Borrowing Policies
Library Cards
All South Brunswick residents are eligible for a free library card. Resident library cards are valid for a period of three years.
Adults 18 and over must show identification and proof of residency. As proof of residency, the library will accept a valid driver’s license, deed, lease, utility bill, or other official document. A post office box is not a valid proof of residency.
Juveniles 17 and younger must have permission of a parent or legal guardian to apply for a library card. A juvenile card allows children to check out all material from the library’s collection. Parents or guardians are encouraged to supervise their children’s reading and borrowing. A parent or guardian must be present at time of registration and have proof of residency in order to obtain a card for his/her child. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for all items checked out on a minor’s card.
The Library also partners with public and private schools in South Brunswick to issue new cards to their students so they may have access to our print and digital collections.
South Brunswick residents, both adult and juvenile, may renew their library card in person or over the phone by confirming the information in the library’s database. Residents do not need to provide documentation when renewing their library card.
Temporary South Brunswick residents may receive a library card if he/she can provide a letter from the property owner where he/she is residing or the manager of the hotel/residence inn indicating the length of stay. The library card’s expiration date will reflect the duration of the stay.
South Brunswick Library cards can be used at any reciprocal library in New Jersey, however, lending library’s rules apply to borrowing. Likewise, cardholders from participating libraries may borrow most items from the South Brunswick Library providing they are in possession of their library card and in good standing.
Individuals who work in South Brunswick but live in another municipality are entitled to a free library card valid only at the South Brunswick Public Library. This card is valid for one year and individuals must present proof of employment, i.e. paycheck stub, at time of registration and when the card is due for renewal.
Students who attend school in South Brunswick but live in another municipality are eligible to receive a student card valid for one year. This card provides students full access to the South Brunswick Library only.
Non-residents may purchase a non-resident card for a fee of $75/year. This card allows access to all borrowing privileges at the South Brunswick Library and access to all programming.
To borrow items a physical or digital library card must be presented at the time of check-out. There cannot be any lost items on the account or any replacement fees owed for damaged material. Reciprocal users must present a valid library card and be in good standing at their home libraries in order to borrow material at SBPL.
Library cards are issued at no charge. Lost cards should be reported to the Library immediately. Cardholders are responsible for all borrowing on an active account.
Confidentiality of Library Records
Library staff is not permitted to give information about an account to anyone but the cardholder. The New Jersey Confidentiality of Library Records Law provides that: Library records which contain the names or other personally identifying details regarding the users are confidential and shall not be disclosed except in the following circumstances:
- The records are necessary for the proper operation of the library.
- Disclosure is requested by the user, or
- Disclosure is required pursuant to a subpoena issued by a court or court order
N.J.S.A. 18A:73-43.1
Based on legal opinion and guidance of the New Jersey Library Association, the South Brunswick Library will release records of minor children elementary school age and younger to parental units in deference to the Parental Access to Unemancipated Child’s Records Act. The library card or other proof of family relationship must be presented.
Loan Periods
Loan periods vary according to the material. See below for information.
DVDS | 1 week |
Magazines | 1 week |
New Books | 2 or 3 weeks |
Summer Reading Books | 2 weeks |
Juvenile Holiday Books | 2 weeks |
All other books | 3 weeks |
Music CDs | 3 weeks |
Connectivity Devices | 2 weeks* |
Digital Devices | 2 weeks* |
*To borrow digital or connectivity devices, you must be 18 years of age or older, reside in South Brunswick, and have a library card in good standing. Adults from outside of South Brunswick who have purchased a resident card may also borrow devices. Please refer to our Digital Connectivity and Device Policy on our website for more details.
Fees
All material in the Library can be borrowed free of charge.
Overdue Fines
South Brunswick Library does not charge late fees for overdue material borrowed from the main Library or the Mobile Branch.
Reciprocal borrowers with blocked cards from their home library due to lost or damaged items cannot use their card at SBPL.
Damaged/Lost Items
Patrons who lose or damage an item must pay for the replacement cost of the item. If the cost is not listed or the item is no longer in print, the patron must pay the default price listed on the schedule of default prices.
Patrons who wish to provide a replacement copy of a book in lieu of payment may do so only with prior approval of the Department Head in charge of purchasing. Replacement copies must be the same or newer edition and brand new. Used books will not be accepted.
A person who fails to pay for a lost item will have his/her borrowing privileges suspended. Patron accounts with lost items totaling $100 or more may be sent to a collection agency. Patrons will receive two overdue notifications, a lost item notification, and a letter from the collection agency before being officially sent to collection. Patrons are responsible for paying the cost the library incurs for collection services.
Limit of Items Charged Out
There is no limit to the number of items a person may check out at any given time with the following exceptions:
- Only three magazines of the same title
- Only three nonfiction titles with the exact same call number
Renewals
Most items can be renewed two times as long asthere is not a hold placed on the item.
Renewals may be done in person, over the phone, or online via our webpage. When renewing over the phone the caller must provide a valid user ID. After the renewal limit is reached the item must remain in the library for 24 hours before the same person may borrow it again. The Library also provides automatic renewal for eligible items.
South Brunswick cardholders are given priority for holds and renewals of South Brunswick items over cardholders from other towns.
Holds
South Brunswick patrons can place holds on most items in the library as well as some material from other libraries through a system hold or inter-library loan. This service is free of charge in most circumstances.
For the shipping of an interlibrary loan from out of state, a $4 charge may be billed to your account. Patrons will be contacted in advance for authorization of this $4 fee.
List of Default Prices
$35.00 for each adult hardcover book
$20.00 for each juvenile hardcover book
$9.00 for each paperback book?
$20 per DVD
$250.00 for each Chromebook.
$25 for connectivity device (hotspot)
$225 Samsung tablet
$26.00 Samsung tablet book cover
$12.00 Samsung fast charging wall charge with USB cable
$16.00 carrying case for 12-13” (thin sleeve with handles)
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees June 22, 2023
The South Brunswick Library Mobile Branch follows the main Library Borrowing Policies, as revised and adopted by the Library Board of Trustees, with the following exceptions:
Library Cards
A patron may borrow from the Mobile Branch with a library card or other valid
ID (driver’s license, school ID, etc.).
Loan Period
Loan periods on the Bookmobile are as follows:
- DVDs — 2 weeks with no renewal
- Magazines — 2 weeks with no renewals
- Newly released or high demand books — 2 weeks with no renewals
- All other books — 4 weeks with two renewals
- Music CDs — 2 weeks with two renewals
- Interlibrary Loans — 4 weeks with no renewals; no exceptions
Requests/Reserves/ILL
Mobile Branch items cannot be placed on hold; however, patrons may request in person or place a system hold on items from the main library or other consortium (LMxAC) libraries or request an interlibrary-loans (ILL) from libraries outside LMxAC and designate that they be placed on the Mobile Branch for pickup.
There is no charge for placing a system hold. Items must be picked up within four days.
In order to pick up a system hold or ILL, a patron must be in possession of the card used to place the hold or written permission of the cardholder.
Limit of Items Charged Out
Due to the size of the collection, there are limits, per person, per day, on certain Mobile Branch items as follows:
- Maximum of two magazines of the same title
- Maximum of two nonfiction titles on the same subject (i.e.: cookbook,
- travel book, etc.)
- Maximum of two holiday books
- Maximum of five DVDs
- Maximum of five Music CDs
- Maximum of twenty (20) items in total
Adopted by the the Library Board of Trustees February 15, 2018
The South Brunswick Library has established a collection of Cake Pans for lending purposes. We encourage you to borrow the pans to bake a cake for a holiday, special event or just for fun! The South Brunswick Library encourages the public to share its successes and failures on our social media accounts.
Please read the policy below guiding the borrowing of this special collection.
- Cake pans may be borrowed for free for up to two weeks, with two renewals if no one is waiting. Cake pans will not be sent to other libraries to fulfill holds. Cake pans must be returned to the South Brunswick Library.
- Holds on a specific pan or set may be placed for pickup at the South Brunswick Public Library per SBPL’s borrowing policy.
- Any pan (or set) that is returned late will incur a late fee of $.25 per day with a maximum fine of $5.00.
- The cake pans will be checked out at the Borrower Services Desk and examined to make sure they are clean and in good condition. Cake pans must be returned to a staff member at the Borrower Services Desk to make sure the pan is clean and free from damage. Cake pans should not be returned to any library bookdrop including the one at the library.
- Please wash your cake pan thoroughly in warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly before and after you use it. The South Brunswick Library is not responsible for any allergic reactions caused by use of these pans. Please note, not all of our pans are dishwasher safe.
- The replacement cost for a lost or damaged pan will be based on the price of a new replacement pan.
- Anyone returning a dirty pan will be charged a $5.00 cleaning fee. Cake Pan Lending Policy
- Donations of cake pans to add to our collection are welcome with prior approval from staff. Pans should be clean and in good condition.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees August 3, 2017
An Inter-Library Loan is material obtained from another Library, at patron request, outside of the Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium.
- Inter-library Loan (ILL) borrowing is available only to SBPL patrons or non-residents who have purchased a SBPL card. Requestor’s account must be in in good standing. A patron in good standing has a card that is not blocked due to excessive fines or lost items.
- The SBPL card with which the request was made must be presented at check-out.
- Requests can be made in person at the Information Desk, by calling the Library, or electronically.
- SBPL will process requests through all available lending sources but cannot guarantee an ILL request will be filled. ILLs cannot be processed as a “rush”. All request forms should include a “Date Not Needed After” if it applies.
- For materials that can only be obtained from Libraries outside New Jersey, a $4 shipping charge will apply. Patron approval will be required before the item can be shipped.
- ILL items will be returned to the lending library if not picked up within seven days after being notified by the library of availability.
- The loan period for all ILLs is three week weeks with no renewals. There is a one month waiting period from when an item is returned until the same ILL can be re-requested.
- Lost ILL fines and fees are determined by the lending library.
- The South Brunswick Library will not lend through interlibrary loan materials requested from its New Book collection, dvds, video games, newly released audiobook or music cds, launchpads, hotspots and museum passes. The South Brunswick Library also has the right to refuse any inter-library loan request due to local needs. The South Brunswick Library will attempt to interlibrary-loan all library material patrons request with the understanding that other libraries may also have restrictions on what types of material are available for loan.
Proposed to the Library Board of Trustees June 15, 2017
Re-adopted by the Library Board May 16, 2013
Revised and re-adopted by the Library Board June 15, 2017
Library Operation Policies
The South Brunswick Public Library is an inclusive library, committed to serving the needs of patrons with disabilities. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the South Brunswick Library will provide equitable access to its facility, collections, programs and services. The South Brunswick Public Library will provide reasonable accommodations to ensure that patrons regardless of their abilities may participate fully in all that the Library has to offer.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees October 19, 2017
The South Brunswick Library offers a variety of educational, cultural and early literacy programs for children of all ages.
Due to space limitations in our programming spaces, most children’s programs are limited to South Brunswick Library card-holding families. In addition, some programs may require the advance distribution of entry tickets as a means of crowd control.
For more information about individual children’s programs please inquire at the Children’s Desk.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees August 4, 2011
Certain reading rooms and library spaces are designed and provided for the intended use of specific age groups. These areas are dedicated to offering a comfortable, welcoming, or focused atmosphere for a defined age segment of the population.
The South Brunswick Public Library is committed to providing an inviting and safe space for teenage patrons and “tween” patrons to engage in individual and group activities. The social nature and unique characteristics of these age groups require separate spaces designed for their needs. The Teen Rooms and Tween Lounge have been established to provide appropriate spaces for these particular age groups. Other patrons are free to use these areas when school is in session; however at all other times these areas are reserved for use by Teens or Tweens.
The South Brunswick Public Library is also committed to providing a quiet space for serious study and focused work. The Quiet Study Lab has been established for Adults and High School Students to work without distraction or interruption. This space is designed solely for this age group at all times.
The Library’s Café is a space where small groups can meet and talk unless reserved for a library program. Cell phone use is permitted in the Library Café.
Originally Approved by the Library Board of Trustees on March 20, 2014
Revised by Board of Trustees: August 4, 2016
The South Brunswick Library believes all patrons should have equal access to library services and materials in a safe and welcoming environment. To achieve this goal, the Library Board of Trustees has adopted a Library Behavior Policy. This policy sets a standard of behavior for all library users, encouraging everyone to act in a respectful and responsible way towards each other, the library staff, the library building and its material.
- All are welcome to use the library. Children under the age of seven, however, must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult at all times and not left unattended. Children 7-10 must have a responsible caregiver in the building with them at all times. Children over the age of 10 may be left unattended for short periods of time. Parents/guardians should encourage their children to use their low voices and calm/console upset children when necessary.
- Cell phones should be turned off or set to vibrate/silent ring when inside the library building as a courtesy to other library users. All phone conversations should be limited to the library’s lobby area and in the cafe.
- Please maintain low noise levels when using the library to allow others to study, read or work quietly. Listening devices should be heard only by the person using them. Please use headphones when listening to audio on computers.
- While food and drink are permitted in the library with the exception of the Smart Lab, please remember to clean up after yourself and throw away all garbage in nearby trash receptacles. Please take extra care when eating/drinking in areas with computers or when using library materials.
- No alcohol is permitted inside the building. In accordance with NJ State Law, smoking is prohibited inside the library building, including e-cigarettes. In addition, as established by the governance of the Library Board of Trustees, to ensure the safety and comfort of all library visitors, no smoking is permitted on the exterior landing or steps of the Library’s main entrance.
- For health and safety reasons, appropriate attire, including shirts and shoes, must be worn at all times.
- The use of cameras in the library is prohibited unless authorized by the library administration and with the consent of all those being photographed.
- Service animals are welcome in the library. No other animals are permitted inside the building.
- Library staff and customers should treat each other with mutual respect and courtesy.
- In accordance with the Township of South Brunswick’s Harassment policy, the display of sexually explicit or obscene material is not permitted in the Library. Such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment and is considered disruptive behavior. Threatening speech and disruptive behavior, including the invasion of other people’s personal space, excessive noise, or the display of obscene material will not be tolerated. An official warning will be given to anyone exhibiting disruptive behavior, interfering with another person’s use of the library or with the library personnel’s performance of their duties. Continued inappropriate behavior will lead to expulsion from the library, parental notification if a minor, and possible police notification and involvement.
- The Library Staff has the authority to maintain order and ensure the safety of staff and customers. All customers must follow the directions of the staff regarding library rules and regulations.
- Library property should be respected. For example, books/materials should not be damaged or defaced and feet should not be placed on furniture. Running, rollerblading, or skateboarding is not permitted in the library.
- Public restrooms are not appropriate locations for bathing, washing laundry, shaving, loitering or congregating. If you are in need of temporary shelter or emergency services, the library staff can provide information regarding these services.
- Customers using the public computers must adhere to the library’s Internet Policy. Staff members reserve the right to terminate use on the public computers for inappropriate behavior or the display of sexually explicit or obscene material. Continued inappropriate behavior will lead to expulsion from the library, parental notification if a minor, and possible police notification and involvement.
- Solicitation is not permitted in the library.
- All other standards and practices of polite behavior and good manners should be observed at all times by all library patrons.
- Patrons may not designate a public area of the Library for a private meeting. Patrons also may not shut off from public access specific areas to conduct a meeting.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees October 15, 2008
Readpopted on Feb 2019
Introduction
The South Brunswick Public Library endeavors to provide all individuals in the community with carefully selected materials to aid in the pursuit of education, information, research, pleasure, and the creative use of leisure time.
The collection development policy is used by the library staff in the selection and retention of materials and also serves to acquaint the general public with the principles of selection. Collection development is the ongoing process of assessing the materials available for purchase or licensing and making the decision, first, on their inclusion, and second, on their retention.
The American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, and the Freedom to View and the New Jersey Library Association’s People’s Rights to Libraries have been endorsed by the South Brunswick Public Library Board of Trustees and are integral parts of this policy.
The collection development policy, like all other library policies, will be reviewed and/or revised as the need arises.
Scope of Collection
The primary goal of collection development is to provide the best possible collection with
the financial resources available. The decision to select any item for the collection is based on demand, anticipated need, and the effort to maintain a wide and balanced collection, representing all sides of an issue.
The inclusion of an item in the library collection in no way represents an endorsement of its contents. Only individuals can determine what is most appropriate for their needs and can define what material or information is consistent with their personal or family values. Parents and legal guardians have the responsibility for their children’s use of library materials.
In the development of its collection, the South Brunswick Public Library recognizes that it is impossible for a library of our size to meet all the needs of our community. As a member of an automated resource sharing network, other reciprocal agreements, and a state supported inter-library loan system, the library supplements its resources with materials borrowed from other libraries through these larger entities.
Professional and special materials, such as legal, medical, and religious works, are purchased only if they are of general interest.
The Library does not support educational curriculums through the purchase of textbooks. Textbooks may be added to the collection if they provide the best or only source of information on a subject, or to complement an existing area with another perspective.
Selection Criteria
Library materials are selected on the basis of informational, educational, cultural, and recreational value. These materials are selected in compliance with the mission and goals of the library. The following general criteria are also used in selecting materials for addition to the collection:
- Importance and value to the collection and library users
- Significance, timeliness or permanence of subject matter
- Public demand/anticipated need
- Local interest
- Cost and budgetary constraints
- Authority, accuracy, and artistic quality
- Relevance/suitability of physical format
- Representation of diverse points of view
- Reputation or qualifications of the author, creator or publisher
- Value of the resource in relation to its cost
- Availability from approved vendor
- Attention of critics and reviewers, award winners, or inclusion in bibliography
Reviews from professional and popular media are a major source of information about new materials. Standard bibliographies, indexes, book and media lists by recognized authorities, including best seller lists, and the advice of competent people in specific subject areas also may be used.
Not all materials and information found via the Internet are part of the collection. Only web-based resources accessed over the Internet that are specifically selected using the criteria outlined in this policy are a part of the collection. Special considerations for electronic information sources are:
- Ease of use of the product.
- Availability of the information to multiple, concurrent users
- Technical requirements to provide access to the information
- Technical support and training.
Gifts and Donations
The library accepts gifts, donations, and will purchase memorials. The library reserves the right to evaluate all gifts, donations, and memorial requests in accordance with the criteria applied to purchased materials. Those which do not meet the library’s objectivesand policies may be refused. Bookplates may be provided for memorials and gifts. The library does not provide an appraisal of donated items. The library will, upon request of the donor, provide a written receipt for gifts, indicating the number and general description of materials. No other conditions may be imposed relating to any gift, donation, or memorial either before or after its acceptance by the library.
Withdrawal of Materials
The collection is reviewed and revised on an ongoing basis to meet contemporary needs. Collections are current and popular, not archival, nor are materials needlessly duplicated. Materials that are worn, damaged, outdated, duplicated, no longer accurate, and no longer used may be removed from the collection. The professional staff of the library, under the general direction and supervision of the Library Director, will be solely responsible for the withdrawal of materials.
Responsibility for Selection
Final authority for the determination of policy in the acquisition of books and other materials is vested in the Library Board of Trustees. Responsibility for material selection within this policy and control of expenditure for materials rests with the Director. Selection decisions may be delegated to qualified staff members by the Director.
Reconsideration of Materials
Although materials are carefully selected, there can be differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Whenever a patron objects to the presence or absence of any library material, the objection will be referred to the staff member(s) responsible for purchasing that material. The staff member or department supervisor will discuss the matter with the complainant. Requests for reconsideration may be made only by patrons completing a “Request For Reconsideration of Library Material” form which is available from the library. The completed form will be given to the Library Director for a written response. A decision will be made regarding the material within a reasonable amount of time, with written reasons for the decision conveyed to the patron. Appeals from the Library Director’s decision may be directed only to the Board of Trustees for their final decision.
Revised and re-adopted September 15, 201
The South Brunswick Public Library, in keeping with its mission, offers meeting room space as
available for public programs offered without a fee that are of an educational, cultural, or civic nature. The program must be a) given by community individuals or organizations b) open to
the general public; c) of broad interest to and for the benefit of the general public; d) of an
educational, cultural or civic purpose; and e) offered without an admission fee. If the above criteria are met, the room will be available for no cost. Qualified community service organizations whose membership is comprised primarily of South Brunswick residents (such as scout troops and parenting support groups) will also be granted free use of the facilities. If these criteria are not met, a room may be available for a rental fee.
Free use of a Library Meeting Room will not be authorized for the commercial benefit of private
individuals, or profit-making purposes. Solicitation of money (including admission charges, dues, donations or sales) is prohibited.
Use of a meeting room at the library is obtained by submitting a written request form (see below). All requests must be approved by library administration. South Brunswick Public Library (hereafter referred to as “The Library”) programs and functions have first priority for the use of library facilities. Reservations for a room in the library are not guaranteed; the library reserves the right to reschedule any meeting if a conflict in time or date should occur. The Library reserves the right to assign or relocate a group to any meeting room that meets the requirements submitted on the application.
Room Use/Rental Application Process
To use a meeting room at the library, applicants should submit a Room Use/Rental Application no later than two weeks prior to the requested date. The form, along with the Room Use Rules and Regulations, can found on our website at www.sbpl.info under Services> Meeting Rooms or by clicking on the link in Paragraph 3 below. The form can be submitted in person at the Information Desk in the library, by email to outreach@sbpl.info or by mail to the attention of the Outreach Department.
Meeting Rooms are available for free for programs that meet the criteria listed above. Programs (by non-profit and for-profit organizations alike) that do not meet the criteria for free use of the library can apply to rent a room. A fee will be charged if: 1) the program/event is not open to the general public; 2) the program/event is not of broad interest to and for the benefit of the general public; 3) the program/event is not of an educational, cultural or civic purpose; and/or 4) if an admission fee will be charged.
Before filling out an application:
- Check the South Brunswick Public Library Hours of Service on our home page at https://www.sbpl.info. Use of the meeting rooms is only allowed when the library is open. All meetings must end at least 15 minutes prior to closing.
- Check the availability of the room on our Event Calendar.
- Review the South Brunswick Public Library Meeting Room Policy, Rules and Regulations. A copy of these Rules and Regulations and a Rental Fee Schedule are attached to the Room Use/Rental Application. Please make sure you read them and retain a copy for your record and use; exceptions to any of the rules will not be made.
- Confirm that your requested date is no less than two weeks from the date of the application. No application will be accepted less than 2 weeks prior to the requested date; no exceptions.
Where scheduling conflicts exist, priority will be given as follows: 1) Library programs; 2) Library affiliated programs; 3) Township organizations; 4) Non-township organizations whose service area incorporates South Brunswick township and 5) Other
All paperwork must be complete, signed and received by the library before the designated room will be officially reserved and the time and date put on the calendar.
General Room Use Rules and Regulations
These regulations apply for all uses of the library – for approved no-fee use of the library and
for the rental of a room.
- 1. Use of library meeting rooms is limited to the type of meeting or activity stated on the application.
- The meeting rooms at the South Brunswick Public Library are available for use only during the hours the Library is open.
- Groups using a Library Meeting Room are required to end their meetings 15 minutes prior to closing.
- No public area of the Library will be designated for meetings and no specific areas can be shut off from public access to conduct a meeting.
- Use of each meeting room is restricted to the maximum legal capacity for each room. Should the number of attendees exceed the number designated at the time of application or the legal capacity of the room, the Library reserves the right to deny access to the Library facility.
- Smoking, alcoholic beverages, illegal substances or activities, open flames (or cooking) and live animals (except service animals) are not permitted on library property.
- A one time maximum $12.00 per person materials fee is allowable with written approval by the Library Administration.
- The group will be held responsible for any damage to, or theft of, library property.
- Applications will be accepted on or after September 1 for available dates January through June of the following year and on or after March 1 for available dates July through December of the same year.
- Groups may reserve a meeting room on weekdays or evenings up to two times each month; bookings on weekends are limited to once a month per group due to high demand.
- Any group using a meeting room is expected to conduct its proceedings in a quiet, orderly manner, not disruptive of normal library functions.
- The Library will not store items for groups using the meeting rooms. The Library is not responsible for damage to, or loss of, personal items used or left in the meeting rooms.
- At least one adult must be present at any meeting attended by minors. At all assemblies of children under the age of 4, there must be one adult per child. For groups of children aged 4-10, there must be one adult for every 5 children. The Library staff will not be responsible for the supervision of children while adults are attending meetings in the Library.
- Groups are responsible for notifying the Library of the cancellation of any meeting or program. The Library reserves the right to refuse future bookings to groups that consistently fail to appear on scheduled meeting dates or do not abide by the above policies.
- The organizational representative signing this form must be over 18 years of age and in attendance to conduct and/or monitor the meeting. The representative may appoint a designee from the organization to attend in his/her place if he/she is unable to attend. The Library must be given prior notice of the designee’s name, title, address and telephone number.
- The Library grants an organization use of a designated room only and does not agree to assist in publicizing the event, to prepare for the event, to sign-up attendees or take reservations for the event or to attend or assist at the actual event.
- Preparation of the room, including the set-up and take-down of chairs and tables, and clean-up following the meeting are the sole responsibility of the group requesting use of the room. Trash must be bagged and removed from the premises at the end of the meeting and the room must be left clean and orderly. The library reserves the right to charge a clean up fee ranging from $25.00-$50.00. The group will also be responsible for any damage to library property.
- All publicity for non-library sponsored meetings must clearly indicate the name of the sponsoring agency. Any purposes, objectives or views of groups using meeting rooms shall not be advertised in a way to suggest that the Library endorses them.
- The organization may not hang posters, banners, signs or flyers of any kind on the Library premises without approval and written permission of the Library Administration. One (1) flyer, no larger than 8 ½ x 11,” with a contact name and phone number for the organization, may be given to the Library for posting on the Community Information Bulletin Board only and multiple copies may be provided for distribution from the Community Information Pamphlet Rack only. These posters and flyers will not be posted earlier than one month prior to the date of the event.
- No decorations attached to floors, walls or ceilings are allowed. If discovered to have been used, a minimum damage fee of $50.00 will be assessed to the organization.
- An insurance waiver will be required for the use of the Library facilities by all non- Library affiliated organizations or entities. Supplemental insurance of exceptions may be required upon review. A group member’s homeowner’s policy waiver is sufficient for an organization that does not carry insurance. A current insurance certificate must be submitted with the Application Form, or be on file with the Library, before a reservation is confirmed.
- Some audiovisual equipment can be rented for use in the library; availability is not guaranteed. (See fee schedule.) No set-up, training or assistance with the equipment is available either in advance or on the day of the event. Groups will be held responsible for any damage to, or theft of, Library property.
- All fees for room or equipment rental must be submitted no later than one week prior to the use of the room. Checks should be made payable to The South Brunswick Public Library and dropped off at the Information Desk or mailed to the library to the attention of the Outreach Department.
The above rules and regulations are available to applicant at the time of registration and will be considered to have been read and understood by all applicants. Failure to abide by these regulations may result in the withdrawal of meeting room privileges.
The Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to waive regulations at their discretion.
Proposal to Offer a Program in Partnership with the Public Library
The library welcomes persons or organizations to partner with the library to offer programs to the general public. As a Partner, the Library will provide a meeting room at no cost, will assist with publicity and promotion of the program and will, if possible, assist with set-up of the facility on the day of the event. Any person who wishes to present a program at the library should complete and submit a Program Proposal Application at least two months prior to the proposed date of the event. The form can be submitted in person at the Information Desk in the library, by email to outreach@sbpl.info or by mail to the attention of the Outreach Department.
The nature and content of the program should be described and preferences to date and time should be noted. A representative from the library will contact the applicant to discuss the necessary arrangements for the program. The Library reserves the right to accept or reject a Program Proposal.
Right to Cancel
Either party may cancel this Agreement with written notice to the other. In order for a refund of any deposits to be returned to the applicant, the written notice must be received by the library no later than 48 hours prior to the date of the event. In the event of inclement weather (or other non-preventable occurrences) the deposit will be refunded without the required 48 hour notice.
Hold Harmless Statement
This application must be signed by an authorized representative of the organization, at least 18
years of age, who is a South Brunswick resident or property owner or by an authorized representative, at least 18 years of age, of the applying South Brunswick area based business. A hold harmless statement along with proof of insurance is required for all events indemnifying South Brunswick Public Library and the Township of South Brunswick. See application.
Approved: June 2012
In accordance with the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act, no smoking or vaping is permitted anywhere within the Christopher J. Killmurray Building or the Mobile Branch. The NJ Department of Health revised the definition of no smoking to include electronic smoking devices and hookah.
In addition, as established by the governance of the Library Board of Trustees, to ensure the safety and comfort of all library visitors, no smoking is permitted at any of the library’s entrances or anywhere on the library campus. The Board of Trustees has designated the library building and its campus to be a Smoke Free Zone.
Revised and Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees June 24, 2021
The South Brunswick Library strives to take reasonable precautions to assure a safe and secure environment for its patrons and staff. Since the library staff cannot provide direct supervision over all areas within the library, video security cameras are installed at selected locations inside the building.
Observation of activity, whether in real time or from digitally records storage, shall be limited to activities that are specific to library operations, may affect the safety and security of the library patrons and staff, and provide protection for library assets or property.
Real-time monitors may be set up in public areas at the discretion of the Library Director or his/her designee.
- All camera placement is determined by the Library Director or his/her designee. Cameras shall not be placed in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms.
- To the extent that any recorded images include identifiable persons requesting information or checking out an item, such record shall be treated as confidential as provided in NJSA 18A:73-43.2. Only designated library staff may view real time images or screen recorded images for potential breach of confidentiality. Any inadvertent views of protected information shall be held in confidence by the library staff under the library’s confidentiality policy.
- Signage shall be conspicuously displayed within the library advising of the recording of images. Cameras do not record audible conversations or communication.
- Cameras will not be monitored continuously by staff. Authorization to view stored images may be granted by the Library Director or his/her designee.
- The Library Director holds the authority to designate library staff members who may access video in real time or in recorded formats. Generally, authority may be delegated to the assistant director or the most senior librarian on duty.
- Circumstances under which designated staff may access images in real time include, but are not limited to, observation of areas beyond view from designated workstations for assurance of safety and security. Access to real time or recorded imagery is also authorized to designated staff upon report of suspicious behavior, Library Security Camera Policyi ncluding policy violations, criminal activity, destruction or theft of library property or assets, or other activity that may be disruptive to library operations.
- Video records and still photographs may be used to identify person(s) for library policy violations, criminal activity on library property, or actions considered disruptive to normal library operations or harmful to the provision of library services.
- Video records may be shared with authorized library staff when appropriate, or upon approval of the Director or Director’s designee with other Library staff to identify those suspended from library property and to maintain a safe, secure an policy-compliant environment.
- Video records may be used to assist law enforcement agencies in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. All requests for the viewing of real time or recorded imagery by law enforcement officials must be presented to the Director. If the Director is unavailable, such requests shall be presented to the administrative or supervisory staff designated by the Library Director to hold such authority. Law enforcement may view recorded images unless such images include records protected by NJSA 18A:73-43.2, in which case such records would be released only pursuant to a valid court order.
- Staff may not access surveillance recorded data in response to requests from the press or general public, including victims of crimes and individuals concerned with the personal safety of family, friends, or co-workers. Such individuals should be directed to contact law enforcement.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees June 20, 2019
The South Brunswick Library prides itself on providing a warm and welcoming environment for people of all ages. We encourage the community to use our library often and to enjoy all the services it has to offer.
The Library, however, is also a public building and as in all public buildings, “stranger danger” is a real concern. Library staff cannot and should not be expected to prevent children from interacting with or leaving the library with a person who is not an appropriate chaperone.
Therefore, the Library Board of Trustees has adopted an Unattended Children Policy designed to promote the safety of the Library’s youngest patrons. Young children unable to care for themselves should not be left alone in the library. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians/caregivers to supervise their children while they are using the library. The Library is not responsible for any consequences of parents ignoring their responsibility.
An unattended child is defined as a young child who is unable to care for him/herself when left alone in the library without another adult in sight/sound range, any child left alone for long period of time, or any child not picked up at closing time.
We ask that all guardians, for the safety of the children entrusted to them, follow the Unattended Children Policy adopted by the South Brunswick Library Board of Trustees.
The Unattended Children Policy is as follows:
- Children under the age of 8 must have a responsible adult with them at all times. (An adult is defined as someone age 18 and older). The adult must remain in sight and conversation distance of the child at all times.
- Children ages 8-11 may be left unattended for short periods of time but must have a responsible caregiver in the Library at all times for the duration of the visit. In general, the Library considers more than twenty minutes in the Library without in-person caregiver oversight to be excessive. The caregiver must be at least 14 years old and have the number of where a parent/guardian can be reached in case of emergency.
- Children age 12 and above are welcome to the use the Library unattended but not for extended periods of time. We expect parents to set limits for their children’s library visits. In general, the Library considers more than three hours in the Library without a parent or caregiver present excessive and inappropriate. Parents should be certain to provide their children with an emergency number where they can be reached at all times.
- A child under the age of 18 with no means of getting home at the time the Library closes is considered a stranded minor. The police will be notified 10 minutes after closing to take custody of the stranded minor if staff has been unsuccessful reaching a parent or guardian and the child has no means of getting home.
- If a child is left in the care of someone deemed not responsible by Library staff, parents/guardians will be notified and asked to pick up the child immediately from the Library.
- If a child is left unattended in the Library for an extended period of time, the Library staff will also contact the parent/guardian responsible for the child. If no one is available, the staff reserves the right to notify police if deemed necessary.
- Parents are still responsible for their children’s actions while they are using the Library. Children must follow the rules of appropriate behavior in the Library and must heed all instructions and any warnings by staff. Children of any age will be asked to leave the Library if they are behaving inappropriately.
- Parents should be aware of the Library hours and arrive at the library 10 minutes before closing to be certain their child is picked up before the library closes for the evening. For up to date hours of operation, please call the library at 732-329-4000 ext. 7290 or check the library’s website www.sbpl.info.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees October 15, 2008. Revised and Re-adopted by the Library Board of Trustees on October 20, 2022.
The South Brunswick Public Library offers the public opportunities to give service to the Library through a variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers assist paid staff in their efforts to provide quality service to the community—they do not replace Library staff.
Volunteers are accepted by the library on an as needed-basis and individuals who submit their
applications cannot be guaranteed placement. All volunteers must act in accordance with the policies and mission of the South Brunswick Library and represent the library in a positive manner. Friends of the Library members and volunteers selected by the Friends of the Library to work on special projects (i.e. the Friends’ book sales) are first subject to the volunteer policies and oversight of the Friends of the South Brunswick Public Library.
Procedures and guidelines for teen or student volunteers are covered in the Teen Volunteer Policy.
How to Become a Volunteer
- All adult volunteers must fill out an application available at the public desks or online via our website and return it to the Borrower Services Desk.
- Staff members seeking volunteer assistance for special projects will contact the volunteer directly if the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and availability match the Library’s needs.
- Volunteers may be asked to come to the library for a brief interview to discuss the project.
- Applications will be kept on file for six months.
- Any adult volunteer working directly with children will be required to go through a criminal background check.
- Acceptance of an application is at the library’s discretion.
Supervision
- Every volunteer will be trained by a coordinating staff member who will explain the task to be completed. The staff member will answer all questions and set the volunteer’s schedule.
- If the staff member is unavailable, the volunteer can ask questions of any senior person in the department where he/she is working.
- The coordinating staff member will also review the quality of the work and discuss any problems with the volunteer directly. It is the volunteer’s responsibility to update the staff member on the status of his/her work assignment.
- Repeated failure to report for volunteering without advance notice may lead to removal from service.
Volunteer Opportunities
Tasks that may be performed by volunteers are listed below, however not all opportunities are available at all times
- Clerical tasks
- Help with programs and projects
- Dust books and shelves
- Inventory book collections
- Clean books and other materials
- Building Maintenance
- Shelf read
Rules for Volunteers
- Volunteers may work only when the library is open and when a staff member is available to oversee their work.
- Volunteers should notify the Library as soon as they know they will be late or absent.
- Volunteers must sign in to the volunteer notebook and wear a volunteer tag.
- Volunteers are not allowed access to patrons’ private confidential records.
- Volunteers should maintain a friendly, professional demeanor at all times.
- Volunteer’s dress and grooming should be business appropriate in keeping with his/her work assignment.
- Volunteers should not sit or stand behind the Public Desks (Information Services, Children’s or Borrower Services). Work should be done in the public area whenever possible. Volunteers should also not answer the library phones or reference questions by the public. If a volunteer’s job requires him/her to go behind the desk for a short period of time, the volunteer should request permission first from staff member.
- Volunteers should not be in the private staff area without special permission from the on-site supervisor or staff member.
- Shifts for volunteers should be limited to generally 2-3 hours per day.
Community Service Volunteers
At times, the library will accommodate individuals who need to complete community service hours set by an outside agency. All requests to complete the required hours should be sent to the Library Director or Assistant Director. A decision will be made on a case by case basis, with consideration given to staff availability for supervising and volunteer work availability.
Proposed to the Library Board of Trustees October 20, 2016
Technology Services Policies
The South Brunswick Library’s 3D printer makes three-dimensional objects in plastic using
a design that is uploaded from a digital computer file. This 3D printer services may be used
by anyone with borrowing privileges to the South Brunswick Public Library.
South Brunswick cardholders will be given priority in queue when the printer is in high demand.
Restrictions
- The Library’s 3D printer may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use the Library’s 3D printer to create material that is:
- Prohibited by local, state or federal law.
- Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat, actual or implied, to the well-being of others as determined by the Library Director or designee.
- Items that can be viewed as threatening or racially, ethnically or otherwise obscene, provocative or inappropriate for the Library environment as determined by the Library Director or designee.
- Objects in violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printer will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.
- Objects that are too large for the printer’s plate.
- A maximum of 4 hours print time will be allotted per person/per entity/per day. If printer is in high demand, only one print per person/per entity/per day will be allowed. Same day service is not guaranteed.
- The South Brunswick Library reserves the right to cancel any 3D print job request at any time.
- Only staff or designated volunteers will have hands-on access to the 3D printer.
- Print jobs that appear too large to be completed before library closing time will not be started.
Fees
- The Library charges .10 per gram for printouts payable at time of pickup.
- Individuals will be charged for items not picked up. Any item not picked up within two weeks of when the job is completed will become the property of the South Brunswick Library.
- Refunds will only be given if printer malfunctions.
Adpoted April 21, 2016
The South Brunswick Library loans a variety of digital and connectivity devices to its cardholders, such as tablets, Chromebooks, hotspots or similar free of charge. These devices increase patron access to the internet and the Library’s many digital resources.
Who Can Borrow:
- Adults 18 and over with a valid South Brunswick Library card may borrow any of these devices free of charge. Their SBPL card must be free of any lost or damaged items and cannot be blocked due to excessive fines from other consortium libraries.
- Adults who purchase a South Brunswick Public Library card are also permitted to borrow the digital and connectivity devices.
Terms and Conditions
- All devices can be borrowed for up two weeks with one renewal if no holds have been placed on the item.
- An item cannot be renewed if there is a hold on the item.
- Once a patron has reached the limit of one renewal, the item must remain in the Library for 24 hours before it can be borrowed again on the same card.
- Only South Brunswick cardholders can borrow or reserve the Library’s devices.
- If a device is lost, stolen, or returned damaged, a patron will be charged the replacement cost of the item.
- If any problems occur while using a device, the patron should contact the Information Desk to report the issue.
- SBPL is not responsible for any information patrons access or actions they take while online.
- Using the devices to access any online content determined to be illegal or obscene according to federal, state or municipal law will result in the revocation of borrowing privileges for the devices and potential criminal prosecution.
- All devices should be returned in person to the Borrower Services Desk when the Library is open. Devices should not be placed in the Library bookdrop or returned to the bookdrops in town.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees June 23, 2023
The South Brunswick Public Library provides facsimile services for the sending of faxes. This is a fee-based service available at the Information Desk. Library staff will send faxes on patron’s behalf for the following fees:
Domestic – within the United States:
- $1.25 for the first page
- $1.00 for each additional page
International
- $3.00 for the first page
- $2.00 for each additional page
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees January 19, 2012
Introduction
It is the policy of South Brunswick Public Library to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].
Definitions
Key terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act. (See Below)
Access to Inappropriate Material
To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to
inappropriate information.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors.
Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
Inappropriate Network Usage
To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the South Brunswick Public Library online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
Supervision and Monitoring
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Library staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and the Children’s Internet protection Act.
Adoption
This Internet Safety Policy was adopted by the Board of <School or Library> at a public meeting, following normal public notice, on September 9, 2021, to be implemented by library staff at the earliest possible date.
HARMFUL TO MINORS. The term “harmful to minors” means any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:
- Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion;
- Depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and
- Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
SEXUAL ACT; SEXUAL CONTACT. The terms “sexual act” and “sexual contact” have the meanings given such terms in section 2246 of title 18, United States Code.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees September 9, 2021
The South Brunswick Library believes all patrons should have equal access to library services and materials in a safe and welcoming environment. To achieve this goal, the Library Board of Trustees has adopted a Library Behavior Policy. This policy sets a standard of behavior for all library users, encouraging everyone to act in a respectful and responsible way towards each other, the library staff, the library building and its material.
The following are taken from the Library’s Behavior Policy. For the full policy, please see the Information Desk.
- Amended November 30, 2011
Please maintain low noise levels when using the library to allow others to study, read or work quietly. Listening devices should be heard only by the person using them. The use of headphones when listening to audio on computers is required. The use of personal headphones is allowed or your may purchase earbuds from the Information Desk for $1.50. - In accordance with the Township of South Brunswick’s Harassment policy, the display of sexually explicit or obscene material is not permitted in the Library. Such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment and is considered disruptive behavior. Threatening speech and disruptive behavior, including the invasion of other people’s personal space, excessive noise, or the display of obscene material will not be tolerated. An official warning will be given to anyone exhibiting disruptive behavior, interfering with another person’s use of the library or with the library personnel’s performance of their duties. Continued inappropriate behavior will lead to expulsion from the library, parental notification if a minor, and possible police notification and involvement.
- Customers using the public computers must adhere to the library’s Internet Policy. Staff members reserve the right to terminate use on the public computers for inappropriate behavior or the display of sexually explicit or obscene material. Continued inappropriate behavior will lead to expulsion from the library, parental notification if a minor, and possible police notification and involvement.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees October 15, 2008
To fulfill its mission of providing public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats, the South Brunswick Public Library (SBPL) provides access to Internet resources.
The SBPL endorses the ALA Library Bill of Rights, the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read statement and the NJ Library Association’s People’s Library Bill of Rights. Users have the right of confidentiality in all their activities with resources and services provided by the SBPL. The Library supports the user’s right to privacy; however, users are advised that, because security is technically difficult to achieve, electronic communications and files can become public.
The SBPL does not endorse the viewpoints or vouch for the accuracy or authenticity of information accessed via the Internet. The Internet offers access to many valuable local, national and international sources of information. However, some information found on the Internet may be inaccurate, incomplete, dated, or offensive to some individuals. A good information consumer must evaluate the validity and appropriateness of information found.
Choosing and Evaluating Sources
The Internet is a series of communication link and sites offering a highly diverse array of information content. Library patrons use it at their own risk. In choosing sources to link to from its home pages, the Library follows its materials selection guidelines. Beyond this, the Library is not responsible for the content of the Internet, changes in content of the sources to which the Library website links to, or for the content of sources accessed through secondary links or search engines. In an effort to assist its users, the Library has created sections of it’s website with recommended links curated for the general population, for teens and for children to help guide them to sources that are accurate, complete and current and that provide them with a wealth of information on the local, national and global level. In addition, the Library provides training for members of the public to assist them in using the Internet in a safe, effective and efficient manner. Finally, as set forth in greater detail below, in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Library has implemented “technology protection measures” (i.e., software filtering) on all of its Internet-accessible computers.
Filtering
As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”), in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding, the Library has implemented software filtering on all of its Internet- Public Internet Use Policy accessible computer terminals. The filtering technology used on Internet-accessible computers at the Library protects against access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and, in the case of persons under the age of 17 years, materials that are “harmful to minors.” Users should be aware, however, that all currently available filtering technology results in a degree of both “underblocking” (i.e., permitting access to certain material that falls within the foregoing categories) and “overblocking” (i.e., denying access to certain constitutionally protected material that does not fall within the foregoing categories). The Library has attempted to select filtering software that best complies with CIPA while providing Library users with the broadest possible access to constitutionally protected speech and information and at a reasonable expense to the Library. The Library cannot and does not guarantee that the filtering will block all obscenity, child pornography, or materials that are harmful to minors. Nor can the Library guarantee that the filtering will not restrict access to sites that may have legitimate research or other value. Any user who is 17 years of age or older may request access to a computer with filtering disabled in order to obtain unfiltered Internet access for bona fide research or other lawful purpose at the Information Desk or by following such instructions as the Library shall otherwise provide from time to time.
Access by Minors
Parents or legal guardians must assume responsibility for deciding which library resources are
appropriate for their own children. Parents or legal guardians should guide their children in use
of the Internet and inform them about materials they should not use. While the Library affirms
and acknowledges the rights and responsibilities of parents and guardians to monitor and determine their children’s access to Library materials and resources, including those available
through the Internet, the Library has taken certain measures designed to assist in the safe and
effective use of these resources by all minors.
A. To address the issue of access by minors to inappropriate material on the Internet, including
material that is harmful to minors, the Library:
- Develops and maintains recommended web links for children and teens;
- Develops and provides occasional training programs and resources on safe and effective Internet use;
- Encourages staff to guide minors away from materials that may be inappropriate;
- Has implemented filtering technology as more fully described above.
B. To address the issue of the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications, as well as the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors, the Library provides occasional training programs and resources and also urges minors to keep in mind the following safety guidelines:
- Never give out identifying information such as home address, school name, or telephone number.
- 2Let parents or guardians decide whether personal information such as age, marital status, or financial information should be revealed.
- Never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone via the computer without parents’ or guardians’ approval.
- Never respond to messages that are suggestive, obscene, threatening, or make one uncomfortable.
- Have parents or guardians report an incident to the local police and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 if one becomes aware of the transmission of child pornography.
- Remember that people online may not be who they say they are.
- Remember that everything one reads may not be true.
C. To address the issue of unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unlawful activities by minors online, minors and all other Library users are hereby advised that use of the Library’s computers for hacking or any other unlawful activity is strictly prohibited.
The SBPL reserves the right to terminate an Internet session at any time.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees September 9, 2021
Purpose
The South Brunswick Library considers social media to be a valuable, effective, and interactive way of sharing and promoting library news, classes and events. Social media also provides an instant connection between the library and the South Brunswick Community, promoting conversation between staff and library users about issues relating to the library and the broader community.
Definition
Social media is defined as any website, web application, or account created and/or maintained by the South Brunswick Library for the purpose of sharing information and communicating with the South Brunswick community.
Public Usage
While the Library encourages community members to use our social media sites, users should have no expectation of privacy when posting on these sites. Users must understand that social media is permanent, retrievable and public. The Library is not responsible for the comments or postings of any third party on any library sponsored social media. These postings do not reflect
the opinions of the Library staff, administration, or Library Board of Trustees.
Online interactions will be monitored regularly. While we respect the public’s right to express its opinions on our social media sites, the South Brunswick Library reserves the right to, but is not required to, remove any posts or comments it deems inappropriate.
Comments not permitted include, but are not limited to:
- Obscene content or hate speech
- Personal attacks, insults, or threatening language
- Private, personal information published without personal consent
- Potentially libelous statements
- Plagiarized material
- Comments, links, or information related to the purpose of the forum Social Media Policy• Spam or other commercial, political, or religious messages unrelated to the Library or its social media postings
- Solicitation of funds
- Any images, links, or other content that falls into the above categories
Anyone who violates this policy may be banned or blocked from posting on any of our social media sites.
The Library also reserves the right to edit or modify posts as long as it does not change the intent of the post. In addition, the Library reserves the right to reproduce any posts or comments in other public venues.
Originally Approved by the Library Board of Trustees on August 4, 2017
The South Brunswick Public Library offers wireless Internet connection availability throughout the Library to patrons with their own compatible equipment or devices.
The Library cannot guarantee the speed, security or stability of this service. The Library is not responsible for any damage or loss incurred while using this service.
Please note the wireless Internet connection at the Library is unsecured. The transmission of personal data and information through the Library’s wireless network is not recommended.
Internet access within the Library must adhere to all applicable Library policies and local, state and federal laws.
The Library reserves the right to limit or prevent access to the wireless network at any time.
Amended by the Library Board of Trustees April 19, 2012