CITY OF HOMER                                 City Manager/LAB

                                                             HOMER, ALASKA                                                            

 

                                                            RESOLUTION 06-81 

 

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL REVISING CERTAIN PORTIONS OF THE HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY POLICY MANUAL.

 

WHEREAS, The 2002 Homer Public Library Policy was adopted via Resolution 02-35(A) on June 10, 2002; and

 

WHEREAS, The new Homer Public Library will require some updated, revised, and new operational policies; and

 

WHEREAS, The Library Advisory Board has worked on revisions and updates for the of the policy for the new Library; and

 

WHEREAS, The summary of the changes is noted in Memorandum 06-109 regarding Library Use Conduct, Gifts and Donations, Display and Exhibit Policy and Space Use Policy; and

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council hereby adopts the following revisions to the Homer Public Library Policy:

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

I. COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICY

 

M. GIFTS AND DONATIONS

[The library accepts donations of materials with the understanding that gifts to be added to the collection must meet established selection criteria and are deemed to enrich the collection by the library director. Gifts not retained for the collection will be added to the Friends of the Homer Public Library=s book sale.

 

No condition or restriction of gifts can be honored. It is the policy of the library not to accept special collections of books and like material to be kept together as separate entity. Gift collections may be accepted by the library with the understanding that they be integrated into the general collection with the only form of special identification being a book plate.

 

The library encourages cash gifts for the purchase of memorials, tributes or other reasons. Selection of materials must be based on the same criteria used to select items for the collection. The general nature of the book or its subject area can be based upon the interests of the deceased or the wishes of the donor and the needs of the library.

 

Gifts of money, real property, personal property, or stock will be accepted if conditions attached to them are acceptable to the Library Advisory Board and/or the City of Homer administration.


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The library shall not accept for deposit materials that are not outright gifts. Donations are added to the Homer Public Library=s Gift and Building Fund. Investment of funds is managed by the Finance Department of the City of Homer.

 

The library cannot legally appraise gifts for tax purposes. Donors are offered a signed and dated gift statement as a receipt (please see attached form).]

 

The Library Director shall be authorized to accept gifts on behalf of the library and will, in most cases, accept on her sole authority unrestricted gifts of cash or marketable securities, unrestricted donations of books and other library materials, and in-kind donations specifically designated or solicited for existing projects.

No conditions or restrictions on donations of library materials can be honored. The library adds gift materials to the collection with the understanding that such material is an integral part of the collection. The library will not set up special collections and will not permit circulation restrictions or stipulations for future use. Books and other materials not deemed appropriate for inclusion in the library collection may be offered to other libraries or institutions or offered for sale. The library will be glad to provide a list of needed materials.

Donors may place restrictions on other categories of gifts under the following conditions:

_The restriction must be compatible with the overall mission of the library.

_The restriction shall not impede the ability of the library to acquire gifts from other sources.

_The restriction shall not place undue burden on the library=s resources.

_The restriction shall not subject the library to adverse publicity.

 

When considering any gift, the Library Director may solicit the recommendation of a gift acceptance committee, a group made up of advisors knowledgeable about financial, legal, and community matters, to be chosen by the Library Director. Authority for accepting or rejecting gifts resides with the library director, although some gifts may require further approval of the Library Advisory Board and/or the Homer City Council. Gifts that may require an opinion from the gift acceptance committee, include, but are not limited to, the following:

_Any gift with recognition requirements other than those ordinarily provided by the library or Friends of the Library.                                                                                                    _Cash given to create a new library program.                                                                              _Gifts of art or other valuables that will encumber the library either financially or administratively.


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    _Securities that are not readily marketable. These may include closely held stock, limited partnership interests, joint venture interests, and other forms of investments that may not fall into the marketable securities category.        

_Real estate. Every proposed gift of real estate must be examined on its individual merits, including, but not limited to, the title to the property and its insurability, the results of environmental investigations, and marketability. A current appraisal completed by a qualified appraiser must be provided by the donor. 

_Gift annuities.                                                                                                                              _Charitable Remainder or Lead trusts.                                                                                         _Named endowment funds.                                                                                                            _Life insurance policies. Any proposed gift of life insurance must be examined on its merits, including, but not limited to, the type of insurance, the status (paid-up, vanished, etc.) of the policy, outstanding loan balances, and the long-term viability of the insurance company

The library=s acceptance of a non-monetary gift does not guarantee its retention as library property in perpetuity. All non-monetary gifts are subject to disposition. Because of limited space, as a general rule the library is unable to accept donations of art, furnishings, or other tangible personal property given on condition that they be retained by or displayed at the library. The library does not accept for deposit materials that are not outright gifts. The library reserves the right to decline any gift that interferes with its ability to fulfill its mission or that unduly encumbers either the library or the City of Homer.

The library cannot legally appraise gifts for tax purposes. Donors will be provided a signed and dated gift statement as a receipt.

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

II. POLICY FOR LIBRARY USE

A. LIBRARY USER CONDUCT:

The Homer Public Library is available to persons of all ages.  While everyone has an equal right to access library services and facilities, no person has the right to interfere with the ability of others to use and enjoy library resources, services, and facilities.

 

To ensure that visitors may enjoy a pleasant library experience, the following rules have been established and adopted by the Library Advisory Board.

 

The library director and staff are responsible for enforcing customer conduct in the library.  Anyone found to be interfering with another=s use of the library will be asked to stop the behavior or activity.  If the behavior continues, the staff will ask the individual to leave the


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library.  Failure to leave will result in staff calling the police for assistance.  Repeated or serious violations may result in denial of library privileges and permanent exclusion.

 

To provide a fulfilling library experience for everyone, no person shall:

$                   [Display or possess weapons, including concealed handguns.

$                   Possess alcohol or any illegal substance, or be intoxicated, whether by alcohol or other mind-altering drugs, to the point of impairment of his or her mental or physical abilities.

$                   Exhibit disruptive, uncontrolled behavior or exceed acceptable noise levels.

$                   Verbally abuse library users or staff.

$                   Harass users or staff, or attempt to engage users or staff in unwanted discussion.

$                   Enter the library without shoes or shirts.

$                   Use a skateboard, or scooter, or skate in the library.

$                   Exhibit bodily hygiene or fragrance that is distracting to users or staff to the point that it interferes with users= use of library resources or staff work.

$                   Make unauthorized or inappropriate use of library equipment (for example, computers, fire alarms, or emergency exit door).

$                   Destroy or deface library resources or property or the personal property of customers or staff.

$                   Steal library property.

$                   Trespass into any area closed to the public.

$                   Eat or drink in public areas, unless authorized by library personnel.

$                   Circulate petitions or solicit funds.

$                   Smoke in any area of the library.

$                   Use cell phones to receive or make phone calls while in the library.]

$                   Disturb or distract others.

$                   Use abusive or profane language.

$                   Enter the library without shoes or shirts.

$                   Use a skateboard, scooter, roller or in-line skates in the library.

$                   Carry weapons of any type.

$                   Circulate petitions or solicit funds.

$                   Use cell phones to make or receive calls while in the library.

$                   Consume or possess alcohol or illegal drugs or be under the influence.

$                   Make unauthorized or inappropriate use of library equipment (for example, computers, copiers, fire alarms, or emergency exit doors).

$                   Destroy or deface library property or the property of patrons or staff.

$                   Trespass into any area closed to the public.

$                   Bring animals into the facility, with the exception of service animals such as dogs serving patrons experiencing disabilities.

$                   Distribute or post materials that have not been previously approved by library personnel.

$                   Exhibit bodily hygiene or fragrance that is distracting to users or staff to the point that it interferes with users= use of library resources or staff work.


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$                   Bring food or drinks other than bottled water beyond the security gates.

$                   Smoke in the library.

$                   Use library facilities for purposes of bathing or sleeping.

$                   Commit any other illegal acts or conduct in violation of Federal, State, or local law, ordinance or regulation.

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

VII. DISPLAY AND EXHIBIT POLICY

 

[As part of its public service and information mission, the library makes available designated display and exhibit areas to non-profit organizations engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual or charitable activities. The provision of display space for public use does not constitute library endorsement of the beliefs or viewpoints advocated by the displays, or the organization responsible for the displays.

 

Framed or mounted paintings or other creative art and handicraft objects suitable for hanging or display in the library will be accepted for exhibit purposes up to a maximum of three months, subject to approval of the library director and the Library Advisory Board.

 

The artist may place a small tag giving name, address and price on his or her work. If sold, the ususal commission of ten percent shall be placed in the Reserve Library Gift Fund.

 

The library does not assume any responsibility for selling items or for damage incurred during the time the item is exhibited in the library. The owners should obtain private insurance, if the object(s) are extremely valuable.

 

Artists are also urged to display art objects that are not for sale.

 

Persons displaying art objects, paintings, and any other type of exhibits approved by the library director and the Library Advisory Board must fill out a form before leaving objects

in the library. The form is attached. ]

 

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

VIII. DISPLAY OF UNSOLICITED MATERIALS POLICY

 

[As a service agency of the City of Homer, the librarty is a designated posting place for notices issued by the City.

 

Space permitting, other public notices will be posted that meet the following guidelines:

 

 


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$                   Official notices of the borough, state and federal agencies relevant to the Homer area.

$                   Notices for public meetings for non-profit agencies and groups. Announcements of fundraising events for these groups will also be accepted.

$                   Notices of courses provided by educational institutions or sponsored by a recognized community organization may be accepted, but not those publicizing instruction by individual teachers or private firms.

 

All events noted must be open to the general public. A date, time and place must be listed, andt he name of the sponsoring agency must be included on the notice.

 

The library bulletin board is not to be used for commercial sales, announcements for partisan political candidates, religious services, or personal services.

 

No solicitation or active distribution of literature will be permitted inside the libra5ry or at the entrance to the library.

 

Items strictly forbidden in the library building are:

$                   Advertising literature.

$                   Petitions.

 

The library will not act as s distribution center for free materials that deal with controversial issues, written from one point of view only. 

 

All decisions on posting notices will be at the discretion of the library director.

 

Posting of notices and/or distribution of materials do not imply endorsement by the library or the City of Homer. ]:

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

DISPLAY AND EXHIBIT POLICY 

 

The Homer library has three kinds of spaces available for displays and exhibits. 

 

I.          Bulletin boards and information racks.

 

As a service to the City of Homer, the library is a designated posing place for notices issued by the City.

 

Space permitting, other public notices that meet the following guidelines will be posted. 

 

!  Official notices of borough, state, and federal agencies relevant to the Homer area

 


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!  Notices for public meetings and fundraising events for non-profit organizations.

! Notices of educational courses sponsored by a recognized community organization (but not those publicizing instruction by individual teachers or private firms.)

 

All noticed events must be open to the general public.  Notices must be dated and      include the name of the sponsoring organization.

 

Library bulletin boards may not be used for commercial sales, announcements for political candidates or causes, religious services, or personal services.

 

No solicitation or active distribution of literature is permitted inside the library or at the entrance to the library.  Advertising literature and petitions are strictly forbidden within the library. 

 

The library will not act as a distribution center for materials that deal with controversial issues, presented from a single point of view.

 

All decisions on posting notices are at the discretion of the library director.

 

Posting of notices and/or distribution of materials do not imply endorsement by the      library or City of Homer.

 

II.        Areas for non-profit displays and exhibits.

 

As part of its public service and information mission, the library makes available designated display and exhibit areas to non-profit organizations and other not-for-profit enterprises engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, or charitable activities. 

 

The provision of display space for public use does not constitute library endorsement of the beliefs or viewpoints advocated by the displays, or the organization responsible for the displays.

 

Individuals or organizations interested in posting displays or exhibits should fill out an exhibit request form (provided by library) to include a written description and, if possible, photos.

 

Exhibits shall be appropriate to community standards and shall not advocate only one side of a controversial issue.  All decisions regarding exhibits shall be at the discretion of the library director.  Due to limited space, the library director will use his/her judgment regarding value to the community and balancing over time a variety of community interests.  Regarding community interests and standards, the library director may seek the advice and determination of the Library Advisory Board=s exhibits committee or the entire


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LAB, but final authority rests with the director.

 

Duration of displays shall generally be for a maximum of three months.

 

Objects on display may not be offered for sale.

 

The library does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage of exhibited materials.  An owner may wish to obtain private insurance for valuables.  Before leaving any materials or objects on exhibit, an individual in charge must sign and date a release form (provided by library).

 

III.       Areas for rotating displays of work by artists

 

In the spirit of the mission statement of the Homer Public Library, rotating exhibitions and displays of artwork may be installed in the Library=s public spaces in accordance with the following approved policies and procedures.

 

Responsibilities and liabilities:

 

Artists and/or galleries that submit artwork for display in the Homer Public Library accept full responsibility for the proper installation, display and upkeep of artwork chosen for exhibition.

 

All installations and related processes must be approved by the appropriate staff of the Homer Public Library.

 

The general well-being, safety, maintenance, and good order of the Homer Public Library will take precedence over the agreement to mount or otherwise show exhibitions in library spaces.

 

Release forms: artists and/or galleries that submit artwork for display will sign a general Arelease form@ that establishes (a) the official responsible parties, (b) dates of exhibition, (c) specifics of exhibition, (d) insurance coverage or waiver, and (e) details of conditions of display.

 

The library does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage of exhibited materials. An owner may wish to obtain private insurance for valuables. Before leaving any materials or objects on exhibit, an individual in charge must sign and date a release form (provided by the library).

 

    Selection processes:

 


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General guidelines: it is recognized that tastes and preferences in artwork vary widely and that freedom of expression and access to alternative perspectives are among the highest national values. It is also recognized that the public library is a space in which all segments of society are welcome and encouraged to participate in all its services and activities without barrier; these considerations require a community-based process and public sensitivity in the selection process for exhibitions installed in the Homer Public Library.

 

Community standards: Exhibits shall be appropriate to community standards. A Community Artwork Selection Panel will evaluate proposed exhibitions and develop an appropriate schedule. All final decisions regarding exhibits shall be at the discretion of the library director.

 

Process: The following process is intended to achieve a broad-based consensus on Acommunity standards@ for artwork on display in the Homer Public Library.

 

The Community Artwork Selection Panel

 

The Panel shall meet at least once a year to select works for exhibition and determine the schedule of the exhibitions.

 

Composition (selected by their respective bodies):

*          One LAB member

*          One member of the Friends of the Homer Public Library who is not a LAB member

*          One member of the Public Arts Committee

*          The library director

 

 

Solicitation of artwork: The library director and/or the Community Artwork Selection Panel may formally solicit artwork for display in the Homer Public Library.

 

Exhibition calendar and schedule: The Community Artwork Selection Panel shall create and maintain an exhibition calendar and schedule for each year (January-December).

 

Director review:  In all cases, the director of the Homer Public Library will have final review authority of recommendations made by the Community Artwork Selection Panel.

Available spaces:

 

General:  While all exhibitions and displays of artwork are to be placed in such


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designated areas where they can be viewed by library visitors, no exhibitions or displays will be allowed to block or otherwise impede public access or movement in and around the library.

 

Main stacks area:  Each wall panel/exhibit space is numbered and may be assigned individually or in groups to artwork exhibitions (single works or multiple works) according to an annual calendar plan.

 

Children=s area:  Selected works may be free-standing, placed on vacant wall space, or suspended from the overhead.

 

Lounge area:  Rotating displays of three-dimensional works may be placed in fireplace niches.

 

Open areas:  May contain free-standing works that do not interfere with movement in area.

 

Outdoor spaces:  Works and exhibitions to be displayed in outdoor spaces will also be considered by the Community Art Selection Panel.

 

Sales and commissions:

Artwork on display in the Homer Public Library may not be offered for sale.

 

Exhibition openings and other events:

All exhibit-related events using the Homer Public Library grounds and interior spaces must be incorporated into the library calendar and schedule and have the written approval of the library director (or other established library use approval mechanism).

 

No alcohol may be served on Homer Public Library grounds or within the library (Homer Public Library Policy, II.A).

 

Unless the Homer Public Library has been retained for private, after-hours use, all exhibition openings and related events must be open to the public free of charge.

 

HOMER PUBLIC LIBRARY

SPACE USE POLICY

 

The Homer Public Library is a public institution whose facilities are available to all.  The library welcomes the use of its space for community and cultural activities and the discussion of public affairs, to the extent that such activities do not interfere with library use by other patrons.


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During library hours:  All events held within the library during library hours must be of a non-commercial nature, free of charge, and open to the general public.  Use of study rooms and the conference room may be scheduled in advance with library staff.  Use of other spaces for group activities during library hours must be approved by the library director.

 

After library hours:  Events and meetings open to the public may be held within the library during the library=s closed hours on a limited basis.  Events may be sponsored by the library or the Friends of the Homer Library when library staff or supervisors approved by the library director are present.  The conference room may be scheduled with library staff, but is dependent upon having an individual in charge who is responsible for security; that individual must be approved by the library director. 

 

Private use:  The Homer Public Library does not have meeting spaces available for private use during the hours it is open to the public.  Private meetings or events may be held at the library during closed hours by reservation and for a fee; the reservation form (provided by library) shall specify the conditions of use.  A library employee or other person authorized for supervision must be present at all times. 

Fees for private use (costs include building supervision):

Conference room -- $35/hr.

Lounge -- $40/hr

Children=s room -- $40/hr.

 

Outdoor areas:  Organized activities on library grounds must be approved by the library director and be of a non-commercial nature.

 

In all cases of after-hours, private, or outdoor use, users are responsible for complying with all library rules, for clean-up, and for any damage to the facility, its grounds, or contents.

 

The Homer Public Library facilities and grounds may not be used for activities deemed inappropriate by the library director.

 

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Homer City Council this 26th day of June, 2006.

 

CITY OF HOMER

________________________

JAMES C. HORNADAY, MAYOR

ATTEST: _________________________________

MARY L. CALHOUN, CMC, CITY CLERK

Fiscal Note: Some revenue, unknown impacts.