HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda_LAB_04.19.2016Notice of Meeting for the
Library Adv isory Board
of the City of Georgetown
April 19, 2016 at 6:30 PM
at Small conference room, 2nd floor, Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. 8th Street
The City o f G eo rgeto wn is committed to comp lianc e with the Americans with Dis abilities Ac t (ADA). If yo u
req uire as s is tanc e in participating at a p ublic meeting d ue to a disability, as d efined und er the ADA, reas onab le
as s is tance, ad ap tatio ns , or acc o mmo d ations will b e provid ed up o n req uest. P leas e c o ntact the City at leas t
fo ur (4) d ays prior to the sc heduled meeting d ate, at (512) 930-3652 or City Hall at 113 East 8th Street for
ad d itional informatio n; TTY users ro ute thro ugh Relay Texas at 711.
Regular Session
(This Regular S es s io n may, at any time, b e rec es s ed to convene an Exec utive S es s io n fo r any p urpose
authorized b y the Op en Meetings Act, Texas Go vernment Co d e 551.)
A Citizens wis hing to address the Board. As of the deadline, no p ers o ns were s igned up to s p eak o n items
other than what was posted on the agenda.
B Introduction of b o ard members. -Pete Ro s e
C Co nsideration of the minutes of the Marc h 1, 2016 meeting. -Pete Ro s e
D Review of bylaws , s trategic p lan, and attendance p o licy. -P ete Rose
E Electio n of Vic e-C hair. -Pete Ro s e
F Electio n of Sec retary. -P ete Rose
G Co nsideration of Library Directo r's Report. -Eric Las hley
H Overview o f library polic ies , b udget, staff, and library operatio ns. -Eric Las hley
I Co nsideration of future b o ard meeting dates . -Eric Lashley
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING
I, Shelley No wling, C ity S ecretary fo r the C ity of Geo rgeto wn, Texas , d o hereby c ertify that this Notice of
Meeting was p o s ted at City Hall, 113 E. 8th Street, a p lace read ily acc es s ible to the general p ublic at all times ,
on the ______ d ay o f __________________, 2016, at __________, and remained so p o s ted fo r at leas t 72
c o ntinuo us ho urs p receding the sc heduled time o f s aid meeting.
____________________________________
S helley No wling, City Sec retary
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City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Citizens wishing to ad d res s the Bo ard . As of the d ead line, no persons were s igned up to speak on items
o ther than what was p o s ted o n the agenda.
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
Page 2 of 55
City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Intro d uc tion o f board memb ers . -Pete Ro s e
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
Page 3 of 55
City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Cons id eration o f the minutes o f the March 1, 2016 meeting. -P ete Rose
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Minutes March 2016 Backup Material
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Minutes of the Meeting of the
Library Advisory Board
City of Georgetown
March 1, 2016
The Library Advisory Board met on Monday, March 1, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. in the Staff
Conference Room of the Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. 8th Street
MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Baldwin, Michael Barnes, Lindsay Cooper, Tom Hagen, and Tom
Milburn.
STAFF PRESENT: Eric Lashley- Library Director.
A. Election of temporary Chair to facilitate the Library Advisory Board meeting. –Eric Lashley.
Tom Milburn moved to elect Tom Hagen as temporary Chair to facilitate the meeting in
Chair Pete Rose’s absence. Pat Baldwin seconded the motion, which passed
unanimously.
B. Citizens wishing to address the Board. – None were present.
C. Consideration and approval of the minutes of the February 8, 2016 Library Advisory Board
meeting. – Baldwin made the motion to accept the minutes of the February 8, 2016
Library Advisory Board Meeting. Milburn seconded the motion, which passed
unanimously.
D. Introduction of Library Advisory Board members. – Eric Lashley. Lashley introduced himself
to new board member, Lindsay Cooper. Cooper and the board members then introduced
themselves to each other.
E. Consideration of dates of future board meetings. Following brief discussion, Milburn
made a motion to move the April Library Advisory Board meeting to the third
Tuesday of the month at 6:30 PM. Baldwin seconded the motion, which passed
unanimously. The next meeting will be Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at 6:30 PM.
Temporary Chair Tom Hagen adjourned the meeting at 6:18 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Tom Hagen, Temporary Chair
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City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Review o f bylaws , s trategic plan, and attendanc e polic y. -Pete Ro s e
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Bylaws Backup Material
Strategic Plan Backup Material
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Library Services
Strategic Plan
Georgetown Public Library Mission:
The Georgetown Public Library is dedicated to open and equal access to
information, technology, lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and the joys
of reading for our diverse community.
Purpose:
The purpose of the Georgetown Public Library’s strategic plan is to clearly define the
library’s priorities and services for the next five years.
_____________________________________________________________________
Goal I: Improve access to the information and collections of the
library for all citizens of Georgetown.
Objective 1: Insure staff is adequate to provide basic service whenever the library is
open.
Strategy
a. Increase staff to equal the median FTE as determined by the Public Library
Data Service (PLDS) – (FY 17-18)
Objective 2: Increase outreach efforts to citizens with limited mobility and access
to transportation by use of a bookmobile.
Strategies
a. Identify neighborhoods which include citizens with limited mobility and
access to transportation - (ON GOING)
b. Identify and contact day care providers to set up visits – (ON GOING)
c. Establish liaison with activity directors of nursing homes and assistant
living facilities – (ON GOING)
d. Maintain Inter-Library Loan program with Georgetown Independent
School District – (ON GOING)
Objective 3: Provide reference service during all public hours
Strategies
a. Determine staffing schedules and hire staff – ON GOING
b. Hire more staff, as hours increase – ON GOING
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Objective 4: Provide children’s librarian in the children’s area during all open hours.
Strategies
a. Maintain staffing levels
Objective 5: Enhance access to library collections through effective marketing strategies.
Strategies
a. Organize a method for customers to be able to recommend books to other
customers – ON GOING
b. Promote reader’s advisory through displays of books and booklists
recommended by patrons – ON GOING
c. Offer book talks or book reviews – ON GOING
d. Provide more display shelving for face out display of books – ON GOING
e. Organize a One Book/Georgetown Reads program to encourage all residents
of Georgetown to read the same book – ON GOING
Objective 6: Develop an aggressive publicity program designed to increase the
frequency with which Georgetown citizens hear about the library.
Strategies
a. Design promotional information guides for distribution to the public – ON
GOING
b. Distribute information about the library through the Internet, local community
networks, and media outlets – ON GOING
c. Increase public knowledge about library programs and services by publishing
articles in the Williamson County Sun, City Reporter, and other local publications
– ON GOING
d. Involve staff proactively in community organizations, events, and leadership –
ON GOING
Objective 7: Develop a program that assists citizens in finding information regarding
social services.
Strategies
a. Hire Community Resources Coordinator – (FY 16-17)
b. Identify and create relationships with nonprofit social services agencies (FY
16-17)
c. Provide space and resources to nonprofit agencies (FY 16-17)
d. Create and maintain an on-line nonprofit database (FY 16-17)
e. Provide assistance for citizens to navigate the social services bureaucracy
(FY 16-17)
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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Goal II: Develop a popular materials collection that satisfies
customer demand.
Objective 1: Decrease patron wait time for materials.
Strategies
a. Purchase multiple copies of titles in heavy demand – ON GOING
b. Streamline acquisitions process – ON GOING
c. Purchase all books that appear on the New York Times bestseller list – ON
GOING
d. Encourage donations of bestsellers and recently released materials – ON
GOING
e. Encourage customers to request materials for purchase – ON GOING
Objective 2: Maintain a collection that meets state and national standards.
Strategies
a. Maintain a materials budget that equals or exceeds the median per capita
expenditure determined by the Public Library Data Service – (FY 18-19)
b. Set up materials acquisitions plan to target areas of deficiency – (FY 18-19)
c. Establish a collection of 4 items per capita – (FY 18-19)
d. Exceed circulation of 8 items per capita – ON GOING
e. Maintain a collection in which 25% of the collection is less than 5 years old –
ON GOING
f. Weed the entire collection on an annual basis – ON GOING
Objective 3: Increase non-traditional library materials
Strategies
a. Add audio books – ON GOING
b. Add music compact discs – ON GOING
c. Add digital video discs – ON GOING
d. Add downloadable electronic content: audio books, magazines and e-books
from the Internet – ON GOING
______________________________________________________________________________________
Goal III: Provide high quality library services that meet the
lifelong learning needs of Georgetown’s citizens.
Objective 1: Provide and improve access to the library’s catalog, the Internet, and other
appropriate on-line electronic resources.
Strategies
a. Increase remote access to library catalog through the development of an App
(Application software) – ON GOING
b. Improve the library’s Internet web site – ON GOING
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c. Provide training program for staff and library volunteers – ON GOING
d. Provide public terminals, laptops, iPads, and other mobile devices for patrons
to connect to the Internet
e. Train public to use technology effectively within the library – ON GOING
f. Develop publicity campaign to inform community of newly added resources –
ON GOING
g. Develop technology plan that will keep the library abreast of technology
change and update plan annually – (FY 16-17)
h. Provide wireless Internet access to patrons’ personal computers – ON GOING
Objective 2: Redesign the reference and non-fiction collection to support independent
learners.
Strategies
a. Identify content areas most utilized or requested by patrons – ON GOING
b. Continually identify and evaluate materials that support activities of the life
long learner – ON GOING
c. Collect and maintain genealogy and local history materials that enhance users’
knowledge and understanding of the community – ON GOING
Objective 3: Develop programming to meet the needs and interests of adults.
Strategies
a. Every three years survey adult users to identify the interests and needs that
are appropriate for library-based programs – (FY 16-17)
b. Provide space and assistance for Senior University classes – ON GOING
c. Seek co-sponsors from other community groups for library-based programs –
ON GOING
d. Contact continuing education agencies annually in order to improve public
library service for adult students – (FY17-18)
e. Provide space for English as a second language classes – ON GOING
f. Provide space and opportunities for tutoring – ON GOING
g. Provide computer classes – ON GOING
Objective 4: Develop programming to meet the needs and interests of young adults
(teens)
Strategies
a. Survey young adults identify the interests and needs that are appropriate for
library-based programs – (FY 16-17)
b. Create a space specifically designed for young adults – ON GOING
c. Establish a young adult collection of 4 items per young adult, which would
include Graphic Novels – (FY 18-19)
d. Seek co-sponsors from other community groups for library-based programs
targeted at young adults – (FY 16-17)
e. Maintain a Young Adult Advisory Board – ON GOING
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Objective 5: Develop programming to meet the needs and interests of children.
Strategies
a. Provide storytimes for Spanish speaking children – (FY 16-17)
b. Provide special programs during school holidays – ON GOING
c. Provide evening and weekend storytimes – (FY 17-18)
d. Establish a children’s collection of 4 items per child – (FY 18-19)
e. Provide adequate space for special children’s events such as the summer
reading program and other educational and cultural events – ON GOING
f. Provide storytimes for children with learning disabilities – (FY 16-17)
g. Develop and promote a toy lending library – (FY 16-17)
Objective 6: Provide adequate space for library customers to meet and share information
and ideas.
Strategies
a. Provide large meeting room for civic and community organizations to meet –
ON GOING
b. Provide large meeting room to hold lectures, concerts, recitals, public forums,
book clubs, and cultural and educational events – ON GOING
c. Provide small meeting rooms for group study and small meetings – ON
GOING
d. Provide space for public art exhibits, displays, and crafts – ON GOING
Objective 7: Provide access to tools for library customers to perform home maintenance.
Strategies
a. Research the feasibility of operating a tool lending library (FY 16-17)
b. Recruit volunteers that can assist with the lending library (FY 17-18)
c. Identify community groups that may wish to partner with the library to
establish at tool lending library (FY 17-18)
d. Solicit donation of tools for tool library (FY 17-18)
________________________________________________________________
Goal IV: Develop a professional working environment that
fosters continuous improvement, teamwork, and creativity.
Objective 1: Establish continuing education requirements for Library Director
Strategy
a. Require completion of a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education courses
per year or 3 hours of college credit per year – ON GOING
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Objective 2: Develop appropriate in-service training program for all staff.
Strategies
a. Identify staff training needs and customize training plan for each staff member
annually –ON GOING
b. Train all staff in customer service, teamwork, and communication skills – ON
GOING
c. Provide standardized training for new hires – ON GOING
d. Conduct weekly staff meetings- ON GOING
e. Conduct monthly safety training – ON GOING
Objective 3: Support staff attendance at conferences, seminars, and continuing
education events.
Strategies
a. Identify continuing education opportunities that match employees’ training
plans and send staff to appropriate events –ON GOING
b. Provide annual financial support for both institutional and personal
memberships in professional organizations – ON GOING
c. Provide financial support for staff participation in professional organizations –
ON GOING
Objective 4: Develop an effective volunteer program
Strategies
a. Add paid volunteer coordinator to plan for and train volunteers – ON GOING
b. Identify jobs for volunteers and develop work plans with staff – ON GOING
C. Recruit, train, schedule and evaluate volunteers – ON GOING
d. Identify community groups and organizations that wish to establish formal
volunteer partnerships with the library – (FY 16-17)
_______________________________________________________________________________
Goal V: Improve collaboration and cooperation among library
advocates and the community.
Objective 1: Support collaborative efforts among the Library Advisory Board, the
Georgetown Library Foundation and the Friends of the Georgetown Public Library.
Strategies
b. Facilitate an annual meeting for all library advocates – (FY 16-17)
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Objective 2: Initiate new partnerships with nonprofit agencies, corporate entities,
governmental agencies, schools, community organizations, and citizens.
Strategies
a. Establish relationships with other area libraries to share information and pool
resources – ON GOING
b. Establish contact with area businesses, industries, nonprofit and governmental
agencies as potential partners for library programs – ON GOING
c. Improve communications with local schools to coordinate resources and
collaborate on projects – ON GOING
Goal VI: Improve the effectiveness, productivity, and
knowledge of Library Advisory Board members to allow
members to make informed recommendations to the
Georgetown City Council.
Objective 1: Improve the Library Advisory Board members’ knowledge of library issues.
Strategies
a. Hold meetings on a monthly basis –ON GOING
b. Maintain a formal set of bylaws – ON GOING
c. Provide an orientation for all new board members – ON GOING
d. At least one member to attend a continuing education workshop and a Central
Texas Library System meeting annually – ON GOING
e. Hold an annual meeting with the City Council to discuss library issues – (FY
16-17)
Objective 2: To create an effective advocacy program for the Library Advisory Board.
Strategies
a. Cultivate and nurture relations with all elected officials on all levels: local,
state, and federal – (FY 16-17)
b. Host more than one event to which elected officials are invited – (FY 16-17)
c. Share information about Texas Library Association and American Library
Association legislative issues whenever possible – ON GOING
d. Insure that at least one member attends Texas Library Association Legislative
Day – year ON GOING
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Goal VII: Promote the arts and culture in the City of Georgetown
and create opportunities for art in public places.
Objective 1: To acquire public art for the new library.
Strategies
b. Solicit donations of art from local artists – ON GOING
c. Commission works of art for City facilities ON GOING
d. Establish a rotating art collection among the various art organizations in
Georgetown – ON GOING
Objective 2: Develop cultural programming at the library.
Strategies
a. Coordinate with Southwestern University, the Williamson County Historical
Museum, Georgetown Heritage Society and other organizations to assist with
cultural programming ON GOING
b. Provide meeting room space for cultural events - ON GOING
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City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Elec tion of Vic e-Chair. -P ete Rose
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
Page 21 of 55
City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Elec tion of Sec retary. -Pete Ro s e
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
Page 22 of 55
City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Cons id eration o f Lib rary Direc tor's Report. -Eric Las hley
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Statis tics Feb- Mar. 2016 Backup Material
Director's report Feb- Mar 2016 Backup Material
Memorials Log Feb 2016 Backup Material
Memorials Log March 2016 Backup Material
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GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Comparative Fiscal Year Statistics
Patron Visits Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Annual Total
Current Year 25180 21672 23173 25830 17923 19129 132907
2014-2015 27404 25057 29346 22955 23173 24513 344433
2013-2014 26554 29893 24808 29552 28508 32771 361444
2012-2013 26729 27473 19786 27227 27534 32142 350225
2011-2012 30822 27674 22499 35123 32409 47620 396094
2010-2011 31410 27524 28878 27363 29232 31269 362923
Circulation Annual Total
Current Year 43295 40538 38374 41508 39510 43111 246336
2014-2015 40634 41409 39820 41946 39834 45358 527987
2013-2014 46597 42212 40366 44732 40648 46748 559209
2012-2013 41909 42277 38971 44973 40288 45324 550683
2011-2012 45280 42854 38880 44006 41925 45073 552032
2010-2011 40965 40697 35963 42919 40488 44139 527746
Children's Programs Annual Total
Attendance 378 390 475 980 1018 1697 4938
Programs 6 5 4 7 6 9 37
Story Time Programs 16 18 18 24 22 22 120
Other (Tour, Movies, Crafts)4 3 2 4 4 4 21
After School Programs 4 3 3 4 4 4 22
Other Services
ILL Ordered 47 30 24 28 47 37 213
ILL filled 32 28 20 17 34 5 136
Internet usage (persons)6224 5332 5260 6163 5691 6213 34883
Overdrive usage (E-books)2001 1975 2045 2313 2067 2224 12625
Overdrive usage (audiobooks)587 491 518 609 526 574 3305
Bookmobile circulation 2465 3054 2281 3090 2993 2948 16831
Volunteer Hours
Adult 607.00 649.75 547.50 599.50 691.00 706.25 3801.00
Teen 58.50 90.75 45.25 73.75 48.50 57.50 374.25
Community Service 0.00 39.75 43.00 49.25 15.25 14.75 162.00
Total 665.50 780.25 635.75 722.50 754.75 778.50 4337.25
Registrations
City Residents-new 224.00 164.00 153.00 192.00 200.00 213.00 1146.00
GISD Kids' Cards 10.00 4.00 6.00 12.00 8.00 8.00 48.00
Non-residents-new 69.00 43.00 41.00 74.00 92.00 88.00 407.00
Total 303.00 211.00 200.00 278.00 300.00 309.00 1601.00
Cash Receipts
Fines/Misc. Revenue 2571.41 1886.80 1850.32 1690.72 2258.12 2204.34 12461.71
Non-resident fees 2425.00 1810.00 2050.00 2438.00 2980.00 2555.00 14258.00
Donations 1443.78 1856.66 2058.09 3659.71 3357.90 2988.61 15364.75
Gifts/Memorials 1202.85 1800.00 2700.00 461.71 1020.00 180.00 7364.56
Meeting Room Use
persons attdg meetings 2943 2466 1835 2087 3083 3144 15558
Library Collection Changes
Copies Added 963 720 734 956 1305 814 5492
Copies Discarded 1865 444 595 1429 2192 841 7366
101 59 30 108 324 70 692
2016
FY 2015-2016Statistics
Donations Added
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DIRECTOR’S MONTHLY REPORT
GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY
February & March 2016
FEBRUARY- HIGHLIGHTS
Tickets continue selling for March 5 Gala.
February 2, artist Jimmy Dyer presented on Images of the Southwest.
Every Wednesday during February the library hosted book discussions on Just Mercy: A
Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson.
Every Thursday during February the library hosted Courageous Conversations about
education, healthcare, public safety, and economic development.
The annual Stuffed Animal Sleepover took place on February 19.
February 21, the group Aidan provided live music to library patrons.
February 26, the library hosted a film screening for Selma.
Burton Anes provided a photography exhibit in the library’s gallery during February.
PATRON COMMENTS for February 2016
1. Patron comment: Need Morningstar (for Mutual funds)
2. Patron comment: Aidan Irish group “marvelous”. Please bring back patron giving
feedback.
3. Patron comment: Have tax signup list available 2 hours ahead. People wait and then
when list is put out a new person comes in.
4. Patron comment: Gloria is my hero. Userful user.
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MARCH- HIGHLIGHTS
March 5, 50th Anniversary Gala from 7-10 PM.
Spring Break activities took place March 14 – 18, which included a family-
friendly library birthday party, art day, My Little Pony party, and Lego Day.
Franklin’s Tower provided live music on Sunday, March 20.
The Central Texas Pastel Society provided art in the library’s galleries
during March.
PATRON COMMENTS for March 2016
1. Patron comment: You should have more computers.
2. Patron comment: Would love to see a trade in your reading books. (Check with Belton
Library on how they set up theirs) - I called the Belton Public Library to ask about this
comment. The Library Director told me they have a large number of donated paperback
books that they “check out” using the honor system. People tell the staff at the front
desk how many books they are checking out, so the staff can record the circulation, and
then they are supposed to bring the books back when they are through reading them.
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DONOR DONATION
Anna Aiken $25 in Memory of Nelda Burson-child program needs
April Morris c/o Yakka Energy, LLC $15 in honor of Robert Barber
George & Barbara Brightwell $200 to pay for 18 copies of Just Mercy
Col. Lester Frazier $250 for staff Christmas party
Judy & Don Parks 2 DVDs Unbranded & Touching the Wild
Wayne Dawson $25 in honor of Central Texas Authors-fiction
Jo Bass $25 in Memory of Richard W. "Dick" Erdenberger
Tina Wall $20 in Honor of Gerry Sensabaugh
Judith L. Welk $100 in Memory of Dick Erdenberger
Greg Searson $100 in Memory of Dick Erdenberger
Leslie Bradley $200 for Staff needs
GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY
DONATIONS -- February 2016
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DONOR DONATION
Stephanie Matlock Copy of her book Murder in Sun City
Patrice M. Mahon $50 in Memory of Richard W. Erdenberger
Lynne A. Friedewald $50 in Memory of Richard W. Erdenberger
Georgetown Sunrise Rotary Club Book Sophmore Undercover in Honor of Eric Lashley
AAUW Georgetown Texas Branch 3 books Solving the Equation & Profiles of Women V.1 & V.2
Flower Power Book Club $100 for book Sailing Toward Sunrise & 3 yr subscription to Cruising World magazine
Sarah Barnes Copy of her book Meredith & Me
Paul J. Webster Copy of his book Life, Love and a Little Bit of Grace
Mel & Pete Rose Copy of Thrill Me (LP) by Susan Mallery
Kathleen McElwaine Copy of her book Learning to Keep the White Space
James Breslow Copy of his book The Secret to Bullies and $10 for CH Prog.
Myra Hargrave McIlvain Copy of her book Stein House
GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY
DONATIONS -- March 2016
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City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Overview o f lib rary p o licies, bud get, s taff, and lib rary o p erations . -Eric Las hley
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Library policies Backup Material
Library budget Backup Material
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Policy Statements for the Georgetown Public Library
Updated June 2012
The following manual contains many of the major policies of the Georgetown Public Library. The Library
Director reserves the right to change policies if the director feels the policy changes are in the best
interest of the Library or our patrons. The Library is a department within the City of Georgetown and
policies set by the Georgetown City Council and City Manager can supersede internal Library policies.
The Library will make every effort to inform patrons any major policy changes before new policies are
implemented.
Policies are created to assist the Library in fulfilling our mission.
Mission Statement
The Georgetown Public Library is dedicated to open and equal access to informat ion,
technology, lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and the joys of reading for our diverse
community.
The Georgetown Public Library accomplishes this mission by offering the services, resources, and
facilities to fulfill the informational, educational, and recreational needs and interests of Library patrons.
The Georgetown Public Library, a public library for all citizens, shall strive toward the following goals:
To assemble, preserve and make available educational, recreational and informational materials
which promote enlightened citizenship and enriched personal lives. These materials shall
include books, periodicals, and other media representing diverse intellectual interests and
cultural traditions for the use and benefit of all segments of the public.
To serve the community as a center of reliable information.
To initiate activities which encourage the use of the Library’s materials, facility, and assets.
To cooperate with educational, civic, and cultural groups and organizations whose aims are
compatible with those of the library.
To facilitate universal, life-long learning.
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I. Patron Use Policies
Library Membership
The Georgetown Public Library is a department of the City of Georgetown supported by the general
fund. Residents of Georgetown are illegible for a free library card; nonresidents must pay an annual
nonresident fee.
Library Cards and Fees
Individuals older than 16 who wish to apply for a card must present picture ID and proof of
current residence.
Residents of Georgetown and persons who pay City property taxes may receive library cards at
no cost.
Nonresidents may borrow library materials for an annual fee of $25.00, which provides cards for
all family members.
The annual fee for nonresidents who are 65 or older is $20.00, which provides cards for all family
members.
Lost cards will be replaced for a fee of $1.00.
If a person applying for a new library card lives at the same address as a person who has fines or
fees of $5.00 or more, the new applicant may be denied a library card until the fees are paid.
Children’s Library Cards
Any family member, including children of any age, may receive a library card when an adult
library member requests that they be added to his or her record. In other cases, a parent or
guardian must apply for an individual card for children under 16 years of age.
Children also may receive cards through a program operated in cooperation with the
Georgetown Independent School District. Applications are distributed to students at the
beginning of the school year. Resident students who apply will receive regular library cards;
nonresidents will receive special cards with limited borrowing privileges that are good for the
school year. Nonresident students who have received a card through the GISD program may
have to pay a $5.00 fee to have unlimited borrowing privileges during the summer months.
Texshare Card
After you have been a member of the Georgetown library for one month, and your record is free
of fines and fees, you are eligible to receive a TexShare card, which gives you borrowing
privileges at many public and academic libraries in Texas. Nearby libraries that participate in this
program include Southwestern University, Round Rock Public Library, and UT-Austin. Your
TexShare card must be renewed annually. Ask at the circulation desk for more information.
The Georgetown Public Library will only accept TexShare cards from libraries certified by the
Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
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Borrowing Library Materials
Loan Periods
The loan period for most library books, all audio books, and all music CDs is 21 days. The loan period for
videos and DVDs is 14 days. The loan period for most new books is 14 days; however, new books that
are more than 500 pages long check out for 21 days. Reference materials, magazines and newspapers
may not be checked out. Some very popular bestselling authors may have a loan period for 7 days.
Renewals
Unless someone else has placed a hold on an item, all materials may be renewed one time, either in
person, by phone, or online.
Bookdrops
One drive-up outdoor bookdrop is available. It is on the south side of the building, to the right as you
drive into the 9th Street entrance. This drop is open at all times, but to minimize damage to books,
please use this drop only when you are unable to come into the library. Do not put oversized or fragile
materials in the bookdrop.
Overdue Notices
If you have an email address on record with the library, you will receive an email notice three days
before your borrowed items are due, and if they are not returned or renewed, you will receive another
email notice three days after the items are due. Thirty days after items are due the library will mail a
postcard reminding you of the overdue items. After sixty days you will receive a letter in the mail
reminding you of the overdue items, but at that time the items are declared lost and charges for
replacement are placed on your record. If you believe you receive any of these notices in error, or if you
have questions about notices you may receive, please call the library at 930-3551.
Fines
A fine of 10 cents per day is assessed on all overdue library materials.
Interlibrary Loan
If the library does not have materials you are looking for, it may be possible to borrow them from
another library through inter-library loan (ILL). Request can be made through the library’s on-line
catalog or with staff assistance. The charge for this service is one-way postage on the item ordered. ILLs
may take up to three (3) weeks to arrive and genealogical materials often take longer than three weeks.
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Bookmobile
The Library operates a bookmobile and will make stops only within the City limits of Georgetown.
Anyone with a valid Georgetown Public Library card can checkout materials from the bookmobile. Due
dates may be adjusted due to the frequency of stops at a particular location. Due dates can be
determined by the Library Director and Community Outreach Librarian. Reserves cannot be placed on
materials in the bookmobile’s permanent collection.
Internet Use
Public Use Computers and Internet Access
Computer workstations are available for connection to the Internet, children’s educational games, or to
use word processing and spreadsheet software. Printing from these computers costs 10 cents per page.
Access to the computer workstations is available on a first-come, first-served basis. After registering,
anyone may use a computer for a maximum of one hour per day. The same sign-up and use rules apply
to the workstation computers in the Children’s room as in the main room.
Free wireless access to the Internet is available for persons who wish to use their personal laptop
computers in the library.
Due to the unrestricted environment of the Internet, information accessed on the Internet may contain
material that is incorrect, inauthentic, unreliable, illegal, obscene or sexually explicit. Although the
library does provide filters on specific computers, we assume no liability or responsibility for what is
viewed by patrons or is left on the screen to be later viewed by a subsequent patron. Restriction or
supervision of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or guardian; the library
does not have the right or responsibility to act in loco parentis. The Library expressly disclaims any
liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic
information systems, or any consequences thereof.
Children’s use
It is the library’s policy that parents or legal guardians must assume responsibility for deciding what
library resources are appropriate for their children. There will be some resources that parents may feel
are inappropriate for their children. Some library computers are designated as children’s workstations.
These workstations use filtering software to access the Internet. Since no filtering software can control
access to all materials that an individual may deem inappropriate, parents should supervise their
children’s Internet sessions.
Rules governing use
Children younger than 14 are to use the computer terminals in the children’s room, unless
accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Computers may be filtered for individuals under the age of 18.
Users must end their session and leave the terminal when asked to do so by Library staff.
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Users may not install or download any software without express permission from Library staff.
Users may not use any library workstation for any illegal or criminal purpose.
Users may not make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software.
Users will not make any attempt to gain unauthorized access to restricted files or networks, or
to damage or modify computer equipment or software.
Users may not violate copyright laws or software licensing agreements in their use of Library
workstations or laptops.
Users may not engage in any activity that is deliberately and maliciously offensive, indecent,
libelous, or slanderous.
Users will respect the privacy of other users, and will refrain from attempting to view or read
material being used by others.
By mutual agreement, two persons may share one access session as long as their behavior or
conversation does not disturb other users or Library staff.
Violations may result in loss of access. Users are advised that due process will be used to handle
violations of an illegal nature, including criminal prosecution, if necessary.
Privacy
The Georgetown Public Library seeks to protect the First Amendment rights of its patrons and their
individual right to privacy. However, Internet users must be aware that workstations are in public areas
and, therefore, images and text on the screen are subject to view by a wide audience. Users are
cautioned that the Internet is not a secure environment. Personal information included in all
transactions, files and communications may be subject to unauthorized access by third parties. The
Georgetown Public Library respects the confidentiality of those using its electronic resources and will
only release library records as required by law or for the Library’s operations.
Digital Collections Policies
Georgetown Heritage Society Photograph Collections
The Georgetown Public Library acknowledges the Georgetown Heritage Society for the donation of the
historic photograph collection to the library. The collection includes images of buildings, events, citizens,
and firefighters in Georgetown from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. The Library and the
Georgetown Heritage Society are please to make these images available to the public; please see our
policies (see below) regarding duplication and use.
A Note About Historical Sources
The Georgetown Public Library does not guarantee the accuracy of the descriptions of each image. The
library welcomes comments and /or corrections.
Content on this site is drawn from a broad range of original historical resources, including materials that
may contain offensive images or stereotypes. Such materials should be viewed in the context of the time
and place in which they were created. All historical media are presented as specific, original artifacts,
without further enhancement to their appearance or quality, as a record of the era in which they were
produced.
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Photographic/Digital Images Policies
The Georgetown Public Library makes its pictorial materials widely available while carefully maintaining
the physical and intellectual integrity of the historic materials. Patrons are welcome to make
reproductions of our collection for personal use. We do ask that patrons comply with the following
policies:
1. The patron accepts all responsibility for the possible copyright infringement arising from the use of
reproductions from the Georgetown Public Library collection.
2. Generally, patrons of the Georgetown Public Library may make reproductions of the photographic
collection within the Fair Use and other provisions of U.S. Copyright Law. The Georgetown Public Library
does not grant or transfer any copyright or other intellectual property rights in the photograph to the
patron. Copies in any format MAY NOT be further reproduced, sold, shared, or given to another person,
company, or institution for any purpose without written permission from the Library Director.
3. Patrons wishing to use Georgetown Public Library photographs or images in a publication must submit
a written request to the Library Director for approval.
PATRONS WILL DEFEND, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS THE GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY AND
THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN AGAINST ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS, COSTS, AND EXPENSES INCLUDING
ATTORNEYS’ FEES INCURRED BY COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT OR ANY OTHER LEGAL OR REGULATORY
CAUSE OF ACTION ARISING FROM THE USE OF GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY MATERIALS.
Donation Policy for Photographic Materials
The Georgetown Public Library accepts donations of photographic materials under the following
conditions:
1. The photographs or digital images are of people or locations within Williamson County. The primary
concentrations of our collection are people and locations within Georgetown.
2. Photographs need to be dated and individuals or locations must be identified.
3. Donors will defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Georgetown Public Library and the City of
Georgetown against all claims, demands, costs and expenses including attorney fees incurred by
copyright infringement or any other legal or regulatory cause of action arising from the use of the
donated images.
4. Donations may be added to the collection or rejected at the discretion of the library.
Faxing and Copying
A fax machine is available at the Reference Desk on the second floor. With the help of staff you may
send to and receive faxes from phones within the United States. We cannot do international faxes. The
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charge for faxing is $1.00 for the first page and $.50 per page thereafter. You do not have to pay for the
cover page.
The public copy machine is located on the second floor, near the reference desk. It is self-serve, makes
black and white copies only, and it will do double-sided copies. The charge for copies is $.10 per page. A
double-sided copy is $.20.
Cash, check, or a credit card may be used to pay for faxes and copies.
Copyright
U.S. copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of
copyrighted materials, except as permitted by the principles of “fair use.” Users may not copy or
distribute electronic materials (including email, text, images, programs or data) without the explicit
permission of the copyright holder. Any responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement
lies with the user; the Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.
Microfilm Reader
A manually operated microfilm reader/copier is located near the Reference Desk. Copies are $.10 per
page. The library has a small collection of microfilm that includes the complete run of The Williamson
County Sun from its inception to the present and census records for Williamson County from 1850
through 1930, but you are welcome to bring in your own microfilm to read on our machine.
Proctoring Services
To assist Georgetown residents in achieving their lifelong learning goals, the Georgetown Public Library
provides exam proctoring for individuals who are resident Georgetown Public Library Card card holders
in good standing or non-resident GPL card holders in good standing who have been members for at least
90 days. TexShare card holders are not eligible for this service. Exams can be either paper-pencil or
online. There is no charge for this service.
Unattended Children Policy
The library is not responsible for unattended children.
If staff determines an unattended child is in danger of harming themselves or others, the staff will
attempt to contact the parent/guardian of the child and if the staff cannot contact the parent/guardian
the staff will contact the Georgetown Police Department. If the staff contacts the parent/guardian of an
unattended child and determines the parent/guardian is uncooperative or unresponsive in dealing with
our concerns regarding the well-being of the child, the staff will contact the Georgetown Police
Department.
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Meeting Room Use
The Georgetown Public Library has a variety of meeting rooms. Some require a rental fee, while others
are free. Rented rooms are available every day from 8:00 AM until 11:00 PM, but free rooms are
available from the time library opens until 15 minutes before closing.
Room Rentals
Free Rooms
To reserve a study room or the conference room call the Reference Desk at 930-3627.
Free rooms include four study rooms that hold 4-6 people, and a conference room that holds up to 10
people. The study rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis with a two hour limit when
others are waiting. These rooms may be booked once a month for up to two hours. No commercial use
of these rooms is allowed. The rooms close 15 minutes before the library closes.
Rental Rooms
Rental rooms include the Hewlett Room and the Friends Room each with a capacity of 200. These two
rooms may also be rented as one, large room with a 400 person capacity. Smaller groups may wish to
rent the Classroom, which has a capacity of 40 people.
Meeting Room Fees
Hewlett and Friends
(capacity: 400)
Hewlett or Friends
(capacity: 200)
Classroom
(capacity: 40)
Resident/Nonprofit with
501(c) status
$40 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $20 per additional
hr., $120 for 6+ hrs.
$20 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $10 per additional
hr., $60 for 6+ hrs.
$10 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $5 per additional hr.,
$30 for 6+ hrs.
Commercial $200 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $100 per additional
hr.,
$600 for 6+ hrs.
$100 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $50 per additional
hr.,
$300 for 6+ hrs.
$40 for 2 hrs. minimum,
then $20 per additional
hr., $120 for 6+ hrs.
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Equipment
2 LCD Projectors (PC only) 2 TVs with DVD & VCR Overhead projector
Rental fee $25 per meeting in
advance
$75 day of meeting
$10 per meeting in
advance
$30 day of meeting
$5 per meeting in advance
$15 day of meeting
No security deposits will be charged for rented equipment, but full replacement cost will be charged in
case of damage. Equipment rental fees shall be three times the advance rate on the day of a meeting.
Please note that there will be no charges for events co-sponsored by the Georgetown Public Library or
City of Georgetown.
ALL FOOD AND BEVERAGES served in the meeting rooms must be purchased through the coffee shop
located in the library.
Rules and Policies for Meeting Room Use Renting a Room
1. Red Poppy Coffee Company located in the library, will provide food and beverage service for your
meeting or event. Only if service is declined for your event or if you receive permission from the Library
Director, may bring in food or beverages from outside.
2. Rented meeting rooms may be reserved 6 months in advance for use between 8:00 AM and 11:00
PM.
3. No person, association, organization, business, or corporation may rent any of the rooms more than
once a month.
4. All fees are due when the reservation is made. No refunds will be made for any cancellation less than
one week prior to scheduled use. Checks for rent and security deposits should be made payable to the
City of Georgetown.
No rental fees will be charged for events that are co-sponsored by the Georgetown Public Library or City
of Georgetown.
5. If a meeting goes 15 minutes over the scheduled time, an additional hour will be billed.
6. Meeting rooms may be reserved for social gatherings such as showers, birthday parties, and family
reunions; religious services; fundraisers; and political functions.
7. Events with amplified music will not be permitted during library operating hours.
8. Meetings must be free and open to the public unless commercial rental rates are being paid, and only
groups that pay the commercial rental rate may charge admission fees or hold fund-raising events.
9. Groups that do not pay commercial rental rates may charge attendees the actual cost of food that is
served at the event or the actual cost of materials provided as a part of the event.
10. The individual or group renting the room is responsible for setting up the room and returning it to its
original configuration or deposit may be forfeited.
11. Any advertising or printed material of events or programs sponsored by the renter must contain the
following statement: THIS EVENT IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH OR SPONSORED BY THE GEORGETOWN
PUBLIC LIBRARY OR THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN.
12. No activities may be held outside of the room rented. Renters who distribute written materials in
the rented room are responsible for collecting and disposing of all remaining materials prior to leaving
the premises.
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13. The Library is a government-owned facility. Renters are responsible for complying with Section
255.003 of the Texas Election Code, which prohibits the use of public funds, including the use of
government-owned facilities, for the distribution of written political advertising materials or for radio or
television broadcasts of political advertising.
Miscellaneous Restrictions
1. Smoking is not allowed in any of the meeting rooms.
2. Registration tables, refreshments, or any other activities are not permitted outside of the room
rented unless approved by the Library Director.
3. No candles or open flames are allowed in any of the meeting rooms.
4. No decorations may be attached in any way to the walls or ceilings of any of the rooms.
5. No furniture may be borrowed or moved from other areas of the library.
6. Alcoholic beverages may be permitted with the approval of the Library Director. A professional
security guard will be required at events where alcohol is served unless waived by the Library Director.
7. The library reserves the right to reschedule any meeting in case of an emergency and will notify the
representative of any previously scheduled meeting as quickly as possible.
8. The City of Georgetown and the Georgetown Public Library are not responsible for any articles lost or
stolen from any of the rented rooms.
9. Groups requesting exceptions to these rules and policies must do so in writing to the Library Director,
with an explanation for the exception requested.
10. Failure to follow the above rules and policies will result in loss of security deposit(s) and refusal of
further meeting room bookings.
11. Any circumstances not covered in the above rules and policies will be resolved by discussion with the
Library Director.
Art Displays
The Library will display works of art on a rotating basis. The Library Director will determine the length of
art displays.
Decisions on accepting art donations will be referred to the City of Georgetown’s Arts and Culture
Board. If patrons wish to have a piece of art removed from the library, the Director will use the same
process for a request to remove library materials. However, an appeal of the Library Director’s decision
would go to the Arts and Culture Board instead of the Library Advisory Board and any appeal of the Arts
and Culture Board would go to the City Council.
Exhibits, Signs, and Soliciting Policy
All materials displayed in the COMMON PUBLIC AREAS will be selected or permitted based upon
cultural, educational and informational merits with approval of the Director. COMMON PUBLIC AREAS
means areas used by library customers of all ages and with a variety of interests. These areas include
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but are not limit to foyers, meeting rooms, reference and circulation desk areas and enclosed display
cases.
The public are allowed to place promotional materials bulletin boards provided in the library’s foyer for
one month and all items must be dated.
II. Policies for Staff
Materials Selection Policy
This Materials Selection Policy shall serve the following purposes:
To further the stated goals, objectives, and functions of the Georgetown Public Library.
To guide librarians in the selection of materials.
To inform the public about selection principles.
Final responsibility and authority for materials selection rests with the Director of the Library, who
implements policies adopted by the Georgetown Public Library Advisory Board and Georgetown City
Council.
The staff will assist the Director in selecting materials using their knowledge of the collection and the
needs of the community and their critical judgment of materials available.
Criteria For Selection of Materials
Materials considered for inclusion in the Library’s collection must meet one or more of the following
standards:
A. Importance of subject matter
B. Serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value
C. Permanence
D. Timely value
E. Purpose or intent of the material
F. Accuracy or authenticity of content
G. Objectivity of approach
H. Historical value
I. Readability
J. Scarcity of material on subject
K. Reputation and significance of author, illustrator, editor, artist, performer, etc.
L. Reputation and professional standing of publisher
M. Popularity or interest as indicated by patron request
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N. Local interest
O. Price
P. Format
Q. Availability of material
Works of fiction should possess qualities of:
A. Representation of important movements, genres, trends of national culture and ethnic groups
B. Vitality and originality
C. Artistic integrity
D. Effective characterization
E. Authenticity of historical or social setting
F. Sustained interest
In addition to the above standards, periodicals will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
A. Frequency of use
B. Popularity/Interest
C. Reputation and quality of publication
D. Price
The presence of materials in the library must not be construed as a personal endorsement of their
contents by any member of the staff, the Library Advisory Board, or the City Council. The library has a
responsibility to collect materials expressing a variety of views and opinions, many of which the persons
responsible for the maintaining the library may find personally unacceptable.
The library subscribes to the principles of the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights,
Freedom to Read Statement, Statement of Labeling, Free Access to Libraries for Minors, Restricted
Access to Library Materials, Diversity in Collection Development, Challenged Materials, and the Texas
Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom Statement.
Use of Selection Aids
It is not possible for all materials to be read or viewed by a librarian before purchase. Therefore, the
staff makes skilled use of selection aids, such as basic general lists, current general lists, special
bibliographies for reference and particular subject materials, and review journals. While reviews are a
major source of information about new materials, they are not followed blindly. No one publication is
relied upon exclusively; the critical opinions of reviewers are checked against each other where feasible.
The professional librarians will use selection guides which have achieved a reputation for library
materials selection. These guides may include, but will not be limited to,
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A. Booklist
B. Publisher’s Weekly
C. Library Journal
D. Horn Book
E. School Library Journal
F. Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
G. New York Times Book Review
H. Previews
Patron Requests
The Library welcomes patron interest in the collection and will seriously consider all requests that
specific materials be acquired. The library is under no obligation to fill any particular request if it is not
deemed suitable to the goals of the library.
Gifts and Donations
Gifts or donations to the Library, in the form of materials or money are welcome.
Gift Materials Procedure:
A. All gifts are subject to the previously stated Criteria for Selection
B. The Library may refuse any material not deemed desirable.
C. Gifts will be handled while in the collection in exactly the same way as materials purchased with
public funds.
D. When gift materials are deemed no longer useful, the Library will withdrawal them on the same
basis that it withdrawals other materials.
The Library reserves the right to decide the conditions of display, housing, and access to the materials.
No estimate of value or record of donated items will be furnished.
Maintenance of the Collection
The collection will be periodically examined for the purpose of weeding, binding, or repair of materials
to maintain a balanced, timely, and attractive collection. Reasons for withdrawal of materials include:
A. Poor physical condition
B. Datedness and inaccuracy of information
C. Lack of reader interest as evidenced by lack of use
D. Duplicates not justified by demand
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E. Items that do not meet current selection criteria
The controversial nature of materials shall not be deemed a sufficient reason for removal unless and
until the material has been subjected to a full formal review as outlined in the Request for
Reconsideration of Library Materials policy.
Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials
Because of a pluralistic society tastes and opinions differ, some materials the Library acquires may be
offensive to some patrons. In a democracy which incorporates the rights of free press and speech into
its basic system of law, the minority does not have the prerogative to curtail the free access to published
materials by the majority. Just as important, the majority does not have the right to curtail free access
to published materials by the minority of the individuals. If however, a patron objects to material held
by the Library, he/she may submit a “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form. In no
instance will the material be removed on demand. All considerations of requests to remove materials
will be reviewed using the principles of the selection policy as a guide.
In order to have a request considered, the patron must:
A. Be a registered borrower of the Georgetown Public Library
B. File a complete “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form with the Director
C. Supply full name and address. Anonymous complaints will not be considered.
After the completed complaint form is received, the Director will review the reasons for the complaint
and the material in question, and will attempt to answer the complaint to the patron’s satisfaction. A
patron who is not satisfied with the Director’s action may request the material by reviewed by the
Library Advisory Board. The decision of the Library Advisory Board may be appealed to the City Council.
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Addendum
Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that
the following basic policies should guide their services.
I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment
of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the
origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and
historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal
disapproval.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information
and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free
expression and free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background,
or views.
VI. Libraries that make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make
such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or
groups requesting their use.
Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2,
1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.
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The Freedom to Read Statement
The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and
public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading
materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of
"objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that
our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed
to counter threats to safety or national security, as well as to avoid the subversion of politics and the
corruption of morals. We, as individuals devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible
for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read.
Most attempts at suppression rest on a denial of the fundamental premise of democracy: that the
ordinary individual, by exercising critical judgment, will select the good and reject the bad. We trust
Americans to recognize propaganda and misinformation, and to make their own decisions about what
they read and believe. We do not believe they are prepared to sacrifice their heritage of a free press in
order to be "protected" against what others think may be bad for them. We believe they still favor free
enterprise in ideas and expression.
These efforts at suppression are related to a larger pattern of pressures being brought against
education, the press, art and images, films, broadcast media, and the Internet. The problem is not only
one of actual censorship. The shadow of fear cast by these pressures leads, we suspect, to an even
larger voluntary curtailment of expression by those who seek to avoid controversy or unwelcome
scrutiny by government officials.
Such pressure toward conformity is perhaps natural to a time of accelerated change. And yet
suppression is never more dangerous than in such a time of social tension. Freedom has given the
United States the elasticity to endure strain. Freedom keeps open the path of novel and creative
solutions, and enables change to come by choice. Every silencing of a heresy, every enforcement of an
orthodoxy, diminishes the toughness and resilience of our society and leaves it the less able to deal with
controversy and difference.
Now as always in our history, reading is among our greatest freedoms. The freedom to read and write is
almost the only means for making generally available ideas or manners of expression that can initially
command only a small audience. The written word is the natural medium for the new idea and the
untried voice from which come the original contributions to social growth. It is essential to the extended
discussion that serious thought requires, and to the accumulation of knowledge and ideas into
organized collections.
We believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative
culture. We believe that these pressures toward conformity present the danger of limiting the range and
variety of inquiry and expression on which our democracy and our culture depend. We believe that
every American community must jealously guard the freedom to publish and to circulate, in order to
preserve its own freedom to read. We believe that publishers and librarians have a profound
responsibility to give validity to that freedom to read by making it possible for the readers to choose
freely from a variety of offerings.
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The freedom to read is guaranteed by the Constitution. Those with faith in free people will stand firm on
these constitutional guarantees of essential rights and will exercise the responsibilities that accompany
these rights.
We therefore affirm these propositions:
1. It is in the public interest for publishers and librarians to make available the widest diversity of
views and expressions, including those that are unorthodox, unpopular, or considered dangerous
by the majority.
Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new
thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain
themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established
orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the
freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them.
To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process.
Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic
mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we
believe but why we believe it.
2. Publishers, librarians, and booksellers do not need to endorse every idea or presentation they
make available. It would conflict with the public interest for them to establish their own political,
moral, or aesthetic views as a standard for determining what should be published or circulated.
Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge
and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster
education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have
the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any
single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should
be confined to what another thinks proper.
3. It is contrary to the public interest for publishers or librarians to bar access to writings on the
basis of the personal history or political affiliations of the author.
No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its
creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not
listen, whatever they may have to say.
4. There is no place in our society for efforts to coerce the taste of others, to confine adults to the
reading matter deemed suitable for adolescents, or to inhibit the efforts of writers to achieve
artistic expression.
To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut
off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and
teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life
to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically
for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing
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them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ,
and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one
group without limiting the freedom of others.
5. It is not in the public interest to force a reader to accept the prejudgment of a label
characterizing any expression or its author as subversive or dangerous.
The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to
determine by authority what is good or bad for others. It presupposes that individuals must be
directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need
others to do their thinking for them.
6. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians, as guardians of the people's freedom to read,
to contest encroachments upon that freedom by individuals or groups seeking to impose their
own standards or tastes upon the community at large; and by the government whenever it seeks
to reduce or deny public access to public information.
It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the
aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another
individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they
wish to read, and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely
associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to
impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society.
Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. Further,
democratic societies are more safe, free, and creative when the free flow of public information
is not restricted by governmental prerogative or self-censorship.
7. It is the responsibility of publishers and librarians to give full meaning to the freedom to read by
providing books that enrich the quality and diversity of thought and expression. By the exercise
of this affirmative responsibility, they can demonstrate that the answer to a "bad" book is a
good one, the answer to a "bad" idea is a good one.
The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that
reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision
of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the
major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of
its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and
librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all Americans the fullest of their support.
We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim
for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety
and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these
propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to
many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is
unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be
dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a
dangerous way of life, but it is ours.
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This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American
Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the
American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers.
Adopted June 25, 1953, by the ALA Council and the AAP Freedom to Read Committee; amended January
28, 1972; January 16, 1991; July 12, 2000; June 30, 2004.
Statement Labeling and Rating Systems
An Interpretation of the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS
Libraries do not advocate the ideas found in their collections or in resources accessible through the
library. The presence of books and other resources in a library does not indicate endorsement of
their contents by the library. Likewise, providing access to digital information does not indicate
endorsement or approval of that information by the library. Labeling and rating systems present
distinct challenges to these intellectual freedom principles.
Labels on library materials may be viewpoint-neutral directional aids designed to save the time of
users, or they may be attempts to prejudice or discourage users or restrict their access to materials.
When labeling is an attempt to prejudice attitudes, it is a censor’s tool. The American Library
Association opposes labeling as a means of predisposing people’s attitudes toward library
materials.
Prejudicial labels are designed to restrict access, based on a value judgment that the content,
language, or themes of the material, or the background or views of the creator(s) of the material,
render it inappropriate or offensive for all or certain groups of users. The prejudicial label is used
to warn, discourage, or prohibit users or certain groups of users from accessing the material. Such
labels sometimes are used to place materials in restricted locations where access depends on staff
intervention.
Viewpoint-neutral directional aids facilitate access by making it easier for users to locate materials.
The materials are housed on open shelves and are equally accessible to all users, who may choose
to consult or ignore the directional aids at their own discretion.
Directional aids can have the effect of prejudicial labels when their implementation becomes
proscriptive rather than descriptive. When directional aids are used to forbid access or to suggest
moral or doctrinal endorsement, the effect is the same as prejudicial labeling.
Many organizations use rating systems as a means of advising either their members or the general
public regarding the organizations’ opinions of the contents and suitability or appropriate age for
use of certain books, films, recordings, Web sites, games, or other materials. The adoption,
enforcement, or endorsement of any of these rating systems by a library violates the Library Bill of
Rights. When requested, librarians should provide information about rating systems equitably,
regardless of viewpoint.
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Adopting such systems into law or library policy may be unconstitutional. If labeling or rating
systems are mandated by law, the library should seek legal advice regarding the law’s applicability
to library operations.
Libraries sometimes acquire resources that include ratings as part of their packaging. Librarians
should not endorse the inclusion of such rating systems; however, removing or destroying the
ratings—if placed there by, or with permission of, the copyright holder—could constitute
expurgation. In addition, the inclusion of ratings on bibliographic records in library catalogs is a
violation of the Library Bill of Rights.
Prejudicial labeling and ratings presuppose the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to
determine by authority what is appropriate or inappropriate for others. They presuppose that
individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. The American
Library Association affirms the rights of individuals to form their own opinions about resources
they choose to read or view.
Adopted July 13, 1951, by the ALA Council; amended June 25, 1971; July 1, 1981; June 26,1990;
January 19, 2005; July 15, 2009.
Free Access to Libraries for Minors
An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights
Library policies and procedures that effectively deny minors equal and equitable access to all library
resources available to other users violate the Library Bill of Rights. The American Library Association
opposes all attempts to restrict access to library services, materials, and facilities based on the age of
library users.
Article V of the Library Bill of Rights states, "A person's right to use a library should not be denied or
abridged because of origin, age, background, or views." The "right to use a library" includes free access
to, and unrestricted use of, all the services, materials, and facilities the library has to offer. Every
restriction on access to, and use of, library resources, based solely on the chronological age, educational
level, literacy skills, or legal emancipation of users violates Article V.
Libraries are charged with the mission of developing resources to meet the diverse information needs
and interests of the communities they serve. Services, materials, and facilities that fulfill the needs and
interests of library users at different stages in their personal development are a necessary part of library
resources. The needs and interests of each library user, and resources appropriate to meet those needs
and interests, must be determined on an individual basis. Librarians cannot predict what resources will
best fulfill the needs and interests of any individual user based on a single criterion such as chronological
age, educational level, literacy skills, or legal emancipation.
Libraries should not limit the selection and development of library resources simply because minors will
have access to them. Institutional self-censorship diminishes the credibility of the library in the
community, and restricts access for all library users.
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Children and young adults unquestionably possess First Amendment rights, including the right to receive
information in the library. Constitutionally protected speech cannot be suppressed solely to protect
children or young adults from ideas or images a legislative body believes to be unsuitable for them.1
Librarians and library governing bodies should not resort to age restrictions in an effort to avoid actual
or anticipated objections, because only a court of law can determine whether material is not
constitutionally protected.
The mission, goals, and objectives of libraries cannot authorize librarians or library governing bodies to
assume, abrogate, or overrule the rights and responsibilities of parents. As "Libraries: An American
Value" states, "We affirm the responsibility and the right of all parents and guardians to guide their own
children's use of the library and its resources and services." Librarians and governing bodies should
maintain that parents—and only parents—have the right and the responsibility to restrict the access of
their children—and only their children—to library resources. Parents who do not want their children to
have access to certain library services, materials, or facilities should so advise their children. Librarians
and library governing bodies cannot assume the role of parents or the functions of parental authority in
the private relationship between parent and child.
Lack of access to information can be harmful to minors. Librarians and library governing bodies have a
public and professional obligation to ensure that all members of the community they serve have free,
equal, and equitable access to the entire range of library resources regardless of content, approach,
format, or amount of detail. This principle of library service applies equally to all users, minors as well as
adults. Librarians and library governing bodies must uphold this principle in order to provide adequate
and effective service to minors.
1See Erznoznik v. City of Jacksonville, 422 U.S. 205 (1975)-"Speech that is neither obscene as to youths
nor subject to some other legitimate proscription cannot be suppressed solely to protect the young
from ideas or images that a legislative body thinks unsuitable [422 U.S. 205, 214] for them. In most
circumstances, the values protected by the First Amendment are no less applicable when government
seeks to control the flow of information to minors. See Tinker v. Des Moines School Dist., supra. Cf. West
Virginia Bd. of Ed. v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943)."
Adopted June 30, 1972, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; July 3, 1991, June 30, 2004.
Restricted Access to Library Materials
An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights
Libraries are a traditional forum for the open exchange of information. Attempts to restrict access to
library materials violate the basic tenets of the Library Bill of Rights.
Some libraries place materials in a "closed shelf," "locked case," "adults only," "restricted shelf," or
"high-demand" collection. Some libraries have applied filtering software to their Internet stations to
prevent users from finding targeted categories of information, much of which is constitutionally
protected. Some libraries block access to certain materials by placing other barriers between the user
and those materials.
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Because restricted materials often deal with controversial, unusual, or sensitive subjects, having to ask a
librarian or circulation clerk for access to them may be embarrassing or inhibiting for patrons desiring
the materials. Requiring a user to ask for materials may create a service barrier or pose a language-skills
barrier. Even when a title is listed in the catalog with a reference to its restricted status, a barrier is
placed between the patron and the publication. (See also "Labels and Rating Systems.") Because
restricted materials often feature information that some people consider objectionable, potential library
users may be predisposed to think of the materials as objectionable and, therefore, be reluctant to ask
for access to them.
Limiting access by relegating materials into physically or virtually restricted or segregated collections or
restricting materials by creating age-related, linguistic, economic, psychological, or other barriers
violates the Library Bill of Rights. However, some libraries have established restrictive policies to protect
their materials from theft or mutilation, or because of statutory authority or institutional mandate. Such
policies must be carefully formulated and administered to ensure they do not violate established
principles of intellectual freedom. This caution is reflected in ALA policies, such as "Evaluating Library
Collections," " Free Access to Libraries for Minors ," "Preservation Policy," and the ACRL "Code of Ethics
for Special Collections Librarians."
In keeping with the "Joint Statement on Access" of the American Library Association and Society of
American Archivists, libraries should avoid accepting donor agreements or entering into contracts that
impose permanent restrictions on special collections. As stated in the "Joint Statement," it is the
responsibility of libraries with such collections "to make available original research materials in its
possession on equal terms of access."
All proposals for restricted access collections should be carefully scrutinized to ensure that the purpose
is not to suppress a viewpoint or to place a barrier between certain patrons and particular content. A
primary goal of the library profession is to facilitate access to all points of view on current and historical
issues.
Adopted February 2, 1973, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; July 3, 1991; July 12, 2000; June
30, 2004.
Diversity in Collection Development
An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights
Throughout history, the focus of censorship has fluctuated from generation to generation. Books and
other materials have not been selected or have been removed from library collections for many reasons,
among which are prejudicial language and ideas, political content, economic theory, social philosophies,
religious beliefs, sexual forms of expression, and other potentially controversial topics.
Some examples of censorship may include removing or not selecting materials because they are
considered by some as racist or sexist; not purchasing conservative religious materials; not selecting
materials about or by minorities because it is thought these groups or interests are not represented in a
community; or not providing information on or materials from non-mainstream political entities.
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Librarians may seek to increase user awareness of materials on various social concerns by many means,
including, but not limited to, issuing bibliographies and presenting exhibits and programs. Librarians
have a professional responsibility to be inclusive, not exclusive, in collection development and in the
provision of interlibrary loan. Access to all materials legally obtainable should be assured to the user,
and policies should not unjustly exclude materials even if they are offensive to the librarian or the user.
Collection development should reflect the philosophy inherent in Article II of the Library Bill of Rights:
“Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and
historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal
disapproval.” A balanced collection reflects a diversity of materials, not an equality of numbers.
Collection development responsibilities include selecting materials in the languages in common use in
the community the library serves. Collection development and the selection of materials should be done
according to professional standards and established selection and review procedures.
There are many complex facets to any issue, and variations of context in which issues may be expressed,
discussed, or interpreted. Librarians have a professional responsibility to be fair, just, and equitable and
to give all library users equal protection in guarding against violation of the library patron’s right to read,
view, or listen to materials and resources protected by the First Amendment, no matter what the
viewpoint of the author, creator, or selector. Librarians have an obligation to protect library collections
from removal of materials based on personal bias or prejudice, and to select and support the access to
materials on all subjects that meet, as closely as possible, the needs, interests, and abilities of all
persons in the community the library serves. This includes materials that reflect political, economic,
religious, social, minority, and sexual issues.
Intellectual freedom, the essence of equitable library services, provides for free access to all expressions
of ideas through which any and all sides of a question, cause, or movement may be explored. Toleration
is meaningless without tolerance for what some may consider detestable. Librarians cannot justly
permit their own preferences to limit their degree of tolerance in collection development, because
freedom is indivisible.
Adopted July 14, 1982, by the ALA Council; amended January 10, 1990.
Challenged Materials
An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association declares as a matter of firm principle that it is the responsibility of
every library to have a clearly defined materials selection policy in written form that reflects the Library
Bill of Rights, and that is approved by the appropriate governing authority.
Challenged materials that meet the criteria for selection in the materials selection policy of the library
should not be removed under any legal or extra-legal pressure. The Library Bill of Rights states in Article
I that “Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those
contributing to their creation,” and in Article II, that “Materials should not be proscribed or removed
because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.” Freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution of
the United States, but constitutionally protected expression is often separated from unprotected
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expression only by a dim and uncertain line. The Constitution requires a procedure designed to focus
searchingly on challenged expression before it can be suppressed. An adversary hearing is a part of this
procedure.
Therefore, any attempt, be it legal or extra-legal, to regulate or suppress materials in libraries must be
closely scrutinized to the end that protected expression is not abridged.
Adopted June 25, 1971, by the ALA Council; amended July 1, 1981; January 10, 1990.
The Texas Library Association Intellectual Freedom Statement
The Texas Library Association holds that the freedom to read is a corollary of the constitutional
guarantee of freedom of the press. Freedom of choice in selecting materials is a necessary safeguard to
the freedom to read, and shall be protected against extra-legal, irresponsible attempts by self-appointed
censors to abridge it. The Association believes that citizens shall have the right of free inquiry and the
equally important right of forming their own opinions, and that it is of the utmost importance to the
continued existence of democracy that freedom of the press in all forms of public communication be
defended and preserved. The Texas Library Association subscribes in full to the principles set forth in the
LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS of the American Library Association, Freedom to Read Statement, and
interpretative statements adopted thereto.
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City of Georgetown, Texas
Library Advisory Board
April 19, 2016
SUBJECT:
Cons id eration o f future board meeting d ates. -Eric Las hley
ITEM SUMMARY:
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This item has no direc t financial imp act.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lawren Weis s
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