Goal 1: Fundamental Priorities - Services, Collections, and Staff
Our community is served by maintaining and improving library services through responsiveness and responsible collection development, patron services, programming, and staff training.
Goal 2: Promote Digital Literacy
Community members of all ages will have access to technology through library resources and learning opportunities which will help them live more fulfilling lives in a rapidly changing world.
Goal 3: Enriching the Community
Community residents will have both a meeting area in which to gather and programs in which to participate in educational, civic, and cultural events.
Goal 4: Outreach Services
Our community will have increased opportunities to access the library through outreach services in various Provo locations.
Brigham Young Academy in Provo, Utah was recognized for its key role in the education of thousands of children, young adults, and adults. The Provo City Library (Library) at Academy Square celebrates that contribution by its very name. The Academy was dedicated in 1892 and was in continual use until 1975. The architectural elements of the building represent the eclectic nature of many of Utah’s buildings during this time period. The Academy architecture is called “Victorian eclectic” because it represents a mixture of several late 19th century architectural styles. The new wing of the Library maintains many of the lines and shapes of the original Academy but does so with a contemporary flair.
The permanent art collection at the Library imparts a unique cultural heritage. Citizens of Provo as well as artists, collectors, and benefactors have contributed to the spirit of Provo’s art movement and of the Library. The art collection of the Library documents the visual fine arts that represent the Provo City Library, the Brigham Young Academy and the history of Provo, from past to present. In addition, the collection may also preserve non-Utah art which has relevance to the Provo City history and culture.
The mission statement (1994) of the Provo City Library emphasizes the core belief in the value of information and enrichment. Quality works of art depict and reflect many aspects of the human condition thus providing another medium in which to realize core beliefs. As the Provo City Library mission statement expresses,
“Our mission is to inform, enrich, and empower every person in our community through effective and timely access to a vast array of ideas and information. We exist in order to provide the best in public library service through understanding the needs of our patrons, giving knowledgeable and caring service, and facilitating access to information sources throughout the world. We promote an informed citizenry, lifelong learning, and the love of reading. We provide timely access to high demand, high interest educational and entertainment materials in a variety of formats for all ages. We place a special emphasis on children’s educational and entertainment materials and services and on filling patron needs through reference skills, materials and computer technologies.” 12/20/1994
The guidelines set forth by the Library Board and facilitated by the Library Art Donation and Placement Committee (Committee) endorse appropriate donations and placement of artwork with the goal of creating a historical, cultural and educational environment.
Composition of the Library Art Donation and Placement Committee (Ad Hoc)
Statement of Purpose
The purpose of these guidelines is to establish a criterion for assessing the appropriateness of the proposed donation and placement of works of art in the Library. These guidelines will help to establish a consistency in proposal evaluations. Further, these guidelines will establish a policy for the placement of works of art in specific areas of the Library. This may also include establishing areas of the building for placement of specific genre types.
Proposals
Proposals for the donations and placement of works of art will be evaluated according to the criteria as outlined in these guidelines. Location in the Library, duration of placement and evaluation criteria will be determined according to a proposal's category. Proposals may fall into one of the following categories:
Proposal Application for Permanent Works of Art (Donations)
Guidelines for evaluation of applications will be based on the following:
Quality and Presentation
Placement
Duration of an Art Object at Initial Location
The placement of works of art in the Library will be carefully considered when initially proposed. The location of art will be periodically reviewed. As the Library evolves, art may be relocated and/or removed. In the event of either relocation or removal, the Gallery Manager will coordinate the activity.
Security of Donations
The library will take reasonable precautions to secure works of art. Budgetary constraints may impact the relative level of security.
Insurance Responsibility
Since a donation of art becomes the property of the Library, appropriate insurance coverage is the responsibility of the Library.
Removing Exhibits
The Library Gallery Manager will be responsible for dismantling and removing the artwork from its exhibit space.
Evaluation Criteria for Proposals for Long Term and Temporary Art Displays in the Library
Long term and temporary displays are defined as displays which are exhibited for an extended period of time, but which are not permanent.
Proposal Application
Long term and temporary display proposals follow the same application process and utilize the same selection criteria as does the permanent collection. Temporary lighting solutions will be reviewed by the Committee and may be a factor in the acceptance process.
Duration of Display for Long Term Loan
Agreements for a long-term loan will be for a unspecified period of time.
Duration of Display for Short Term Loan
Agreements for a short-term loan will be for a specific negotiated period of time, not to exceed two years.
Security of Donations
The library will take reasonable precautions to secure works of art. Budgetary constraints may impact the relative level of security.
Responsibility of Maintenance
The owner will assume the responsibility of maintenance, which includes all associated maintenance costs, for the work of art throughout the duration of the loan.
Insurance Responsibility
During the period of time that a work of art is displayed by the Library, the owner of the work of art must provide one of the following documents:
Statement
The primary purpose of the Provo City Library Art Gallery is to enrich the Library experience of the Provo City Library patrons.
The Library Art Gallery Committee, under the direction of the Provo City Library Board, is responsible for the selection of Library Gallery Exhibitions. The Library Board endorses appropriate gallery exhibits with the goal of creating a historical, cultural and educational environment within the Provo City Library. Special consideration will be given to works of art produced by local artists.
The Provo City Library Art Gallery is located on the second floor of the Academy Building.
Composition of the Library Art Gallery Committee
Proposals
Artists and art organizations are encouraged to apply to exhibit in the Library Gallery. Owners of artwork with local community interest, or historical significance are also encouraged to apply. Proposals will be considered by the Library Art Gallery Committee. All proposals must follow the procedures established by the Library.
Exhibition Selection
Local artists and art organizations, from amateur to professional, are invited to exhibit. The gallery will focus primarily on two-dimensional works.
In selecting exhibits, the Library Art Gallery Committee will take into consideration:
Quality of artwork
Overall community interest
Historical prominence or significance of artist or arts organization
Relevance to Library programs
Dates of previous Library Gallery exhibits by the same artist, lender, or organization.
Dates of previous Library Gallery exhibitions of similar items or topics
Special needs, costs, or requests associated with proposed exhibits
The Provo City Library Art Gallery will abide by the community standards of Provo City. The Library commits to be thoughtful and sensitive in choosing works of art to be displayed in the Provo City Library Art Gallery.
Cancellation of Exhibits
The Library Art Gallery Committee reserves the right to cancel any exhibit should unforeseen conditions or situations arise.
Exhibition Presentation, Installation, and Dismantling
Two-dimensional artwork must be suitably framed and ready for hanging. Unframed artwork will not be exhibited without specific permission of the Gallery Manager. The artist/lender of three dimensional works of art must provide pedestals, display cases, or platforms as needed, which must be approved prior to installation by the Gallery Manager.
Typical exhibits will run six to eight weeks. The Gallery Manager shall supervise the set-up and removal of all exhibits. All works of art must remain on display until the closing of the exhibition. Any costs associated with special installation or display needs (such as special lighting) must be pre-approved by the Gallery Manager and borne by the artist/lender.
Artist/lenders must remove artwork from the Library no later than two days after the end of the exhibit unless the artist/lender has made written arrangements with the Gallery Manger prior to the exhibit. If prior written arrangements are not made, the Library will charge the artist/lender a storage fee of $50.00 per day after the second day.
Sales
All sales are the responsibility of the artist/lender. Artists/lenders should provide the Gallery Manager with an information sheet which includes contact information no larger than 8 1/2 X 11". The Gallery Manager will keep this information on file or display as the Manager deems appropriate.
No pricing will be displayed in the gallery and all pricing and sale status inquiries will be referred to the artist or the artist's agent. All works of art must remain on display at the Gallery, even if sold, until the exhibit closes.
Security/Liability
Library cannot be responsible for reimbursement or replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged items and does not insure exhibits. The Library encourages the artist/lender to obtain a rider on his or her insurance policy for the duration of the exhibit. The Artists/lenders will be required to complete and sign a waiver/release of Library liability before any works of art are exhibited.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Basement Creative Lab is a space for Provo Residents to learn and practice audio and video production skills. The Basement encompasses three basic units:
It is understood that Provo City Library is not responsible for the ideas, opinions, or content of projects made utilizing Provo City Library spaces or equipment.
POLICIES FOR USE - PRODUCTION STUDIO
The Basement Creative Lab Production Studio is located in the basement of the Academy Wing, accessible from the underground parking garage entrance or by using the west elevator.
POLICIES FOR USE - CIRCULATING COLLECTION
To facilitate production outside of the Library, we maintain a small collection of circulating equipment.
POLICIES FOR USE - MULTIMEDIA EDITING STATIONS
The Library maintains several multimedia editing stations. These stations are found on the first floor of the Rogers Wing.
Requirements for obtaining a Provo City Library Card
Types of cards issued by the Provo City Library
Library cards are issued only to individuals. Organizations, businesses, and other entities are not eligible for a library card.
Borrower Responsibility
The borrower is responsible for all materials, fines and fees charged to their library card. Lost or stolen library cards are to be reported immediately to appropriate library staff. A minor’s parent or legal guardian is responsible for all materials, fines and fees charged to the minor’s library card. A fee, as established in the Loan Periods, Fines, and Charges will be charged whenever a replacement card is requested.
Privacy
In accordance with Utah State Code 63.2.302, any Provo City Library records that identify a patron are private. Pursuant to this law, requests for disclosure of private library records can be made by a parent or legal guardian, the holder of a power of attorney or a notarized release, or pursuant to a court order or legislative subpoena. Requests for information by other than the subject of the record or the parent or legal guardian, as previously established by the library, will be forwarded to the Library Director or designated representative.
Bankruptcy
Interlibrary loan, or ILL, is the borrowing and lending of materials between independent libraries. The purpose of interlibrary loan is to obtain materials to meet patron’s needs when local resources are inadequate. This cooperative process works two ways. Provo City Library (PCL) is able to borrow materials for its patrons from other libraries. In turn, other libraries borrow PCL materials to meet the needs of their patrons. By lending materials to other libraries, Provo City Library is able to borrow materials from a larger number of libraries participating in OCLC, the worldwide database used for interlibrary loan. The loans made to other libraries also reduce the cost of using the OCLC database to do searches and make requests for PCL patrons.
Borrowing Materials for Provo City Library Patrons
Anyone with a valid Provo City Library card may request material using interlibrary loan. Fines and overdues must be cleared before an interlibrary loan request will be processed.
It is possible to request these types of materials on interlibrary loan:
These materials are not available for borrowing from other libraries:
Interlibrary loan requests may be made by submitting a completed request form. These forms are available at the Reference Desk. The librarians can assist in completing the form, including finding the required request information. Requests may also be made over the phone.
In some cases, the Library may choose to purchase the material requested, rather than borrow it. If such a decision is made, a hold for the requesting patron will be placed on the item at the time it is ordered.
There is no charge for most interlibrary loans. Requests by PCL to borrow materials are usually sent to other libraries that do not charge for interlibrary loans. However, some materials are only available if fees are paid. In such cases, the requesting patron will be consulted before the material is borrowed. All special charges will be passed on to the patron, including lending fees, copyright charges, special postage and handling, and any other costs incurred in obtaining the material.
Once borrowed materials are received, the requesting patron will be notified. Materials may then be picked up at the 1st Floor Reference Desk. A paper sleeve wrapped around the item will show the due date and any other conditions set by the lending library. Provo City Library will abide by all conditions set by the lending library for the use of its materials.
Some borrowed materials may be limited to “Library Use Only.” These materials will be held at the Reference Desk during the loan period. The patron may use these materials inside the library only.
The lending library sets the loan period for its items, as well as stipulating whether or not renewals are allowed. If renewals are not specifically restricted for a borrowed item, the patron may request one renewal in person or over the phone. Renewal requests must be made to PCL interlibrary loan staff at least three days before the material’s due date. The patron will be notified when the lending library responds to allow the renewal or not.
Patrons will be charged a fine for each day an interlibrary loan item is overdue. There is no grace period. Patrons will also be liable for any lost or damaged interlibrary loan items borrowed for them. The replacement cost will be set by the lending library.
Lending Materials to Libraries Outside Provo
Provo City Library will accept interlibrary loan requests from other libraries in the following ways:
All requests for the loan of PCL materials must be placed by the borrowing library. No requests from individuals will be honored, except for requests for copies from the Daily Herald. Individuals interested in borrowing PCL materials should contact their local library to submit their requests.
Requests for articles to be copied from the Daily Herald microfilms will be accepted from individuals as well as from other libraries, as long as the requests are in writing. Libraries should use the above-listed methods. Individuals may send requests via mail, fax, or e-mail. The following information is required: specific date to be searched, title of article or person’s name if request is for an obituary, requestor’s name, mailing address (for sending copy). Library staff will search one week before and one week after the date specified if the article/obituary is not found on the date supplied.
In addition to copies from the Daily Herald, the following materials are available for interlibrary loan:
These materials are not available:
The check-out period for interlibrary loan is one month. One renewal will be allowed, unless the loan material has been requested by a PCL patron or another library. Any renewal requests must be made by the borrowing library. No such requests from individuals will be accepted.
Materials loaned to other libraries will be delivered by U.S. Mail.
Provo City Library does not charge for its interlibrary loans. At present, this no-charge policy applies to copies made from print periodicals and/or microforms, as well as to books. Borrowing libraries will be responsible for lost or damaged materials. Charges will include the item’s replacement cost plus a processing fee.
General Introductory Statements:
Public access to the Internet and online services have become an integral part of Provo City Library’s programs and services. The intent of this policy is to meet the provisions of Sections 9-7-213, 9-7-215, and 9-7-216 UCA, and Administrative Rule 458-2, as well as provide guidelines for patrons and staff regarding Internet access and online computer use.
Developed under the direction of the Library Board of the Provo City Library, this Internet and Online Access Policy was discussed and adopted during an open meeting of the Library Board on May 11, 2016. This policy supersedes all previous Internet and Online Access Policy statements of the Provo City Library and is effective on May 12, 2016.
This document will be reviewed by the Provo City Library Board at least every three years, and a copy of the new policy will be sent to the Utah State Library Division as required by Administrative Rule 458-2.
Legal requirements:
The Provo City Library’s Internet and Online Access Policy complies with Section 9-7-215 Internet and Online Access Policy Required, and Section 9-7-216 Process and Content Standards for Policy UCA, as well as reporting procedures established by Utah Administrative Rule 458-2.
The Provo City Library has in place a policy of Internet safety for minors, including the operation of a technology protection measure, hereafter called “filtering software”, on any publicly accessible computer with Internet access that protects against access to visual depictions that are child pornography, materials harmful to minors, or obscene. The filtering software will be enforced to provide Internet safety during any use of a computer by a minor.
The Provo City Library has in place a policy of Internet safety, including the operation of filtering software on any publicly accessible computer with Internet access that protects against access to visual depictions that are child pornography or obscene. The filtering software will be enforced to provide Internet safety during any use of a computer. This includes our wireless network accessible throughout the library.
The Library policy restricts access to Internet sites that contain visual depictions that are child pornography, harmful to minors or obscene, and may also limit Internet access or otherwise protect against materials other than the materials specified in Utah statute. Filtering software will provide Internet safety for all library computers connected to the Internet. However, an authorized library representative may disable a technology protection measure at the request of an adult patron to enable Internet access for research or other lawful purposes.
The Library Board has disapproved the use of public access Internet computers for online gaming (e.g. gambling) or any illegal purposes in an effort to protect patrons and the library against materials other than the materials specified in Utah law.
Additional Policies and Guidelines
The Provo City Library:
Users of our Internet service agree that they:
Information from this policy is on the start-up page of every public Internet computer in the Library. Access to the full policy is available on the Library’s website, or in print at the Library reference desks.
Guidelines for Enforcement of the Online Public Access Policy
When staff members observe a violation of this policy, they are expected to report the violation to their supervisor or the person-in-charge. Patrons observing a potential violation of this policy should notify a library staff member, who will then verify the violation. Patrons in violation of this policy will be given a verbal warning.
If the problem behavior persists, or in the case of extreme misuse, the patron will be asked to leave the Library for the day. The police will be called when patrons refuse to leave the Library after being asked to do so, or when using Library computers to engage in illegal acts.
The privilege of access to the Library’s Internet services may be suspended for the following reasons:
Loss of Internet privileges will be for a definite period of time up to one year, to be determined by the Library Director. Any suspension longer than one week may be appealed to the Library Board of Directors.
Procedures for Addressing Concerns about This Policy and Its Enforcement
Procedures to handle complaints about this policy, its enforcement, and about observed patron behavior exist and are available for public review.
This procedure involves all concerns or questions about this policy, its enforcement, or observed patron behavior being directed to any Library Services Manager. If any concern cannot be resolved by the Manager contacted, a written report will be submitted at the next Management Team meeting, which includes the Library Director and all Library Services Managers. The patron will be informed in writing of their response within a week of their meeting.
Patrons not satisfied with this disposition may then appeal to the Library Board through the Library Director within thirty (30) days after the issuance of a formal response. The Library Director will forward the request to the Board along with the Management Team recommendations. After full consideration of the specific concern, the Library Board will make the final determination of the matter. The patron shall be notified of this action within thirty (30) days of the Library Board meeting in which the matter was discussed.
Implementation Requirements:
A notice of the availability of this Policy will be posted in a conspicuous place within the library for all patrons to observe.
The Library Board has established procedures and guidelines to handle complaints about this policy, enforcement of this policy by library staff, and what a patron should do if they observe inappropriate behavior by another library patron. These procedures will be adhered to by library staff to enforce the requirements of Sections 9-7-213, 9-7-215 and 9-7-216 UCA.
The Provo City Library is supported by the taxes of the residents of Provo who expect our facility to be a clean, comfortable, and safe place for selecting materials, reading, researching, studying, using computers, and attending programs and meetings. To this end, the Library is responsible for establishing standards of conduct to protect the rights and safety of Library patrons, volunteers and staff, and for preserving and protecting the Library’s materials, equipment, facilities, and grounds.
To ensure the comfort and safety of patrons, volunteers, and staff, and the protection of Library property, Library staff is authorized to enforce these standards of conduct on Library property. People who willfully violate these rules are subject to exclusion from the library; egregious violations may result in immediate exclusion or in a longer exclusion than indicated in these guidelines.
Individuals who repeatedly violate these Standards of Conduct after having been previously excluded for Library rule violations may face longer exclusion than indicated in these guidelines. Repeat offenders need not violate the same rule to be subject to stricter enforcement and may not be warned that their behavior is inappropriate before being excluded.
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
Any persons who violate rules 1 – 5 while on Library premises will be immediately ejected and excluded from the Provo City Library without first being given a warning. The offender shall be excluded from the Provo City Library premises and lose all Library privileges for a period of up to three years. The incident will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Committing or attempting to commit any activity that violates any federal, state, or local criminal statute or ordinance.
Directing a specific threat of physical harm against an individual, group of individuals, or property.
Engaging in sexual conduct or lewd behavior.
Possessing, selling, distributing, consuming, or being under the influence of any controlled substance or alcohol.
Stealing, damaging, defacing, or destroying Library property.
Any person who violates rules 6 – 19 while on Library premises will be asked to leave for the day. Subsequent offenses will result in that person’s immediate ejection and exclusion from the Provo City Library premises for a period of up to one year.
Engaging in conduct that disrupts or interferes with the normal operation of the Library, disturbs Library staff or patrons, including but not limited to, conduct that creates unreasonable noise or consists of loud or boisterous physical behavior or talking.
Using foul, abusive, or threatening language or gestures.
Using library materials, equipment, furniture, fixtures, or buildings in a manner inconsistent with customary use.
Disobeying the reasonable direction of a Library staff member or Library security officer.
Soliciting, petitioning, or distributing written materials or canvassing for political, charitable, monetary, or religious purposes inside the Library or on Library property.
Leaving personal belongings unattended. Library personnel may inspect and/or remove personal items left unattended on Library property in order to preserve a safe environment.
Any interference with the free passage of Library staff or patrons on Library premises, including, but not limited to, placing objects such as bicycles, skateboards, backpacks, or other items in a manner that interferes with free passage or negatively affects the orderly atmosphere of the Library.
Bringing prohibited items into the Library, including, but not limited to, bicycles, shopping carts, or similar devices.
Operating roller skates, skateboards, or similar devices on Library premises.
Smoking or other tobacco use, including, but not limited to, using electronic cigarettes or cigarette rolling.
Consuming food or drink in the Library that creates a nuisance or disrupts library use because of odor, garbage, or spills. Non-alcoholic beverages in covered containers and small amounts of snack foods are allowed in designated areas away from computers and other library equipment.
Bringing non-service animals or animals not for the express intention of Library Programming, into Library buildings. Similarly, leaving animals unattended outside the Library in a way that impedes others’ access to the Library.
Violating the Library’s Internet and Online Access Policy (see complete policy), including, but not limited to, displaying or disseminating visual images containing pornography, obscenity, graphic violence, or other images harmful to minors and inappropriate in a public library setting.
Improperly using Library restrooms, including, but not limited to, bathing, shaving, washing hair, and changing clothes.
Any person who violates rules 20 – 26 while on Library premises may be asked to leave for the day. Subsequent offenses by that person will result in that person’s immediate ejection and exclusion from the Provo City Library premises for a period of up to six months.
Sleeping or lying down on Library premises.
Using personal electronic equipment at a volume that disturbs others.
Using a cell phone to make or receive phone calls while on the 2nd Floor of the New Rogers Wing, which has been designated a quiet area.
Taking library materials into restrooms if the materials have not been checked out.
Leaving children under the age of nine unattended.
Neglecting to provide proper supervision for children in your care.
Loitering in the Children’s department without a reasonable reason to be present.
Any person who violates rules 27 - 29 while in Library premises will be excluded from the premises until the problem is corrected.
Entering Library buildings with bare feet or a bare chest.
Having offensive body odor that can be detected by a reasonable person from six feet away or personal hygiene that unreasonably interferes with other patrons’ ability to use the Library.
Filming in any part of the library without express permission of Library Administration.
Any suspension of library privileges longer than one week may be appealed to the Library Board. Provo City Code 2.26.120 allows the Library Board of Directors to “Make and adopt rules and regulations not inconsistent with law, for the governing of the library” and to “exclude from the use of the library any and all persons who shall willfully violate such rules.” (see also Utah Code 9-7-404)
Request for Reconsideration of Library Material
The Provo City Library Materials Selection Policy exists to serve as a guide in the selection of materials and to inform the public about the principles upon which selections are made.
Principles of Selection
The objective of the Provo City Library is to collect, organize, and make easily available to the people of the community materials which will help them in the pursuit of education, information and the creative use of leisure time. Within the limits of space and budget, the collection offers patrons materials in a choice of format, treatment, and level of difficulty. In this way most individual library needs can be met and service provided to individuals of all ages.
Within the community of Provo there are groups and individuals with diverse interests, backgrounds and needs. The Library collection reflects, as closely as possible, the interests of the majority while not neglecting the equally important interests and views of minorities within the local, national and international communities. The Library’s role is to provide materials which will allow individuals to access information to make their own decisions.
It should be recognized that some materials chosen may be offensive, shocking or boring to some individuals, but may be meaningful and significant to others. It is the responsibility of individuals to limit their library use to books and materials which are consistent with their individual tastes. While everyone is free to reject for themselves and their children materials of which they do not approve, they may not restrict the freedom of others to read or inquire.
The inclusion of an item in the collection is not to be considered an endorsement, official or otherwise, by the Library. The Library neither approves nor disapproves the views expressed in materials included in the collection. The Library cannot exclude all materials that could conceivably result in mental or physical injury to some individual, since theoretically any material could be harmful to someone if improperly used.
Materials in the collection are arranged in a way to facilitate access to information. No restriction is placed on their use except for the purposes of protecting them from theft or damage.
Selection Criteria
Ultimate responsibility for materials selection rests with the Library Director who operates within the framework of policies determined by the Board of Trustees. The day-to-day work of selection and evaluation is the responsibility of the staff of professional librarians. The individual librarians are assigned subject areas and are responsible for developing procedures for material selection that are governed by this policy. Specific criteria for individual subject areas as well as for differing age level materials are contained in the Collection Management Guidelines.
The selection of materials is characterized by open-mindedness and responsiveness to the changing needs of the citizens of Provo. Materials are evaluated as complete works and not on the basis of a particular passage or passages.
All acquisitions, whether purchased or donated, are evaluated by the following standards. An item need not meet all of the criteria to be acceptable, nor will any single criterion be decisive.
The Library does not buy pornography (as defined by the Utah State Code, Title 76-10-1203) or materials which trade exclusively in sensationalism or would offend community standards.
Suggestions from patrons are encouraged and will be given due consideration.
In selecting library materials for children, the Library’s objective is to provide a collection that meets the informational, recreational, and cultural needs of children from preschool age through sixth grade. However, resources of the entire Library are accessible to them as the need arises. Selection of adult material will not be restricted by the possibility that these materials may come into the possession of minors.
The collection contains materials which express a wide variety of views and are suitable for all ages and abilities. It is, therefore, the responsibility of parents or legal guardians to guide the reading, viewing, and listening choices of their children and young adults, and to decide what their children may or may not use from this collection.
In providing materials for student use the Library cannot provide multiple copies of individual books or textbooks for school assignments, nor can it duplicate subject materials extensively.
Collection Maintenance
In order to maintain a vital, current collection which meets the needs of the community, examination of materials is an ongoing process. When library books lose the value for which they were originally selected, they should be withdrawn. An item is considered for discard when it is:
Space availability and low circulation over a period of time are other factors that may influence the withdrawal decision.
Withdrawn materials are not automatically replaced. Replacement is considered in relation to adequate coverage in a specific subject area, availability of more current or better titles, suitability according to this selection policy and demand for the title.
Gifts, including memorial items, are subject to these withdrawal and replacement policies.
Discarded library books, magazines, pamphlets, records, etc., may not be reserved for specific individuals. They may be offered for sale, on a first-come, first-served basis, at the library. Donations of discarded materials may also be made, at the discretion of the Director, to neighboring libraries, educational institutions or charitable organizations.
Gifts
The Library accepts gifts of materials with the understanding that the Library may make whatever use of the material it feels appropriate. No restrictions on the Library’s use of gift materials may be made by the donor.
Gifts become the Library’s property upon receipt; they may not be reclaimed. Materials not needed in the collection will be placed in the Library’s book sale; donated to other libraries, educational institutions or charitable organizations; or discarded. Donated materials added to the collection are subject to the same withdrawal and replacement criteria as materials purchased by the Library.
It is the policy of the Library not to accept special collections of gift materials if the condition of acceptance requires that they be kept together as a separate physical entity. Further the Library shall not accept as a gift any printed or manuscript items or any objects if the condition of acceptance requires permanent exhibition of the item or object.
Upon request a note of receipt will be issued for donated items. However, it is the donor’s responsibility to determine the fair market value of the donated materials.
Reconsideration of Library Materials
Any library patron who is a resident of Provo may question the presence of an item in the Library’s collection. If the patron concludes that a specific item does not meet the guidelines of the Materials Selection Policy, he or she may complete a Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials form. The completed form will be reviewed by the professional staff including the Library Director, and the patron will be informed of the disposition of the request.
Patrons not satisfied with this disposition may then appeal to the Board of Trustees through the Library Director, who will forward the request to the Board along with staff recommendations. After reading the item in question and full consideration of the specific material, the Board of Trustees shall make final determination of the matter. The patron shall be notified of this action in a timely manner.
Reservations
No written notification | Received before 90 calendar days | Received after 90 calendar days | |||
Deposit | Rental | Deposit | Rental | Deposit | Rental |
0% | 0% | 100% | 100% | 0% | 100% |
Questions which are not covered in this policy should be addressed to the Library Scheduling Coordinator at 801-852-7691.
Free Meeting Room Use
Category 1
Free Use Meeting Guidelines
Meeting Room and Ballroom Rental
CATEGORIES 2, 3
Rental use is available to:
Category 2
Category 3
Rental Guidelines
No written notification | Received before 90 calendar days | Received after 90 calendar days | |||
Deposit | Rental | Deposit | Rental | Deposit | Rental |
0% | 0% | 100% | 100% | 0% | 100% |
It is the policy of Provo City Library at Academy Square, as a part of its information mission and as a public service, to provide access to community information by providing spaces for the free distribution of handouts and the public posting of flyers, notices and posters.
Content
Acceptable non-library materials produced by individuals or organizations are limited to those engaged in cultural, educational, intellectual, or charitable activities or other activities approved by the Library Director or his or her designee.
Placement, Quantity and Size
The Library Director will designate which spaces such as bulletin boards, literature racks, counter tops, desktops, or shelves are available for free distribution or posting of non-library materials within the Library or on library grounds.
The Library will give preference to materials that
Distribution or posting of materials at the Library does not indicate a Library endorsement of the ideas, issues, or events promoted by those materials.
Duration and Responsibility
The Library Director or his or her designated staff member(s) must approve each item for posting or free distribution.
Materials will be posted or placed for free distribution for 30 days, or until the last day of the event.
After 30 days, materials will be discarded.
The Library assumes no responsibility for the preservation or protection of materials posted or placed for free distribution.
Materials posted or left for free distribution without approval from the Library will be discarded.
Materials known to be illegal will not be posted or placed for distribution.
Our Commitment to Privacy
Protecting patron privacy is very important to the Provo City Library. The Library protects the confidentiality of patron information as part of its commitment to intellectual freedom. Confidentiality and privacy are essential to free speech, free thought, and free association.
Confidentiality of Library Records
The Provo City Library supports the laws of Utah, which tell us that most library records are confidential and protected. We will not make any information about you or your use of the library services or materials available to anyone or any group except:
Information Collected and Use
We collect information when you obtain a library card, register for library programs, subscribe to a newsletter, fill out a form, or enter information on our website.
When registering for a library card, patron information is entered into the Library's computer system from a written application. After the application data is checked for accuracy, the written application is destroyed.
We may use the information we collect from you in the following ways:
Online Fine Payments and Collections
The Library offers cardholders the option of paying fines and room rental fees online and at self-check kiosks. Payments are encrypted to protect financial information and credit card data is not retained by the library.
In the case of a patron's failure to return materials, the Library may disclose circulation information to a collection agency hired to secure the return of or payment for library materials. The collection agency considers all information confidential and does not sell or share any patron information.
Third Party Partners
The Library has teamed up with reputable third-party partners to provide certain online services to its patrons. The information you submit to the Library may be provided to those third parties on a confidential basis so they can assist us in providing these services. In cases where patrons leave the Library's website to visit one of its partners' websites, they are encouraged to learn about the privacy policies of the websites they visit.
We do not sell information collected on our website to outside parties. We use return email addresses to answer the email we receive. Mailing addresses are used to send fine notices and are not used for any other purpose or sold to outside parties.
External Websites
The Provo City Library website contains links to external websites not maintained by the Library. The Library cannot be responsible for patron privacy when visiting other websites. Once patrons link to another website, they are now subject to that website's privacy policy or statement, if the website has one.
Applicability
This privacy statement applies to all Provo City Library patrons. The parents or legal guardians of patrons under the age of 18 may have access to their child's borrowing record or any other identifying records. Otherwise, this policy fully applies to minor patrons.
It is the practice of the Provo City Library to retain certain records from year to year. Retention of patron records may be in the form of print or electronic media.
Record | Retention Period |
Patron Information | Permanent, or 3 years if inactive. |
Library Card Applications | Shredded after Library staff ensures that the data has been entered in correctly. |
Circulation Information |
Once a patron account is deleted, all check out and payment history is deleted with the account. |
Credit Card Information | Payments are encrypted to protect financial information and credit card data is not retained by the Library. |
Library Computer Login Information | Deleted each night after the Library closes. |
As a way to achieve Provo City Library’s mission, the Library participates in various social media technologies including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. As an extension of services and resources, social media sites provide additional communication methods for the convenience of our patrons and staff in order to facilitate the sharing of ideas, opinions, and information about library-related subjects and issues. Library social media is intended to create an online space where Provo City Library users will find useful and entertaining information and can interact with Library staff and other Library users. Provo City Library reserves the right to remove comments.
Provo City Library does not collect, maintain, or otherwise use the personal information stored on any third party social media site in any way other than to communicate with users on that site, unless granted permission by users for contact outside the site. The purpose for contact outside the site may include program promotion, volunteer opportunities, reference help, or other similar activities. Users should be aware that third party websites have their own privacy policies and should proceed accordingly.
Posted content by users on social media sites can be seen by web users everywhere making all comments publicly accessible. Protect your privacy. Do not post personally identifiable information. Young people under the age of 18 should be especially cautious.
Comments posted to Library sponsored social media sites are monitored by Library staff. Posts containing the following are against Provo City Library policy and may be deleted or removed by Library staff:
In addition, the Provo City Library reserves the right to edit or modify any postings or comments for space or content, while retaining the intent of the original post. The Library shall also be granted the right to reproduce comments, posts, and messages in other public venues such as in a newspaper or on the Library website. Identifying information, other than first name, will be removed unless prior approval is granted by the user.
Provo City Library assumes no responsibility or liability for any event or interaction that takes place by any participant in any Library sponsored social networking service, and does not endorse content outside those sites maintained by the Provo City Library.
By choosing to post comments or any content you agree to comply with this policy.
Policy Statement
Parents are responsible for their children’s behavior while the children are in the library. Parents are encouraged to not leave children of insufficient age and maturity to avoid harm to themselves unattended in the library. Disruptive children nine or over will be asked to leave after receiving one warning. (Unattended means not attended by another person who is at least age nine or over.)
Child Left Unattended
Disruptive Behavior
Staff Member Follow-up
Staff members involved in situations with disruptive persons shall document the time and circumstances in writing and give the report to their department coordinator at their earliest opportunity.
Mon, Aug 08 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM |
Tue, Aug 09 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM |
Wed, Aug 10 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM |
Thu, Aug 11 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM |
Fri, Aug 12 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM |
Sat, Aug 13 | 9:00AM to 6:00PM |
Sun, Aug 14 | Closed |