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.

The Internet is a global electronic network which enables the library to provide information to patrons beyond the library’s collection. It includes useful ideas, information, and opinions from around the world. However, the Internet is an unregulated medium. It provides access to information that may be inaccurate, illegal or that some may find offensive or disturbing. The LSLC Member Libraries cannot control a user’s access to all Internet resources.

Responsibilities of Library Staff and Users Library staff will not be responsible for personally monitoring a user’s Internet use, except for length of use in order to ensure equal opportunity of access for everyone. The user, or the parent/guardian of a minor, is responsible for his or her Internet session at all times.

The Library reserves the right to terminate an Internet session that disrupts library services or that involves user behavior that violates the Library’s policies. As with all Library resources, the Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT Library staff, to determine and monitor their minor children’s use of the Internet. (Minors are defined in this policy as children and young people under the age of 18 years.)

Parents are responsible for their minor children’s use of the Library’s resources and facilities. Parents who believe that their children cannot responsibly use the Library’s Internet access are requested to monitor their children’s Internet use. PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO COME IN WITH THEIR CHILDREN AND SUPERVISE INTERNET SESSIONS AT THE LIBRARY.

 

Disclaimers

While the LSLC Member Libraries endeavor to provide access to information of the highest quality, the LSLC Member Libraries specifically disclaim any warrant as to the information’s accuracy, timeliness, authoritativeness, usefulness or fitness for a particular purpose. The LSLC Member Libraries will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of information accessed through the LSLC Member Libraries’ Internet service. Software and information from any source, including the Internet, may contain computer viruses. The LSLC Member Libraries are not responsible for damage to users’ disks or computers or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from use of a Library’s computers.

 

Definition of Terms

The term “LSLC Member Libraries” refers to the fourteen Member Libraries of the Library System of Lancaster County, their branches, staff, and all public governing bodies associated in any way with their operations.

The terms “Library” or “Member Library” refers to any one of the fourteen independent Libraries that comprise the Library System.

The term “User” or “Patron” is defined as any person using or viewing in any way all computers, workstations or networks made available for use by the Library.

The term “Minor” refers to any individual under the age of 18 years.

The term “Staff” refers to Library employees Goal As part of the LSLC Member Libraries’ mission to meet the cultural, informational and educational needs of the communities, they serve, employing advances in technology in this Information Age, the LSLC Member Libraries offer public access to the resources of the Internet with equal access to that information for all individuals in the community.

  1. Patrons must have a valid library card from the Library System of Lancaster County or another Access PA Library, and must have no overdue materials or fines owed. Member Libraries may choose to grant permission to use library computers to a visitor to the area after the visitor agrees to abide by this policy.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Patrons must leave a workstation immediately when asked by a staff member.
  5. Patrons may not download materials onto the computer’s hard drive or attempt to add, modify or remove any system element.
  6. Patrons may download only that information which is legal to copy.
  7. Patrons may not systematically employ Library computers for commercial activity.
  8. Patrons will refrain from using sounds or visuals which might be disruptive to others.
  9. The Member Libraries do not offer email accounts but patrons may use library computers to access email from outside providers such as AOL, MSN, Hotmail, Yahoo, etc.
  10. Patrons may not alter or attach equipment to the library’s hardware, or alter, add or attempt to alter programs or device settings.
  11. Patrons are responsible for any damages they do to the machines or software.
  12. Misuse of computers or Internet access will result in the loss of computer privileges. A letter will be sent to parents or guardians of minors regarding any revocation of privileges, and a signed permission form will be included.
  13. The individual Member Libraries will develop such rules and procedures as are necessary to ensure the fair and reasonable use of Library computers, including, but not limited to, fees for printing or purchase of disks and the length of time a patron may use the computer.

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 his or her 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.

  1. Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. Transmitting of offensive or harassing messages; offering for sale or use any substance the possession or use of which is prohibited by law; viewing, transmitting or downloading obscene materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; downloading or transmitting confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, users should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them.
  2. Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. Engaging in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); uploading a worm, virus, “trojan horse,” “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participating in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems.
  3. Uses that jeopardize the security of access of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. Disclosing or sharing the user’s password with others; impersonating another user; using one’s own software programs on the library’s computers; altering the Library’s computer settings; damaging or modifying computer equipment or software.
  4. Uses that are deemed “harmful to minors” or compromise the safety and security of minors when using e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications: Minors under age 17 may not give to others private information about themselves or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers; arranging a face-to-face meeting with someone one has “met” on the computer network or Internet without a parent’s permission. 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.
  5. Uses that Violate Confidentiality of Information: Unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information regarding Library users, including minors is prohibited. Personally identifiable information about users may not be disclosed or used in any way, except to law enforcement authorities as provided in the law. Users should be aware, however, that due to the technical difficulties involved in providing absolute security, transactions and files may become public. The library prohibits displaying, downloading, or copying offensive or inappropriate messages, pictures, or explicit sexual material as defined in 18 PA.C.S.A. 5903

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. The Manheim Township Public Library has a large program room that can be divided into three sections, a conference room, a kitchen, and a children’s room available for library-sponsored activities. When not in use by the library, these rooms, along with several smaller study /meeting rooms are available to community organizations, businesses or individuals for meetings or programs of civic, cultural, social or educational interest.
  2. Any use of the Manheim Township Public Library facilities is subject to approval of the Director.
  3. Meeting rooms will be reserved on a first come first served basis. Permission may be granted to groups and organizations for multiple meetings over a period not to exceed nine (9) months and two (2) meetings per month. Renewal applications must be submitted. Prior use of the library meeting rooms will not entitle applicants to future use.
  4. The library also reserves the right to discontinue use of the facilities by any group or organization that interferes with library operations.
  5. The Manheim Township Public Library provides the use of these rooms for non-discriminating, non-partisan cultural, civic, social or educational purposes only. The Board of Directors of the Manheim Township Public Library does not endorse the objectives of any organization using these meeting rooms.
  6. Meeting rooms are not available when, in the opinion of the Director, the use of the room might endanger public safety, cause disorder or disrupt the primary functions of the library.  The Director has the right to discontinue the use of the room by a group or organization that is causing a disturbance, damage, interfering with Library operations or for any other reason.
  7. Please use the correct name of the library (MANHEIM TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY) in all publicity.  Also it must be made clear that the library is NOT the sponsor of the meeting.  All media publicity related to the use of the library must be cleared with the library Community Relations Manager or Library Director.
  8. No non-library group or organization may use the Manheim Township Public Library as its address.
  9. The sponsoring group or organization or individual applying for use of the facility assumes all responsibility for damage to library property and for leaving the premises in original order.  In the event that additional cleanup is necessary, a security deposit will be used to cover the additional custodial expenses. Any additional expenses for cleaning or repair to the facility will be the responsibility of the organization, group, or individual renting the facility.
  10. Walls may not be used for mounting or hanging pictures, displays or posters, etc.  Open flame candles and balloons filled with helium are not permitted.
  11. Groups, organizations or individuals using the facilities 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 who are attending meetings or programs.
  12. No sale of merchandise or services is permitted without the express written permission of the Board.
  13. No admission for meetings or programs may be charged unless it is sponsored by or for the benefit of Manheim Township Public Library or an approved non-profit organization.  Any organization considering charging an admission fee or any other fee in association with a meeting or program must receive specific, written approval of the Library Executive Director prior to the event.
  14. It is the applicant’s responsibility to return the room to its original condition and remove trash to the proper outdoor container.
  15. Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on library premises.
  16. Exceptions to the Meeting Room Use Policy require written Board permission.
  17. The Manheim Township Public Library adheres to the Library Bill of Rights 

SCHEDULING USE OF ROOMS

  1. Library related programs or library-sponsored programs take precedence in scheduling the use of the rooms.
  2. In order to use the rooms, a group or organization must submit an application at least two weeks in advance of use date.  The application and rental agreement are available on the library’s website or upon request.
  3. Full payment is due prior to or at the time of the event. In the event a scheduled meeting/event is canceled by the applicant, the applicant should notify the library as soon as possible so that the space can be made available to others. If the applicant cancels or changes the reservation less than two weeks prior to the event, a fee will be applied.
  4. If the library must cancel the use of the room, the applicant will be notified as soon as possible.  If the library closes due to inclement weather, the event would also be canceled. It is the responsibility of the renting group to contact the library to find out if it is open, by calling the library or tuning to WGAL where weather closings are posted.  If the Library elects to close, paid fees will be refunded or applied to a mutually agreed upon alternate date.
  5. The group, organization or individual renting the room must sign a Facility Rental Agreement. They must also comply with all copyright laws and have a license and/or legal release to show copyrighted films, photographs or other materials.
  6. The person or organization making the reservation will be held responsible for the proper conduct of those attending the meeting and will be financially responsible for any damage to library property. The room must be returned to its prior condition, unless instructed otherwise by library staff.
  7. When a room is to be used by an organization with members 17 years of age or under, the application must be made by an adult.  No one will be admitted until the adult in charge has arrived.  An adult must be present at all times.
  8. Meetings must be scheduled during normal library hours and must be concluded by normal library closing hours. Exceptions can be made if a library designee is available to open or close the building.  An extended use fee will be charged for room use outside the normal operating hours.  This will vary depending on total use and time.
  9. If there is any question or dispute about the public meeting room use, the decision of the Board will be final.

CATERING AND FOOD

  1. The Tell Cafe, located in the library, provides catering for food and beverage service. All arrangements for catered food services shall be made through the library’s Tell Family Café manager, Sue Funk  (sfunk@manheimtownship.org).
  2. The kitchen facilities are available for serving light refreshments. Any use of a catering service other than the Tell Cafe shall be approved with the library staff prior to the scheduled meeting. A 10% fee is added to any outside caterer or restaurant food service provider.
  3. The sponsoring group or organization is responsible for wiping off tables, vacuuming, and placing trash in proper outdoor receptacles immediately following the program.

EQUIPMENT

  1. The library has equipment available that can be rented for a meeting. See fee schedule. Groups or individuals renting equipment are responsible for any damage incurred to the equipment. These items must be reserved at the time of the room rental.
  2. Additional library equipment or furniture other than that specified in the application may be requested and used only with the approval of the Director. Groups or individuals are responsible for any damage incurred to this equipment.
  3. The library is not responsible for any equipment, furniture, supplies or possessions owned by individuals or groups used on library property.

PA SYSTEM

The PA system is available for lectures, presentations, music, films, and other general uses. It includes up to 4 microphones and/or a lectern microphone, amplifier and speakers. The fee includes setup and breakdown. Requirements for large venue sound, like concerts and dances, may require additional sound resources which must be approved by the Library Director and paid for by the group, organization or individual renting the facility.

STUDY ROOMS

There is no charge for use of the Study Rooms unless reserved (See fee schedule for rates). These are used on a first-come/first-serve basis.  Study Rooms must be returned to their original state. Registrant(s) will be held responsible for any damage to library property in the Study Rooms. These rooms can only be used during normal library hours for periods of 2 hours at a time.  This may be extended if no one is waiting. They shall be checked out at the Service Center prior to use.

AMENDMENTS

The Board of Directors of the Manheim Township Public Library expressly reserves the right to amend this Meeting Room Use Policy. The Board also reserves the right to make special exceptions.

 

Click here to fill out Rental Agreement