Mendocino County Library Policies and Guidelines

Library Policies and Guidelines

Mendocino County Library is a free public library. With a library card, anyone may borrow materials, order books, use the public access computers, or use the databases for magazines and newspapers.

Children in the Library: Parents are responsible for their own children in the library. We encourage parents to guide their children in library and computer use. Library staff are not responsible for monitoring items checked out or monitoring internet use by patrons of any age.

Library Card Information

The Mendocino County Library is a free, public library. With a library card, anyone may borrow materials, request books, use the public access computers, or use the databases for magazines and newspapers.

Library Card Holder Privileges and Responsibilities

The Library is committed to providing excellent customer service as well as free, convenient, and reasonable access to the Library’s collections and services. The Library must balance this commitment with its responsibility as a steward of resources paid for with public funds. To protect each individual’s access to information and services, the Library has established rules governing the circulation of Library materials. These rules protect the borrowing privileges of Library patrons and preserve and protect the Library’s materials.

Cardholder Rights and Privileges

  1. General Library Cards are issued free of charge to any resident of California or anyone who owns property in the state. Applications must be turned in at the branch up to 15 minutes before closing.
  2. Mendocino, Sonoma, and Lake County Library General Library Cards may be used at any of the County Library branches and Bookmobile.
  3. A General Library Card entitles the cardholder to full access of their selected system’s collections, electronic information, and services of the Library without charge.
    • “Collections” includes the use of all formats, including books, discs (CD/DVD), and other tangible materials.
    • “Electronic information” includes information available via a computer, including but not limited to the public catalog, online reference sources, and downloadable content.
    • “Services” includes, but is not limited to special collections, internet access, interlibrary loan services, and placing requests.
    • Certain programs may be limited to residents of the County, such as Zip Books.
  4. Limited Use Cards are issued under the following circumstances:
    • Out of state residents who are visiting the area
    • California residents with no address verification
    • People under 18 without an address verification or parent/legal guardian’s signature
  5. Limited Use Cards are good for access to most library services except for programs such as Interlibrary Loans, the Zip program, circulating technology (such as iPads, Kindles, laptops), and some online services. Limited Use Cards are limited to 4 checkouts at one time.
  6. E-Cards are available for internet access within the library and/or access to some of the electronic resources.
  7. Online Cards can be made through our Find Catalog and can be used for most online resources.
    • Online Cards need to be converted to General Cards before physical items can be checked out and before some resources are accessible.
    • Online cards expire after 120 days, if not converted to regular cards.
  8. The Library reserves the right to issue special cards such as the Educator Card, Student Success Card, the Agency Card, or the Library by Mail Card for which non-standard borrowing privileges apply.

Rights of Adults & Children

  1. Adults are responsible, physically and financially, for all materials checked out on their own card.
  2. Parents or guardians are responsible, physically and financially, for all materials checked out on their child’s card, ages 17 and younger.
  3. If a parent or guardian wishes to cancel a child’s library card account, the adult should contact a local branch library in writing or in person.
  4. The Library does not provide group library card accounts. Each person must have his or her own library card account.
  5. Parents are responsible for their own children in the library. We encourage parents to guide their children in library use. Library staff are not responsible for monitoring items checked out by patrons of any age.

Cardholder Responsibilities

  1. Patrons are financially responsible for all items checked out on their cards until those items are returned. The responsibility for returning materials on time rests with the patron and is not dependent upon receipt of a notice from the Library.
  2. The Library requires that each applicant for a library card provide information to enable the Library to contact the cardholder about their account.
    • Adults (people 18 years and older) must provide an acceptable form of identification and proof of address.
    • Youth (people 17 years old and younger) must provide an acceptable form of personal identification or a parent/guardian with an acceptable form of identification, proof of address, and an application signed by a parent or guardian acknowledging their financial responsibility. The application informs parents and guardians of their responsibility for resources checked out on their child’s card.
    • The list of acceptable forms of identification is available online and at all public service desks.
  3. Cardholders are responsible for charges for lost, destroyed, or damaged materials.
  4. Notifications about library services or materials are sent using the contact information supplied by the cardholder.
  5. It is the library card holder’s responsibility to inform the library about any updates to the contact information in their library account.
  6. Lost or stolen library cards should be reported to the Library immediately to avoid any fees being incurred by an unauthorized user.
  7. Anyone requesting a replacement card must show an acceptable form of identification.
  8. A library card holder’s right to use that card to checkout materials is denied if:
    • The fees charged to the account are above the threshold listed below.
    • The cardholder has the maximum number of items checked out to the account.
    • The library card has been reported lost.
    • The patron has been excluded from using the library under the Library’s Standards of Behavior policy.

Purging Patron Accounts

Patron library card account information will be periodically purged from the library database in order accurately reflect active accounts. Records of patrons whose cards have been inactive for three or more years will be deleted. If there are outstanding items or fees on the account, it will remain active. In order to keep your library account active, one of these actions needs to occur:
  • check out an item online or in person
  • use your card with a library database or to use a public internet computer
  • update your library card information with a staff member

If your account is purged, please reapply for a library card. There is no charge to replace your library card.

Circulation Parameters

Unpaid Fees

A patron with more than $20 in fees on their library card account is blocked from checking out materials until the amount owed is lower than $20.

Waiving Fees

Fees may be waived under the following circumstances:

  • An inadvertent error in library routines
  • Unexpected library closure
  • A natural disaster (fire, flood, earthquake, etc.)

Loan Periods for Circulating Material

Material Type Loan Period
Books 21 days
Periodicals 21 days
DVDs 21 days
Audiobooks 21 days
Music CDs 21 days
Games/various items varies
E-books 21 days
E-audiobooks 21 days
Laptops/various items 28 days / in library use only
Do-it-Yourself Toolkits 21 days

Mendocino County Library may pilot new formats and collections using loan periods not listed in this Appendix.

Loan Limits

A general cardholder may have 50 items checked out at one time. Of those 50 items, no more than two may be video or board games, and no more than 20 items may be DVDs.

Special items such as tablets, laptops, and games may only be checked out to Mendocino General cardholders and need to be returned directly to the lending branch.

Limited Use Cards

Limited Use cardholders may have 4 items checked out at one time and are limited to 4 requests. Limited Use cards need to be renewed annually.

Renewals

Items may renew up to three times if there are no requests on the item. If there are requests on the item, it cannot be renewed. If an item is in a special collection such as a “Lucky Day” item, renewals are not permitted.

Requests

A cardholder may have a total of 30 requests at one time.

A requested item is held for a patron for 7 calendar days before being returned to the shelf or sent to the next patron in the request queue.

Any item on request for a patron will remain active until filled or for 270 calendar days, or until the item is no longer available, whichever comes first.

Lost or Damaged Item Fees

Library items may be returned to any library branch in Mendocino, Lake or Sonoma counties. There is a book drop available for use when the branches are closed. Patrons will be charged for lost or damaged items.

Library Fees

Schedule of Charges

Lost or Damaged Item Fees

Charge Amount
Damaged Item Fee Replacement cost plus $10 per item
Lost Item Fee Replacement cost plus $5 per item

Interlibrary Loan Charges

Charge Amount
Interlibrary loan to our customers $2.00 each, possible additional charges by lending library
Interlibrary loan fee to other states $10.00 each
Damaged interlibrary loan item Fee determined by lending library
Lost interlibrary loan item Fee determined by lending library

Printing and Photocopying Fees

Charge Amount
Black & white printing and photocopies $0.10 per page
Color printing and photocopies
(available at Coast Community, Round Valley, & Laytonville branches)		 $0.25 per page

Miscellaneous Fees

Charge Amount
Flash drives $4.00 each
Ear buds $3.00 each
Meeting Room – Library use, sponsored groups, non-profits, free & open to public Free
Meeting Room – for private, commercial, or fundraising $28.00 per hour

Damaged and Lost Item Fees

In 2021, at the direction of the County Board of Supervisors to update the fee schedule, Library staff conducted a study of the amount of staff time it takes to process damaged and lost Library materials. As a result of this process, the County is instituting $5 lost item fee and $10 damaged item handling fee. When items are returned in good condition, the fees should be removed. Additionally, no late fees are being charged for items turned in late.

To Pay Fees

You can pay your fees by cash or check at any of the Mendocino County Library branches. You can also pay your fees online using a credit or debit card.

Meeting Room Policy and Fees

Access the Meeting Room Policy and Meeting Space Use Request Form here.

Meeting Room Policy

I. Scope

This policy outlines the rules under which outside organizations and individuals may reserve and rent a Meeting Room at the Mendocino County Library branches. The County Librarian or designee may authorize additional restrictions or exceptions that are consistent with this policy and assist in its implementation.

II. Purpose

The meeting rooms at the Mendocino County Library branches are primarily intended to be used as places to deliver Library educational programming, activities, and functions that serve the public, and to provide a meeting space for Library sponsored events. Use by others for non-Library events is available on a first come, first served basis. The Library can make its meeting rooms available for occasional use to the following types of organizations to hold meetings, workshops, or small conferences. The Library does not endorse the view of any group using the rooms and County staff do not provide supervision of the non-Library events.

III. Categories of Groups

  1. Mendocino County Library related groups (e.g., Friends of Mendocino County Library Branches, Library Advisory Board, etc.)
  2. Other governmental and civic entities directly serving the residents of the County
  3. Not-for-profit educational, cultural, intellectual, or civic organizations
  4. Private groups

IV. Free Reservation

  1. Free reservation of meeting rooms is available to non-profit groups, public agencies, and cultural, educational, or civic groups, provided all the following criteria are met:
  2. The meeting is a presentation and exchange of information and opinions of a non-commercial nature
  3. No commercial or fundraising activity may take place (including goods for sale, solicitation, or promotion of a business or product), no admission charged, and no donations solicited
  4. The meeting must be open to the public regardless of target audience, without payment of dues or other fees, except that closed-session meetings of legislative bodies held in accordance with the Brown Act are also allowed

V. Fee-based Rental

Fee-based rental of meeting rooms is available to commercial entities, other profit-based organizations, groups or individuals not meeting all the criteria listed for “free reservation” above, and for private social events such as parties, memorial services, or celebrations.

VI. Limits of Use

  1. Library sponsored events have priority over all outside users of the meeting rooms. The Library reserves the right to cancel confirmed reservations to accommodate Library sponsored events. Staff will notify scheduled meeting room users in the event of cancellation with as much notice as possible, and no fewer than seven (7) days in advance of the scheduled event, except as noted in subsection e, below.
  2. Free reservation of the Meeting Room (as defined in IV) is available to individuals or groups up to twelve times per year, on a rolling calendar. Other exceptions may be granted by the County Librarian or designee.
  3. There is no limit on the number of fee-based rentals of meeting rooms (as defined in V)
  4. Permission for use of the Meeting Room may be terminated at any time if the conduct of the group, or any member of the group, is disruptive to Library service or dangerous to the building, materials, exhibits, furnishings, or individuals, or violates the Library’s current Standards of Behavior Policy. County staff reserve the right to take any action necessary to ensure a safe and appropriate environment.
  5. If the Library is closed due to an emergency or hazardous condition, such as a mandatory evacuation or a power outage, the meeting room will also be closed to outside users. In emergency situations, advance notification to users may not be possible, though an effort will be made to contact scheduled users.
  6. Activities taking place within a meeting, and physical objects, including banners, signs, and flags, may not extend beyond the meeting room into the building or outside the premises.
  7. Items may not be stored in meeting rooms prior to or after the meeting.

VII. Safety

  1. The posted capacity/occupancy of the room must be observed, and all fire and safety rules must be followed. Access to aisles, walkways, and entrances must be kept clear, including keeping electrical cords out of footpaths.
  2. The Library’s Standards of Behavior must be observed by all participants, with the following exceptions:
    1. Food and Beverage Service
      1. Light refreshments may be served.
      2. Use of heating elements, such as hotplates or chafing dishes with fuel canisters (e.g., Sterno) is prohibited.
      3. Alcoholic beverages may be served and/or consumed only with advance written approval of the County Librarian and after obtaining any required license or permit from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Intent to serve alcohol must be indicated on your room rental application.
    2. Commercial Activity – Fee-based rental of meeting rooms allow users to conduct commercial activity (i.e., goods for sale) and solicitation of donations, as permitted by law.

VIII. Set Up and Clean Up

  1. No custodial service for moving materials or arranging furniture is provided; users should set up and replace tables and chairs.
  2. Materials may be displayed only on areas provided for that purpose, or on easels. At no time may users mar or alter the walls, ceilings, painted surfaces, or floors with nails, staples, glue, tape, or other substances.
  3. Users are responsible for leaving the room in as clean a condition as it was received. If clean-up is not acceptable, the Library may schedule the necessary cleaning and charge all costs to the responsible party who reserved or rented the meeting room

IX. Publicity

  1. Publicity for non-Library sponsored events in the meeting room is the responsibility of the users. The Library will not promote outside activities through its own publicity channels, including social media.
  2. Organizers of meetings that are not co-sponsored by the Library must ensure that any promotional material or publicity advertising their meeting shall not claim that the Library is presenting, sponsoring, promoting, or endorsing their meeting, and the County’s logo may not be used in any publicity materials.
  3. Publicity notices for non-library events must include the following disclaimer: “This program is neither sponsored by nor affiliated with the Mendocino County Library.”

X. Liability and Insurance Coverage

  1. The Mendocino County Library assumes no responsibility for personal property loss.
  2. Users are responsible for damage to the room or property in the room.
  3. All persons, groups, and organizations shall agree to hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Mendocino County Library, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, losses, damages, expense or cost, or liability of any kind, including death, which might arise from the use of the Library meeting rooms.
  4. The Library reserves the right to require any meeting room user to provide proof of insurance which shall insure the County against any liability arising from use of a room.
    1. If insurance is required by the Library, the individual or group must procure and maintain $1 million General Liability insurance naming the Mendocino County Library, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional insured and must specify that the meeting room user’s insurance shall apply on a primary, non-contributory basis to any insurance or self-insurance carried by the County.
    2. If insurance is required by the Library, applicants must submit proof of insurance to the County Librarian or designee at least 10 days prior to the scheduled event.

XI. Procedure for Application and Reservation Process

  1. The County Librarian establishes the list of Library meeting rooms available for outside use, the hours available for use, and the procedures for use.
  2. A meeting room use application must be approved before arrangements for use of the room can be made.
  3. Persons responsible for the application and reservation must be at least 18 years of age.
  4. Applications must be submitted, and arrangements must be completed at least seven (7) days in advance of the event.
  5. Full payment for fee-based rentals is required at the time of reservation. If the event is cancelled by the applicant at least thirty (30) days prior to the event, all fees are refunded. If the event is cancelled by the applicant fewer than thirty (30) days prior to the event, all fees paid are forfeited. Refunds will be processed at the Library’s administrative headquarters and provided by check sent in US mail.
  6. If the Library must cancel an outside event with advance notice, or an event cannot take place due to an unexpected building closure, all fees will be refunded.
  7. If the Library must cancel an event due to the dangerous or disruptive conduct of the group or any of its attendees, fees will not be refunded.
  8. The Library reserves the right to require additional conditions be met prior to finalizing arrangements for Meeting Room use. These conditions may include, but are not limited to proof of insurance, security deposit, cleaning deposit, key deposit, limit on materials/items permitted in the meeting room, or contracted Security services.

XII. Denial of Meeting Room Use

  1. The use of a Meeting Room may be denied for any reason outlined in this policy, including failure to meet the conditions required for free reservation or fee-based rental and failure to follow the Library’s Standard of Behavior
  2. Denials of Meeting Room use may be appealed to the County Librarian in writing. The County Librarian’s decision is final.

XIII. Fees

Fees for Meeting Room rentals are set by the Board of Supervisors and are available in a separate schedule. Fees are not charged for groups that meet the definition for a free reservation in IV above, nor for Library sponsored events. Exact fees due will be calculated by the Library and full payment will be collected at time of reservation.

Board of Supervisors approved Sep. 10, 2024.

Internet & Technology Acceptable Use Policy

Mendocino County Library

The Mendocino County Library provides free public access to the Internet with computers, WiFi, and Hotspots as part of its mission to deliver services and materials to meet the information needs of its customers. The Library also may have other technology such as 3-D printers and Chromebooks available for patron use.

  • The Mendocino County Library upholds and affirms the right of everyone to have access to constitutionally protected materials. The Library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents and legal guardians to monitor their children’s use of Library materials and resources.
  • The Library wishes to make the Internet and all computer resources available to anyone who respects the rights and property of others, and who abides by the Library’s rules and procedures. Failure to appropriately consider the rights of others may lead to the loss of computer or library technology privileges.
  • The Mendocino County Library offers filtered access to the Internet.
  • The Library’s workstations are in public areas. Since others may be involuntarily exposed to what is viewed, the Library asks that each user exercise good judgment and consideration of others. Users shall not use Library Internet and Technology in any manner that interferes with the use of the Library and/or Library resources by other patrons.
  • The Library staff is available to facilitate use of the Internet and Technology and to answer questions or concerns.
  • The Library has created home pages for Kids and Teens that provide content and links to other web sites that contain age-appropriate information.
  • The Library does not provide e-mail accounts. However, customers may access free, web-based e-mail accounts through library Internet stations and Technology.
  • The Library does not guarantee privacy or confidentiality for the use of the Library Internet.
    Mendocino County Library disclaims any warranty as to the quality or accuracy of electronic information via the Internet.
  • The Mendocino County Library shall have no liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages related to the information contained therein or downloaded.
  • The Library’s Internet and Technology may not be used for any purpose that violates U.S., State, or local laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software files and other resources obtained via the Internet.
  • Library Internet and Technology users may not attempt to alter or damage computer hardware or software. Software must not be installed or run from any drive. The Library does not allow the use of personal software to be installed on its equipment.
  • Users may not attempt to reconfigure systems or software or in any way interfere with the system set-up.
  • Users may not use the network to make unauthorized entry or hack into other computational, informational, or communication services, or resources.
  • Users may not invade the privacy of others or engage in any activity that is harassing,defamatory or threatening; or receive or display text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as obscene as defined by law.
  • All Library users are expected to use library resources, including the Internet andTechnology, in a responsible and courteous manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which the resources are provided.
  • All Library users must abide by this Acceptable Use Policy, Library’s Standards ofBehavior, and Internet Safety Policy. Please read those rules and familiarize yourself with their requirements. Violations may result in the loss of Internet use and/or Library privileges.
  • Illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
  • Use of Library Internet and Technology, and off-site use of Technology including Hotspots must be integral, immediate, and proximate to the provision of library services to library patrons.

This Mendocino County Internet Access and Technology Acceptable Use Policy was adopted by the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors at a public meeting, following normal public notice, on October 22, 2024.

All public access computers, catalog computers, copiers, and printers are turned off 15 minutes before closing.

Standards of Behavior

Mendocino County Library

We welcome you to the Library. Everyone has a right to quality Library services in an atmosphere that is calm, safe, and free from disturbance by others. While you are visiting the County Library branches, please be considerate of others. Visitors must follow rules and policies of the Mendocino County Library.

Abusive Behavior

Abusive behavior, such as threats or violence toward staff or visitors, is prohibited.

Animals

Only trained service animals, or animals otherwise allowed in County buildings pursuant to Mendocino County Code section 14.20.010 are permitted in the Library.

Disruptive Behavior

Running, pushing, shoving, fighting, and any other rowdy or unsafe behavior, in or anywhere outside the Library branches or on walkways or parking areas surrounding the branches is prohibited. Defacing library property is prohibited.

Disturbing Noise

Disturbing anyone with unreasonable noise is prohibited inside the Library branches. This includes yelling, talking on a cell phone, video conferencing, loud conversations, singing, radios, and other electronic devices, unless used with headphones at a low volume.

Dress Code

Entering the library without wearing shoes and garments that cover both the upper and lower torso is prohibited. Patrons may not remove shoes or garments covering their upper and lower torsos while in the library.

Following/Stalking

Stalking is the willful, malicious, and repeated following of another person in a manner that causes the other person to reasonably fear for their safety. Stalking of any person is prohibited.

Food or Drink

Eating or drinking in the Library branches are allowed only in designated areas or for programs and meetings held in meeting rooms and lobby areas. All food-related trash must be disposed of in the proper receptacles.

Furniture and Property

Use the facilities, materials, and furnishing as intended. Leave furniture in its place. Avoid putting feet on furniture. Monopolizing library space, furniture, electrical outlets, or equipment to the exclusion of other patrons or staff is prohibited. Obstructing aisles, doorways, or stairs is prohibited.

Harassing Behavior

Harassing behavior is prohibited. Harassing behavior includes any conduct that unreasonably interferes with any person’s use of the library or ability to work in the library, including but not limited to verbal or non-verbal conduct which is likely to frighten, embarrass, anger, or annoy a person (including library staff), abusive conduct, advances of a sexual nature, obscene gestures or sounds, offensive touching or staring. Harassing behavior may include conduct occurring in person, over the telephone, by mail, or by any electronic means.

Loitering

We welcome everyone to explore our services and facilities. Blocking the path of visitors into the buildings, on the steps, entryways, or other areas, thereby creating a nuisance to those who are trying to enter, exit, or use resources, is prohibited. Patrons shall be engaged in activities associated with the use of a Public Library while in library buildings.

Informational and Art Exhibits

To protect the Library’s informational and art displays, touching displays is not permitted unless signage indicates otherwise. Please do not touch, lean on, climb, sit, or place items on the exhibit platforms, interpretive panels, display cases, or walls. For all open displays such as art or other items, please keep at least a 12-inch distance from the art or object.

Offensive Odors

Presenting offensive and pervasive odor or odors which constitute a nuisance by interfering with the use and enjoyment of the library by other library patrons or with the functioning of library staff, is prohibited.

Personal Belongings

Wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices are permitted if being used as transportation for a person, or as a mobility or medically assistive device, or for the aid or assistance of physically limited or disabled persons. Other large, wheeled conveyances, including bicycles and shopping carts are prohibited inside library buildings. Skates, skateboards, collapsible scooters, hoverboards, and other similar devices must be carried while on library property. Bicycles should be stored in designated bicycle racks.

For safety reasons, Mendocino County Library staff reserve the right to restrict the following personal items from the premises: packages, large backpacks, bags, or purses, or other items that cannot be stored entirely under the owner’s chair. Weapons should not be brought onto Library grounds.

Personal property should not be left unattended anywhere on Library property. The Library is not responsible for any damage or loss of personal property.

Photography or Videorecording

Patrons may not use flash photography, video lighting, selfie sticks, tripods, drones, or other equipment on Mendocino County Library property without prior permission. No commercial photography is allowed without written consent of the Mendocino County Library. Special requests for the use of photography equipment must be submitted and approved by Library staff.

Public Display of Obscene Material

Public displays of obscene material that interfere with the ability of others to use resources, or as prohibited by law, is not allowed.

Restroom Use

Using the public restrooms as laundry facility, or for shaving, or bathing, is prohibited.

Selling, Soliciting, or Mass Distribution of Materials

Selling, soliciting, panhandling, and mass distribution of unapproved materials is not permitted.

Sleeping

Sleeping is prohibited in the Library Branches and grounds.

Smoking

In accordance with Government Code Sections 7596-7597, smoking is prohibited inside the Mendocino County Library buildings, entryways, and within 20 feet of any entrance or exit.

Trespassing

Trespassing is prohibited. Trespassing includes entering any Library building during a suspension of privileges, entering any non-public area of the building, failing to leave immediately upon closing, or being inside before or after public hours without express permission from authorized Library personnel.

Unattended Children

We encourage children to visit our Library branches. Staff are concerned for children’s safety and welfare. We recognize parents’ or guardians’ responsibility for the behavior and well-being of their children. We respect the privacy of all patrons and intervene only when a child is deemed to be at risk.

Children aged 8 and under may not be left unattended anywhere in the Library and must be accompanied and directly supervised by a responsible party. If an unattended child, age 8 or younger, comes to the attention of staff, we will make a good faith attempt to contact the parent or guardian. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the child will be referred to the local law enforcement agency.

Unlawful Behavior

Engaging in any unlawful activity is prohibited and will be reported to law enforcement. Unlawful behaviors include, but are not limited to, carrying unlawful weapons, assault, indecent exposure or sex acts, use of illegal drugs or alcohol, damage to property, theft, attempted theft, brandishing a weapon, public drunkenness or intoxication, public urination and defecation.

Enforcement Process

Patrons who do not comply with the Mendocino County Library Standards of Behavior may be asked to leave the Library. The Branch Manager or other staff person in charge may authorize 1-day suspensions. Suspensions longer than 1 day and up to 30 days may be authorized by the Branch Manager. The County Librarian must authorize suspensions longer than 30 days and up to one year. In addition to the suspensions provided for in this policy, violations of local, state, or federal law will be reported to law enforcement. All suspensions shall be reported to Library Administration. Staff shall consult with Library Administration as needed to determine appropriate length of suspensions and to ensure consistent application of this policy among library branches.

Suspension of Privileges/Notification and Appeals Process

A. IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION WITH FURTHER ACTION TO FOLLOW
The following behaviors will result in an immediate suspension:

  • Physical abuse or assault
  • Fighting or challenging to fight
  • Making violent or threatening statements or brandishing a weapon
  • Damaging, destroying, theft, or attempt of theft of County property
  • Acts of sexual misconduct, including indecent exposure, sexual harassment, sexual contact, sexual intercourse, and/or exhibiting lewd and lascivious acts or behavior

Authorized Library or Security staff will instruct anyone engaging in these behaviors to leave the facility immediately. Law enforcement may be called, and additional legal action may be taken, as appropriate. In addition, based on the severity of the situation, a suspension of Library privileges for up to one year may be applied without advance warning or prior suspension. Library staff will notify Library Administration immediately of any such incident.

B. ALL OTHER PROHIBITED BEHAVIORS WILL BE ADDRESSED IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER

  • First violation: Initial warning and given copy of the Standards of Behavior
  • Second violation: Privileges suspended for 1 day
  • Third violation: Privileges suspended for 2 to 7 days
  • Fourth violation: Privileges suspended for 8 to 30 days
  • Fifth violation: Privileges suspended for 31 to 365 days

A patron who has violated this Policy will be issued a letter specifying the behavior that violated this Policy, the penalty for doing so, which may include a suspension of privileges from the Mendocino County Library, the time period of the suspension and will be notified of any right to appeal the suspension.

Right to Appeal

Anyone who has had their Library privileges suspended for more than one week may appeal to the County Librarian. Anyone who has their Library privileges suspended for more than six months may appeal once in writing to the Mendocino County Chief Executive Officer or their designee.

An appeal must be in writing and be mailed or delivered to County Librarian, 105 N. Main St., Ukiah, CA 95482, within 21 days of the date the suspension letter was received. The appeal petition must include all reasons the patron believes they are not in violation of the Mendocino County Library Standards of Behavior Policy or why the suspension is not appropriate. The County Librarian, Chief Executive Officer or designee, upon reviewing the petition will issue a written determination of the appeal within 30 days of their receipt of the petition, not necessarily within 30 days of the appeal being delivered. The determination is final and shall have no precedential value.

Approved by the Board of Supervisors on February 11, 2025.

Privacy Policy

The Mendocino County Public Library is committed to protecting the privacy of the customers and staff of the Library. We subscribe to the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics which upholds each Library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought and received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired, or transmitted.

We collect and maintain only that personal information about our users which is required to deliver Library services. Library staff do not give or sell to third parties or private or public agencies any information about Library users, the materials they check out, the information they seek, the online resources they access, or other services they utilize, unless we are required to do so by court order, or as a result of a subpoena or search warrant. Library users should be aware, however, that the USA Patriot Act of 2001 increases the power of federal investigative agencies to compel the disclosure of personal information.

Registration & Circulation

By law (California Government Code Section 6267), circulation and registration records of Library users are confidential. The Library collects only that information needed to verify the identity of borrowers, to enable contact for Library operations purposes, and for minors, contact information for a parent or legally responsible adult. The Library takes reasonable steps to safeguard this registration data and to prevent unauthorized access to it.

Upon request, the Library will provide information to parents and guardians about fines, fees, or other charges incurred by their minor children.

Users have the right to access their personal information and to verify its accuracy through “My Account” in the Library catalog. A Library card number and PIN are required to access your record which include materials currently checked out, holds to be filled, money owed, and personal reading lists in “My List.”

Records of items borrowed are maintained electronically. Links between users and the items they borrow are broken after the items are returned. Records of fines and fees may be retained for several years according to Mendocino County Library System policies. “My List” is managed by each individual user, but lists inactive for 90 days are purged. Circulation system back-up is maintained as necessary to allow data rebuild in the event of system problems.

Radio Frequency Identification

No personal information is recorded on the RFID tag when an item is checked out or checked in (only some materials have RFID tags). The only information stored on the tag is the barcode of the item. Links between borrowers and the items they borrow are maintained in the Library’s circulation system and are broken after the item is returned. The Library’s Public Catalog is not searchable by barcode. The Library takes reasonable steps to safeguard its circulation system and prevent unauthorized access to it, and complies with all State Laws regarding Public Records, specifically Library circulation records.

Electronic Information

Electronic logs of visits to the Library catalog and Library web pages from inside the Library or from home are purged regularly. Software programs summarize anonymous statistical data such as numbers of user sessions, time of day of sessions, and browser types being used. This anonymous data helps the Library make its site more useful to visitors. The Library has no control over the privacy practices of other web sites which are included as links on Library web pages.

To use Library subscription databases from home, Library users are required to enter their Library card numbers to ensure that only Mendocino County Public Library cardholders may access these resources as required by licensing agreements with database vendors. Individual users’ personal information or IP addresses are not passed on to the database vendors and are not linked to searches performed in the subscription databases.

Special Services

No personal information is required of users in order to obtain reference service in Library branches or by telephone. Contact information, however, will be required if you wish to receive follow-up information or ask questions by e-mail. All logs of reference service transactions are discarded within one month after anonymous statistical data is compiled. By County policy, invoices for billable services such as mail and fax reference service are maintained 5 years.

In order to utilize some special services such as attending Library programs which require registration, computer classes, delivery of talking books, interlibrary loan, newsletters, meeting room reservations, and literacy services, Library users must provide sufficient identifying information to enable the delivery of these services. These records are generally purged when the users’ transactions are complete or they choose to stop using a continuing service such as a newsletter. Comments about Library service and suggestions for purchase of Library materials are deleted when they have been acted upon.

Public Computers

In order to provide equitable access to public computers, the Library requires all users to sign up for sessions. Public use PC sign-up records are destroyed daily.

On the Library public computers, all documents created, Internet search histories, temporary files, cache, and certificates are purged upon closing of the browser and/or daily rebooting of the PC’s. While the Library takes measures to ensure the privacy of public computer users, it cannot guarantee that every task completed is private.

(Approved by BOS 5/6/14)

Gift Policy

The Mendocino County Library welcomes gifts of library materials, money or real property. These gifts help enrich and improve public library resources. Monetary contributions are added to the library’s Endowment fund, which is allocated by the Library Board for purchase of materials. Memorial books or other library materials may be donated in honor of a friend or relative, and are marked with a special bookplate. Used books and paperbacks can often be used in the library’s collection. Items not needed by the library are sold at a book sale sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Generally, the library does not accept textbooks or books in poor physical condition. The library may or may not accept donations of specialized collections.

A decision will be made on an individual basis by the Library Director and the Branch Manager. The library applies the same criteria for evaluating gift items as it applies to purchased material. Gifts will be withdrawn in the same manner as purchased material. The library does not accept responsibility for notifying donors of withdrawal or replacement of gift items. All gifts are tax deductible and the library will furnish a statement for tax purposes, but does not place a financial value on used items. No gifts are accepted unless given to the library without restriction. All gifts may be utilized, sold or disposed of in the best interest of the library. All donations are accepted only if the Library Director feels they can be utilized by the library.

Collection Development Policy

Mendocino County Library Collection Development Policy(PDF, 238KB)

Mission, Vision, and Values

The mission of Mendocino County Library is to enrich lives through free and equitable access to materials and programs centered on education, culture, and entertainment.

Its vision is an informed, connected, inclusive, and creative community where opportunities for discovery are celebrated.

Values

  • Equity
  • Inclusion
  • Free access to information
  • Serving others
  • Social justice

Role of the Public Library

Public libraries play a unique role in the preservation of democracy by providing an open, nonjudgmental institution where individuals can pursue their interests and gain an understanding of diverse opinions. Libraries must continue to play an essential role in safeguarding the intellectual liberty of the public and must recognize, understand, and support freedom of access.

Mendocino County Library Collection Development Guidelines

General Principles

It is important for all Mendocino County Library visitors to feel a sense of belonging and connection with their Library. To cultivate this sense of belonging for patrons, Mendocino County Library works diligently to build and maintain a myriad, robust, and relevant collection comprised of various materials.

Materials to be added to the collections of Mendocino County Library are selected on the merits of a particular work concerning the needs, interests, and demands of this community.

Children and teens are encouraged to read and become lifelong learners by visiting and borrowing books and other materials from their local libraries.

Responsibility for reading rests with the individual or legal guardians. Selection should not be inhibited by the possibility that books may inadvertently come into the possession of those under 18 years of age.

Based on the services the public library is expected to perform, it is the Library’s responsibility to provide circulating, reference, and research materials for both the diverse community as well as students at all levels of formal and informal education.

This Policy is created in accordance with the terms of the California Freedom to Read Act.

Specific Principles for Selection

  • Contemporary significance or permanent value
  • Accuracy
  • Authority of Author
  • Relation of work to existing collection
  • Price, format, and ease of use
  • Scarcity of information in subject area
  • Availability of material elsewhere in the community
  • Popular demand
  • Representation of various community demographics
  • Reputation and qualifications of the author, publisher, or producer, with preference generally given to titles vetted through examination of professional reviews (e.g. Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus, etc.)
  • Date of publication
  • The collection meets the broad and diverse interests of the community and respects both the library’s autonomy and their specific community needs
  • Mendocino County Library serves as a center for voluntary inquiry and the dissemination of information and ideas
  • Library materials should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people, and should present diverse points of view in the collection as a whole
  • It is the right of the public to receive access to a range of social, political, aesthetic, moral, and other ideas and experiences

Online Databases and Other Digital Resources

Selection of and access to electronic resources are integral to fulfilling the mission and objectives of Mendocino County Library. Digital resources, including eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming video and audio, government documents, databases, vendor curated databases, virtual tutorials, and language databases are subject to the same general selection criteria as other materials. Vendor curated databases may contain material that falls outside the regular Mendocino County Library’s selection criteria.

Audio/Visual Policy

Mendocino County Library maintains a broad selection of entertainment, informational, and audiovisual collections. These collections include digital video discs (DVDs), audio compact discs (CDs), unabridged audiobooks on CD, and multimedia kits. Audiovisual materials complement the library’s other collections and public programs.

Self-Published and Donated Titles

Mendocino County Library may purchase materials by local authors or accept these materials for consideration for the Library’s collection in accordance with the Library’s collection development policy guidelines. The Library accepts donated copies of self-published books but does not guarantee inclusion in the collection; each submission will be decided on a case-by-case basis. Items donated to the Library become the property of the Library and cannot be returned to the donating party. Donated titles and local author titles are subject to Library policies regarding deselection due to condition, lack of use, or space constraints.

Adult Non-Fiction

Chief points considered are readability of material, authenticity of factual matter presented, quality of writing, cost, and format, existing library holdings, and suitability of material to the community.
Nonfiction may be excluded because of inaccurate information, lack of integrity, sensationalism, intent to incite hatred or intolerance, and text material of too limited or specialized a nature. Titles are selected based on the content as a whole and without regard to the personal history of the author. Important books of all persuasions are carried. In the case of controversial questions, variety and balance of opinion are sought whenever available.

Adult Fiction

Selection is made with reference to one or more of these criteria:

  • It contributes positively to an individual’s awareness of self, community, and social heritage.
  • It contributes to the value of the library’s collection by representing all types and styles of literature.
  • It represents authors from a myriad of cultural, socioeconomic, and racial backgrounds.
  • It provides pleasant reading for recreational and creative use of leisure time.
  • Serious works which present an honest aspect of life are not necessarily excluded for frankness of experience.

Children’s Materials

The first objective in selecting children’s materials is to share the joy of reading and being read to, and as such books are selected which offer diverse perspectives and lived experiences so that as many children as possible see themselves represented in the material. Special attention may also be given to acquiring works of value to guardians, teachers, and other adults working with children.

The children’s collection provides materials suitable for children 0-12, and it is the responsibility of the child’s parent or guardian to ensure that material is appropriate for the child

A public library does not provide basic textbooks or materials needed in quantity for schoolwork; it accepts as its responsibility the provision of supplemental materials of varied kinds to enrich the resources available to the individual student and teacher.

Teen Collection

The Teen or Young Adult (YA) collection is designed to meet the needs of teenagers (ages 12-18) during this time of rapid changes in their physical, intellectual, psychological, and social development. Emphasis is on materials that widen the teens’ boundaries of thinking, enrich their lives, and help fulfill their diverse range of recreational, educational, or emotional needs.

The Teen collection follows the specific principles of selection laid out under general principles. It aligns with the Adult Non-Fiction and Fiction selection criteria, while focusing more on popular culture and other teen interests, along with youth health.

The Teen collection provides materials including fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, manga, audiobooks, DVDs, video games, and magazines.

Due to the wide age range of adolescents and their different maturity levels, some materials in the teen collection might not be considered appropriate by all adults for all teens. While some books are too mature for one teen, other teens may be ready for them. Only an individual teen and their caregivers can decide what material is suitable for that specific teen to read. Library staff are not responsible for determining which materials may be appropriate for a specific teen. A teen’s choice of Library materials is ultimately the responsibility of their caregiver or legal guardian.

Video Games

Mendocino County Library provides access to video games for various consoles at the discretion of the library card holder. These video games are selected for purchase based primarily on community appeal and popularity, with particular attention paid to games for which there have been many requests.

The Library does not purchase video games based on ESRB ratings, nor is it the responsibility of Library staff to restrict access to video games based on ESRB ratings. If library card holders under the age of 18 wish to borrow video games, it is the responsibility of the legal guardian or caregiver to ensure that appropriate items are selected.

Patron Recommendations and Requests

Patrons may request items that the Library does not presently own. Each request is reviewed for inclusion in the collection and will follow the collection maintenance guidelines and selection criteria listed in this policy. Requests can be made in person, over the phone, or online.

Collection Management Overview

The Library’s collection is a living, changing entity. As items are added, others are reviewed for their ongoing value and sometimes are withdrawn from the collection. Great care is taken to retain or replace items that have enduring value to the community. Decisions are influenced by patterns of use, the capacity of each location and the holdings of other libraries that may specialize in each subject matter. Staff review the collection regularly to maintain its vitality and usefulness to the community.

Responsibility for Collection Management

The final authority for the Library collection rests with the Library Department Head. Implementation of collection development policy and management of the collection is assigned to Library staff. The Mendocino County Library disposes of materials that have been withdrawn according to the criteria for weeding and maintenance.

Postconsumer Recycled Content

Mendocino County Library purchases books, microfiche, microfilm, and periodicals (including magazines and newspapers) that are publications procured at a significantly high volume. Information regarding the recycled content for these products is not available due to the high purchasing volume of these products. In addition, many of these items can only be purchased by one vendor. Purchases of other paper products, including printing and writing paper, are included separately in the implementation record. The goal is to continually seek out postconsumer recycled-content products when available.

Criteria Applicable to All Library Materials

In accordance with the California Freedom to Read Act (AB 1825), Library materials in public libraries shall not be excluded, and access to library materials shall not be limited, solely on the bases of any of the following:

  1. The race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, political affiliation, or any other characteristic listed in subdivision (a) of Section 12940 of the Government Code, or the socioeconomic status of a subject of the library materials, an author of the library materials, the source of the library materials, or the perceived or intended audience for the library materials.
  2. The library materials contain inclusive and diverse perspectives.
  3. The library materials may include sexual content unless that content qualifies as obscene under United States Supreme Court precedent.

Labeling of Materials

To permit free and convenient access to materials, the Library endorses an open shelf policy. Therefore, no materials shall be either removed from open shelves or kept in a restricted area because of their controversial nature or because they are more suitable for one age group than another because of their subject matter, viewpoint, or the possibility that they might be opposed to by certain individuals or groups. Library materials are not marked or identified in such a way as to indicate approval or disapproval, and materials are not sequestered, except for the purpose of protecting such materials from damage or theft.

Maintenance and Weeding of Collection

Collections are maintained and weeded to increase the relevance of Library materials and facilitate its display and circulation. Materials are withdrawn regularly, using guidelines such as the CREW method (Continuous Review, Evaluation, and Weeding).

Most Library materials are processed in such a way as to ensure their maximum use under normal circumstances. Damaged but still usable materials are mended according to an established set of procedures. Materials may be withdrawn because they are worn, obsolete, or seldom used; superseded by a newer edition or better work on the subject; or physically damaged or in poor condition.

Responsibility

The County Librarian is responsible for the deselection of library materials, delegating tasks to staff members as needed. Patron and staff suggestions are considered in maintaining broad and relevant collections of interest to all. Questions that arise in the weeding process are referred to Branch Managers who may consult with the County Librarian as needed.

Weeding Process

Mendocino County Library follows guidelines of The American Library Association, which recommends that annual withdrawals average 5% of the total collection. Removals allow room for new purchases, keep the collection current, and make shelves easier to browse. Lack of demand, obsolete or erroneous information, and poor condition are the main reasons for deselection.

The Library offers breadth and depth in its collections including standard titles whose condition may deteriorate with frequent use. The Library may replace these items with newer copies or editions if funds and space permit.

Damaged or stolen materials will be replaced if the items continue to meet selection criteria. Subject areas may be refreshed with the latest materials rather than specific older items.

Gift materials will be subject to the same standards for inclusion and weeding as purchased materials.

Local and Archival Materials

The Library retains local material of community interest and attempts to preserve it over time. Local collections may sometimes need weeding for poor condition or dated information.

Archival material (e.g., the County Annual Report) shall be kept for two years. Historical documents are also available at the Mendocino County Historical Society or by contacting the County of Mendocino Executive Office.

Removal from Collection

The County Librarian and deputized staff are responsible for the disposition of weeded material. This may include, but is not limited to, the sale of valuable items, donations to Friends or community groups and recycling and discarding material.

Collection Audits

The Library routinely performs an audit of the collection to identify gaps in subjects and equitable representation of voices.

The results of the collection audit are used by library staff to purchase titles to fill in gaps of the collection. The budget for these purchases is the standard annual collection budget unless a grant or other one-time funds are used.

Statement of Concern

If a patron has a concern about the inclusion, classification, or location of library material, a statement of concern of materials form is available at a library branch or by requesting by mail. For a statement of concern to be considered, the form must be completed in full. The patron submitting the statement must have a Mendocino County Library (MCL) card and reside within Mendocino County, California.

Community members can also share their concerns regarding library materials and request that library materials be reconsidered for inclusion in the library’s collection.

A committee that includes at least one professional librarian from outside Mendocino County will review the details of the statement. MCL will respond, in writing, within 30 days of receiving the statement. The response will indicate the action to be taken and the reasons for or against the statement of concern. The library director will consider any statement to appeal the committee’s decision. An item will be evaluated for reconsideration only once in a 12-month period.

MCL incorporates, as part of this policy, the principles contained in the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America, the California Freedom to Read Act Assembly Bill 1825, American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read, and Freedom to View statements.

Collection development selection criteria include, but are not limited to the following

  • representation of an important movement, genre, trend, or national culture
  • artistic presentation and experimentation
  • entertainment value
  • representation of challenging points of view
  • accuracy

Appendix of the Collection Development Policy

  • American Library Association “Freedom to Read Statement”
  • American Library Association “Freedom to View”
  • American Library Association “Library Bill of Rights”

American Library Association – 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.

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 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.

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.

A Joint Statement by:

  • American Library Association
  • Association of American Publishers

Subsequently endorsed by:

  • American Booksellers for Free Expression
  • The Association of American University Presses
  • The Children’s Book Council
  • Freedom to Read Foundation
  • National Association of College Stores
  • National Coalition Against Censorship
  • National Council of Teachers of English
  • The Thomas Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression

American Library Association – Freedom to View Statement

The FREEDOM TO VIEW, along with the freedom to speak, to hear, and to read, is protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In a free society, there is no place for censorship of any medium of expression. Therefore these principles are affirmed:

  1. To provide the broadest access to film, video, and other audiovisual materials because they are a means for the communication of ideas. Liberty of circulation is essential to insure the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
  2. To protect the confidentiality of all individuals and institutions using film, video, and other audiovisual materials.
  3. To provide film, video, and other audiovisual materials which represent a diversity of views and expression. Selection of a work does not constitute or imply agreement with or approval of the content.
  4. To provide a diversity of viewpoints without the constraint of labeling or prejudging film, video, or other audiovisual materials on the basis of the moral, religious, or political beliefs of the producer or filmmaker or on the basis of controversial content.
  5. To contest vigorously, by all lawful means, every encroachment upon the public’s freedom to view.

This statement was originally drafted by the Freedom to View Committee of the American Film and Video Association (formerly the Educational Film Library Association) and was adopted by the AFVA Board of Directors in February 1979. This statement was updated and approved by the AFVA Board of Directors in 1989.

Endorsed January 10, 1990, by the ALA Council

American Library Association – 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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
  4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
  5. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
  6. Libraries which 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.
  7. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.

Approved by the Board of Supervisors on July 29, 2025

Mission and Goals

The Library’s mission statement was developed after community town hall meetings and written by a community of citizens. It reads:

Our Library provides educational and recreational materials which fill the needs of a culturally diverse population. It does these tasks with care for the quality and timeliness of its materials and with attention to their accessibility. The Library through its staff interprets and guides the use of materials to enable as many people as possible to apply in their daily lives the record of what is known.

The goals of the Library are to:

  • Provide and improve accessibility to information through a variety of means for all library users.
  • Encourage young children to develop an interest in reading and learning.
  • Support individuals of all ages in pursuing a sustained program of independent learning.
  • Feature current, high-demand, high-interest materials in variety of formats for persons of all ages.
  • Provide a stable funding base adequate to maintain the desired levels of service.
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