Library Policies and Procedures

                                     
 
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Mission Statement and Bill of Rights
 
Mission Statement:
The mission of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library is to promote a lifelong love of reading, learning, and literacy. Our Library seeks to provide members of our community quality resources, programs, assistance, and space to seek, discover, and engage.
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library recognizes and adopts the Alabama Library Association (ALLA) Bill of Rights.
Alabama Library Association Bill of Rights
The Alabama Library Association (ALLA) represents library professionals serving diverse communities throughout Alabama.
 
ALLA firmly supports the freedom to read and free speech as inalienable rights protected by the First Amendment.
 
ALLA firmly supports the freedom of free expression and free access to ideas.
 
ALLA affirms that upholding intellectual freedom is a fundamental responsibility of the library and information profession.
 
ALLA affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services:
 
I. Books and other library resources must be offered to support literacy, inspire, and inform all members of the community served by the library. No material should be excluded based on the origin, background, or views contributing to their creation.
 
II. No individual should be denied access to or restricted from using a library based on their origin, age, background, or viewpoints.
 
III. Everyone, regardless of their origin, age, background, or views, has the right to privacy and confidentiality in their use of the library. Libraries should actively promote, educate about, and safeguard people’s privacy, protecting all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
 
IV. Libraries should offer materials and information that present diverse viewpoints on both current and historical issues. No materials should be banned or withdrawn due to partisan or doctrinal objections. Libraries must ensure that the selection and availability of materials and services are guided by professional judgement and/or professional subject expertise on subject matters during considerations rather than political, moral, or religious views.
 
V. Libraries should offer services and programming that present diverse viewpoints on both current and historical issues, regardless of the personal views of the library employees.
 
VI. Libraries should support the caregivers’ rights to monitor their child/children’s use of
the library and decide which materials are suitable or beneficial for them. While acknowledging that not every book suits every reader, no individual or group should infringe upon others’ right to intellectual freedom regarding what is appropriate for someone else’s child. Access to a diverse range of reading materials enhances children’s opportunities to develop into lifelong learners.
 
VII. Libraries have a responsibility to advocate for all people, regardless of race, sex, or religious preference, when it comes to challenging censorship. Libraries should collaborate with individuals and organizations dedicated to defending against the abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
 
VIII. Libraries that offer exhibit spaces and meeting rooms to the public should ensure equitable access to these facilities, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups making requests.
 
 
Adopted August 2, 2024
 
 
 
 
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library Policy

General Library Objectives
The general library objectives of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial shall be:

1. To assemble, preserve and administer, in organized collections, books and related educational and recreation material in order to promote, through guidance and stimulation the communication of ideas, an enlightened citizenship and enriched personal lives.
2. To serve the community as a center of reliable information.
3. To provide a place where inquiring minds may encounter the original, sometimes unorthodox and critical ideas so necessary as correctives and stimulants in a society that depends for its survival on free competition in ideas.
4. To support educational, civic, and cultural activities of groups and organizations.
5. To provide opportunity and encouragement for children, young people, men and women to educate themselves continuously.
6. To continually seek to identify community needs, to provide programs of service to meet such needs, and to cooperate with other organizations, agencies, and institutions which can provide programs of services to meet community needs.
7. To provide opportunity for recreation through the use of literature, music as funds allow.

Who may use the Library:

1. The library will serve all residents of the community. Service will not be denied or abridged because of religious, racial, social, economic, or political status. Persons residing outside of the geographical area but owning property or attending local schools or employed in Headland area shall be considered residents.
   1. Out-of-county residents (patrons who do not reside in Henry County) may be eligible for a library card through an annual subscription cost of $10 as of March 2022.
2. The use of the library or its services may be denied for due cause. Such cause may be the failure to return books or to pay penalties, destruction of library property, disturbance of other library patrons, not dressing according to library dress code which states shirts and shoes have to be worn, revealing clothing which will be distracting to other library patrons are forbidden or any other objectionable conduct on library premises.
3. Overdue fines rate is five cents per book, one dollar per DVD per day after the due date.
4. Verification of name and address has to be furnished before a library card is issued.

Services of the Library

1. The library will select from a mass of available materials, books and other materials to best meet the needs of the community.
2. The library staff will provide guidance and assistance for people to obtain the information they seek as recorded in print or other non-print sources.
3. The library will cooperate with available resources to avail the user of information by borrowing from other libraries
   1. Through inter-library loan
4. The library will lend to other libraries materials which are requested for patrons which are not available in the borrowing library. Patrons in this library will have a priority in the use of materials.
5. The library will observe the following schedule: open Monday from 12:00 until 7:00, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 until 5:00, and closed on Saturday and Sunday. Notice of closing on holidays will be posted in advance on all social platforms, as well as advertised in-house.
6. Minors’ library cards will be issued for children ages 4-17 with adults filling our registration form.
   1. Emancipated minors can apply for a card with proof of emancipation.

Library Materials and Collection Development

1. The library will provide any material which helps to meet its objectives in keeping with available funds. These materials may include books, Ebooks, periodicals, pamphlets, newspapers, pictures, slides, films, music scores, maps, audio visual recording, microforms and other formats. Weeding from time to time can and will occur to maintain a collection of merit. Old, unused, damaged, and out-of-date materials will be weeded. Collection will be evaluated by comparing it to professionally accepted lists of recommended basic materials. Thereby a collection of merit will be built by adding to specific identified subject areas.
2. All materials except those which are in special demand cannot be duplicated, including rare and fragile items, will be lent for home use under library regulations and procedures.
3. The adult and children collections, including reference collection shall be evaluated, weeded and new purchases recommended by librarian. Areas to be evaluated will be weeded by first shelf-reading to be sure materials are in order. Weeding will be done according to the CREW Method, revised and updated by Jeannette Larson in 2012. After weeding in the section, books in all categories should be compared to a list of Standard Sources. Those materials on the list of Standard Sources shall be compared to the existing collection to determine gaps, weaknesses and important works missing from the collection. Priorities shall be set for selecting and replacement of materials, and weak areas of the collection. Items currently in print shall be selected for purchase. Selection shall be done carefully, and at the discretion of the librarian.

The library subscribes to the Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association which affirms its belief in the following basic policies:
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

• 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.
• Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be prescribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
• Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
• Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
• A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
• 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.
• All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right 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.

 
 Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.
Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.

1. The library also subscribes to the Freedom to Read Statement prepared by the American Library Association and the American Book Publisher’s Council.
2. As per the expenditure of funds: The library will not expend funds to the American Library Association unless approved by the Board of Trustees in an open, public meeting following advanced public notice.   520-2-2-.03(8): Any expenditure of public funds to the American Library Association must be approved by the governing board of the public library or public library system in an open, public meeting following advanced public notice

Physical Facilities

1. The Board of Trustees accepts the responsibility to see that the public library building facilities are provided which will adequately meet the physical requirements of modern, aggressive library service.
   1. The Board of Trustees will acquire sites and/ or new buildings only after a service program has been adopted and the librarian or a consulting librarian has written an outline of the community library’s needs.
   2. The Board of Trustees accepts the responsibility to secure the funds for needed facilities.
   3. The librarian, the architect, and the Board of Trustees as a planning team, with the assistance of consultants, will endeavor to plan facilities to meet the recognized standards and the needs of the community.
   4. A charge of $25.00 will be requested of anyone using the meeting room for after hours rental, with the exception of civic or non-profit organizations. A responsibility form is to be signed and room is to be left in the same order it was found in.
      1. Please refer to the Meeting Room Policy for further information

Gifts

Within the provisions of the state laws, the Board of Trustees adopts the following policies:

1. Books and other materials will be accepted on the condition that the librarian has the authority to make whatever disposition he/ she deems advisable.
2. Gifts[1] or money, real property, and or stock will be accepted if conditions are attached thereto are acceptable to the Board of Trustees.
3. Personal property, portraits, antiques, and other museum objects will not be accepted.
4. The library will not accept deposit materials which are not outright gifts.

Public Relations
Some of the primary public relation goals of the library are:

1. Understanding the library’s objectives and services by governing officials, by civic leaders, and by the general       public.
2. Active participation in the varied services offered by the library to people of all ages.
3. The board recognizes that the public relations involves every person who has any connection with the library. The board urges its own members and every staff member to realize that he or she represents the library in every public contact. Good service supports good public relations.
4. The librarian and staff will be expected to make talks and to participate in community activities. A reasonable amount of library time will be allowed for staff members for preparation and speaking.

Personnel Policies

1. Persons seeking employment must make a written application, preferably on forms adopted by the city. All staff members will be hired on a six month probation. Selection of the library director will be made by the local board, subject to approval of the administrator. Staff members will be hired by the library director and board members.
2. Staff members should give written resignation to the library director. Resignation of the library director should be given to the local board, mayor with a copy sent to the administrator. The library director may recommend to the local board the termination of any employee or the employment of prospective staff. Termination of an employee’s service by the local board for any reason must be in writing with reasons clearly shown and a copy sent to the administrator. Two week’s written notice must be given for termination or resignation. A staff member, upon termination, shall receive terminal vacation. Staff members are required to attend the quarterly staff workshop meetings. Unauthorized absences from any such meetings shall be subject to discipling action, including loss of vacation time.
3. All full-time and regular personnel shall be given twelve days one (1) day per month, sick leave per year. Sick leave may accumulate to one hundred twenty days. (This does not include part-time workers) Sick leave cannot be used for vacation purposes.
4. City employees who have been in continuous employment of the city for twelve months or longer shall be entitled to ten (10) vacation days (8 hours per day) each year with pay; those who have been in continuous employment of the city for ten years shall be entitled to fifteen (15) vacation days (8 hours per day) with pay each year and those employed after 20 years of continuous service receive twenty (20) vacation days (8 hours per day) each year. Vacations shall be taken at the time when their absence shall not hinder the progress of the library programs. Attendance of staff members at a meeting called by the Alabama Public Library Service, Regional Administrator, or meetings of professional library associations shall be considered as time engaged in employment on the regular salary basis.
5. Holidays shall be taken as directed by the Mayor and City Council.

As pertains to minors in accordance with referenced Alabama Legislative Code:

1. The library will not knowingly purchase or otherwise collect materials for the children's section or young adult section that have been deemed inappropriate by the library board of trustees for children or youth. This includes obscenity, sexually explicit material, and other materials that the library board of trustees deems otherwise inappropriate for children and youth. The library adheres to the principle of intellectual freedom and aims to provide a balanced collection representing various viewpoints, including materials that might be considered controversial. However, materials determined by the board to be inappropriate for minors will be restricted to adult collections. Ultimately, the responsibility of deeming what is appropriate for minors lies with the parent or guardian. 520-2-2-.03(2)(f)6: Materials selection policies, including selection criteria for minors and how they are safeguarded from sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth  520-2-2-.03(2)(j): Approve written selection criteria for minors that prevents the purchase or otherwise acquiring of any material advertised for consumers under the age of 18 which contain obscenity, sexually explicit, or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this rule.
2. If any existing material in the children’s or young adult section is found to contain any sexually explicit or is otherwise inappropriate for children or youth, as determined by the library board of trustees, the material will be either moved to an appropriate location in the adult section or removed from the library at the discretion of the director. If the material has been challenged by a patron for reconsideration, the library will follow reconsideration protocol as outlined in our reconsideration policy. 520-2-2-.03(2)(f)11:  Physical location (and relocation of sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth) 520-2-2-.03(2)(i): Approve written guidelines that ensure library sections designated for minors under the age of 18 remain free of material containing obscenity, sexually explicit, or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this rule.
3. The library board and director will only approve materials in advance that are recommended, displayed, or otherwise actively promoted to children or youth that meet the guidelines for appropriateness for children and youth. No materials will be approved for recommendation, display or promotion that are found to have sexually explicit material or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth according the library board of trustees’ Definition of inappropriate materials for minors. 520-2-2-.03(2)(f)(12): Advanced approval of materials recommended, displayed, or otherwise actively promoted to children or youth.
4. All minors under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian signature of permission to obtain a library card. In addition to obtaining a library card, minors under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult in order to check out materials from the library or to come into the library and browse per our unattended child policy. Also, library patrons who are ages 13-17, while able to come into the library and check out materials without an adult, must have a signed teen waiver from their parent or guardian that outlines which materials the parent or guardian has deemed appropriate for said minor to check out. Teens will not be allowed to check out material from the adult section of the library without parental consent. 520-2-2-.03(2)(k): Approve written guidelines that establish library cards for minors under the age of 18 must require parental approval before a minor’s card is permitted to check out materials from the library’s adult sections. 520-2-2-.03(4): The public library must not deny service to anyone on the basis of age, race, sex, or creed. Exercising discretion in the location of sexually explicit material or other material deemed by the public library board to be inappropriate for children or youth does not constitute a denial of service on the basis of age. Taking age into account when recommending, displaying, or otherwise actively promoting library materials does not constitute a denial of service on the basis of age.

 
*The definition of materials inappropriate for minors in accordance with state law and library board approval is outlined in the document “Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Definition of inappropriate material for minors”
Adopted: 1974   
Revised: June 3, 2022    
Revised: August 2, 2024
 
  
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Collections Development Policy
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library’s Collection Development Policy guides the selection and continuous evaluation of the collection to reflect the library’s mission. Ultimate responsibility for the collection rests with the library director and Board of Trustees.
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library provides library materials in a variety of formats that meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Are responsive to community needs and relevant to residents’ lives
• empower citizens to explore diverse opinions and conduct research on topics of interest
• inspire people to learn, create, and discover
• highlight the history and culture of the community

Library resources are provided for the interest, information, and entertainment of all people the library serves.
 
Procedures

1. The collection contains information of a variety of subjects and views, and it is organized to provide access to patrons within the limitations of space and budget. The library seeks to provide current, popular, and well-reviewed materials, as well and classic and enduring titles.
2. The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library has adopted American Library Association (ALA) guidelines on public access to information for its collection development:
   1. Library Bill of Rights
   2. Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights
   3. Freedom to Read
   4. Freedom to View

Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library seeks to develop an outstanding collection for a large and diverse population, within the constraints of budget allocations and shelf space. We strive to provide materials reflecting a variety of perspectives, with emphasis on new and popular materials. Not all criteria must be met, and no one criterion will be decisive. Additional criteria may be used to select materials for specific collections. Materials purchased for the collection are not an endorsement of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library of either content or viewpoint presented in them.
 
Patron purchase requests and interlibrary loans are additional avenues of obtaining materials for patron use.
The following criteria are used to evaluate potential materials:

• Relevant to community needs and interests
• Favorable attention of critics, reviewers, and the public
• Reputation/ qualifications of authors, artists, publishers, or producers without regard to political, religious, or other affiliations
• Date of publication
• Cost
• Artistic merit, literary value, or recognized award recipient
• Local or national significance
• Permanence or timeliness
• Quality or presentation in relation to content and audience
• Suitability of physical format for library shelving and circulation, including binding, condition, readability of type, packaging, specialized equipment needs, and technical quality for electronic media
• Evaluation of titles in relation to current holdings, available shelf space, patron demand, and budget
• Availability of information elsewhere
• Legal, licensing, or copyright issues
• Availability from preferred vendors. Where possible
• Representation of various cultures, viewpoints, and interests
• As pertains to minors in accordance with referenced Alabama Legislative Code: The library will not knowingly purchase or otherwise collect materials for the children’s section or young adult section that have been deemed inappropriate by the library board of trustees for children or youth. This includes obscenity, sexually explicit material, and other materials that the library board of trustees deems otherwise inappropriate for children and youth. The library adheres to the principle of intellectual freedom and aims to provide a balanced collection representing various viewpoints, including materials that might be considered controversial. However, materials determined by the board to be inappropriate for minors will be restricted to adult collections. Ultimately, the responsibility deeming what is appropriate for minors lies with the parent or guardian.  520-2-2-.03(2)(f)6: Materials selection policies, including selection criteria for minors and how they are safeguarded from sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth   520-2-2-.03(2)(j): Approve written selection criteria for minors that prevents the purchase or otherwise acquiring of any material advertised for consumers under the age of 18 which contain obscenity, sexually explicit, or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate materials regarding religion, history, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this rule.

 
Items generally excluded from selection include:

• Textbooks and curriculum-related works unless they are considered useful to the general reader as an introduction to a subject and their presentation is superior to others
• Scholarly and technical materials that are carried by academic or special libraries
• Materials having removable media such as memorabilia, patterns, stickers, or toys unless the materials are usable without these items
• Puzzle or workbooks that encourage fill in the blanks
• Materials that are publicized solely through infomercials or personal websites and authoritative and evaluative information about them is lacking

1. Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library offers a large circulation of physical materials as well as an extensive reference collection that supports in0depth reference service for the city and county.
2. The library’s website provides access to eMaterials (eBooks, eAudios, eMagazines, etc.) Selection of the materials is based upon the Camillia Net overdrive selection, that is performed externally and shared within all unified libraries within the state of Alabama. Not all titles are available in all formats.
3. Special collections, including genealogy collections, offered to the general public and specialize researchers. Collection provides access to published, as well as unpublished, materials offering documentaries, books, pamphlets, maps, photographs, family papers, business records, audio/ video recordings, microfilm, and newspapers that are important to the study of the history and cultural heritage of Henry County and beyond.
   1. These collections are non-circulating, but copies can be ran and purchased at the circulation desk.
4. The criteria for materials selection also apply in the acceptance of gifted materials. Once a gift is donated to the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library, it becomes property of the library unconditionally. The library will provide the donor a letter of acknowledgement upon request, but it is the responsibility of the donor to place a value on gifted materials.

Guidelines

1. The number of copies of a title that are purchased varies with the expected popularity of that title. Demand for individual titles is monitored and additional copies are purchased to meet that demand.
2. The collection receives ongoing review in order to maintain its relevancy and physical condition, as well as to accommodate shelf space. Staff uses the following criteria in choosing materials for retention/ withdrawal:

• Condition
• Relevance to community needs
• Information: accurate, timely, up-to-date
• Number of copies in the collection across all formats
• Circulation statistics
• Shelf space
• Relevance/ sustainability of format
• Availability elsewhere (digital library)

3. The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library believes in freedom of information for all and does not practice censorship. This principle applies to all formats included in the library collection. Materials may be considered controversial, and any given item may offend someone. Selections are not made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but on the merits of the material and collection needs. Exclusion of materials may occur due to cost, accessibility, limited demand, or lack of documentation, but never solely because of expression, language, viewpoint, or mature content.

​The library holds choice of materials to be a purely individual matter. While anyone is personally free to reject books and other materials, an individual may not restrict the free choice of others.
Parents/ legal guardians are responsible for monitoring materials used by their own children. Library selection decisions are not influenced by the possibility that materials may be accessible to minors. Materials are not labeled to show approval/ disapproval or to indicate certain philosophies. Access to items is not restricted except for protection from damage or theft.

A formal Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration of Library Material and process has been developed to assure that complaints and requests for reconsideration are handled in an attentive and consistent manner. The library will carefully reevaluate and item when a Request for Reconsideration form is submitted. The library will consider the value of each item in its entirety and within the context of the collection, not on specific passages or sections within the item itself. The person/ organization submitting the form MUST have read/ watched/ listened to the item in its entirety. A certain passage will not be enough backing for an item to be removed from circulation.
 
Adopted: June 3, 2022
Revised: August 2, 2024
 
Unattended Child Policy
It is the policy of the library to keep a safe and appropriate environment for library users of all ages. The library is, however, a public building with staff trained to perform public library services. The library is not equipped, nor is it the library’s role, to provide long – or short-term supervision for children of any age. Aside from the planned programs, services and activities designed for specific age groups, the Library’s staff is not responsible for supervising or tending to the needs of individual users or groups of users.
 
Accordingly, children under the age of thirteen (13) must always be directly accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult while in the library. If a child under the age of 13 is attending a library program or activity, the parent, guardian, or responsible adult must remain inside the library throughout the program.
 
In general, parents of minor children should not leave them unattended at the library. Children must be picked up fifteen minutes before closing time. Police will be notified concerning any children left after closing time. Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children in the library, whether or not the parents are present. Additionally, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to keep their children in the appropriate areas. Library staff is not responsible for children looking at materials in the adult fiction or nonfiction section. It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to determine what material is appropriate in the library and act accordingly.
 
Staff reserves the right to limit adult patrons from loitering in the children’s space. Failure to supervise underage children will result in the patron(s) being asked to leave the library for the day. Additional incidents can result in the suspension of library privileges, including a temporary or permanent ban, as determined by the Library Director.

 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Code of Conduct Policy
The staff and board of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library strive for inclusivity in the library. Our goal is to ensure everyone is able to enjoy their visit safely and responsibly. By entering the library, you are agreeing to behave justly toward all staff and patrons by adhering to the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library Code of Conduct Policy.
Violators may be asked to leave the premise. Refusal to comply with a request from staff to leave may be subject to criminal trespassing and/ or legal action.
We ask for your cooperation with adhering to these rules, as to make the library a pleasant, clean, and safe environment for all.

• Game playing is allowed, provided other patrons are not disturbed. Speaking in a loud voice, running, horseplay, and fighting is prohibited.
• Small snacks may be consumed in the lounge area and designated sitting areas only. No meals are to be consumed in the library with the exception of programs.
• Non-alcoholic beverages are allowed only if the cup has a lid.
• Children’s area is intended for use by children, teens, and their parents. Adults should not use the children’s area without legitimate reasoning for being there.
• Pets are prohibited in the library. Service animals are allowed.
• Patrons are to keep all personal items with them at all times. The library and its staff are not responsible for loss or theft of personal items.
• No skateboarding, bicycles, roller skates, roller blades, or other vehicles are prohibited in the library.

 
Prohibited behavior includes but is not limited to:

1. Loitering in the library.
2. Destroying, defacing, or stealing materials or property belonging to library.
3. Jumping, moving, standing on, or extreme use of furniture.
4. Sleeping in or on library property.
5. Entering the library without shirt and/ or shoes. Undergarments must be covered at all times.
6. Body odor which may discomfort other patrons in the library.
7. Bathing, body washing or washing clothes in the restroom.
8. Use of cell phones or other personal listening or communication devices, at a level that can be heard by others.
9. Disturbing, threatening, harassing, intimidating, abusive language or behavior towards library staff or patrons, including following or staring.
10. Smoking and other forms of tobacco products (including e-cigarettes).
11. Possession of alcohol, illegal drugs, or other controlled substances.
12. Bringing weapons of any kind into the library.
13. Any illegal act or conduct in violation of federal, state, or local law, ordinance or regulation is not permitted.
14. Any form of solicitation is prohibited on library property.
15. Engaging in any form of sexual activity or harassment of staff/ patrons.
16. Refusing to obey directives of staff.
17. Any behavior not listed that the library staff or board deems inappropriate.

 
 
Adopted: June 3, 2022
 


Computer and Internet Policy
The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library is equipped with twelve (12) patron computers. The following policies are established by the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library and pertain exclusively to the use of the library’s computers, as well as the free public network Wi-Fi. Any persons found to be in violation of these policies may be asked to leave and/or be subject to having their sessions terminated without warning. Single or continued violations may result in the revocation of library privileges and/or criminal prosecution.
General Internet Disclaimer
The Internet allows the library to provide resources not available within the confines of its own collection by connecting to networks outside of the library.  The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library has no control over these resources nor does the library have complete knowledge of what is on the internet.  Information on the internet may be reliable and current or it may be inaccurate, out-of-date, or unavailable at times.  Library users may access the internet at their own discretion.  Please be aware that some of the information found on the internet is of a mature nature and may be offensive to some users.  The library does use filtering devices as required by Federal Law.  Users are reminded that the library is not responsible for content on the internet and that the user determines which access points are reached.

1. In order to use Library devices and its network, patrons must have a library card in good standing, or must request a guest pass. Using the library card number of another patron, including a relative, to access the network is prohibited.
2. Patrons are permitted one visit to library computers per day, for a maximum of two hours. Sessions run for sixty minutes at a time; at the end of the first session, time may be extended for an additional sixty minutes if desired.
3. The following uses of library devices and the network are prohibited:
   1.  Viewing and displaying of obscene materials (prohibited by state and local law). Please see Code of Alabama ordinances 13A-12-200.3 and/or 13A-12-191 of the Code of Alabama for further information.
   2. “Cracking”, “hacking”, or otherwise attempting to obtain unauthorized access to any computer system or network.
   3. Illegal or criminal activity/purpose.
   4. Obstruction of another patron’s ability to use library resources.
   5. Deliberate crashing or modification of the setup or configuration of the library network/system, including introducing viruses.
   6. Using exceedingly high bandwidth as to interfere with the overall functioning of the network.
4. In compliance with Federal Law, the Library subscribes to an Internet content filtering service, which has been installed on the network. This filtering service can be turned off at the request of any patron to view blocked content should it be deemed appropriate based on the guidelines stated in this policy and applicable law.
5. No outside hardware/ software is to be downloaded on patron computers.
6. You may not at any time unplug the library’s equipment or plug yours into ours.
7. Copies of information obtained from the Internet may be subject to Copyright Law. Patrons assume responsibility for any legal action which might arise from their use of the network and violation of Copyright.
8. Patrons listening to audio content through the library’s network must use headphones as not to disturb others.
9. All Library devices reset to a default state and all personal data and patron work performed WILL BE DELETED at the end of each 60-minute session. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that all work performed, along with any personal data be saved to an external storage method before each session concludes.
10. The library is not responsible for any loss of patron personal data, damage, or liability that may occur from a patron’s use of the library’s devices and network.
11. Staff will assist patrons’ computer use tasks only as time, privacy concerns, expertise, and knowledge permits.
12. Food is not permitted near library computers. Covered drinks are permitted.

The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial library, Board of Trustees, and the City of Headland absolve themselves from all liability regarding the use of the internet.
Adopted: May 26, 1998
Revised: January 7, 2000
Revised: July 20, 2006
Revised: April 29, 2022
Revised: June 3, 2022


​Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Film and Photography Policy
 
The primary goal of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library is to provide materials and services to the community in fulfillment of its Mission/Vision and Strategic Plan. To this end, the library generally allows filming and photography on its premises, as long as the activity does not interfere with library operations or its users’ ability to have a safe experience.
Library staff reserve the right to stop any filming/photography session that appears to be in violation of this policy, jeopardize public safety/security, or violate the integrity or impartiality of the library.
Library Programs and Events

• The library allows filming and/or photography at all of its programs and events by staff, attendees, and the media.
• The library reserves the right to utilize photos and videos from public programs and library-related events taking place on or off library premises, strictly for promotional purposes, on its website, social media, newsletter, and other library publications.
• To ensure the privacy of all individuals, including children, all images will not be identified by the library using full names or personally identifying information without written approval from the photographed subject, parent, or legal guardian.
  • This also includes all photos and images submitted directly to the library for any library-related purpose (programs, events, contests, galleries, etc.).

Casual Filming and Photography

• Casual photography and/or filming by the public intended to record a personal visit, or make use of the library as a backdrop is generally permitted, provided that such photography and/or filming does not interfere in any way with library operations, other library users, does not violate the Code of Conduct Policy, and is consistent with the library’s overall Mission/Vision and Strategic Plan. The library is not responsible for any necessary consents or permissions.

News Media and Documentary-Type Photography

• News Media photographers and reporters who are doing stories or projects directly related to library programs and services may do so simply by obtaining prior verbal permission from library management or in-charge staff.
• Obtaining all necessary permissions and consents for the photography and/or filming of library users is the responsibility of the individual news/media outlet.
• Any other filming of non-library related “man-on-the street” interviews or filming/photographing for public opinion polls may not be conducted inside library facilities, but are allowed outside on library premises.

Commercial Photography
The library does not permit commercial photography (i.e advertising, portraiture, film/TV production, etc.) that is unrelated to the library’s programs and services on or in its facilities or premises without prior permission from the Library Director.
Photography for Groups and Non-Library Events in Meeting Rooms

• Groups arranging meetings in meeting rooms may arrange photographers and/or News Media during the event.
• Photography for such events is restricted to the space reserved by the group and may not take place in other areas of the library.
• Obtaining all necessary permissions and consents of meeting attendees is the responsibility of the person(s) filming/photographing.

 
 
Adopted: June 3.2022
 
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library Loitering Policy
It is the policy of the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial- Headland Public Library to provide a safe and appropriate environment for patrons and staff, both within the library building and on library grounds, to facilitate the public’s use of the library’s services and resources. Loitering is not allowed in the library’s parking areas or grounds, including the front porch. Loitering is defined as remaining or wandering in a public space without any discernible legitimate reason.

• For the purposes of this policy, loitering means staying in such an area for more than fifteen (15) minutes while not engaged in library activities.
  • These activities include:
    • Library programs/ meetings
    • Reading
    • Tutoring/ studying
    • Browsing
    • Waiting for a ride after using the library
    • Similar activity associated with the library
  • If a person(s) is not partaking in a library sanctioned activity (as stated above) the library reserves the right to ask the person(s) to leave the premises, at the discretion of the Library Director.
• WiFi is provided by the library for free 24/7. The WiFi stretches out to city grounds, including the gazebo located on the city square. If you plan to have extended use of the free WiFi, please utilize the sitting areas provided inside the library. If you wish to access the WiFi outside of normal operating hours, please visit the city grounds. Extended use of WiFi is allowed both in-house and on city grounds.
• Loitering on the library porch is not allowed at any time. The porch is available to patrons for entering and exiting the building and utilization of the book drop only. If a person(s) is loitering on the porch, they will be asked to relocate.
  • This includes impeding walkways, stairs, and ramps located on the porch.
• Loitering, as well as other acts in similar nature, is further described in the Blanche R. Solomon Code of Conduct Policy.
• Person(s) violating the loitering policy will risk being trespassed from the property at the discretion of the library staff or local police.

 
 
This policy can be altered at the discretion of the Library Director, Library Board of Trustees, or police.
Adopted: May 2023
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Material Reconsideration Policy
In order to challenge a library material for reconsideration, the complainant must meet the following requirements:

1. The complainant must be a resident of Henry County, Alabama and have a valid library card with Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library. That card must be in good standing.
2. The complainant has reviewed the entire material in full, not just only in part.
3. The complainant has addressed the issue directly with the library director.
4. A patron or a household with multiple patrons may not challenge for consideration more than 3 materials in a twelve (12) month time period.
5. Once a material has been challenged, if it has been found to be appropriate for the library, that material may not be challenged again for a time period of three (3) years.

If the complainant meets the above qualifications, they may continue with the reconsideration process.  The following steps will be used when an individual feels that further action is necessary to address concerns about a library resource. For the duration of this process, the material in question will remain in circulation in the library collection.

1. A concerned patron who is dissatisfied with earlier informal discussions will be offered a packet of materials that includes the library’s mission statement, material selection policy, reconsideration form, and the Library Bill of Rights.
2. Patrons are required to complete and submit a reconsideration form to the library director.
3. The director, one full time staff member, and one member of the library board of trustees will review the reconsideration form and the material in question, to consider whether its selection follows the criteria stated in the collection policy.
4. Within 30 business days, the director will make a decision and send a letter to the concerned person who requested the reconsideration, stating the reasons for the decision.
5. If the individual is not satisfied with the decision, a written appeal may be submitted within 10 business days from receipt of the Board’s decision to the Board of Trustees.
6. If the board plans to address the appeal at their board meeting, the individual will be notified of when and where the meeting will be held.
7. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to limit the length of public comments.
8. The decision of the board is final.

 
Adopted: August 2, 2024
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Meeting Room Policy
The Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library Meeting Room is available for use by the cultural, educational and civic groups in the community.
 
Types of Meetings 
Priority for meeting room use will be assigned in the following manner:

1. Library sponsored programs and meetings
2. Library related programs and meetings
3. Educational and cultural programs and meetings of Headland organizations
4. Community, welfare, and civic group programs which are not necessarily cultural or educational in nature.

 
No meeting that would violate the constitutional provisions regarding the separation of church and state may be held.

Reservations 

1. Application for use of a meeting room, indicating starting and ending time of the meeting, must be made in advance on a form provided by the library.  It must be returned to the library at least two weeks in advance of the meeting for Library approval.
2. Space for a series of regular meetings should be requested at least 3 weeks in advance of the first meeting; reservations for a series of meetings will be made for one year at a time from January 1st to December 31st.  The Library reserves the right to cancel the reservations for any meetings scheduled provided the group receives thirty (30) days notice.
3. Reservations will be made in order of priority as indicated above, and the dates of requests.
4. The Library should be notified whenever the group requesting the meeting space is canceling a scheduled meeting.
5. If a group is denied the use of the meeting room by the Librarian, it can appeal to the Library Board for a decision review by writing the Library Board President.

 
Days and Hours of Meetings 
Meetings may be held Monday 12 pm – 7 pm and Tuesday through Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. No charge shall be made for the use of the facilities, if meetings are scheduled within the normal Library hours.  If a group wishes to use the meeting rooms beyond these hours, there is a $20 per hour charge to help defray staff and utility costs.  If a group requires the use of Library equipment, there is also a flat fee charge of $15.00. This includes projector, TV, overhead projector or VCR.
 
Restrictions 

1. No admission fee may be charged for any meeting.

No collection may be taken before, during or after the meeting.
No groups can use the meeting room if a registration or tuition charge is required of those attending.
No meetings of a for profit nature may be conducted in the annex.
Donations towards the cost of refreshments or materials may be requested, but no fee may be mandated and the meeting must be open and free of charge to the public.
Organizations may collect dues at a meeting but cannot make payment of dues a requirement for attendance at a meeting.

1. All meetings are open meetings.  Organizations meeting on library premises may find that nonmembers enter their meetings.  Such persons may be informed of the nature of the meeting but may not be excluded if they wish to remain.
2. Organizations meeting in the Library may not use the Library as a mailing address.
3. NO LIBRARY PERSONNEL IS AVAILABLE TO ASSIST ANY GROUP OR REARRANGE THE SEATING, TO CARRY SUPPLIES TO AND FROM THE MEETING ROOM, TO RUN THE PROJECTOR, ETC.  Each group must count on its own personnel for the performance of any of these tasks. The Library will only be responsible for furnishing the meeting space.  A group must make arrangements at least 3 weeks in advance with the Library for staff assistance in running any equipment.
4. Meetings that would interfere with normal library activities and work because of noise and other factors will not be permitted.
5. Smoking is not permitted in the Library per City of Headland  Ordinance 4.2005.
6. Light refreshments (light snacks and beverages--no prepared meals) may be served but no alcoholic beverages may be served.
7. The room is not available for parties or meetings of a strictly social nature.
8. The use of the library meeting room is a privilege and not a right and is subject to the Library’s sole and exclusive discretion.  Accordingly, the Library reserves the right to deny the use of the meeting room to any group.
9. Publicity is the responsibility of any group reserving the meeting room.  The sponsoring group must be identified on all publicity displayed or furnished.  Publicity may not carry the Library’s telephone number.

 
Your Group’s Responsibilities 

1. The group must select one individual who will see that the group has abided by the library’s meeting room policies and procedures.  That person will also be responsible for liaison with the Library.
2. Organizations using the meeting room are responsible for reimbursing the Library for any damage that may occur to the library building or equipment.
3. Clean the kitchen when done if serving refreshments.
4. The meeting room must be returned to the condition in which it was found—cleaning service is NOT included.
5. Report to the Librarian any difficulties or problems with library property or appliances.
6. Violation of these policies may result in suspension of your groups’ meeting room privileges.

 
 
Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Overdue Material Policy

1. All materials will be checked out for a two-week period. Patrons will be charged .05 (five cents) per day, per item.
2. Charges do not apply to days that the library is closed. This includes weekends and holidays.
3. Patrons with an outstanding balance on their account are ineligible to access computer usage or to check out more items.
4. Overdue charges are the responsibility of the parents or guardians of minor children, as agreed to by their signature on application for card.

 
All items may be rechecked via telephone at 334-693-2706, email [email protected], the Librista app, or the automated text messages as long as there is not a reserve or a waiting list for the item(s) which are on the account.
 
For patron convenience, there is a drop box located on the front porch for after hours drop off.
 
Revised: June 3, 2022



​Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library
Receiving Material Donation Policy
The Library will accept donations of adult hardback or paperback books and children’s books in good condition if the following criteria is met:

1. Copyright date is within:
   1. Five (5) years for hardbacks
   2. Three (3) years for paperbacks
   3. Three (3) years for non-fiction science and technology (hardback or paperback)
2. Books that are not suitable for shelving, for any reason, will be discarded or placed in our book sale.
3. Textbooks, encyclopedias of any kind will not be accepted.
4. Items not specifically covered in the policy statement will be accepted or refused at the discretion of the library director.

 
Any person dropping off a donation that has not previously discussed a material donation, and had items approved ahead of time, must wait while the director sorts through and pulls accepted materials. If the director is unavailable to sort through donations, donors can make an appointment to have donations sorted through. Items not accepted must be taken with the donor that day.
 
The library director and/or Board of Trustees reserves the right to alter the donation policy to accept/ reject specific donations in-house at his/ her discretion.
 
Adopted: June 3, 2022
 
 
Teen Advisory Board Policies and By-laws
By-Laws
Article I: Name
This organization shall be named the Solomon Memorial- Headland Public Library Teen Advisory Board and will be shortened to TAB.
Article II: Mission
The mission of the Solomon Memorial- Headland Public Library Teen Advisory Board is to encourage patrons age 12-19 to become life-long library users through promotion of reading, volunteerism, and participation in the library, and to assist the library in both developing and implementing programs which serve local teens. Solomon Memorial- Headland Public Library recognizes its duty in promoting citizenship and literacy and believes that creating a teen-friendly environment is essential in sustaining a healthy, thriving community. To uphold this responsibility, the Teen Advisory Board aims to give the library a new perspective on youth, and youth a new perspective on libraries.
 
Article III: Membership
Section 3.1: Advisor
TAB shall be coordinated by the Library Director who will serve as TAB Advisor and supervise all TAB meetings, activities, and special projects. The TAB Advisor will provide guidance in planning TAB activities and reserves the right to reject and/or revise any ideas due to space or budget constraints or other concerns.
Section 3.2: Number of Members
The Board shall consist of up to fifteen (15) members, but is subject to change at the director’s discretion based on interest level and need.
Section 3.3: Eligibility
TAB membership is open to both publicly and homeschooled students aged 13-19, grades 8-12, in Henry County, Alabama. Eligible members must have a valid library card. It is in the best interests of the Board that members represent both the various schools in Headland and Henry County and the homeschooling community during their term.
 
Article IV: Members

1. All members are to answer to the Library Advisor.
2. All member positions will serve a 10-month period, from September to June of the next year.
3. Members will be required to volunteer a total of 20 hours throughout their 10 month position.

1. Monthly meetings and TAB events will count towards volunteer hours.
2. TAB members may volunteer for more than 20 hours per term, especially for special events. Approval for additional hours can be obtained through the TAB Advisor.

1. Members will agree to adhere to following guidelines:

1. Meetings will begin on time and will usually last approximately 1 hour.
2. Sign in and out of meetings and programs to record volunteer hours.
3. Participate fully. Please turn off electronic devices.
4. Respect staff, each other, and the library space.
5. Meetings are mandatory, but will be excused by the director for school events, sickness, or other valid reasons. You must inform the director if you will be absent.
6. Attend as many teen programs as possible and help with setup/ clean up.
7. Be a responsible library user and role model in the library and the community.
8. Be an advocate for your peers and your library.
9. Code of Conduct Policy for the TAB will follow the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library Code of Conduct Policy.
10. TAB members are not to be behind the circulation desk unless given a specific task by the library director or library staff.
11. TAB members are expected to volunteer and help with the Summer Reading Program during the month of June.

 
Article V: Meetings
Section 5.1: Time and Date
The regular meetings will be held monthly, at the discretion of the current board and Library Advisor, through the months of September to June.
Section 5.2: Special Meeting
Special meetings may be called by the TAB Advisor to complete tasks as needed.
Section 5.3: Agenda
The Library Director (TAB Advisor) will be responsible for putting together the monthly agendas. Items may be placed on the agenda by the TAB advisor, library staff or any member of the board.
Section 5.4: Voting
Each member shall vote on agenda items that require a vote. Agenda items must be approved by a majority of the board members at the meeting. The TAB advisor has the right to overturn or adjust any voting outcomes if necessary.
Section 5.5: Attendance
All members should make meeting attendance a high priority. An absence shall be considered unexcused when a member is absent from an official TAB meeting or other requirement and makes no effort to inform the TAB Advisor or secretary and does not have a legitimate reason for not contacting the advisor in advance. It is solely up to the TAB Advisor to decide if an absence is excused or unexcused.
Article VI: Bylaw Amendments
These bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the board members at any regular meeting of the board.
 
Adopted: August 2, 2024
 


[1] Dictionary definition of a gift is something that is voluntarily transferred by one person to another without compensation”. A gift is a transfer that is motivated by a detached or disinterested generosity or out of affection, respect, admiration, charity, or similar impulses. Gifts are irrevocable. The donor may specify the general use of the gift, but have no ties to the gift after the transaction has occurred.