Franklin County Public Library Policies and Procedures

Franklin County Public Library

Policies and Procedures

Mission Statement
The mission statement of the Franklin County Public Library is to promote reading and lifelong learning by providing access to informational, educational, recreational, and cultural materials for persons of all ages and to serve as a focus point for community resources and activities.

Accessibility Statement
FCPL complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request to ensure equal access to library services and programs

Franklin County Public Library Card

Eligibility
Library cards are free to all Franklin County residents, property owners, and those who work within the county. Cards may be obtained by presenting identification verifying name and current physical address (driver’s license, recent utility bill, phone or property tax bill, rental agreement, printed check or voter registration card).

Children's Cards
Parents, guardians, or grandparents with an active library card may apply for a children's card for their minor children and teens. Children under 16 must have an adult guarantor with a valid library card who will assume responsibility for the child's library use. Children over 16 do not require a guarantor, but still require a parent's or guardian's signature. Consistent with state law, library records become private at age 16. However, parents are still responsible for supervising their child's library use until age 18.

Non-Resident Cards
A non-resident visiting in Franklin County can purchase a library card for $10.00, but you must register in person. Photo identification is required to receive your library card. This card is renewable annually.

Cooperative
Library cards may be used at any member library of the Wilderness Coast Public Libraries cooperative. These libraries are the Franklin County Public Library, Wakulla County Public Library, and Jefferson County Public Library.

Replacement Library Cards
Please present your library card when checking out materials. You are responsible for all materials checked out on your card. Please report lost or stolen cards immediately, like you would a debit card or credit card. If someone else uses your card, you are responsible for any fines or fees accumulated on your account. The cost to replace a lost or damaged library card is $1.00.

PIN Number (Personal identification Number)
A PIN is needed to access your account online, renew books, place holds and download e-materials (Libby). The patron ID is the barcode number on the back of your card (type the 14 digits without spaces), and the PIN number is the last four digits of the library card.

Digital Materials
Your library card gives you access to Libby, which has a large collection of downloadable books, audiobooks, publications and streaming video. The Franklin County Public Library is a member of a group of libraries who share access to this platform. When you download or log on to the Libby app, search for the Panhandle Library Access Network. Ask a library staff member for more information about accessing digital media.

Reserving Materials (Holds Requests)
Materials that are in our catalog may be placed on reserve. The library will notify you when the material is available and hold it for a minimum of 7 days. Placing holds may be done from any library location, by phone, or via the website through our online catalog. You will need your library card number and your PIN to request items; and your account must be in good standing. There is a limit of 5 reserves per account, whether made online or in person.

Returning
Library materials may be returned to any Wilderness Coast Public Library (Franklin, Jefferson, and Wakulla County). All library branches have book drops located on the exterior of the building for use when the library is closed. Certain materials, however, it is preferred that they not be returned in the book drops: DVDs, audiobooks, tech and kits. It is also preferred that interlibrary loan materials be returned inside the library to a staff member.

Voting Rights
When you get a new library card or renew your card, you have the opportunity to register to vote and/or update your voter information. Library staff will assist you with accessing forms.

Rules

Library cards are not transferable and patrons may not have multiple cards.
Patrons may establish eligibility using a government-issued photo ID; student or employee ID; utility bill; or some combination of these that establishes identity and residency.
If you are outside the service area, you may join the library for a fee of $10.
Expired cards may be renewed by verifying current contact information. Access to digital services will be suspended until renewal is completed.
Items cannot be renewed if they are on hold for other patrons.
A fine or replacement fee may be assessed for items that are damaged or lost.
Library card holders may allow for another person to act as their agent in borrowing to pick up hold requests; the account must be noted and the library card must be present.
See also the Franklin County Public Library Patron Code of Conduct for behavioral expectations and consequences.
Children under age 10 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times. The library is not responsible for the safety of unattended children

Circulation Policy
FCPL patrons may borrow all allowable items, with a valid library card, with an exception of reference materials. All services, including reserves (hold items), ILL items are available to all library card holders. Interlibrary loans should be originated through a cardholder’s home library.

Note: Reference materials do not circulate. May be used at length during library operating hours.

FCPL is a fine-free library for books and most print materials. Fines apply only to special collections such as games, equipment, and technology.

ITEM TYPE

CURRENT CHECK OUTS ALLOWED

LOAN PERIOD (DAYS)

FINE AMOUNT (PER DAY)

MAX LATE FEE FINe

LOST/DAMAGED FEE

AUDIO

0.00

Replacement Cost

BOARD GAME

1.00

5.00

Replacement Cost

BOOK

0.00

Replacement Cost

EQUIP

1.00

5.00

Replacement Cost

GRAPHIC NOVEL

0.00

Replacement Cost

ILL MATERIALS

1.00

5.00

Replacement Cost (Discretion of Lending Library)

KIT

0.00

5.00

Replacement Cost

LAUNCHPAD

1.00

5.00

Replacement Cost

Park Pass for Real Florida Reader Program

0.00

Replacement Cost

PLAYAWAY

0.00

Replacement Cost

REF-BOOK

0.00

Replacement Cost

SEEDS

365

0.00

Replacement Cost

SUMMER

0.05

5.00

Replacement Cost

TECH2GO

1.00

5.00

Replacement Cost

THINGS

5.00

Replacement Cost

VIDEO

0.00

Replacement Cost

VIDEOGAME

0.50

5.00

Replacement Cost

Patrons are responsible for the replacement cost of any library materials that are lost or returned in damaged condition. Charges will be assessed based on the current replacement value of the item (see Damaged or Lost Library Materials Policy).

Confidentiality

Confidentiality Statement
Library ethical rules state that it is a basic right of every individual to read what he or she wishes without fear of censure or legal consequences. Each person also has the right to privacy. The FCPL will protect each user’s right to privacy and respect to all information required for registration, for all information sought and received, and for all materials consulted, borrowed or acquired. The Franklin County Public Library system does not record patron’s item checkout history.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

Request an Interlibrary Loan

· Any FCPL patron with an up-to-date library card may request an interlibrary loan; patrons should place interlibrary loans through their home libraries

· Loan periods, renewals, recalls, and charges are all based on the lending the library policies

· Interlibrary loans will be declined for loan requests for items published within fewer than six (6) months of the publication. This is standard procedures as libraries generally do not lend new items via ILL.

· Interlibrary loan requests are limited to three (3) items in process at any time and the borrower’s account must be in good standing.

· The FCPL will decline an ILL request if the item is in our shared collection, eve if the item is on hold or checked out. Exceptions will be made for lost or damaged items.

· Interlibrary loan fees for lost/damaged items are determined by the lending library

Collection Development Policy

General Statement on Shared Policies
The Franklin County Public Library (FCPL) Branches (Carrabelle and Eastpoint) is in an additional shared policy agreement with cooperative partnership Wilderness Coast (WILD) including Jefferson Public Library (JCPL) and Wakulla County Public Library (WCPL). This agreement allows said libraries to deliver the highest quality, cost-effective library services to all communities. The libraries agree to create and enact uniform policies and procedures whenever possible.

Statement of Shared Collection Development
The Franklin County Public Library system and cooperative WILD libraries have agreed to share both a titles and patron database in order to most effectively serve the communities represented.

Note: FCPL branches (Carrabelle and Eastpoint) reserve the right to restrict the request to transfer ‘NEW’ materials until items are one month in circulation or older.

· All libraries will retain autonomy in purchase selection and collection maintenance (FCPL branches will retain coordinated sections).

· All libraries will consider shared needs when unique purchases or donations have been received.

· All libraries will consider exploring shared collection development in a variety of topics and subject areas.

· Both FCPL branches (Carrabelle and Eastpoint) will strive to compliment rather than duplication each other’s collection, based on community needs and requests, thereby providing patron with a broad and current selection of materials.

Goals in Collection Development

· To guide the libraries in selecting and maintaining a balanced and broad collection in a variety of formats.

· To provide useful, current information sources that reflect a wide range of interests, opinions, and viewpoints,

· To complement rather than duplicate the collections of the district

· To follow a user-centered philosophy of the entire community

· Following policy and specific criteria to assist in determining budget allocation for acquired and requested materials.

· To defend freedom of information and to provide on equal terms, free, open, and equal access and service to individuals and groups.

Authority and Responsibility for Collection Development
The Library Director is responsible for overseeing collection development for both library branches (Carrabelle and Eastpoint) in accordance with the general policies established by the Library Administration. The Director may delegate responsibilities related to material selection, new acquisition processing, and withdrawal of materials to qualified staff members for specific areas of the collection.

The library also participates in cooperative collection development and purchasing through the Wilderness Coast Public Libraries (WILD) consortium. Some materials may be selected, purchased, or shared at the consortium level to enhance access and reduce duplication across member libraries. As part of WILD, the library shares an integrated catalog system and facilitates interlibrary lending and resource sharing among partner libraries.

Access to the Collection
Reading, listening to, and viewing library materials are individual and private matters. It is the right and responsibility of each individual library users to select the materials that he/she will use. It is the parent responsibility and primary duty to guide and supervise the reading, listening habits of their children. The Franklin County Public Library cannot assume such a role “in loco parentis.”

The Franklin County Public Library does not mark or identify materials to show approval or disapproval of their contents. Materials are not labeled to restrict their use by age for content only to identify specific location for said audience (i.e. Junior, Young Adult, Graphic Novels, etc.)

Criteria for Selection of Library Materials
The selection of materials for the libraries’ collection is based on accepted professional standards. Recommendations may come from any of the following sources:

· Professional review journals

· Standard bibliographic sources

· Media reviews

· Publisher’s catalogs/general periodicals

· Suggestions from library patrons and/or staff

· Historical/local significance

· Any additional appropriate reviewing media

Patrons and staff members are encouraged to submit purchase recommendations which are give priority consideration. If an item is not purchased; every effort will be made to obtain the item through interlibrary loan for the patron’s use.

Materials will be selected to meet high standards in quality, format, content and expression. The criteria will include, but is not limited to:

· Maintain an integrated and well-balanced collection; including relevance to the existing collection’s strengths and weaknesses

· Appeal and relevance to the community; relevance to history of the local communities

· Informational or educational value; literary merit; accuracy

· Popularity of the author or particular title

· Recreational value; popular demand

· Budgetary limitations; price, format or ease of use

· Availability of material elsewhere in the system or area

Specific criteria for the evaluation of works of information and opinion

· Authority

· Comprehensiveness and depth of treatment

· Objectivity

· Clarity, accuracy, and logic of presentation

· Representation of varying points of view

Specific criteria for the evaluation of works of the imagination

· Representation of important movement, genre, or trend of national culture

· Vitality and originality

· Artistic presentation and experimentation

· Sustained interest

· Effective characterization

· Authenticity of historical or social setting

Damaged or Lost Library Materials Policy
Materials should be examined at the time of check-out and again at check-in.
If materials appear damaged upon check-out, library personnel will note the damage and date of discovery, and the item’s status will be recorded as ‘damaged’. It is highly recommended that patrons point out any suspected damage to staff at the time of check-out.

The Franklin County Public Library charges fees when library materials are returned in damaged condition. All damaged materials are assessed by library personnel trained in conservation. Patrons may be billed a repair fee or the full replacement cost, depending on the extent of the damage.

Please note: Fees for damaged or lost interlibrary loan (ILL) materials are determined by the lending library and must be paid directly to them.

Damaged Copies
Patrons are not charged for normal wear and tear on library materials. However, the following conditions do not constitute normal wear and tear and may result in repair or replacement charges:

· Wet or moldy books

· Damage by food stains, oily or sticky residue

· Missing pages or covers

· Pet chew marks or other animal markings

· Markings by pencil, rayon, ink or highlighter marker

· Materials showing tears, cuts, graffiti or other unusual markings

· Smoke, mildew or odor damage

· Excessive dirt and debris inside materials

Damaged or Lost Pieces
Many materials in the library have multiple pieces, such as educational kits and media. It is the patron’s responsibility to return all pieces. If an essential piece is broken or lost, FCPL will charge the patron for the repair or for the replacement cost of the piece. Essential pieces are those are necessary for the materials to be useable or educationally meaningful.

If the item requires an essential piece and that piece is lost and not replaceable, the patron will be billed for the replacement cost of the entire item. For example, audiobooks have multiple discs and it is rare to replace only one CD, and a new item must be then purchased.

Replacement or repair costs are the at the discretion of library personnel and are determined based on the particular circumstances of each case. Patrons are generally charged for repairs to equipment at cost and for replacement pieces at retail price.

Items are thoroughly checked by library personnel upon each return, so missing or damaged pieces will be billed to the last borrowing patrons upon discovery. Patrons should be notified immediately concerning missing pieces. It is highly recommended that each patron verify that all pieces are present upon check-out and return.

Repair and Replacement Cost
The replacement cost is applied when the item is added to circulation. Repair cost are at the discretion of library personnel and are determined based on the particular circumstances of each case.

If library personnel conclude a library material is irreparable and must be withdrawn from the library’s collection, patrons are charged the replacement costs. In most cases, replacement cost is the cost on the book in either the interior flap of the book or on the back at the ISBN number.

If a patron continues to return books or items damaged, it may result in loss of the library privileges at the discretion of the director.

Collection Maintenance
In order to maintain a collection that is current, accurate, and inviting to library users, materials are withdrawn on systematic and continuing basis. The choice of materials to be withdrawn is determined by the direction of the library director. The following factors will be taken into consideration:

· Timeliness

· Subject coverage available in the collection

· Age of material

· Physical condition

· Frequency of circulation

· Number of copies

· Compliance with the Criteria for Selection Library Materials (CREW method)

· Space limitations

Request for Reconsideration of Materials
The choice of library materials by users is an individual matter. Responsibility for the reading materials of children and adolescents’ rests with the parents or legal guardians. While a person may reject materials for himself or herself and the person’s children, the person cannot exercise censorship to restrict access to materials by others. Patrons who feel that an inappropriate item has been selected for the collection may request that said item be reconsidered or withdrawn.

If a patron wants the library to reclassify or remove a book from the collection, they must fill out the “Public Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form available at all member library locations. It must be completely filled out and mailed to the Central Administrator of the library cooperative. The Central Administrator will bring the form to the Wilderness Coast Public Libraries Board who will review the request and make the final decision adhering to the guidance found in the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read and the Freedom to View statements, and the American Library Association’s guidelines on intellectual freedom. The final authority rests with the Board.

Once the review is complete, a written response from the Central Administrator will be mailed to the patron. During the process, the questioned item shall remain in the collection until the WILD Board has decided.

Donations Policy
FCPL is grateful to accept and welcomes donations of books and media to the library. All items donated must be in good clean condition; otherwise they will not be accepted. Non-cash charitable contributions forms are available at the donor’s request.

The following is a list of what NOT accepted:

· Textbooks

· VHS tapes

· Encyclopedias

· Coloring or activity books

· Books that are older than 3 years past publication date

A limit of one manageable size bag or box can be donated at a time. In accepting a gift of materials, the library reserves the privilege of deciding whether items donated should be added to collection. In some cases, library materials, though of value in itself, may be; (1) a duplicate of an item which the library already has a sufficient number; (2) outdated-interesting, but not of sufficient present reference or circulating value to the library; and (3) in poor condition- which would not justify the expense of processing it, i.e. cataloging and preparing it for circulation.

The library accepts gift materials with the understanding that items which are useful to the library collection will be retained, and other items are either sold in the book sale fundraisers by the Friends of the Library, or disposed of in whatever manner deemed appropriate.

The library retains unconditional ownership of donated materials. Materials may be added or discarded without consulting the donor. Since the library is actively used, and sustains losses through theft, mutilation and wear, no guarantee can be made that any gift will be a permanent part of the collection.

Public Computer Use Guideline
FCPL makes the internet available as an information and educational resource in support of our role as the community’s information and lifelong learning center. In addition to the public access workstations provided, library patrons may also use their own devices to access the library’s wireless service.

This service may be used to access any resource, engage in any communication, or conduct any activity available on the internet provided such an activity can be done with standard web browsers, with these exceptions:

· Users may not send, receive, or display text, graphics, or images that may reasonably construed as obscene

· Users may not use this resource for illegal purposes

· Users may not in any way alter, reconfigure, or damage the public access stations of the FCPL

· Users may not modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others by seeking unauthorized access to any computer system, or damaging or altering software components of any network, host server or database

To protect the integrity of the workstations:

· Do not install software of any kind; do not download any plug-ins or applications

· Do not save files; if done, it is the responsibility of the patron to delete files prior to closing the computer session.

Limits and Restrictions to Computer Use

· Public computer users must log in to terminals by using a registered library card number. Single use guest passes can be issued for those who do not have a library card. Guest passes are limited to one per person per day.

· Time limits per session are one (1) hour when others are waiting and a maximum time limit per patron per day is two (2) hours, unless the patron notifies staff prior to log in that more than two (2) hours will be needed. Time can be extended by staff with one (1) hour increments. It is the responsibility of the patron to notify staff when time extensions are needed.

· Children under the age of 16 may only use the computers for a maximum of two (2) hours per day unless accompanied by a responsible adult, or is working on a school related activity; children must have a registered card with internet privileges. Exception: Adult is with underage child using the public computer access and approves the internet usage, but the adult has to remain with the child for the entire session.

· Children under the age of 10 are not allowed access to the public computers without the presence of a guardian or responsible adult, and children must have a registered library card with internet privileges. This is in accordance with the Franklin County Public Library Patron Rights and Responsibilities.

Parents or guardians are responsible for the internet information selected and/or accessed by their children.

The library shall have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the library’s internet service or for damages related to the operation of, or failure of, the filtering software, or for its circumvention of users.

The availability of information via the library’s internet service does not constitute endorsement of the content of the information by the library.

The library is not responsible for damage to users’ discs, USBS, or computers for any loss of date, damage or liability that may occur from the use of the library’s computers.

The library reserves the right to terminate an internet session for inappropriate and/or illegal use, or if time limits exceed when others are waiting.

Printing Services

· Printing costs 10 cents per page for black-and-white and 50 cents per page for color

· It is the customer’s responsibility to use the ‘Print Preview’ screen prior to sending a print job to the printer. The customer is responsible for all pages printed; if you are unsure about your print request, contact a library staff member prior to printing. If assisted by staff and print pages are not as requested there will be no charge.

· If you are printing a PDF file, make sure the file has been downloaded fully prior to sending to the printer; contact a library staff member if unsure of the process.

Additional Information

· Earphones must be used for sound

· We recommend using a USB memory drive to download and save your work

Additional Community Services by FCPL

· Laminating services: $.50 for cards; $1.00 for a full sheet

· Scan and email documents for free; including scanning to USB

· Fax services: $1.00 per page incoming and outgoing; exception- government forms (i.e. DCF, SS, Disability, etc)

Bulletin Board Policy
The Franklin County Public Library has bulletin boards for use by the public to announce not-for-profit community organizations, to announce and advertise special events/or fund raisers for the public domain of the Franklin County Public Library area.

· Only non-profit organizations may post notices on the bulletin board. This privilege is open to local community organizations to announce and advertise for the public domain.

· All announcements and posters must be reviewed and posted by the library staff and/or management.

· Items will be posted or made available on an equitable basis, subject to available space, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individual or group represented.

· All items must have appropriate contact information; the library is not responsible for the promotion of the event.

· Posting of a notice or placements of materials in a display rack does not imply endorsement by the library staff or management.

Exhibits
The FCPL provides exhibit space consistent with the library’s mission, programs and services, and which contributes positively to the library’s environment.

· All exhibits and displays are to be reviewed by the Library Director or designee prior to set-up, with an agreed upon term of exhibit

· Exhibits and displays are presented in an equitable basis, regardless of beliefs or affiliations of individuals and groups representing space

· Exhibits and displays representing religious and political affiliation are permissible for informational purposes only; displays proselytize for a single point of view, will not be permitted

· Exhibits and displays may not involve the sale, advertisement, solicitation or promotion of commercial products; unless authorized and promoted by the Friends of the Franklin County Public Library

· FCPL is not responsible for any items that are lost, damaged or stolen while on exhibit or display. Insurance is the responsibility fo the individual or group seeking permission to display inside the library

· The presentation of any display or exhibit does not imply any endorsement of the content by the FCPL, trustees or staff

Meeting Room Policy
The primary purpose of the Franklin County Public Library meeting rooms is to support library programs and activities. Therefore, library and library sponsored events take precedence over all other activities in the scheduling of its meeting room space. When not required for library use, they may be available to government agencies and non-profit organizations, individuals or community groups whose purposes are civic, cultural, education, or recreational in nature. Final authority for the use of the library meeting rooms and outdoor spaces rest with the library director or designee.

· Use of the meeting room is by reservation room is by reservation only. Reservations may be made up to 3 months in advance. If the meeting room is unscheduled it may be used by the public on a first-come/first-served basis, if the use conforms to the policy.

· The meeting room is available for use during regular library hours. Meeting should end 15 minutes prior to closing to allow for cleanup and exit before library is locked.

· All meeting must be open to the public and no attendance or entry fee may be charged.

· Instructors and facilitators cannot charge for their programs. Any donation must be made to the Friends of the Franklin County Public Library, who is the 501-c3 fundraising organization.

· Fundraising is prohibited, except for the benefit of the Franklin County Public Library or the Friends of the Franklin County Public Library.

· Refreshments are permitted if they are provided by the organization holding the meeting and proper cleanup of the room is assured. Alcoholic beverages may not be served, nor is smoking permitted anywhere in the building.

· Attendance must not exceed the limit established by the library and the Fire Marshall.

· Use of the library meeting room does not imply library endorsement, and no promotional material should state or imply library endorsement or sponsorship of the event or the organization. The library should only be listed as the location of the meeting. Groups may not use the library name or address as their own or store their property at the library between meetings.

· The representative of the group reserving the meeting room must complete any forms assuming responsibility for any damage done to the library facilities or equipment prior to the scheduled meeting.

· The library will only provide equipment that is already installed in the meeting rooms and the individual or group must make the library apprised when the library equipment will be used. The representative assumes responsibility for proper use of equipment.

· Setting up and taking down of chairs, tables, or equipment; cleaning and returning the room to its original condition at the end of the meeting is the responsibility of the user and should be anticipated when scheduling room use. Library staff is available to assist in setting up and/or breaking down the rooms (tables/chairs); prior arrangements should be made to notify staff.

· Children may not be left unsupervised in the public areas of the library. If you group brings children, please plan for their supervision. Library staff is not responsible for the safety or well-being of unsupervised children. The general library use policies are still in use during an approved and schedule meeting.

· Notifications to the library of cancellations must be made to make said date available for use.

Emergency Closings
The library acts to ensure the safety of its patrons and its employees during inclement weather. All decisions to open late, remain closed or close early will be made by the Library Director in conjunction with County Commissioners and/or the County Coordinator.

Emergency library closings for inclement weather will be authorized by the Franklin County Board of County Commissioners and the County Coordinator based on based on Emergency Management notifications. When changes in the hours of operation are necessary due to emergency situations such as inclement weather or loss of utilities, the Director or other appointed person will notify the department heads. Staff members will be notified by their department heads.

If the library system remains closed for an entire day because of an emergency situation, qualifying staff scheduled to work that day will be credited for the number of hours they were scheduled to work. If an emergency closing occurs during work hours or when the library opens late due to an emergency situation, qualifying scheduled staff will be credited for any regular scheduled hours.

If the service hours in an individual department are interrupted for any reason, staff may be reassigned to another department, depending on system needs.

Staff will notify the public and will post closing signs in the event of changes to library’s regularly scheduled hours of operation. Closings will also be announced on the library’s website and social media channels when possible.

Video Surveillance
The Franklin County Public Library uses internal and external surveillance equipment to promote the safety of patrons, staff and the community. This equipment also helps to protect the library’s property against vandalism and theft and can assist in identifying intruders and persons breaking the law. In the event of a reported or observed incident, the recorded information may be used to assist in the investigation of the incident. The library will maintain control of and responsibility for the video surveillance at all times.

Recordings are retained 30 days and released only to law enforcement upon proper legal request.

Patron Rights and Responsibilities
Public supported library service is based upon the First Amendment right of free expression. Franklin County maintains a library environment that is conducive to all users’ exercise of their constitutionally protected right to receive information. In order to protect library users’ rights of access to library facilities, to ensure the safety of users’ and staff, and to protect library resources and facilities from damage, the Franklin County Public Library imposes the following reasonable restrictions on the manner of library access and behavior.

Library Patron Code of Conduct
Patron conduct must at all times be conducive to the comfort and safety of library users and staff and the protection of library property. The following are examples of conduct not allowed on the library premises. These provisions are examples only. Any behavior that disrupts the orderly use or operation of the library is prohibited. Patrons engaging in conduct adversely affecting the comfort and safety of Library users and staff and library property may be subject to Enforcement whether the conduct is included in these examples or not. The term “Library premises” includes the facility and grounds controlled and operated by the Library.

Loud or disruptive conversation that inhibits the use of the Library by others is prohibited. Talking on cellular phones is discouraged. Cell phones and pagers should be set to vibrate or turned off before entering the Library.
Audio equipment must be used with earphones that make the sound inaudible to others. If sound is heard despite the use of earphones, the user must reduce the volume or turn the equipment off.
Disorderly, disruptive or inappropriate conduct, use of abusive, obscene, or profane language, and sexual or lewd misconduct are prohibited on Library premises. Verbally or physically threatening or harassing Library users or staff (including following them around the building or prolonged staring) is prohibited. The free movement of persons into or out of the Library may not be impeded.
No Library property or materials may be stolen, destroyed, damaged or defaced. No material may be removed from the Library without being checked out appropriately. Library furniture, fixtures, equipment or decoration may not be moved from its proper place without permission. Behavior that may damage or alter the Library’s computer equipment, software or data is prohibited.
Clothing must adequately cover the body and may not display offensive images or language. Shirts and footwear (other than cleats) must be worn at all times in the Library.
Use of the restrooms for bathing, shampooing or doing laundry is prohibited.
Smoking in the Library or in the area immediately adjacent to any entrance or the use of smokeless tobacco in the Library is prohibited.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages on Library premises except for Library authorized events or functions are prohibited as is the use of illegal drugs on Library premises.
Distribution and posting of printed materials in the Library must be in accordance with Library policy. (Such materials must be submitted to Library Administration.) Panhandling, solicitations for charitable, religious or other purposes, and selling tickets or merchandise of any kind are prohibited in public areas of the Library, except for Library book sales and other fundraising events conducted by other Library organizations. Obtaining signatures on petitions and surveying Library users are restricted to the Library lobby and exterior of the building.
Animals are not permitted in the library. However, service animals assisting people with disabilities, animals used by law enforcement agencies, or animals used in Library programming are permitted in the library. Pursuant to section 413.08, F.S. Library staff are permitted to remove any animal, including services animals, that are out of control, not housebroken, or if the animal’s behavior poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others. Emotional support animals are not permitted in the Library. Animals may not be left unattended outside the Library.
The recreational use of bicycles, rollerblades, skates, skateboards and wheeled footwear is prohibited on Library premises.
Briefcases, handbags, backpacks and other packages are subject to security inspection.
Damaging or stealing property of a Library user or staff member is prohibited.
Entering non-public areas of the Library is prohibited, except if accompanied by a Library staff member or with proper permission.
Possession of any weapon within the Library premises by anyone other than a law enforcement officer is prohibited, except for as permitted by state and federal law.
As provided by County Ordinance 2024-03 photography, videotaping, or any kind of recording in the Library is not permitted, unless prior approval has been given by the Library Executive Director or designated representative.
Remaining in the Library after closing, or when requested to leave during emergency situations or drills is prohibited.
Any activity within the Library premises that violates federal, state, local or other applicable law, ordinance or regulation is prohibited.
Children under the age of 10 must be supervised by a responsible caregiver while in the Library. Anyone unable to care for themselves or follow library rules may not be left unattended. Library staff are not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised minors or individuals unable to care for themselves.
Adults not accompanying children or using children’s materials may be asked to relocate from designated children’s or teen areas.

ENFORCEMENT

This Code of Conduct will be enforced in a fair and reasonable manner. Anyone who observes violations of this policy may report them to a Franklin County Staff person, who will take the appropriate action.
Policy enforcement is the responsibility of the library staff on duty. Patrons may be asked to leave the library if they are in violation of the Code of Conduct. If necessary, library staff may contact law enforcement or emergency services for assistance.

3. Violators of this Code of Conduct are subject to suspension or restriction of their Library privileges and/or eviction from all Library premises for a period from one day to one year.

Following review of the circumstances of the violation, the Library’s Director or designee will issue a written notice to the customer informing the customer of the duration of any suspension, restriction, and/or eviction that is imposed. The determination relating to suspension, restriction, and/or eviction will depend on the nature of the offense, the extent of damage or disruption caused any history of prior infractions of the Library’s Code of Conduct and other relevant circumstances.
Persons committing criminal acts on Library premises, or using Library resources in violation of the law, including acts of theft or vandalism, will be subject to arrest and prosecution.

Adopted by the Franklin County BOCC September 3rd, 2025.

Note: Policy is subject to change based on the official decision(s) made by the Franklin County Board of County Commissioners, Emergency Management and the Cou