Next Meeting: December ?, 2019 5:30 p.m. SYCAMORE PUBLIC LIBRARY Agenda BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING Board Room: November 12, 2019 5:30 p.m. I. Call to Order II. Changes to and Approval of Agenda III. Public Comment IV. Announcements a. Impact Fees V. Library & Trustee Reports: a. Treasurer’s Report b. Business Manager’s Report c. Director’s Report d. Finance Committee Update e. Friends of the Library Update VI. Consent Agenda-Board Approval Required a. Regular Meeting Minutes, October 8, 2019 b. Finance Committee Minutes, October 22, 2019 c. October Bills for Approval VII. Old Business a. Rollover of Surplus FY19 Budget Funds b. Window Grant Update c. Space Planning Project Update VIII. New Business a. Approval of FY21 Budget b. Policy Updates/New Policies i. Library Closings ii. Smoking iii. Photography/Videography iv. Patron Conduct v. Public Comment vi. Vulnerable Adults & Unattended Children c. December Meeting Date Change IX. Adjournment FINAL VOTE OR ACTION MAY BE TAKEN AT THE MEETING ON ANY AGENDA ITEM SUBJECT MATTER LISTED ABOVE, UNLESS THE AGENDA LINE ITEM SPECIFICALLY STATES OTHERWISE. 1
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Treasurer’s Report Business Manager’s Director’s Report...o The library participated in the Park District’s Ghost Stories at the Park program. o The library invited the Park
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Next Meeting: December ?, 2019 5:30 p.m.
SYCAMORE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Agenda BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
Board Room: November 12, 2019 5:30 p.m.
I. Call to Order
II. Changes to and Approval of Agenda
III. Public Comment
IV. Announcements
a. Impact Fees
V. Library & Trustee Reports:
a. Treasurer’s Report
b. Business Manager’s Report
c. Director’s Report
d. Finance Committee Update
e. Friends of the Library Update
VI. Consent Agenda-Board Approval Required
a. Regular Meeting Minutes, October 8, 2019
b. Finance Committee Minutes, October 22, 2019
c. October Bills for Approval
VII. Old Business
a. Rollover of Surplus FY19 Budget Funds
b. Window Grant Update
c. Space Planning Project Update
VIII. New Business
a. Approval of FY21 Budget
b. Policy Updates/New Policies
i. Library Closings
ii. Smoking
iii. Photography/Videography
iv. Patron Conduct
v. Public Comment
vi. Vulnerable Adults & Unattended Children
c. December Meeting Date Change
IX. Adjournment
FINAL VOTE OR ACTION MAY BE TAKEN AT THE MEETING ON ANY AGENDA ITEM SUBJECT
MATTER LISTED ABOVE, UNLESS THE AGENDA LINE ITEM SPECIFICALLY STATES OTHERWISE.
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October 2019 Library Report
LIBRARY BUSINESS
News/Announcements
Lisel Ulaszek joined the library as the new Youth & Teen Services Manager.
Finance
Budget benchmark for 10/31/2019: 1/2 (50%).
The operating income year-to-date is $1,216,473 (95% of anticipated income for the year).
Total expenses YTD for the end of October are $641,285 (50% of this year’s budget).
Please refer to the finance notes for further explanation of our current budget.
We received an impact fee deposit of $1170.00
We received a PPRT payment of $21,218.00.
Professional Development
o Monica attended ILA’s Public Policy Committee Meeting, PLA’s Digital Literacy Committee
Meeting, the DeKalb area Director’s Meeting, and the West of 47 Director’s Meeting.
o Lisel attended the ILA Conference in Tinley Park on October 22nd & 23.
o Kim attended the ILA Conference in Tinley Park on October 22nd, 23rd and 24th.
o Jill attended the ILA Conference in Tinley Park on October 22nd.
o YTS staff members Lisel, Laura & Megan participated in Basics Training as part of our new
participation in Basics DeKalb County, a community-based early literacy initiative.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Develop & Implement a Capital Improvement Plan to Meet the Library’s Short & Long-Term
Goals
1. Identify necessary building improvements/maintenance and prioritize projects
o Monica and Mary continue work on the building maintenance checklist and will bring
the rough draft to the December meeting to share with the Board and secure
feedback.
2. Create a plan to fund future capital improvement needs
o The Finance Committee met and Monica shared her ideas for how the Board could
build the library’s contingency fund while allocating money to help accomplish some of
the building projects. All agreed that Monica and team will apply for the Live & Learn
Construction Grant through the Illinois State Library to try to secure additional funds for
building projects.
Enhance Collaboration with Community Partners to Expand Library Programs & Services
2. Strengthen partnerships between library staff and community members/organizations
o The library participated in the Park District’s Ghost Stories at the Park program.
o The library invited the Park District and the DeKalb Area History Museum to have tables
at their Pumpkinfest Celebration. Both provided positive feedback on the experience.
o Monica and Jill attended the Chamber’s After Hours Event at Morningstar
Media/Coroco Coffee to network with community members.
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2 o Monica and 4 of the 5 department heads attended the Pumpkinfest Community
Prayer Breakfast on behalf of the library.
o 12 members of library staff and their families marched in the Pumpkinfest Parade
wearing library-branded shirts and carrying a branded banner.
Capitalize on Modern Technology to Meet Evolving/Emerging Patron Needs
1. Provide access to and assistance with current software applications on computers and
devices
o CMJ continues work on the new public computers. Due to their increasing workload,
installation has been pushed back to November.
o Computer classes continued going strong this month with patrons requesting additional
and/or more advanced classes in the future.
2. Explore and implement technology platforms for staff that improve efficiency and increase
collaboration
o Monica and the management team continue exploration of an online registration
system for library events.
Develop & Implement a Financial Plan to Meet the Library’s Short & Long-Term Goals
1. Partner with the Friends of the Sycamore Public Library group to create a fundraising
strategy
o Monica met with Linda Holderman, the new President of the Friends group, to provide
resources for researching successful fundraising efforts at other area libraries. She also
laid the groundwork for possible future fundraising work with the library’s Board of
Trustees.
o The Friends annual meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2019; Monica will be
the speaker.
2. Explore possibilities for additional revenue streams
o Jill is still getting pricing quotes from vendors on pricing for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other
spirit wear.
o Plans have begun to introduce a coffee-buying option for patrons.
Create a Cohesive Branding Strategy to Promote the Library in the Community
1. Create and implement a plan to convey the story and value of the library
o Monica gave a presentation to the Sycamore Rotary Club on 10/2.
o Monica and Jill participated in a photo op with the Park District celebrating the
creation of the new Little Free Library outside of their community center.
o Sycamore Community Schools delivered two more promotional videos as part of the
IGA; one was on the Pumpkin Celebration and the other was on Friends of the Library
Book Sale
o Monica and Jill are working to create a flyer of FAQ’s on the IGA for the City Council
budget meeting
o Emily gave presentations on 10/14 to 4th graders at North Elementary on digital
resources at the library, including Libby, Overdrive, Brainfuse and Creativebug.
o Social media stats:
Facebook likes: 2,745 Twitter followers: 748
Instagram followers: 466 Friends of the Library: 15
Website: 10,438
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2. Revise library policies to reflect ALA’s Library Bill of Rights and Intellectual Freedom Tenets
o Monica has revised four library policies and created two new ones that will be taken to
the Board for approval in November.
Apply User-Centered Design to Maximize Use of our Public Spaces
1. Conduct a space utilization study to improve use of library spaces
o This goal is complete. Monica will be scheduling a meeting with the Roberts’
Foundation to share the findings and recommendations, as per their grant agreement.
2. Identify and implement short-term strategies to create quiet spaces within the library
o Monica and Kim met to walk the floor and look at ways to rearrange the existing
furniture to create some quieter spaces while we await future remodeling efforts.
3. Create a plan for remodeling the space in the Joiner History Room
o Architect Jeff Keppler provided his recommendations on how to chunk the remodeling
projects within the library. Monica will bring the recommendations to the Board at the
November meeting. Monica and team will also begin applying for a Live & Learn
Construction Grant through the Illinois State Library to help fund one or more of the
projects within the space plan.
Cultivate Dynamic Collections, Programs, and Services that are Responsive to Community
Needs
1. Conduct a community survey to better understand needs
Respectfully Submitted,
Monica Dombrowski, Jeannie Barry, Jill Carter, Kim Halsey, Mary Holtrop and Lisel Ulaszek.
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OCTOBER STATISTICS @ A GLANCE
10438 -10% Website Hits
2745 N/A Facebook Likes
466 N/A Instagram Followers
748 N/A Twitter Followers
509 Computer Users -40%
4107 Wi-Fi Connections N/A
2889 Databases Used 31%
10,059 Visitors -4%
1030 Reference Questions N/A
1 1:1’s N/A
19 Mtg Room Reservations 11%
187 Attendees NA
60 11% Programs
1402 -1% Attendees
5 0% Outreach Events
191 138% Attendees
6565 Resident Cards -1%
261 NR Cards 76%
6826 Total Cards -1%
15364 Physical Materials Circulated
-5%
2437 Electronic Materials Circulated
5%
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PATRON POINT OF VIEW
“[The Library] is the heart of our community!”
“So many great resources! Keep up the great work!”
“Great service, friendly, helpful, available.” 6
12:03 PM
10/03/19 Sycamore Public Library
Bills listOctober, 2019
Vendor Total Purpose
Amazon.Com 3,379.44 Misc charges
Baker & Taylor - Adult Acct 5,055.32 Adult books
Baker & Taylor - Childrens 241.59 Youth and Teen books
Baker & Taylor - Gift Acct 16.83 Memorial books
Banner Up 18 name badges
Banner Up 21.60 Name badges
CDW Government, Inc 153.19 Toner for Dombrowski and Barry
Cintas Fire Protection 441.82 Maintenance for Fire Extingushers
City of Sycamore 5,103.62 IMRF
CMS Medicare 406.50 Medicare Barry
Comcast 283.41 Internet, TV, Cable
Crescent Electric 57.37 Light bulbs
Demco 2,217.10 Library cards and supplies
DEMCO 341.78 Cataloging supplies
Dewberry 1,956.00 Space planning and Windows
EBSCO 3,498.00 Databases
Ecowater 65.65 Bottled water
Emily Delegatto 57.93 Program supplies
First National Bank Omaha 969.91 Misc Charges
Friends of Sycamore Library 1,121.23 Book sales
Illinois Office of State Fire Marshal 75.00 Elevator Certificate
J & J Handyman 1,295.00 Contract cleaning
Janway 456.15 Library card holders
Jill Dubicz-Carter 87.11 Mileage to ILA
Kishwaukee YMCA 187.60 Employee paid YMCA
LIMRICC 375.34 Unemployment insurance
Martin Metzger 500.00 Library program
Monica Dombrowski 136.12 mileage and contingency
Monica Dombrowski 47.50 Mileage to meetings
NCPERS 96.00 Employee paid NCPERS
NiCor Gas 302.69 utilities
NIU Center for P-20 Engagement 150.00 Youth and Teen program
Penguin Random House 300.00 audio books
Principal 123.42 Vision and Life insurance
Scott Vrablik 225.00 Library program
Silver Script 26.80 Medicare Barry
SWAN 27.23 Lost book refund
Tammy Johnston 102.43 postage and program supplies
Waste Management West 112.02 garbage
William Hazelgrove 300.00 Library program
30,331.70
Page 1 of 17
Finance Notes October 2019
1. In October the Library received to the following income
deposits:
Impact fee deposit of $1170.00. PPRT deposit of$21,218.00.
2. We are 6 months into our FY20 and we should be at 50%
expensed at the end of October and we are at 50%.
3. The third draft of the FY2021 budget is completed and the
Finance committee met to review and discuss at their
October 29, 2019 meeting. The board will discuss and
approve the final budget at the November meeting. The
finance committee discussed the various options in our roll
over plan, as well as applying for a grant to help fund 2
projects.
4. Our audit was presented at the October 2019 board
meeting and we had a clean audit with no issues. We are
working on the policies recommended by Lauterbach
and Amen.
5. Since the beginning of the fiscal year in May 2019 we
have signed and approved the following contracts:
a) Britannica Online (database)-$405.00 (Year)
b) Newsbank inc (database)-$1425.00 (year)
c) Baker and Taylor (database)Titlesource 360-$250.00
Service to Patrons with Disabilities Written 11/9/1989
Revised 5/21/07
The Sycamore Public Library offers the same services to patrons with disabilities as to all
other segments of the population. In addition to those services, the Sycamore Public Library acts
as facilitator between the patron and Services to the Blind and Physically Handicapped, offers
home delivery to patrons with disabilities which prevent them from coming to the library, and
welcomes service animals in the library.
Exhibits Written 5/21/07
Occasionally, exhibits from sources within the community may be allowed in the library. All
exhibits considered for space within the library must support the mission of the library and not
cause disruption of the regular flow of library work and service. Such exhibits will remain in
place for not longer than four weeks, with set up and removal being the responsibility of the
exhibitor. The library assumes no liability for damage or loss relating to any exhibit set up for
public viewing in the library and will take no extraordinary measures to insure its safety.
Copyright Restrictions Written 11/9/1989
Revised 5/21/07
The copyright laws of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) govern the
reproduction, distribution, adaptation, public performance, and public display of protected
material.
Under certain conditions, public libraries are authorized to lend, lease, or rent copies of
computer programs and videotapes to patrons for nonprofit purposes. Any person who makes an
unauthorized copy or adaptation of a computer program or videotape or redistributes the loaned
copy or publicly performs or displays the computer program or videotape, except as permitted by
Title 17 of the United States Code, may be liable for copyright infringement.
This institution reserves the right to refuse to fulfill a loan request if, in its judgment,
fulfillment of the request would likely lead to violation of the copyright law.
Confidentiality of Records Written 11/9/1989
Revised 5/21/07
The Sycamore Public Library abides by Illinois Law which states that the records of
patron transactions and the identity of registered library patrons is confidential material. The
Sycamore Public Library does not make available the records of patron transactions to any party
except in compliance with the law. The Sycamore Public Library does not make available lists of
registered library patrons except in compliance with the law.
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Contest and Program Prizes Written 11/9/1989
Revised 5/21/07
Members of the board of trustees and staff members are not eligible to win any prize or award
that may be given in any contest sponsored by the library.
Records to be Retained Written 5/21/07
The Sycamore Public Library retains records in accordance with directives from the Local
Records Unit/Record Management Section/Illinois State Archives/Springfield, IL 62756.
(217.782.7075)
Donation and Gift Requests Written: November 6, 2009
Board Approved: November 10, 2009
The Sycamore Public Library is a taxing body of the City of Sycamore. Funds received through
property taxes are to be spent to benefit the residents who pay those taxes. In that regard, the
Sycamore Public Library may opt to donate library swag to organizations who are working on
fund raising projects as this is good publicity for the library and reminds people of their local
resource. It is not appropriate to donate money or services that are paid for through property tax
dollars.
The library board and staff may also at times choose to offer an amnesty program where fines are
waived in order to get materials returned to the library. At these times, a program to support a
local cause may be implemented.
The library may assist local organizations which are collecting items by providing a space for a
collection box in the library’s lobby.
Because the library is funded through property tax dollars, grants, and donations, all financial
donations accepted at the library are to benefit library programs and services. We are unable to
accept donation jars from community groups or individuals.
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American Library Association Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees
The Sycamore Public Library subscribes to the ALA Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees as follows:
American Library Association Ethics Statement for Public Library Trustees 1. Trustees must promote a high level of library service while observing ethical standards. 2. Trustees must avoid situations in which personal interests might be served or financial
benefits gained at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the institution. 3. It is incumbent upon any trustee to disqualify himself or herself immediately whenever the
appearance of conflict of interest exists. 4. Trustees must distinguish clearly in their actions and statements between their personal
philosophies and attitudes and those of the institution, acknowledging the formal position of the board even if they personally disagree.
5. A trustee must respect the confidential nature of library business while being aware of and in compliance with applicable laws governing freedom of information.
6. Trustees must be prepared to support to the fullest the efforts of librarians in resisting censorship of library materials by groups or individuals.
Trustees who accept appointment to a library board are expected to perform all of the functions of library trustees.
AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION FREEDOM TO READ STATEMENT
The Sycamore Public Library subscribes to the American Library Association Freedom to Read Statement which follows:
1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of views and expressions, including those which are unorthodox or unpopular with the majority.
2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation contained in the books they make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political, moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what books should be published or circulated.
3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to determine the acceptability of a book on the basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve artistic expression.
5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept with any book the prejudgment of a label characterizing the book or the author as subversive or dangerous.
6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people’s freedom to read, to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their own standards or tastes upon the community at large.
7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to a bad book is a good one, the answer to a bad idea is a good one.
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AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION FREEDOM TO VIEW STATEMENT
The Sycamore Public Library subscribes to the American Library Association Freedom to View Statement which follows.
The Freedom to View, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free society, there is no place of censorship in any medium of expression. Therefore, these principles are affirmed:
1. To provide the broadest possible access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
2. To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
3. To provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of content.
4. To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging film, video, and other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
5. To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public’s freedom to view.
AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS
The Sycamore Public Library subscribes to the American Library Association Bill of Rights which says: The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services:
1. 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.
2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical isles. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
5. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
6. Libraries which make exhibit space and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affirmations of individuals or groups requesting their use.
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AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION STATEMENT OF PROFESSIONAL ETHICS
The Sycamore Public Library subscribes to the ALA Statement of Professional Ethics which follows:
1. Librarians must provide the highest level of service through appropriate and usefully organized collections, equitable circulation and service policies, and skillful, accurate, unbiased, and courteous responses to all requests for assistance.
2. Librarians must resist all efforts by groups or individuals to censor library materials.
3. Librarians must protect each user’s right to privacy with respect to information sought or received and materials consulted, borrowed, or acquired.
4. Librarians must adhere to the principles of due process and equality of opportunity in peer relationships and personnel actions.
5. Librarians must distinguish clearly in their actions and statements between their personal philosophies and attitudes and those of an institution or professional body.
6. Librarians must avoid situations in which personal interests might be served or financial benefits gained at the expense of library users, colleagues, or the employing institution.
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Draft 10-15-19
Library Closings Policy
The Sycamore Public Library is a public service organization and as such, every
reasonable effort is made to maintain regularly scheduled hours.
Annually, at the November Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees will determine closure
dates for the upcoming calendar year in observance of holidays and other special
events. Closure dates will be posted on the library website and exterior doors at least
two weeks prior to each scheduled closure.
In the event of severe weather or other emergency situations, the Executive Director
has the authority to reduce hours and/or close the library for the safety of patrons and
staff. If the Executive Director is not available, the Library Board President has the
authority to make the decision in the Director’s place.
If a decision is made to reduce hours or close the library, information will be available
through the following outlets:
Library website
Library Facebook page
Chicagoland Emergency Closing Center
RAILS website
WLBK Radio
B96 Radio
WNIU Radio
Daily Chronicle website
Midweek website
In addition, information will be posted on the front doors of the library if it is safe to do
Sycamore Public Library is a smoke-free campus. Smoking and the use of smoking-
related products is prohibited within the building and on library grounds. This policy
applies to the use of tobacco, smokeless tobacco, herbal, marijuana, and electronic
smoking products.
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Draft 10/7/19
Photography/Videography Policy
Sycamore Public Library staff use photographs and videos to help convey the story of
the library’s impact on the community. Attendance at our programs and events
constitutes a consent to be photographed and/or filmed for use in our promotional
materials. Names or personally identifying information will not be used without the
express permission of the subject or the subject’s parent, legal guardian, or caregiver.
Participants (or their legal representatives, on their behalf) may opt out of being
photographed or filmed by informing the library staff member coordinating the
program or event.
Members of the public may take photographs or videos in all public areas of the library
provided they are not disturbing others’ use of the library. Equipment may not block
walkways, obstruct views, or create hazards of any kind. Photographers and
videographers must respect others’ wishes not to be photographed or filmed and must
obtain permission from a parent, legal guardian, or caregiver before photographing or
filming anyone under the age of 18. Taking photographs or filming copyrighted (or
otherwise protected) materials for the purpose of redistribution is prohibited.
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SYCAMORE PUBLIC LIBRARY
PATRON RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES POLICY
REVISED 4/02/03 APPROVED 4/08/03
REVISED 5/22/07 APPROVED 7/11/07
REVISED 1/21/13 APPROVED 2/12/13
The Sycamore Public Library is a public institution dedicated to providing a place for people to
meet, study, and learn. The following policy has been adopted by the Board of Trustees in order:
to protect the rights of individuals to use library materials and services.
to protect the rights of library employees and volunteers to conduct library business without
interference.
to ensure the use of the building, materials, and services by the greatest number of
individuals.
to preserve those materials and facilities from harm.
to ensure the safety of library patrons, employees, and volunteers.
Committing or attempting to commit any activity that would constitute a violation of any federal,
state or local criminal law or ordinance is prohibited on Sycamore Public Library property.
The Board authorizes the director or her/his designee to revoke or restrict library privileges of
any individual who behaves contrary to these rules. The Board also authorizes the director to file
charges against individuals who continually transgress these rules.
There are three basic rules for using the library: respect yourself, respect others, and respect
property. All library employees are authorized to bring to an individual's attention any act or
omission which violates these rules and detracts from the decorum of the library. Such an
individual will be asked to change his behavior to conform to the rules. If such change is not
evident or forthcoming that individual will be asked to leave the library building and library
property. If the individual does not leave of his or her own accord, police may be called for
assistance.
Depending on the severity or repetition of the misbehavior, individuals who have been asked to
leave the building and property may be barred from returning to the library. Individuals who
have been barred will be notified as to how long he/she must stay away from the library.
Library Spaces: There are four main public spaces in the library; the Children’s department, the
Teen Zone, the Adult Services department, and the Vestibule and Lobby.
The Children’s department offers a safe place for children newborn through age 12 and
their parents or caregivers to read, study and surf. Children's department is available for
use by those patrons who are accessing the special materials contained in the children's
collection and for use by children and their caregivers, to attend children's programs, and
to utilize other services provided by children's departments.
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The Teen Zone offers a safe place for teens between ages 12 – 19 years of age to read,
study and surf. The Teen Zone is for use by those patrons who are accessing the special
materials contained in the teen collection and for use by teens and their tutors or
caregivers. Between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on weekdays when school is
in session adults may use the Teen Zone Rotunda for quiet work.
The Adult Services department provides a safe place for patrons of all ages to read,
study and surf.
The Vestibule and Lobby provide a safe place for all patrons to return materials and/or
enter and leave the library.
Ensure a Safe, Secure, Comfortable, Welcoming, Healthy and Clean Environment. Mutual
respect makes it possible for everyone to enjoy Library materials and services. We ask Library
users to be respectful of each other and behave in a manner that does not disrupt other Library
users or interfere with normal operation of the Library.
Code of Conduct
1. Respect yourself (including but not limited to:)
Keep personal information private.
Stay productive.
Always be fully clothed and wear shoes.
Attend to personal hygiene before coming to the library.
Bicycling, rollerblading, or skateboarding is prohibited anywhere on library
property.
Smoking is prohibited in the building and within 15 feet of any door or window.
Weapons are prohibited anywhere on library property.
Possessing, selling, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs is
prohibited on library property.
2. Respect others (including but not limited to:)
Speak quietly.
Interact with kindness, gratitude and caring. Verbal and physical abuse will not be
tolerated.
Trained therapy, guide or leader dogs and those dogs being used in Library
sponsored programs are welcome.
Provide identification to library staff when asked.
Keep your cell phone on vibrate and if you must take the call, take it in the
vestibule or outside.
Use headphones with personal electronic devices and keep the volume to a
minimum.
If it doesn’t belong to you, leave it alone.
Soliciting, panhandling, and gambling are prohibited on library property.
Engaging in peeping, stalking, indecent exposure, and sexual harassment are
prohibited on library property.
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3. Respect property (including but not limited to:)
Park in designated spaces only.
Covered drinks and small non-disruptive snacks are allowed in the library.
If you spill, let a library staff member know so it can be cleaned up.
Being present in Library offices, staff rooms, storage areas, or other non-public
areas while unaccompanied by a Library staff member or without prior agreement
with Library management is prohibited.
Care of furniture, materials, and all library property.
These rules have been established and promulgated in accordance with the Municipal Code of
the City of Sycamore, Article 5 Chapter 4. These rules may be supplemented, altered, added to or
changed by the Library Board at its discretion.
The IL Local Library Act (75 ILCS 5) provides the Board of Library Trustees with the power to
carry out the spirit and intent of the Act in establishing and maintaining the Library and
providing Library services, and the specific power to “exclude from the use of the Library any
person who willfully violates the rules prescribed by the board.” The Board of Library Trustees
of the Sycamore Public Library authorizes Library management to establish and implement
procedures to ensure that the Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy is adhered to and that the
Library is preserved for the purposes for which it is intended.
Also, see the Unattended Children Policy for more information about minors in the
library.
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Patron Conduct Policy
The Sycamore Public Library seeks to provide a safe, comfortable, welcoming environment for all patrons. As such, we expect patrons to treat people and property with respect. The following rules apply while on library property and while attending all library programs and events both on and off of library property. 1. Respect Yourself (including but not limited to):
• Attend to personal hygiene and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. • Keep track of your personal belongings. • Follow library policies. • Chain bicycles outside and remove/store rollerblades and skateboards. • Leave weapons, alcohol, and illegal substances at home.
PLEASE NOTE: Committing or attempting to commit any activity that violates any local, state, or federal law or ordinance is prohibited on library property. 2. Respect Others (including but not limited to):
• Use headphones with electronic devices and maintain a considerate volume when speaking and listening.
• Set your phone to vibrate or silent mode; if needed, take personal calls in the lobby downstairs or the vestibule near the front door.
• Use a respectful tone and language when speaking to and interacting with others. Verbal and physical abuse will not be tolerated.
• Avoid picking up others’ belongings; if something looks abandoned, alert staff. • Arrive on time for classes, programs, and events. • Alert staff if you encounter any issues with fellow patrons. • Avoid selling or soliciting while on library property. • Provide identification to library staff if asked.
3. Respect Property (including but not limited to):
• Dispose of trash in designated receptacles after enjoying your covered drinks and small snacks; notify staff immediately of any spills.
• Stay in public areas unless accompanied by staff. • Avoid writing/drawing/coloring on library furniture, fixtures, walls, doors, or floors. • Avoid sitting on fixtures, tables, radiators, and in windowsills. • Demonstrate care when handling and using library materials; if something
appears damaged, please alert staff. The Board authorizes the Library Director or her/his/their designee to restrict or revoke library privileges of any individual who willingly violates these rules and to involve the police, if necessary. The Board also authorizes the director to ban and/or file charges against individuals who continually transgress these rules.
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From Sycamore Public Library Board By-Laws
Revised and Approved 2/10/2015
Section 11: Public Comment
1. Any person shall be allowed to speak at any public meeting on
any matter of public concern. No person shall be prevented
from speaking on the basis of any prior speech.
2. Every public meeting shall set apart a maximum time of thirty
(30) minutes near the beginning of each meeting to allow for
public comments.
3. Each person who wishes to speak will be allotted no more than
five (5) minutes, unless the presiding officer reduces the allotted
time if numerous people wish to speak.
4. Each person who wishes to speak must place his or her name
on a speaker’s list prior to the start of the meeting, and
speakers will be called to speak in the order of the list. In the
event that the thirty minute time period elapses before all
speakers have an opportunity to be heard, those speakers on
the list still wishing to be heard shall retain their position on the
list for the public comment portion of the next meeting.
5. Citizens may comment on any matter of library concern not
listed on the agenda, there will not be question-and-answer
exchange with the Board of Trustees, and speakers needed to
“refrain from language which would incite an immediate
breach of the peace; refrain from undue repetition, extended
discussion of irrelevancies, obscenity, and personal attacks
against private individuals unrelated to the operation of the
library. The presiding officer may curtail comments that are
inappropriate or go beyond the 5 minute speaking limit.
6. Any person shall be permitted to address the public body or
any member of the public body at any time via mail or email.
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DRAFT 10/15/19
PUBLIC COMMENT POLICY
The Illinois Open Meetings Act provides that at meetings of public bodies, “any person
shall be permitted an opportunity to address public officials under the rules established
and recorded by the public body.” 5 ILCS 120/2.06(g). In compliance with the Act, the
Board of Trustees (hereafter, “Board”) of Sycamore Public Library has adopted this policy
to provide the following rules and guidelines for public participation at its meetings.
1) Individuals attending board meetings must conduct themselves with respect and
civility toward others. Abusive, profane, threatening, or harassing language and/or
personal attacks will not be permitted. The Board President or presiding officer may
prohibit further comment at the meeting by a speaker whose remarks violate this rule.
2) Public comments are permitted during the time designated on the Board meeting
agenda unless otherwise directed by the Board President or presiding officer.
3) The Board President or presiding officer determines the order in which speakers will be
recognized.
4) When recognized by the Board President or presiding officer, the speaker should begin
by stating his or her name. The board may also request that a speaker provide his or
her address.
5) Public comments will be limited to five (5) minutes per person. The Board President or
presiding officer shall have discretion to modify this time limit, as well as to limit
repetitive comments.
6) Board members and library staff are not obligated to respond to comments from the
public. Issues requiring possible action by the board may be added to a future
meeting agenda, and issues that can be addressed by the administration will be
noted.
7) A copy of these guidelines will be posted on the Board of Trustees page of the
Sycamore Public Library website, and will be placed next to the sign-in sheet made
available to members of the public at the entrance to board meetings.
8) Petitions or written correspondence directed to the board shall be presented to the
board by the Board President or Secretary at the next regularly scheduled board
meeting.
9) Minutes are a summary of the board’s discussion and actions. Speaker requests to
append written statements or correspondence to the minutes are not favored.
Generally, written materials presented to the board will be included in the library’s files
rather than in the minutes.
10) The Board President or presiding officer shall have the authority to determine
procedural matters regarding public participation not otherwise defined in these
guidelines.
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Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy
The Sycamore Public Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all community members. The following policy has been set forth to provide the greatest possible degree of protection for the children and vulnerable adults of the community and to create a productive and enjoyable environment for all patrons and staff. *
Parents, guardians, and/or caregivers are responsible for the safety, behavior, and supervision of children and vulnerable adults at all times in the Library and on Library property. All visitors are expected to respect Library property and adhere to the rules outlined in the Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy.
Children 10 years of age and younger must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent or other responsible caregiver 14 years of age or older. During Library programs, parents and caregivers of children under the age of 11 must remain in the Library.
Children 11 years of age and older may use the Library unattended, provided they are able to care for themselves and behave appropriately according to the Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy. If a parent of a child is unsure about whether their 11 year old child or older should be left at the library, parents should confirm that the child is able to recite an emergency contact’s name and telephone number.
The Sycamore Public Library staff is committed to helping children with activities related to the Library. However, Library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to, serve as baby-sitters, teachers, or disciplinarians. Whenever advisable, the Library will notify the parent of incidents involving an unattended child. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, the parent or responsible caregiver cannot be located, or if the Library is closing, Library staff members are authorized to call the police and stay with the child until the police arrive.
In the event a person under the age of 14 is still at the library 30 minutes after the library closes to the public, the police will be called to pick up the young person. Attempts will be made during that 30 minutes to reach parents, but in no instance will staff take young people home. Two staff members will stay with the child until the parents or police arrive.
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Unattended Children/Vulnerable Adults Policy The Sycamore Public Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all community members. All persons age 10 and older who are able to care for themselves and understand and follow the Patron Conduct Policy are welcome to use the library without accompaniment. Vulnerable adults must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18 while using the library or attending library programs and events. A vulnerable adult is functionally, mentally, or physically unable to care for themselves without supervision. Library facilities are not licensed to provide adult care and staff is not trained to assist with care-related tasks. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver that is at least 14 years old while using the library. Parents, guardians, or caregivers must remain in the library while children are attending library programs or events unless directed by library staff. If it is determined that a child under age 10 or a vulnerable adult is in the library without an appropriate parent, guardian, or caregiver, staff will attempt to locate or contact the parent, guardian, or caregiver. If the parent, guardian, or caregiver cannot be located or contacted within 30 minutes, the police will be contacted and asked to assist. In addition, staff is authorized to contact the police at any time if the safety of a child under 10 or vulnerable adult is in doubt. In the event a parent, guardian, or caregiver cannot be contacted or located at the time the library closes, staff will contact the police for assistance and two staff members will wait with the child under 10 or vulnerable adult until police arrive. Violation of this policy is grounds for suspension of library privileges.