Policies

The State of Kentucky defines a video surveillance record is a recording used to document the activities in public areas of local government facilities such as the Taylor County Public Library. The cameras usually run 24 hours a day and record all activities in specific areas. These records are used in case there is destruction of property, breaking and entering, or other unlawful acts. These cameras may be located in interior areas such as lobbies, kitchens, control rooms, hallways, entrances, offices and any where the public has access. Cameras also may be located on the exterior of the library to monitor entrances and parking areas. These recordings are used as a security measure in the identification of persons who cause disturbances or violate laws.

These recordings are open records and will be released to any persons making a request for them under the open records act (§61.870 - 61.884). The possible presence of children in these videos is immaterial; they are still subject to release to any person making a valid request.

In accordance with KRS 45A.425, the Taylor Count Public Library Board of Trustees will sell or otherwise dispose of property that it deems no longer necessary or useful for library purposes. Whenever possible, surplus property will be disposed of as follows:

1. Property valued above $200 dollars may be donated or sold to any other government agency operating in Taylor County or Kentucky.

2. Books and non-print items withdrawn from the library’s collections on an ongoing basis and which have unit values of less than $200 dollars may be given to the Friends of the Library or to some other such philanthropic, educational, cultural, governmental, or other 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

3. Computers and other technology items which have unit values of less than $200 dollars and are incapable of running current software and/or are incompatible with the library’s computer network may be disposed of using qualified computer recycling services or donated to philanthropic, educational, cultural, governmental, or other 501 (c) (3) not-for- profit organizations.

4. All other items having a unit value of $200 dollars or less may be disposed of as determined by the Board in accordance with KRS 45A.425.

5. In the case of surplus property valued in excess of $500 dollars, the board shall sell this property at public auction (including internet auction) or by sealed bids in accordance with KRS 45A.365. Sealed bids will be opened at the discretion of the board of trustees or the director. A sealed bid forms packet will be made available for interested parties to obtain at the Library’s front circulation desk.

6. In the event that the library receives no bids for surplus property, such property may be disposed of in compliance with KRS 45A.425. Should the bids be deemed inadequate, a decision may be made to reject the bids and re-advertise the sale.

The Taylor County Public Library, the Board of Trustees, and its staff are concerned for the wellbeing of this community’s children, but cannot be held responsible for incidents, accidents, or other liabilities arising from the actions of unattended children.

The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the Library rests with the parent/caregiver and not with Library staff. Library staff cannot be responsible for children who are unattended or demonstrating inappropriate behavior. Children who exhibit inappropriate behavior may be asked to leave the Library. If the child is unable to leave the Library without an adult, he/she should not be in the Library without an adult.

If a child is found to be unattended, Library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the Library and inform him/her of the Unattended Child Policy. If the parent/caregiver cannot be located, Library staff will contact the Campbellsville Police Department to assist the child.

The following guidelines will be followed concerning the care and behavior of children.

• Children under the age of 8 must have a parent/caregiver in the immediate vicinity of (and in visual contact with) the child. The parent/caregiver must be at least 14 years old.

• If a child under the age of 8 is found unattended, Library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the Library and inform him/her of the Unattended Child policy. If the parent/caregiver cannot be found, Library staff will contact the Campbellsville Police Department. If a child under the age of 8 violates the Library’s Code of Conduct, the child and the parent/caregiver will be informed of the policy. If inappropriate behavior continues, the child and parent/caregiver may be asked to leave the Library.

• Children ages 8 to 11 must have a parent/caregiver in the Library. Children who exhibit inappropriate behavior may be asked to leave the Library. If a child ages 8 to 11 is not able to leave the Library without an adult, he/she should not be in the Library alone.

• Children ages 12 and up may use the Library unattended. However, the parent/caregiver is still responsible for the behavior and the wellbeing of the child. The child is expected to follow the Library’s Code of Conduct policy and may be asked to leave the Library if he/she exhibits inappropriate behavior. The Library assumes no responsibility for the whereabouts of an unattended child who has been asked to leave Library property.

• Teenagers are considered adult users. However, they are the legal responsibility of their parent/legal guardian and should have an emergency contact available.

In any situation involving the safety of children, and specifically whenever the parent/caregiver or police are contacted, staff will complete an Incident Report.