Policies

Confidentiality

Pennsylvania State Law States that:

Records related to the circulation of library materials which contain the names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of the state Library or any local library which is established or maintained under any law of the Commonwealth or the library of a university, college or educational institution chartered by the Commonwealth or the library of any public school or branch reading room, deposit station or agency operated in connection therewith, shall be confidential and shall not be made available to anyone except by a court order in a criminal proceeding.” (PA State Law 24 P.S. Section 4428.)

The Library System of Lancaster County and member libraries will resist the issuance or enforcement of any such process, order, or subpoena until such time as a proper showing of good cause has been made in a court of competent jurisdiction. Upon receipt of such process, order, or subpoena, library officers will consult with their legal counsel to determine if such process, order, or subpoena is in proper form and if there is a showing of good cause for its issuance. If the process, order, or subpoena is not in the proper form or if good cause has not been shown, they will insist that such defects be cured.

  • This confidentiality policy applies equally to adults and minors. When an adult requests the records of a child, the library will respond only if the child consents to the request.
  • Telephone requests for information about materials checked out to patron accounts (adult or child) can be responded to if the caller has the barcode number on the library card.

Copyright U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials except when permitted by “fair use” principles. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials (including text, images, programs, e-mail or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Responsibility for the consequences of copyright infringement lies solely with the user, as the LSLC Member Libraries expressly disclaim any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.

A library card for the Library System of Lancaster County will be issued without charge to any resident of Lancaster County who is five years old or more.

A child under the age of 14 years must have the library card application form signed by a parent or legal guardian who agrees to assume responsibility for monitoring the materials borrowed by the child, as well as the child’s fines and the cost of any lost or damaged materials. (See Confidentiality)

Applicants will need to produce proof of address from one of the following sources:

  • A valid driver’s license
  • A current identification card
  • A bill from a utility company of retailer addressed to the person and dated in the last three months
  • A tax bill for a Lancaster County property
  • Working papers issued to a teenager
  • A copy of a current lease or deed for a Lancaster County property
  • Checks with a pre-printed Lancaster County address
  • Valid Lancaster County college / university ID

Non-residents of Lancaster County should see the librarian to obtain a card.

An institutional library card is issued to a Lancaster County organization that assumes responsibility for all borrowed materials. The application must be accompanied by a letter on the letterhead of the organization applying for the card, accepting responsibility for all borrowed materials and signed by the director of the organization. Overdue fines will be incurred for any materials not returned by the due date. Special loan periods can be arranged upon request.

Public Libraries of Lancaster County Cooperative Internet and Computer Acceptable Use Policy

The public libraries of Lancaster County strive to meet the cultural informational and educational needs of the communities we serve.

The Library System of Lancaster County (LSLC) is a consortium of libraries made up of independent public libraries in Lancaster County, their branches, a bookmobile and administrative offices. This policy serves all entities, employees and volunteers of LSLC and all services provided on location and remotely. This policy covers equally the physical locations and human representatives of LSLC.

Policy Goal:
LSLC (LSLC, the library, libraries or public libraries) will offer equal access to electronic resources for individuals (user, users). A library may amend this policy with additions that suit their situation and community.

Internet Access:
Equal access to the resources of the Internet is an important option. The Internet is an unregulated medium and not all information is appropriate for all audiences. Some information is inaccurate, offensive, and/or illegal. Though the library does use filtering software in accordance with the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA), it is not possible to filter/screen out all inappropriate, offensive or illegal material.

Responsibilities of Library Staff and Users:
It is the responsibility of the person using electronic resources to monitor their own use and/or the use of their dependent minor. Users are responsible to handle electronic resources and equipment responsibly. Users are to save data to a remote drive or preserve their information in a personally relevant manner. Library computers will not save data locally and the library will not be held responsible for lost data due to file-save failure, computer time-out, or any other reason.

PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED, AND MAY BE REQUIRED, TO COME TO THE LIBRARY WITH MINOR CHILDREN TO SUPERVISE INTERNET SESSIONS.

Disclaimers:

    • Library staff may monitor an individual’s use of WiFi and public access computers.
    • The user, and/or user’s parent/guardian, is responsible for his/her Internet session at all times.
    • LSLC specifically disclaims any warrant as to the retrieved information’s accuracy, timeliness, authoritativeness or usefulness for a particular purpose.
    • LSLC, public library corporations and staff will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of its computing resources. This includes and is not limited to property damage, financial loss, identity theft, or reputational damage due to the use of the library’s network or computers.
    • Software and information from any source, including the Internet, may alter users’ computers or other personal electronic devices. The libraries are not responsible for damage to users’ computers or any other electronic device or for the loss of data that may occur from use of a library or Internet resource.
    • Users are responsible for any library owned equipment, software or network damages that occur while using the resources.
    • Library computers will not save files and will log the user off after a short period of inactivity. The library will not be responsible for any lost data.
    • Information transmitted across the Internet, regardless of the security protections used, may become public. Computer users are responsible to safeguard their personal information. The library will not be held responsible for any security breach from the use of library owned computers or networks.

UNACCEPTABLE COMPUTER AND NETWORK USE
Unacceptable computer and network uses include and are not limited to:

    • Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law
    • Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property
    • Uses that violate the library’s other policies and agreements.
    • Uses that jeopardize the security of the computer network or other computers via the Internet
    • Uses that are deemed harmful or compromise the safety and security of minors. The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 254 [h][7])
    • Displaying, downloading, or copying offensive or inappropriate messages, pictures or explicit sexual material as defined in 18 Pa.C.S.A § 5903.
    • Violating US Copyright law. The law prohibits unauthorized use of copyrighted materials except when permitted by “fair use” principles. Do not copy or distribute electronic materials (including text, images, audio-material, programs, e-mail or data) without the explicit
    permission of the copyright holder.
    • Uses that violate confidentiality of information or put the identity of any person at risk.
    • For safety reasons, minors may not disclose passwords; provide others with private information about themselves or others, including credit card and social security card numbers; and/or arrange face-to-face meetings with someone met via the Internet or computer network.

PROCEDURES FOR LIBRARY OWNED PUBLIC COMPUTER USE
To use a library owned public internet computer or electronic device patrons must have a valid library card from LSLC in good standing. Member Libraries may choose to make exceptions or grant permission to a visitor on a limited basis if computers are available.

    • An “Internet Usage Agreement” must be signed. If under age 18, a “Parental Permission Form” must be signed by the patron’s parent or legal guardian in the presence of library staff.
    • Computer users must be able to employ the computer on their own, and may be asked to demonstrate their ability to use the computer without damaging it.
    • Patrons must leave a workstation immediately when asked by a staff member.
    • Patrons may not install software onto the public computer or attempt to add, modify or remove the hardware or software of the public computer.
    • Patrons may download only information which is legal to copy.
    • Patrons will refrain from using sounds or visuals which might be disruptive to others.
    • The Member Libraries do not offer email accounts. Patrons may use library computers to access email from outside providers such as Outlook, Yahoo, Gmail, etc.
    • Patrons may not alter or attach equipment, other than a remote storage device or headphones, to the library’s hardware, or alter, add or attempt to alter programs or device settings. The library reserves the right to make exceptions for accessibility or individual cases.
    • Patrons are responsible for any damages they do to the equipment or software.
    • Printing may be available from public computers. Member Libraries will establish prices and methods for printing and other computer related services. These costs may vary from location to location.

RESPONSE TO VIOLATIONS
The patron’s access to the library’s computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A patron violates this policy by the patron’s own action. Failure to comply with this policy and its procedures will result in the forfeiture of the patron’s access to computers at any of the Member Libraries of the Library System of Lancaster County. The first offense will result in a loss of computer privileges for one month. The second offense will result in a loss of computer privileges for six months. After the third offense, the patron will lose all computer privileges indefinitely. Decisions regarding the appropriate response to violations will be made by the Director of the Member Library at which the offense occurred, or by his/her designate. Appeals should be made in writing and submitted to the Member Library Director’s attention. Responses will be made within 30 days of receipt of the appeal. Access to the County’s public libraries may be terminated until the Director has made a written response to the appeal.

COPYRIGHT
U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials except when permitted by “fair use” principles. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials (including text, images, programs, e-mail or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Responsibility for the consequences of copyright infringement lies solely with the user, as LSLC Member Libraries expressly disclaim any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.

Manheim Township Public Library endeavors to inform, educate, inspire, and connect through its social media channels. Library staff uses social media to provide information and promote library programs, events, resources, and services. Social media serves as a platform to inspire positive conversation and expand the Library’s connection with the community.

Definition of Social Media

For the purpose of this policy, social media is defined as any website, application, or account created and maintained by Manheim Township Public Library and used to connect patrons and staff on library-related topics and matters.

Usage Rules

Manheim Township Public Library welcomes comments, posts, and messages from the community. Users should have no expectation of privacy when postings on Library sponsored social media sites. Postings deemed inappropriate will be removed. In addition, Manheim Township Public Library reserves the right to ban or block users who have posted in violation of this policy. These comments include, but are not limited to:

  1. Obscene content or hate speech
  2. Personal attacks, insults, or threatening language
  3. Potentially libelous statements
  4. Plagiarized material, material that violates copyright laws, trademark rights, or other intellectual property rights
  5. Comments or hyperlinks not directly related to the library, its mission, or its activities
  6. Commercial promotion, advertisement, or spam
  7. Political activity
  8. Private or personal information, including name, age, phone number, address, etc.
  9. Photos or images which fall into any of the above categories

Manheim Township Public Library does not act in place of, or in the absence of, a parent/guardian and is not responsible for enforcing any restrictions which a parent/guardian may place on a minor’s use of social media.

Manheim Township Public Library is not responsible for or liable for any social media content posted by any participant who is not a member of the Library’s staff.

Users are expected to abide by the terms and conditions set by third party social media platforms and to abide by all Federal, State, and Local laws.

The content of the Library’s social media platforms is considered public record under the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law and is subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

 

 

 

Manheim Township Public Library Foundation Board Approved 4/22/20

Fines/Fees

  • 30 cents per day for Adult and YA (Young Adult) materials with a maximum fine of $5.10 per item.
  • 20 cents per day for Children’s materials with a maximum fine of $3 per item.
  • $1 per day for all Videos and DVDs with a maximum of $5 per item.

Fine Enforcement

Library patrons and the parents of juvenile library patrons are expected to return library materials promptly, and to pay any overdue fines incurred. If an item is more than 14 days overdue, borrowing privileges are suspended until the materials are returned and the overdue fine is paid. Fines must be paid and overdue materials returned before suspended borrowing privileges are restored. However, a patron may incur a fine of $5.99 before borrowing privileges are suspended.

First Notice

The first overdue notice will be sent to the most recent address listed in the library records for the patron account when the item is 2 weeks overdue. The notice will include a list of overdue materials. Failure to return the items listed in this notice within seven (7) working days of the date of this notice will result in a suspension of a cardholder’s borrowing privileges in each library in Lancaster County until the account is cleared. Failure to return these items within 4 weeks after the original due date will result in a charge to the cardholder’s account for the replacement cost of the materials.

Second Notice

Bill for replacement at 4 weeks The second notice is sent when the item is 4 weeks overdue. This is a bill for the replacement of the books. If the billed items are found, you need only pay the overdue fines.

Lost item charges equal the price of the item. It is the responsibility of the library patron to contact the library to arrange for the payment of overdue fines. Any questions about an account may be directed to the cardholder’s local library.

Renewals can be done at:

  • any member library circulation desk
  • telephone
  • the Internet

Telephone renewal can be done by calling (717) 560-6441.

Internet Renewal is available from the Library System of Lancaster County Online Catalog.

Just click on the My Account tab on any page of the Catalog and input your name, barcode and PIN.

Note: Not all items can be renewed with the online renewal system. Some reasons an item may not be renewed are: another borrower has requested the item; that type of material is not eligible for renewal; you already renewed the item the maximum number of times; or, because of overdue fines on your record.

If you are unable to renew your items, please call the library at (717) 560-6441.

Lost or stolen library cards can be replaced for $1.00 at the Manheim Township Public Library. Patrons will need to show photo ID to be issued a new card.

1.) Any use of Manheim Township Public Library facilities is subject to the approval of the Executive Director.

2.)Manheim Township Public Library provides the use of these rooms for non-discriminating, non-partisan cultural, civic, social, or educational purposes and approved business meetings. Manheim Township Public Library does not endorse the objectives of any organization using these rooms. The Library reserves the right to discontinue the use of facility by a group or organization that is causing a disturbance, damage, interfering with Library operations, or for any other reason with the renter forfeiting any charges and fees paid.

3.) The renter applying for use of the facility assumes all responsibility for damager to Library property and for leaving the premises in original order. Any expenses for cleaning or repair to the facility will be the responsibility of the renter.

4.) Renter must be present throughout the event, from set-up to clean-up. Renters using the facility do so at their own risk and are responsible for their actions and the actions of their guests. Children may not be left unattended or unsupervised by adults at any time.

5.) Adequate receptacles have been provided for recycling and trash. Renters are expected to responsibly utilize these receptacles. Please see a staff member if additional receptacles are needed during the event.

6.) Walls may not be used for mounting or hanging decorations, pictures, displays, or posters, etc. Open flame candles and helium-filled balloons are not permitted. All decorations must be removed immediately after the event.

7.) Manheim Township is not responsible for any personal or professional articles or possessions that may be lost or stolen from the renter and/or the renter’s guests/participants during their use of the facilities.

8.) Smoking, alcoholic beverages, and illegal drugs are not permitted on Library premises.

9.) Charging admission, selling tickets or merchandise, or solicitation of money in any manner is prohibited without the express written permission of the Library prior to the event.

10.) No gambling is allowed.

11.) No indecent or illegal conduct is allowed.

12.) No pets or animals of any kind are allowed in the facility without the express written permission of the Library prior to the event, expect for service animals.

13.) No access to staff offices, storage areas, mechanical areas, or other unauthorized areas is allowed.

14.) If the Library must cancel the use of the facility, the renter will be notified as soon as possible. If there is inclement weather, the renter should contact the Library. If the Library elects to close, any charges or fees paid will be refunded or applied to a mutually agreed upon alternate date.

15.) The renter must comply with all copyright laws and have a license and/or legal release to show copyrighted films, photographs, or other materials.

16.) Events (including set-up and clean-up) must take place during normal Library operating hours unless the renter receives the express written permission of the Library prior to the event.

17.) Please use the correct name of the Library (Manheim Township Public Library) in all publicity. The renter must make it clear that the Library is not the sponsor of the event. The Library will not promote any renter’s program or event. All media publicity related to the use of the Library must be cleared with the Library Director.

18.) No renter, group, or organization may use Manheim Township Public Library as its address.

19.) Public wi-fi is available in all meeting rooms.

20.) Renters and their guests must refrain from the use of essential oils and other strong fragrances that may result in allergic reactions in other individuals.

21.) Room capacities may be adjusted during public health emergencies.

22.) If there is any question or dispute about the facility use, the decision of Manheim Township will be final.

23.) Any exceptions to the Library Facilities Rental Rules and Regulations require the express written permission of the Library prior to the event.

24.) Manheim Township Public Library adheres to the Library Bill of Rights (https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill)

25.) Manheim Township expressly reserves the right to amend these rules and regulations.

26.) Indemnification of Township – The renter shall indemnify and hold harmless Manheim Township, its agents and employees, from and against all liability, claims, damages, losses and expenses, including attorney fees incurred with the connection therewith, arising out of or resulting from the renter’s use or occupancy of the property or performance of its obligations hereunder. To the extent that any claim is asserted against Manheim Township by a third person for any injury or claim arising during the term of this Facility Rental Agreement, renter shall defend Manheim Township at renter’s expense. This provision shall not cause any defenses which Manheim Township may have under the Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act.