Public Access Computer Procedures

• All public access computers in the Huntsville Madison County Public Library System may be used by adults and children ages 10 and older. The Youth Services Department of some Branches have computers that are specifically for children, and have no age limits. To use all other public access computers, children ages 9 and under need to be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.
• The Library uses an automated PC Reservation system. Every effort is made to provide equitable access and time to all users of our public computers.
• All computer users must have one of the following:
  1. A valid Huntsville-Madison County Public Library card.
  2. A Guest Patron Card for non-residents, guests, and residents ineligible for a full membership. This limited-access card is strictly for computer usage or room reservations. It may be obtained at a service desk and should be issued to patrons who are frequent users of the public computers. Such cards are unable to check out items; guest and non-resident patrons wishing to upgrade computer-use only cards may apply for a full card at a circulation desk. Non-resident fees apply to full membership cards. 
• To use a public access computer, a user must have either a valid Huntsville-Madison County Public Library card or a Guest Patron card. No one may use another person’s card or card number. Anyone that does not comply with this requirement will have his or her card blocked for one month and will lose borrowing and computer use privileges during that time.
• Copies made on computer printers are $.15/page for black and white and $.25/page for color, with the exception that there are no charges for print-outs made of searches in our online catalog.
• Generally, a patron is limited to 1 hour usage per day with 1 extension for 30 minutes if no one is waiting.
• High demand locations have express workstations for quick email access and other short uses. These computers have a time limit of 15 minutes, and are on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or sign-ups are required for these workstations.
  
• Reservations, where reservations may be made, will be held for only five (5) minutes past the reservation time in all locations.
• Flash Drives may be purchased for $5.00; headsets for $2.00.
• Patrons may access personal e-mail accounts that are web-based like Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, and America Online.
  
• Patrons are required to use only the software available on the library computers, and are not allowed to load software on a computer's hard drive, or use their own software on a portable USB flash storage device.
  
• Patrons may use portable USB flash storage devices, also called memory sticks, on the library computers. The library is not responsible for any damage that might occur to a patron's personal device, and cannot guarantee, due to manufacturer variations, that all memory sticks will work with library workstations. A patron's personal USB peripherals such as external hard drives and webcams are not permitted for use on library computers.
  
• Individual departments or Branches may have additional procedures that are specific to each location and based on their users' needs.

Internet Safety Policy

Mission
This is the public’s library. We empower individuals to create their own futures, explore the universe of ideas, and connect with our community and the world.

Internet Access

The Library collection is supplemented by the wide variety of resources available through the Alabama Virtual Library and the Internet.  Computers are provided for our users to access these online resources in the Library, and free classes are available in the Technology Training Center and Workforce Development Lab at some Branches for those who wish to improve their computer and Internet skills.

The content of the Internet is unregulated, and the Library has no control over the resources available there.  Information found on the Internet may be reliable and current, or it may be inaccurate, out of date, illegal, obscene or sexually explicit.  Because the Library cannot monitor or control the information available through the Internet, users access the Internet at their own discretion.

In order to provide equal access for users to its computers and the Internet, the Library sets time limits for computer usage and requires user sign-up or reservations.

Users are expected to utilize the Library computers in a responsible manner and to respect the rights of other users.  Any actions that will cause damage to computer software or equipment, or will result in the invasion of privacy or harassment of others will not be allowed.

The Library will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the Library’s Internet service.  Since software and information downloaded from any sources, including the Internet, may contain computer viruses, users are advised to utilize virus-checking software on their home computers.  The Library is not responsible for damage to users’ storage devices or computers or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from the use of the Library’s computers.

Responsibilities of Parents/Guardians of Minors

Parents/guardians are responsible for their minor (under the age of 18) children’s use of the Library’s resources and facilities.  This includes using the Internet at any of the Library locations.  Parents who believe that their children cannot responsibly use the Library’s Internet access are requested to monitor their children’s Internet use.

The Library will assist parents/guardians and children in the use of the Internet, and suggest specific web sites that are age and content appropriate for children.

Unacceptable Uses of Computers

The following general uses of the Internet and Library computers are not permitted:

• Viewing graphic sexual materials;
• Downloading and installing software on Library computers;
• Hacking the Library network, including unauthorized use of network logins
• Using the Internet for unlawful purposes;

The following types of Internet and Library computer usage are prohibited for minors as specified in the Neighborhood Children's Internet Protection Act (NCIPA):

• Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web;
• Uses that compromise the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications;
• Unauthorized access, including hacking, and other unlawful activities by minors online;
• Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors; and
• Access by minors to materials harmful to minors.

The term "harmful to minors" is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 254 [h][7], as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that

• taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion;
• depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals;
• taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.

Technology Protection Measures

The Library uses technology protection measures, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, to protect against access to visual depictions that (1) are obscene, (2) contain child pornography, or (3) are harmful to minors.

Technology protection measures are not foolproof, and may not always prevent Library patrons and staff from inadvertently accessing text or images that may be offensive.  Sites that contain inoffensive and useful information may also be erroneously blocked.

Library staff will disable upon request the technology protection measures on designated computers to allow Internet access for lawful purposes for adults (age 18 or older).

Adults or minors may also request access to web sites that are erroneously blocked.  Library staff will review the sites in question and provide access to those that are blocked in error.

Penalty for Violation of Policy

Any user who fails to comply with this policy will receive a warning and will forfeit the remainder of his computer time.  After the first warning, users continuing to violate this policy will be issued a six-month trespass warning and will be barred from using any Library facilities for this period of time. Additional violations may result in further trespass warnings for longer periods of time. Trespass warnings exceeding six months may be appealed to the Library Board.

Headsets

Due to Public Health concerns, the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library no longer loans Shared Computer Headsets for Public Use.

Patrons are welcome to bring in personal headsets suitable for computer stereo use, or to purchase a reusable quality stereo headset at a service desk for $2.00 each. Any headset purchased becomes property of the patron, and must be taken with the patron upon exit from the Library.

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is not responsible for purchased or personal headsets left on the premises, or damaged due to patron misuse.

Acceptable Use Policy

HMCPL encourages patrons to engage in interactive sections of our websites, by participating in online discussions and, in some cases, providing content. Before you participate in these activities please read our policy on user-generated web content:

1. Patrons who provide online content to HMCPL for its websites are granting HMCPL full license to use such material for promotion of library services, collections and other activities. By posting comments on our websites, patrons agree that HMCPL may use their content for these purposes without compensation.
2. All content submitted for online discussion will be reviewed by staff. While we may not always have the resources to review patron comments prior to posting, HMCPL reserves the right to edit or delete user content in a manner that is consistent with our mission and policies. As such, we will not post content that contains vulgar language, personal attacks of any kind, or offensive comments that target or disparage groups by ethnicity, race, religion, sex or gender.
3. HMCPL reserves the right to moderate user-generated content for any reason.
4. HMCPL is not responsible for any user-generated comments and contents that appear on our websites.
5. This policy may be revised at any time.

Library Board updated and approved: 11/19/2024

Security cameras will be used where needed to discourage violations of the Library’s Rules of Conduct, to assist Library staff in preventing the recurrence of any violations and, when necessary, to provide law enforcement assistance in prosecuting criminal activity. The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the placement and use of digital video cameras, as well as the access and retrieval of recorded digital video images at the Huntsville Madison County Public Library.

Video monitoring and recording will be conducted in a manner consistent with all existing local and applicable laws and ordinances.

Cameras may be installed in locations where staff and patrons would not have an expectation of privacy. Examples include common areas of the Library such as entrances, near book and media collections, public seating, delivery areas and parking lots.

Cameras will not be installed in areas where staff and public have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms.

Procedures

1. Digital video security cameras are installed in selected indoor and outdoor locations at the Main Library.
2. A sign will be posted at Library entrance informing the public that security cameras are in use.
3. Selected staff will have access to the real time monitors, although activity is only randomly monitored.
4. In pursuit of incidents of criminal activity or violation of the Library’s Rules of Conduct, only the Executive Director or his/her designee(s) will have access to the archived material.
5. Video recordings and photos obtained through the video monitoring system will be released only in response to search warrants, court orders, and requests by law enforcement for an active investigation.
6. Images will typically be retained for a period determined by the storage capacity of the equipment, usually about 14 to 21 calendar days. As new images are recorded, the oldest images will be automatically deleted.
7. Selected digital video may be saved for as long as required

Guidelines

1. Staff and patron safety is the first priority in any threatening situation. The protection of Library property is of secondary importance.
2. Cameras will not be installed for the express purpose of monitoring staff performance.
3. The general public will not be allowed access to camera images.
4. Questions from the public may be addressed to the Executive Director.

The Library recognizes that one of its responsibilities is to provide job opportunities and employment in a non-discriminatory manner. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at the Library will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. The Library does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, national and ethnic origin, age, disability, political affiliation, religious affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. No employee or applicant for employment with the Library shall in any way be favored or discriminated against for any of these reasons.

The Library shall take the necessary action to eliminate equal opportunity barriers and to prohibit discrimination and/or preferred treatment concerning any individual on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, national and ethnic origin, age, disability, political affiliation, religious affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law (except where age or physical requirements constitute a bona fide occupational qualification necessary for proper and efficient functioning in the job); and, on the basis of any other non-merit factor. Equal employment opportunity, free of discriminatory practices, shall be enforced in all facets of employment including, but not limited to, recruitment, testing, promotion, terms and conditions of employment, compensation, benefits, training, discipline, appeals, layoffs, and terminations.

Any employees or applicants with questions or concerns about any type of discrimination in the workplace are encouraged to bring their issues to the attention of the employee's supervisor or the Library's Human Resources Director as soon as possible. The Library cannot solve the problem unless it knows about it. The Human Resources Director is the Library's EEO Officer. If an employee or applicant is uncomfortable reporting his/her concern to his/her supervisor or the Human Resources Director, the employee or applicant may report the concern to the Executive Director, Deputy Director or any Library Board Member.

Supervisors shall provide employees and applicants alleging discrimination accessibility to those who can respond to and assist the individual in order to ensure that their rights are not violated and to decrease the necessity to seek assistance through outside investigating agencies. Supervisors or Library Board Members receiving complaints about discrimination shall immediately report those complaints to the Human Resources Director. Supervisors and any other employees who witness any type of behavior that they believe may constitute discrimination should immediately report such behavior.

Employees and applicants can raise concerns and make reports without fear of reprisal or retaliation. The Library will not retaliate, or allow retaliation, against any employee or applicant who complains of discrimination, assists in an investigation of possible discrimination, or files an administrative charge or lawsuit alleging discrimination.

The Library will not tolerate discrimination against any employee or applicant. All allegations of discrimination will be quickly and discreetly investigated. To the extent possible, the identity of those involved will be protected against unnecessary disclosure. When the investigation is completed, the involved parties will be informed of the outcome. Any employee found to be engaging in any type of discrimination that violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

The Human Resources Director shall be responsible for the distribution and discussion of this Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy with directors, managers, supervisors, and other employees, and Library Board Members to assure understanding and reasonable and consistent application. Supervisors shall conduct personnel management operations in accordance with this Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy.

Filming and photography is allowed at all locations of the Huntsville Madison County Public Library (HMCPL) as described below only to the extent that it does not interfere with the delivery of library services and is consistent with the Library's mission. All parties involved in filming and photography are expected to follow the Library Policies.

Persons filming or photographing on library premises have sole responsibility for gaining all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed. The Library undertakes no responsibility for obtaining these releases. Library staff may terminate any photo/video session that violates Library policies or appears to compromise public safety or security.

Library Sponsored Programs

Classes or events sponsored by the HMCPL may be photographed or video-recorded by the Library’s staff or its representatives. Attendance at an HMCPL-sponsored class or event constitutes the consent of all attendees, and the consent of the parents or legal guardians of any minor children in attendance, to the future broadcast, publication, or other use of photographs or videos at the sole discretion of the Huntsville Madison County Public Library.

Amateur Photography

Casual amateur photography and videotaping is permitted in public areas of library facilities for customers and visitors wanting a remembrance of their visit. The use of additional equipment such as lighting and tripods is not permitted. Amateur photographers have explicit responsibility for gaining all necessary releases and permissions from persons who are filmed or photographed.

News Media Photography

The Library has an open door policy for news media photographers and reporters who are doing stories or projects that directly involve the Library and its programs, resources and services. Advance authorization for such coverage must be obtained from the Library's Director of Public Relations and/or Executive Director.

Documentary-Type Photography for Publication or Broadcast

No photography or filming intended for broadcast or publication may occur in Library facilities without the prior written permission and approval of the Director of Public Relations and/or the Executive Director. Such approval shall contain the conditions under which the photography or filming will take place, and address the rights to ownership of the photos/films.

Photography for Groups and Non-Library Events in Meeting Rooms

Groups renting Library facilities may arrange for photographers and news media during their event. Filming and photography for such events is restricted to the space reserved by the group and may not take place in other areas of the Library.

All Other Requests

All other individuals, nonprofits or commercial entities interested in taking video or photographs in the Library must contact the Director of Public Relations for more information. Proof of insurance and other requirements will be necessary.

This policy is not intended to prohibit photography and filming at the Huntsville Madison County Public Library, but to prevent the disruption of library services.

The Library Board is grateful for all donations and gifts. It is through the generosity of individuals and groups that areas of library service have been developed and the library collection enriched to an extent that would not otherwise have been possible.

The Library, as a non-profit organization, may issue receipts for donations that may be used for Internal Revenue Service tax deduction purposes. The Library cannot set a value on gifts, this is the responsibility of the donor.

Placement of donated items as well as the selection and placement of materials using monetary donations will be done in accordance with the Collection Development policy.

Donations can be made online.

Gifts

All gifts become the sole property of the Library and may be utilized or disposed of in any manner approved by the Board. In certain instances, if the Board deems it to be for the benefit of the Library, terms or restrictions may be placed upon gifts by the donors, and a contract entered into by the Board and the donor.

The addition of gift books and other materials to the Library collection is determined by the same standards of selection that are applied to purchased material. Library staff will review and screen material using such selection criteria as:

1. Timeliness (published within the past 5 years)
2. Scope
3. Relevance to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library collection policy
4. Appropriateness of content and format
5. Literary or educational quality
6. Physical condition
7. Sufficient availability of title in collection.

Materials not added to the collection may be sold by the Friends of the Library of the Branch where the donation was made and the proceeds provide support for the library location receiving the gift. The Library does not provide notification to the donor of whether or not a gift has been placed in the collection.

The donor is responsible for:

1. Delivering gifts to the Library in small boxes or bags that can be easily lifted
2. Completing the gift acknowledgement form that is provided by the Library and may be used for tax purposes.

Memorials

Monetary gifts for the purchase of books or other library material as memorials will be accepted, and appropriate designation and acknowledgment will be made by the Library

Library staff will review titles that are available on a specified subject matter, if requested by the donor, and will select a title within a given price range that is most needed by the Library. These books or other materials become the property of the Library and will be treated as regular library acquisitions.

For memorial gifts, an acknowledgement will be sent to the recipient designated by the donor indicating for whom the gift has been given and the name of the donor. For honor gifts, a notification of the gift and the donor will be sent to the honoree. The donor must provide the Library with names and addresses for notifications.

With a gift of $25.00 or more, a plate will be placed in the purchased book with the names of the donor and honoree. A gift of under $25.00 will go to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library book fund. Donors and recipients at any level will be listed in the Friends of the Library newsletter.

Memorial funds for special projects or acquisitions may be established if approved by the Library Board.

Approved Date: 11/19/2024

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library has established weekly schedules of operation that are specific for each library location. Holidays and other planned closings will be noted on the Library website and on fliers and signs at all library service locations. All materials that would normally be due on the date of a scheduled closing will automatically show in the computer a due date of the next open day.

Approved Date: 10/21/09

Borrowers Cards

Resident: Issued free to all Huntsville and Madison County residents ages 16 and older. Residents of Limestone County that live within the city limits of Madison and Huntsville are also eligible. Valid at all branches and bookmobile. Identification with correct name and permanent address required. A government-issued photo ID is required, such as a driver's license, passport or student school card. ID can be out of area driver's license combined with a lease, utilities bill, or imprint on a check or deposit slip.

Non-Resident: $20.00 annual fee for individual. $35.00 annual fee for families. A government-issued photo ID with correct name and address is required.

Young Readers: Issued to youth ages 15 and younger. Parent or guardian signature required. Parent or guardian must be a resident of Madison County or a Limestone County resident living within the city limits of Madison or Huntsville, and must agree to be responsible for all items borrowed by the child(ren). Identification for the adult is required as detailed in the Resident section listed above.

Public Computer Use Only: Issued free for in-house computer use only, to residents ineligible for a full membership card or to non-residents who do not desire full privileges. Non-residents may upgrade to fully privileged status if membership criteria are met. Identification with correct name is required. Preferred information includes, but is not limited to, address, zip code, phone number and birthdate. A photo ID is not required for a computer use only card.

Card Limits

Adult Card - 50 items
Young Readers Card - up to 50 items.
Public Computer Use Only - No items may be borrowed with a Public Computer Use Only card.

Check Out Period

All items can be borrowed for a period of two (2) weeks with four (4) renewals unless the item is on hold.

Holds

Holds are made for books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks with a 50 item limit. Holds may not be placed on magazines, comics, or kits.

An item may not be renewed if a hold has been placed on it. Patrons will receive notification that their held item is available through email or text.

Materials are held for 7 days.

Update

A new Membership and Circulation Policy will go into effect starting March 3, 2025, replacing this one.

It is the policy of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library to identify libraries by the geographic location or neighborhoods served, rather than by named individuals. This will improve participation in and accessibility to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library by the general public. Under rare and extraordinary circumstances, the Board of Directors of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, in its sole and absolute discretion, may choose to honor an individual for his or her lifetime contributions to the library system by adding the name of such individual to the geographic branch name.

The Board will consider the following factors in making such a naming decision:

• The person considered must be deceased for at least one year before being considered for a library facility name. This restriction permits the Library Board to evaluate the lifetime contributions and accomplishments of the proposed honoree and protects from making decisions in reaction to transitory or emotional considerations.
• The proposed honoree is associated with a myriad of services and has dedicated a substantial amount of energy, time, resources, leadership and/or volunteer service to improve and benefit the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library system or the library facility in question. The depth and breadth of the contributions must be obvious and compelling and must reflect a dedication and beneficence to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library over a great span of time.
• There must be a strong consensus among library users and residents of the surrounding neighborhood to add the name of the proposed honoree to the library facility in question.
• The proposed honoree should reflect the spirit of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library’s mission of free and equal access to information for all.
• The new name should not carry the banner of a transitory cause, no matter how worthy, but rather, reflect the tradition and stability of the Library as an institution. The public’s interest must be served by approving the proposed name.
• Any such action shall be in accordance with federal, state and local law.

In summary, adding the name of a person to a library facility is reserved for the rare individual whose dedication and service to the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library system is extraordinary, unique and of the highest quality. The Library Board has sole authority and discretion on naming branches and facilities in its system.

Procedures for evaluating facility naming proposals

1. Any member of the Library Board of Directors or member of the public may propose a name to be added to the geographic name of a library facility. This request shall be submitted in writing to the Library Board of Directors and shall provide supporting documentation, using the factors set forth above, demonstrating the qualifications of the proposed honoree to receive such an honor.
2. If the naming proposal appears to meet the factors set forth above, the Chair of the Library Board of Directors shall place the proposal on the Library Board agenda for general discussion and for public comment at one or more regular or special meetings of the Library Board of Directors.
3. Upon approval of the Board of Directors to proceed, the Board Chair shall schedule a meeting in the branch library facility or elsewhere in the neighborhood served by such facility to obtain direct testimony from members of the public living in the neighborhood of the facility.
4. At any time after giving proponents of the name addition and the public an opportunity to be heard, after obtaining testimony from residents and patrons, and upon proper notice, the Library Board of Directors shall call for a vote on the issue.
5. The affirmative vote by a two-thirds majority of the members of the Library Board shall, in its sole and absolute discretion, be required to approve the addition of a person’s name to a library facility.
6. The Library Board shall, either at the time it approves the addition of an honorific name or in a subsequent meeting, designate the method of display of the name addition. The manner of such display may, in the discretion of the Board, be by exterior building signage, interior plaque, or any other means appropriate to the specific site. The Library Board may choose to assign any cost related to the name change to the proposing party.

Naming of Interior Spaces

Other naming opportunities are available within new buildings or existing buildings undergoing significant renovation and expansion. These opportunities may be identified by the Library Director in consultation with the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Foundation or the Library Board and may include such areas as meeting rooms, auditoriums, reading lounges, special use areas, collections, equipment, gardens and green spaces or other interior and exterior spaces. All naming opportunities shall be subject to Library Board approval.

• Naming opportunities are available for individuals, families, foundations, and corporations making a significant contribution to the project.
• The Library Director, in consultation with the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Foundation, shall be responsible for determining the manner in which the name is recognized (e.g., signage).
• A list of the interior naming opportunities and costs shall be submitted to the Library Board for approval.
• The Library Board must approve the name chosen by prospective donors to ensure that it reflects the tradition of the Library as an institution and that it will maintain the credibility of the Library with the general public. 

Name Recognition of Endowment Funds

The amount required for the Library Board to consider a named endowment shall initially be set at $25,000 but shall be reviewed from time to time by the Library Board. A named endowment may be requested by the donor or may be proposed by the Library Board. The request shall be evaluated by the Library Board for approval, in its sole discretion. The initial minimum investment of $25,000 must be funded within ninety (90) days, or the donated amounts will become part of the general library endowment.

Duration or removal of naming or name recognition

Naming rights in honor of an individual are generally expected to last for the useful life of the space or program; however, as determined in the sole discretion of the Library Board of Directors, the naming associated with a library facility, room, area, or collection shall end under the following circumstances:

• A building, room, area, or collection is to be demolished.
• A building, room, or area changes function to the extent that the purpose for the naming or name recognition is no longer relevant.
• When extraordinary circumstances dictate, in the judgment of the Library Board, the name may be removed to preserve the overall credibility of the Library System. Such removal shall require a 2/3 majority vote of the Library Board. The Library Board shall notify the donor regarding the consideration to withdraw the name and provide a reasonable time, as determined at the sole discretion of the Library Board, to correct the deficiency. In the event the Board votes to remove the name, funds already collected shall not be returned to the donor.

In the case of pledged donations or deferred gifts, the naming agreement may take effect with the first payment, following approval by the Library Board. In the case of failure of the donor to uphold the agreement, the Library Board may withdraw the naming commitment

Approved 11-19-14

In accordance with state law, employees of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library shall maintain confidentiality concerning library use by any individual patron, including registration and circulation records of that patron and information concerning the use of HMCPL by that patron. Consequently, employees should not make registration and circulation records open for inspection except as provided by Section 41-8-10 of the Code of Alabama, 1975.

In accordance with the stated Alabama state codes, circulation and registration records access may be made available to parents or guardians of minor children. 

Any comment or release of information to the public should be made only upon approval from the Executive Director. 

Library Board Updated and approved: 3/19/24

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HMCPL) presents programs to further our mission and meet the needs of the residents of the library’s service area. This policy exists to guide librarians in selecting and planning programs and to inform the public about the principles guiding programming decisions. Library programs are planned public activities that are initiated by or presented in partnership with HMCPL and take place at a library branch, at locations in the community, or online. Library programs include, but are not limited to: book talks, how-to demonstrations, discussion groups, lectures, performances, storytimes, tours, and workshops.

Program Selection

The selection of program content (including topics, activities, presenters, and highlighted materials) will be made on the basis of public interest and relevance to HMCPL’s mission and strategic plan. Content will not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation. Inclusion in a program does not constitute endorsement of program content.

Audience

All library programs are open to the public. Responsibility for the exposure of children to library programs rests with their parents or legal guardians. HMCPL may limit attendance of a program to a specific age group. Pre- registration may be required. Program attendees may be photographed, filmed, or video recorded and their likenesses used by the library in editorial or promotional materials.

Community Partnership

HMCPL sometimes partners with City or County departments, governmental agencies, community organizations, and businesses to present programs. Co- sponsored programs must include participation by library staff to plan program content, provide logistical support, or include information about library collections relevant to the program. Co-sponsorship and collaboration decisions are made on the basis of mutual needs and equitable benefits between the library and potential partners, as well as available library resources. Such programs materials must not endorse or oppose the election of any candidate for public office; endorse or oppose the adoption of federal, state, or local legislation; or promote commercial products or services.

Programming Costs

HMCPL attempts to present programs at no additional cost to participants but may occasionally charge a participation fee to offset the cost of materials used in a program. This fee may be waived at the patron’s request.

Sale of Materials

Materials may be offered for sale at a program by the program presenter or their representative. Eligibility to attend a program shall not be dependent upon purchase.

Statements of Concern

Should a patron of HMCPL take issue with a program, they are encouraged to contact the library director to arrange to discuss these concerns. Should that discussion prove unfeasible or fail to address the patron’s concerns, they may complete and submit a “Statement of Concern about Library Resources” form available from the director. For further details, please see the Statements of Concern policy.

Approved July 2023

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library utilizes a radio frequency identification (RFID) system in some Library locations to protect the collection of materials and to provide self-check options to customers.

THIS SYSTEM WILL PROTECT THE COLLECTION AGAINST UNAUTHORIZED REMOVALS, ENABLE THE CIRCULATION SYSTEM TO WORK MORE EFFICIENTLY, AND PROVIDE BETTER LIBRARY SERVICE FOR ALL USERS.

The public is expected to enter and leave the Library through the designated entrance and exit gates. The system monitors through bags, briefcases and clothing so there is no need to display parcels, briefcases, etc. for examination before leaving. Personal books and objects will not set off the alarm.

This system will not affect film, data storage devices or any personal objects. There is no danger to health devices such as pacemakers.

Library staff will be glad to answer any questions about the RFID system.

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HMCPL) has a right to maintain each of its facilities in a clean, pleasant and safe manner. Every individual has the right to use HMCPL undisturbed and every HMCPL employee has the right to work without undue interference. All HMCPL users and employees should be free of any threat of harm, invasion of property, or gross indignity. It is impractical to address every behavioral situation that may occur in the library. HMCPL employees have the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of HMCPL whenever the rules do not specifically cover certain situations. 

Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or caregiver at all times. This also includes any person needing supervision or assistance outside of HMCPL services because of physical or mental conditions. 

 Disruptive conduct including but not restricted to the following is prohibited: 

1. Behavior that unreasonably disturbs others or interferes with HMCPL operations and services including but not limited to: 

• Speaking in a loud voice 
• Playing any audio equipment or device that can be heard by others 
• Running, horseplay, or fighting 

2. Behavior that annoys, harasses, or threatens another person, including but not restricted to the following: 

• Conveying threats of any kind of physical force or harm 
• Using obscene, abusive, or racially charged language 
• Engaging in sexual misconduct 
• Stalking, staring, or invading personal space 

3. Being under the influence or in possession of any intoxicating drug or alcoholic substance on HMCPL grounds 

4. Sleeping in, or using as sleeping quarters (Code of the City of Huntsville 1982) 

5. Drinking uncovered beverages in HMCPL 

6. Using any tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices, inside the HMCPL building or on the grounds 

7. Defacing, destroying, or tampering with HMCPL property or equipment 

8. Soliciting funds, panhandling, gambling, selling, advertising or petitioning for contributions, or support 

9. Using restrooms to bathe, shave, or change clothes where it unreasonably interferes with other patrons use or staff use of the restroom, or involves willful and lewd exposure in violation of ordinances and state law (It is not a violation of this rule for a woman to breastfeed an infant or a person to change a child’s diaper.) 

10. Interfering with patrons use of the HMCPL through poor personal hygiene 

11. Failing to wear shirts and/or shoes 

12. Entering HMCPL with animals or vehicles, except as required by persons with disabilities 

13. Leaving unattended persons in HMCPL who seek or need personal assistance for other than HMCPL related services, and where staff has a reasonable basis to be concerned for the safety of the unattended person (Examples may include minor children or persons needing supervision because of physical or mental conditions.) 

14. Failing to observe Internet use guidelines and policy 

15. Entering HMCPL with the intent to cause bodily harm or reasonable apprehension of bodily harm to employees or patrons 

16. Violating any City Ordinance or State Statute while on HMCPL property or grounds. 

HMCPL reserves the right to search bags, briefcases, etc. for HMCPL materials not properly checked out. 

Each person is expected to take full responsibility for his/her personal property. HMCPL is not responsible for personal belongings in HMCPL facilities or on HMCPL property. 

Parents may be notified of incidents involving minor children (under the age of 19) that occur in HMCPL facilities or on HMCPL property. Parents may request a copy of the security report. Minors who are repeat offenders may be denied access to HMCPL. 

HMCPL security or the supervisor in charge first warns anyone violating these rules at the time of the offense. If the conduct continues the offender will be ordered to leave the premises. Staff members or security officers at their discretion will expel patrons without a warning in situations of serious, threatening, or willfully malicious behavior. Failure to observe these rules may lead to revocation of HMCPL privileges, including the right to visit the buildings and grounds. Anyone wishing to appeal their exclusion may submit an appeal in writing to the Executive Director. Repeat offenders or persons ordered from the premises who do not comply may be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespassing. 

Approved Date: 7/15/09

Revised Date: 8/17/11

Revised Date: 5/21/14

Revised Date: 10/15/14

Revised Date: 3/19/24