Library Policies

Below are some of the policies about the public's use of the library.

Behavior in the Library

[Insert patron behavior policy here.]

Circulation Policy

Checkouts:

Please bring your library card with you when checking out items from the library.  Items checked out from the library have the following checkout periods:

  • New  Books - 2 weeks, no renewals
  • Books & Audiobooks, Children Music Cd's - 3 weeks, 1 renewal
  • Feature Films/ Fiction DVD's/Videos - 1 week, no renewals (maximum 4 videos & 4 DVD's per household)
  • Non-Fiction DVD's/Videos - 3 weeks, no renewals (maximum 4 videos & 4 DVD's per household
  • Magazines - 2 weeks, no renewals

 

All of the Kankakee area libraries share the same card catalog so it is easy to borrow materials from all of them.  If we don't have an item on our shelves, we can request that it be sent to us from another library for free.  In fact, you may also return any Kankakee area public library book at Bradley Public Library and it will be checked in and returned to its rightful library.

Need to renew your checkouts? Stop in at the library, call the library at 815-932-6245 or renew online.  Your pin is the last four digits of your library card number.

Overdue Items:

Overdue fines are $0.10 per day per item for books, magazines, audio books, CDs, kits, and CD-ROMs.  Late DVDs and videos are $0.50 per item per day.

 

Community Room Use

 

Bradley Public Library District
Meeting Room Policy
 
General Policy
The Ruth Drassler Community Room and Evelyn Weakley Youth Services Room are designed primarily to support library functions, meetings, and programs. The meeting rooms may be made available for use by members of the public under the following guidelines when not needed for library business.
           
Facilities
The Ruth Drassler Community Room is the main meeting room with an occupancy limit of 139 people. Approximately 8 tables and 77 chairs are available along with a kitchenette. The Evelyn Weakly Youth Services Room has an occupancy limit of 40 people. Approximately 4 tables and 25 chairs are available. This room is limited to use by adult groups only.
 
Priorities
1.   Library-sponsored programs and meetings.

2. Library-related meetings, including the Friends of the Library.

3. Meetings of official agencies, committees and boards of governmental bodies located within the Bradley Public Library District.

4. Meetings of not-for-profit community groups and organizations.

5. Business events, activities, or programs.
 
6. All other meetings which in the opinion of the Director and/or the Board finds appropriate to its mission and facilities.
 
7. Religious services and private parties such as birthday parties, showers, or receptions are not allowed.
 
 
Fees
Not-for-profit community groups, educational organizations, and governmental agencies may use the meeting rooms at no cost.
 
Businesses may use the meeting rooms for commercial purposes at a cost of $50 for a half day, or $90 for a full day.
 
Groups agree to pay for any special maintenance that may be required and any damage that may be done to the meeting room or to the library premises as a result of a meeting.
 
Groups agree to pay for any security measures that the Library determines are reasonably required in connection with any meeting proposed by the group. At least 48 hours prior to the meeting, the group shall deposit such funds with the Library, as the Library deems reasonably necessary to cover the cost of such measures.
 
General Provisions
  • The Library's Code of Conduct policy applies to the use of the meeting rooms. Noise and conduct are expected to be maintained at a level that does not disrupt meeting room use or other people in the Library.
  • Meeting rooms shall not be used in a way that materially interferes with the operation of the Library or which causes a threat to the safety of Library property or its patrons.
  • Use of the meeting rooms will not be restricted due to the race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, political affiliation, physical limitation or affiliation of groups requesting its use. Individuals or groups using the meeting rooms may not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, political affiliation, physical limitation or affiliation against any person requesting admission to a meeting.
  • Groups using the meeting rooms must comply with all applicable State and Federal laws and regulations including the Americans with Disabilities Act and is responsible for providing qualified interpreters or auxiliary aids when requested by the public.
  • The meeting rooms are available for use during regular library hours on the days the Library is open. No member of the organization may enter the library before it officially opens, and all participants must leave by the time the library closes. Groups needing setup time for their meeting should allow for it in their reservations.
  • Meetings must be limited to the stated capacity of the rooms.
  • The Library does not provide storage space for property or supplies of groups using the meeting rooms. The Library assumes no responsibility for private property brought into the building.
  • The Library does not provide service to carry supplies, make photocopies, or provide office supplies.
  • The use of hazardous materials or lighted candles is not allowed.
 
Endorsement
Use of the Ruth Drassler Community Room or Evelyn Weakley Youth Services Room in the Bradley Public Library does not constitute Library endorsement or sponsorship of any viewpoints expressed by participants in programs.
 
Advertisement for meetings held in the Library but not sponsored by the Library or the Friends of the Bradley Public Library shall not imply Library endorsement or sponsorship.
 
The name, address, or telephone number of the Library may not be used as the address or telephone number for any group using the Library for meeting purposes.
 
Restrictions
All groups of persons under 18 years of age must be attended by an adult who will assume responsibility for the groups’ activities and for the proper care of library property and facilities. The responsible adult may not leave minors under the age of 10 unattended in the library after the conclusion of a meeting. 
 
Groups are responsible for the supervision of all children who may accompany its members. Children under 10 must remain with the group or be supervised by an adult who remains with them.
 
Meetings or gatherings of any kind that would interfere (such as number of people greater than room size limits, activity or noise levels that disturb other users) with the operation of the library or the safety of its users are prohibited. If a question is raised about the goals or activities of any organization, group, or individual requesting use of the meeting rooms, the Library Board shall be the final authority in granting or refusing permission for the use of the rooms.
 
Care of Facilities
 
  • The Meeting Room is to be left in the same condition as it was found.
  • Posters or displays cannot be fastened to the walls.
  • Groups using the meeting rooms are responsible for the set-up and take down of all tables and chairs used.
  • Refreshments and light catered meals may be served. Meal preparation is not allowed. All refreshments must remain in the meeting room. Groups serving refreshments must provide all equipment, utensils, and serving items.
  • Groups are responsible for cleaning up and restoring the room to its original condition before leaving. This includes, but is not limited to, rearranging or stacking tables and chairs, cleaning tables and counters, vacuuming floors, and taking out food related or overflowing garbage. Failure to do so will result in a warning letter advising the group that they did not clean up the room and restore the room to its original condition. A second violation will result in the assessment of a monetary penalty, in an amount sufficient to reimburse the Library for the cost of janitorial services to restore the room.
  • Set up and clean up should be accomplished within the time period for which the room is reserved.
     
Reservations
  • Applications for reservations are to be submitted by an adult in advance using the form provided.
  • Room reservations may be called in but are not confirmed until the application form has been completed, signed, and processed. A member of the group must sign the Application for Meeting Room Use before being allowed to use the rooms.        
  • Application for the use of the Meeting Room facilities does not guarantee approval for said use.
  • Requests for reservations will be honored on a first-come, first-serve basis up to 6 months in advance.
  • Businesses using the meeting rooms for commercial purposes must pay the applicable fee at the time of reservation. Refunds will be given if cancellations are made at least 48 hours in advance.
  • In order to make the meeting rooms accessible to as many people as possible, the use of the rooms by a group is limited to one meeting per month. Limited exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Director and/or Board to allow additional use for meetings or activities that further the goals and mission of the Library.
  • No group may assign its reservation to another group.
  • If it is necessary to cancel a reservation for the Meeting Room, the Library should be notified as soon as possible. If a Meeting Room is not used and a reservation cancellation is not given, Meeting Room privileges for the group may be suspended.
  • The Library reserves the right to cancel any reservation upon reasonable notification to the group.
  • Permission to use the Meeting Room may be withheld for groups damaging the room  and/or its contents, or causing a disturbance of any kind, or any other failure to comply with the Meeting Room Policy. The contact person for each group is responsible for ensuring that each member of the group is aware of and abides by this policy.
  • Any group or organization using the meeting room shall indemnify and hold harmless the Bradley Public Library for any and all damages, costs, or injuries which may arise out of its use of the premises. The library is not responsible for equipment, supplies, materials, or any other personal possessions owned by those using the meeting room.
  
Approved: October 20, 2010

Computer/Internet Use

Bradley Public Library District Library Internet Use Policy
 
Bradley Public Library District provides public access to the Internet to fulfill its mission to preserve and promote universal access to a broad range of human knowledge, experience, information, and ideas. Internet access is provided in keeping with the American Library Association intellectual freedom statements.
 
The Internet is an unregulated, worldwide environment. It contains information and opinions that range in scope from reliable and authoritative to controversial or extremely offensive. Some information found on the Internet may NOT be accurate, complete, or current. Users must assess the validity of the information found. Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information about users’ activities. The Library assumes no responsibility for the security and privacy of on-line transactions.
 
Bradley Public Library’s users are subject to federal, state and municipal legislation regulating Internet use and as such it is the policy of the Bradley Public Library District to: a) prevent user access over its computer network, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.  The use of the Library’s Internet services for illegal purposes is prohibited, and may result in prosecution.
 
To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Technology protection measures may be disabled only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. 
 
To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Bradley Public Library District’s online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and b) unauthorized disclose, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
 
Children are entitled to access all information and facilities in the Library. As with other library materials, children’s access to the Internet and other electronic networks is the responsibility of parents and guardians. Technology protection measures are not perfect, and parents are encouraged to guide their children when using the Internet to avoid potentially dangerous sites and online interactions.
 
To ensure equitable access to the Internet and efficient use of resources, the Library has developed service use guidelines. The Library reserves the right to modify these guidelines when and where appropriate. 
 
Certain copying or distribution of material found on the Internet may infringe on copyright or other intellectual property right. The Library is not responsible for such infringements.
 
Internet workstations are situated in public areas, and users are expected to use the Internet in accordance with this environment and in keeping with the guidelines outlined above. All users of the Bradley Public Library District, including users of the Library’s Internet services, are also expected to follow the Library’s Rules of Conduct which are designed to ensure a welcoming environment. Disruptive, threatening, or otherwise intrusive behavior is not allowed and Library staff are authorized to take action. Violations of this Policy and/or Rules of Conduct may result in up to one year suspension of library privileges and exclusion from the Library, as well as prosecution. The use of computers and Internet is a privilege, not a right and inappropriate use as determined by the library staff will result in a cancellation of those privileges.
 

Individuals wishing to use the computers or access the Library’s Internet connection are required to read this policy and signify their agreement to follow this policy. Users under the age of eighteen are required to have a parent or legal guardian sign a user agreement. The use of the library’s computers and Internet connection is intended for patron’s who have some knowledge of computers and Internet. The staff’s role is one of guidance, not instruction.

 

 

1. All children up to age 18 must have the parental/guardian Internet Permission Agreement form completed and on file at the library.
2. Children under the age of 11must be accompanied by a parent or parent approved adult over the age of eighteen.
3. Users must have their Library card with them in order to use the PC’s.
4. Users are limited to a total of 90 minutes per day in an unlimited number of sessions if no one is waiting for a computer.
5. There is a limit of two people per workstation.
6. Children under 18 may not use the Adult Internet computers and Adults may not use the Children’s Internet computers except when assisting a child. Staff may make exceptions.
7. Patrons cannot install hardware or software on the Library’s PC’s nor download software, MP3's or streaming videos to our PC’s.   The Library computers do not have CD burners.
8. Users may not save files to the hard drive, change computer settings or bookmark settings.
9. Disks may be purchased for $1.00 at the Circulation Desk.
10. Print-outs are 15 cents per page for all pages printed. Printer charges may be paid at the Circulation Desk.
11. The Library does not provide e-mail accounts, and prohibits the use of library computers for illegal purposes.
12. Copies of this policy are available upon request at the Circulation Desk.
 
The user accepts full responsibility for all use made of the Library’s computers and Internet access. The Library is not liable for any damages or losses which may arise in connection with a patron’s use of the computers or Internet. The Library is not responsible for damage to the patron’s diskette or loss of material while using the Library’s computers.

Donations

The library welcomes your gift of books and audiovisual materials with the understanding that items are added to the collection at the discretion of the library administration.  If you are interested in donating an item in someone's honor, please speak to the library director at 815-932-6245.

Donations not added to Bradley Public Library's collection may be sold at our annual book sale, given away to the public, or donated to one of our partners.  Unsuitable or dirty items may be disposed of.  We are unable to return donated items.

For large volume donations, please contact the library first at 815-932-6245.

Unattended Children

 

Unattended Children
           
1.       Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the Library. The Bradley Public Library staff is committed to help children with activities related to the Library. However, Library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to serve as baby-sitters, teachers, or disciplinarians.   If on repeated occasions, library staff members have cause to notice unattended children, the children will be identified and a letter explaining the library policy on this matter will be sent to their parents. If the problem continues after notice to parents, the staff will contact the juvenile authorities at the police department to pick up the children. Additional noncompliance will result in notification of the Department of Children and Family Services. Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges.  
           
2.      Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent or other responsible caregiver. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, or the parent or responsible caregiver cannot be located, Library staff is authorized to call the police and stay with the child until the police arrive.

3.       From time to time, the Bradley Public Library schedules or provides programs which are designed and suitable for attendance by children without parental supervision. Such program announcements will so indicate, and if no indication is included, then supervision is required. When so indicated, if the parent or caregiver intends to be absent, they must leave word with the circulation desk as to their whereabouts and, if possible, a phone number where they or a responsible adult can be contacted.
           
4.       Children over the age of 10 may use the Library unattended by an adult, subject to other Library rules and policies concerning behavior, conduct, and demeanor.
 
5.      Unattended Children at Closing: In the event a young person who, if left alone outside at closing, would not be able to care for him/herself, is still at the library at closing time, two staff members will stay until the young person has safely left the premises. Attempts will be made to reach parents or guardians, but in no instance will staff take young people home. If the young person is still at the library 30 minutes after the library has closed to the public, the police will be called to pick up the young person.
 
 
 
Approved 9-22-2010