief of Access Services and Executive Director.

      • 3. After an interview with the Director of Collection Services, Division Chief of Access Services and Executive Director, a customer desiring further action can make a request in writing for a hearing before the Board of Trustees who have final authority.

        •  

    11. Materials Disposition

      As stewards of the library district's tax dollars, staff work diligently to meet and exceed the expectations and desires of our customers. Each year hundreds of thousands of books, movies, music, and other materials are published. Our staff make judicious decisions with regard to which of these materials will be purchased and showcased in our library. When the staff are required to reevaluate the disposition of a book or other item, we follow a clear process to maximize the return on investment for our tax payers.

      • A. Criteria for Deaccession

        Circulating and in-house library materials of all types (which include, but are not limited to books, journals, microforms, CDs, DVDs, Playaways, computer games, art prints, and maps) may be candidates for deaccession if they meet any of the following criteria:

        • Currency:

          The content of library materials should be accurate and up-to-date. Materials that are superseded by newer, revised, or updated editions may be dispossessed.

        • Usage:

          Low or no usage may be a factor in deaccessioning decisions. Library personnel may consult circulation statistics or other reports to determine viable candidates for deaccession

        • Physical Condition:

          Materials that are badly deteriorated, infested, or damaged will be disposed.

        • Duplicates:

          Because of space limitations the library may de-access duplicate copies of library materials. Library staff will take into consideration the need to have more than one copy of a title on hand, especially for material that are heavily used or are part of a library-wide program. Note that duplicate copies may be identified as 'leased' and in this case guidelines stated in the leasing contract will be followed when returning these items.

        • Completeness:

          Materials that are part of a multi-volume set of which the library does not have all volumes may be deaccessioned.

        • Local Significance:

          The library will work to retain materials that are considered to have local significance within the library district with the exception of multiple copies or those in extremely poor physical condition and where preservation efforts have been exhausted.

        • Format Obsolescence:

          Materials in obsolete formats may be withdrawn if content is available elsewhere, item is in poor condition or the majority of the community no longer utilizes the format.

      • B. Disposition of De-Accessed Materials
        • Material approved for deaccession may be utilized in different manners depending on the physical state of the item. Staff may offer deaccessioned items to other libraries or to other tax-exempt organizations as permitted by 75 ILCS 5/4-16 (from Ch. 81, par 4-16). Library staff may use de-accessed items for deposit collections within the library district, for programming, as giveaways at library-events or for other organizations within the library district that have partnered with the library in the past. Items not used by the staff will go to the Library Foundation to be sorted for sale or recycle by Library Foundation volunteers as they see fit. Fully damaged materials may be disposed or recycled.
      • C. Review and Revision of Guidelines
        • Disposition guidelines will be reviewed regularly by the Director of Collection Services in collaboration with the Division Chief of Access Services, and additional library personnel in Public Services and Community Services & Program Development.

    12. Supporting Documents

      The Gail Borden Public Library District subscribes to the provisions of the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement as adopted by the American Library Association.

      Furthermore the Library endorses all of the Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights

       

An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights

The continuous review of library materials is necessary as a means of maintaining an active library collection of current interest to users. In the process, materials may be added and physically deteriorated or obsolete materials may be replaced or removed in accordance with the collection maintenance policy of a given library and the needs of the community it serves. Continued evaluation is closely related to the goals and responsibilities of each library and is a valuable tool of collection development. This procedure is not to be used as a convenient means to remove materials that might be viewed as controversial or objectionable. Such abuse of the evaluation function violates the principles of intellectual freedom and is in opposition to the Preamble and Articles I and II of the Library Bill of Rights, which state:

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

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
The American Library Association opposes internal censorship and strongly urges that libraries adopt guidelines setting forth the positive purposes and principles of evaluation of materials in library collections.


Adopted February 2, 1973, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; June 2, 2008.

An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights

Libraries: An American Value states, “We protect the rights of individuals to express their opinions about library resources and services.” The American Library Association declares as a matter of firm principle that it is the responsibility of every library to have a clearly defined written policy for collection development that includes a procedure for review of challenged materials. Selection of online resources, including Web sites, should also be governed by this collection development policy and be subject to the same procedures for review of challenged materials. This policy reflects the Library Bill of Rights and is approved by the appropriate governing authority.

Challenged materials should remain in the collection during the review process. The Library Bill of Rights states in Article I that “Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation,” and in Article II, that “Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.” Freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution of the United States, but constitutionally protected expression is often separated from unprotected expression only by a dim and uncertain line. The Supreme Court has held that the Constitution requires a procedure designed to examine critically all challenged expression before it can be suppressed.1 A hearing is a part of this procedure. Materials that meet the criteria for selection and inclusion within the collection should not be removed.

Therefore, any attempt, be it legal or extra-legal,* to regulate or suppress materials in libraries must be closely scrutinized to the end that protected expression is not abridged.

Adopted June 25, 1971; amended July 1, 1981; amended January 10, 1990; January 28, 2009, by the ALA Council.

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*“Extra-legal” refers to actions that are not regulated or sanctioned by law. These can include attempts to remove or suppress materials by library staff and library board members that circumvent the library's collection development policy, or actions taken by elected officials or library board members outside the established legal process for making legislative or board decisions. “Legal process” includes challenges to library materials initiated and conducted pursuant to the library's collection development policy, actions taken by legislative bodies or library boards during official sessions or meetings, or litigation undertaken in courts of law with jurisdiction over the library and the library's governing body.

1Bantam Books, Inc. v. Sullivan, 372 U.S. 58 (1963)

An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights

Expurgating library materials is a violation of the Library Bill of Rights. Expurgation as defined by this interpretation includes any deletion, excision, alteration, editing, or obliteration of any part(s) of books or other library resources by the library, its agents, or its parent institution (if any) when done for the purposes of censorship. Such action stands in violation of Articles I, II, and III of the Library Bill of Rights, which state that “Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation,” that “Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval,” and that “Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.”

The act of expurgation denies access to the complete work and the entire spectrum of ideas that the work is intended to express. This is censorship. Expurgation based on the premise that certain portions of a work may be harmful to minors is equally a violation of the Library Bill of Rights.

Expurgation without permission from the rights holder may violate the copyright provisions of the United States Code.

The decision of rights holders to alter or expurgate future versions of a work does not impose a duty on librarians to alter or expurgate earlier versions of a work. Librarians should resist such requests in the interest of historical preservation and opposition to censorship. Furthermore, librarians oppose expurgation of resources available through licensed collections. Expurgation of any library resource imposes a restriction, without regard to the rights and desires of all library users, by limiting access to ideas and information.


Adopted February 2, 1973, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; January 10, 1990; July 2, 2008.

An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights

Library policies and procedures that effectively deny minors equal and equitable access to all library resources and services available to other users violate the Library Bill of Rights. The American Library Association opposes all attempts to restrict access to library services, materials, and facilities based on the age of library users.

Article V of the Library Bill of Rights states, "A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views." The "right to use a library" includes free access to, and unrestricted use of, all the services, materials, and facilities the library has to offer. Every restriction on access to, and use of, library resources, based solely on the chronological age, educational level, literacy skills, or legal emancipation of users violates Article V.

Libraries are charged with the mission of providing services and developing resources to meet the diverse information needs and interests of the communities they serve. Services, materials, and facilities that fulfill the needs and interests of library users at different stages in their personal development are a necessary part of library resources. The needs and interests of each library user, and resources appropriate to meet those needs and interests, must be determined on an individual basis. Librarians cannot predict what resources will best fulfill the needs and interests of any individual user based on a single criterion such as chronological age, educational level, literacy skills, or legal emancipation. Equitable access to all library resources and services shall not be abridged through restrictive scheduling or use policies.

Libraries should not limit the selection and development of library resources simply because minors will have access to them. Institutional self-censorship diminishes the credibility of the library in the community, and restricts access for all library users. Children and young adults unquestionably possess First Amendment rights, including the right to receive information through the library in print, nonprint, or digital format. Constitutionally protected speech cannot be suppressed solely to protect children or young adults from ideas or images a legislative body believes to be unsuitable for them.1

Librarians and library governing bodies should not resort to age restrictions in an effort to avoid actual or anticipated objections, because only a court of law can determine whether material is not constitutionally protected. The mission, goals, and objectives of libraries cannot authorize librarians or library governing bodies to assume, abrogate, or overrule the rights and responsibilities of parents and guardians. As Libraries: An American Value states, “We affirm the responsibility and the right of all parents and guardians to guide their own children's use of the library and its resources and services.” Librarians and library governing bodies cannot assume the role of parents or the functions of parental authority in the private relationship between parent and child. Librarians and governing bodies should maintain that only parents and guardians have the right and the responsibility to determine their children's—and only their children’s—access to library resources. Parents and guardians who do not want their children to have access to specific library services, materials, or facilities should so advise their children.

Lack of access to information can be harmful to minors. Librarians and library governing bodies have a public and professional obligation to ensure that all members of the community they serve have free, equal, and equitable access to the entire range of library resources regardless of content, approach, format, or amount of detail. This principle of library service applies equally to all users, minors as well as adults. Librarians and library governing bodies must uphold this principle in order to provide adequate and effective service to minors.

See also Access to Resources and Services in the School Library Media Program and Access to Children and Young Adults to Nonprint Materials.


Adopted June 30, 1972, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; July 3, 1991; June 30, 2004; July 2, 2008.

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1See Erznoznik v. City of Jacksonville, 422 U.S. 205 (1975) "Speech that is neither obscene as to youths nor subject to some other legitimate proscription cannot be suppressed solely to protect the young from ideas or images that a legislative body thinks unsuitable for them. In most circumstances, the values protected by the First Amendment are no less applicable when government seeks to control the flow of information to minors." See also Tinker v. Des Moines School Dist., 393 U.S.503 (1969); West Virginia Bd. of Ed. v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943); AAMA v. Kendrick,. 244 F.3d 572 (7th Cir. 2001).

We work together to ensure all district residents are proud members of the Gail Borden Public Library.

The Library strives to be…

  • Relevant, responsive and highly visible to our community.
  • A great equalizer transforming the lives of people in our diverse community by creating opportunity and hope.
  • A creative yet pragmatic innovator as it enhances services to our community.
  • A highly desirable and effective partner that joins with other organizations to enrich the lives of the people in our community.
  • An exemplary library to watch in the national arena, drawing attention to our community and our profession.
  • A supportive work environment where innovative, progressive ideas and talents are encouraged to better serve our community.

 

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