Policies

Purpose

The circulation policies of the Norfolk Public Library exist to facilitate community access to the materials and information in the library's collections, while protecting these same collections.

Norfolk Public Library's circulation polices are intended to be in accord with the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights.

Please note: Effective July 1, 2021Overdue fines for late materials are not charged. Previous fines and fees (incurred before July 1, 2021) are still in effect and must be paid for accounts to return to good standing. 

Patrons are expected to return or renew items on or before their due date. Items on hold for another borrower cannot be renewed. Fees charges for lost or damaged items will continue. The remainder of the Circulation Policies remain in effect. 

How do I get a library card?

You can obtain a library card by visiting any Norfolk Public Library location and showing a photo ID and proof of residence in Virginia.  A parent or legal guardian must complete and sign applications for patrons under the age of 18.

You can print and fill out the application in advance and bring to the library in person.

See Full Circulation Policy

Update: Effective July 1, 2018 at all Norfolk Public Library locations, black & white printing will cost $.15 per page, starting with the first page. Color printing is $.25 per page where color printers are available. 

Policy Statement

The Norfolk Public Library (NPL) provides computing resources which allow public access to a variety of networked electronic resources, including in-house databases, the Internet, U.S. government publications in electronic format, and NPL-owned software such as word processing and publishing programs. NPL reserves the right to set rules as needed to provide equitable computer use and to revise this policy in response to changes in, or concerns about, NPL's computing environment.

It is the policy of the Norfolk 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)].

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 or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Norfolk Public Library’s online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.

To the extent practical, it shall be the responsibility of members of the Norfolk Public 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. Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Library’s Automation Department Supervisor or designated representatives.

Libraries rely upon the cooperation of their users in order to efficiently and effectively provide shared resources and ensure community access to a wide range of information. If individuals violate policies in any way, their access to computer resources may be suspended (see Library Code of Conduct). Individuals using Library computing resources for illegal purposes may also be subject to prosecution.

Regulations:

1. User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for the following to ensure fair and proper use of Library computing resources. If users fail to comply, access to Library computing resources may be suspended.

• Conduct: Users must observe the Library Code of Conduct as it specifically relates to use of Library computer resources.
• Copyright: Users must observe copyright and communication laws.
• Equipment: Users may not tamper with or reconfigure equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library or other users.
• Legal Use: Users may not use the Library's computer equipment for engaging in any illegal activity.
• Downloads: Downloading executable files to the hard drive is not permitted.
• Privacy: Users must observe the right of others to privacy.
• PINs: To protect patron account information, personal identification numbers (PINs) can only be issued or reset in person upon presentation of an NPL library card or a valid photo ID with a current address that matches library records.
• Software: Use of non-Library software is not permitted.
• Sounds and visuals: Users shall refrain from the use of sounds and visuals which disrupt the ability of other Library patrons or the staff to use the Library and its resources.
• Sharing Computers: Users may work together at a single workstation as long as they do not crowd others or become disruptive.
• Viewing of movies on DVD: Movies on DVD may not be viewed on Library computers. In part this policy is to help ensure that the public computers, which are a limited resource, are available for homework, job hunting, résumé writing and other essential tasks which the Library views as priority activities. Additionally, many movies on DVD contain scenes not suitable for viewing by children who may be in the public computer area.

2. Internet-Specific User Responsibilities

Being a global network of computers, the Internet provides access to a wide variety of educational, recreational, and reference resources, many of which are not available in print. Because the Library cannot control Internet content, the Library cannot protect persons from information found individually offensive.

• Due to the extensive and changing nature of the Internet, patrons must understand that NPL staff may be limited in their ability to provide assistance.
• Children and the Internet: Consent given on the part of parents or guardians for a Library card constitutes acknowledgment by the parent or guardian that they have a responsibility for monitoring their child's use of all Library resources, including the public computers.
• Accuracy of Internet information: NPL cannot ensure the availability or the accuracy of electronic resources. Like print materials, not all electronic materials provide accurate, complete, or current information. Users need to be good information consumers, questioning the validity of information. 

3. Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Compliance

• Because NPL receives federal funding for public Internet access, federal law requires NPL to install blocking software on NPL's Internet terminals.
• The purpose of this software is to protect minors from exposure to Internet sites that are deemed to be obscene, pornographic, or harmful to children.
• Under Virginia state law, Library staff can unblock individual websites that have been erroneously blocked by the filter. In addition, Library staff may disable the filter for patrons 17 and over upon request. Filters on PCs in Children's areas cannot be disabled.
• In compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act, Internet access on all Norfolk Public Library computers is filtered for pornography. In accordance with Library policy, Internet access on all public computers is also filtered for banner ads, web proxy servers, and anonymizers.

4. Reservations

Reservations may be made up to twenty-four hours in advance either in person or by phone. Patrons are responsible for notifying the Library if they cannot come at their reserved time. 

5. Time Limits

Patrons with their Library cards are allotted a maximum time slot of up to 2 hours per day system-wide.

Additional time beyond the maximum may be granted in one hour increments by the branch manager or designee if computers are otherwise not in use or reserved.

6. Library and Internet Cards

Patrons who want to use Library computers must obtain a library card or Internet only card. Library card eligibility is described in the Library Card Policy of the Circulation Policies. Internet cards provide Internet only access for patrons who do not want a library card or are visitors who only want to use Library computers. Patrons may only have a library card or an Internet card, but not both.

Library and Internet cards are nontransferable - they may not be shared, borrowed, or lent to, or used by anyone other than the registered patron matching that card. Patrons violating time limits may lose complete computer use privileges for the day. Further abuse will be dealt with using Section 1A of the Library's Code of Conduct.

To obtain an Internet Card:

1. Any adult patron may receive an Internet card upon completion of an application and provision of proof of identification (ID).
2. On the library card application, the applicant must provide:
   • full, legal name
   • address
   • date of birth
3. Acceptable photo ID (unexpired or expired) shall be one or more of the following:
   • Government issued driver's license
   • Government issued photo identification card
   • Government issued photo passport or visa
   • Non-government photo ID from an approved list of providers may be sufficient to obtain an Internet Card (i.e., from a local shelter or other Human Services agency)
4. Anyone under the age of 18 can receive a juvenile Internet card after completing an application and securing the signature of his or her parent or legal guardian. A photo ID is not required. Children must be present in order to apply for an Internet card.
5. Emancipated minors who have proof of their court ordered emancipation and acceptable photo ID may receive an Internet card without parental consent.

All Internet library cards are valid for one year. At the end of that year, patrons will be asked to verify their address.

Lost, Stolen, or Previously Issued Internet Cards:

1. Patrons must report lost or stolen cards immediately.
2. There is a charge of $1.00 to replace a lost Internet card.
3. In the event that a card is reported stolen, the branch manager has the option of waiving the replacement fee.
4. If a patron reports a card lost or stolen, the patron must provide identification in order to get a new library card in addition to paying the $1.00 replacement fee.
5. Children under the age of 18 who do not have picture ID, must give their address in order to get a new card in addition to paying the $1.00 replacement fee. The address must match exactly that on the patron's account in the Library's records. In the event that the address does not match, the child must bring a new, signed application to get a new Internet card.
6. If a patron comes to the circulation desk with a previously issued Internet card, i.e. a card that has been replaced with another card, the patron must show identification before the staff person will look up the current card number.

7. Printing

Only library-provided paper may be used in the library printers. The cost of printing is 15 cents per page for black and white and 25 cents for color, starting with the first page. All printing must be prepaid. All printing accounts are allowed a maximum deposit of $20.00. Money cannot be refunded or utilized for any other purpose.

By Virginia State Law, Code of Virginia, 55-210.12, funds in accounts that have been inactive for a year will be transferred to the State Treasury and CANNOT be reclaimed. 

8. Storage Devices

Patrons must use their own storage devices to download files. The Library is not responsible for storage devices or for the correct downloading of files.

Policy Statement

The Library seeks to make its conference rooms as easy-to-use and as widely available as possible while keeping them available for their primary use as spaces for small group meetings. The conference rooms are available for small meetings by all members of the public.

Definition

The Library’s “conference room” is the 12-person room on the second floor of Pretlow Anchor Branch Library. Larger meeting rooms and smaller group study rooms are available at some Library agencies, and use of those rooms is addressed in separate policies.

Regulations

1. A library card is not required.
2. Conference rooms may not be used for events for which a fee of any kind is charged, nor may a collection be taken up, and goods and services may not be sold.
3. The conference rooms may be reserved no more than three months in advance.
4. At least one group member must be 18 years of age or older.
5. Use of a conference room is limited to no more than three hours per day and twice per
   week.
6. Eating and drinking are prohibited, with the exception of bottled water, baby bottles,
   and toddler spill-proof cups.
7. The first attendee(s) to arrive must check in at the Circulation Desk upon arrival.
8. A group arriving more than 15 minutes late may forfeit its reservation.
9. Groups may not enter the Library before the official opening hour, not even to set up for their program. Groups are required to end meetings and vacate the room 15 minutes before closing time to give staff time to secure the building for closing.
10. The Library reserves the right to limit the frequency of meetings by any group, based on demand, or to reschedule with 48 hours notice or in case of an emergency.
11. The group must make its own arrangements for audiovisual equipment not available in the Library, and is responsible for any library equipment used.
12. In case of inclement weather, the group is responsible for calling the Library for
    obtaining a closing schedule, or checking the Library’s website.
13. The Library’s Code of Conduct is posted at each agency and must be observed by all
    attendees. Library supervisory staff may enter the room during meetings to ensure compliance with Library Policies and Procedures.
14. The Library reserves the right to revoke permission to use the room in the case of non-compliance with Library Policies and Procedures.
15. The door to the room may be required to remain open at the discretion of the building manager. Locking the room door or covering windows is prohibited and may result in the revocation of room privileges for the group.
16. All applications must be made on the form provided by the Library. The name and phone number of a person in charge or responsible for the group must be given when the room is reserved. A new form is not required each time the group time meets, but the completion of a new form is required every three months.

Approved by Ad Team: March 23, 2013
Approved by Supervisors: April 25, 2013 

Norfolk Public Library Exhibits Policy

Exhibits in public library buildings offer the community an opportunity to share in the enjoyment of the visual arts, allows artists and community residents to share creative talents and information, and enhance the visual environment in which library service is delivered. The library reserves the right to contact organizations and individuals to maintain diversity.

Exhibits are offered as a community service and do not carry the endorsement of the Department of Public Libraries or the City of Norfolk.

The library encourages free expression and free access to ideas, both essential elements in a democratic society and does not knowingly discriminate regarding age, race, beliefs, or affiliations. The Library subscribes to the principles of the "Library Bill of Rights," the "Freedom to Read Statement," and the "Freedom to View Statement" of the American Library Association.

Artists and exhibitors must consider that the viewing audience will include all ages, levels of sophistication, religious backgrounds, and personal tastes, when judging the appropriateness of their particular exhibit for the public library. The audience is not self selected as in a museum or a commercial art gallery, and the exhibit is not their primary purpose for visiting the library. Exhibits will not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation, not removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval. The library may attempt to schedule exhibits with opposing viewpoints as time and availability of such exhibits permit. A system committee or library manager in each building will make the decision concerning the appropriateness of the display. That decision is final.

Eligibility

The type of exhibit space varies among library agencies, but may include space for wall mounted or two-dimensional exhibits, display cases, or space for free standing works too large for such cases.

Hanging Exhibits

Depending upon the site and the available space, some libraries may feature solo and group wall mounted two-dimensional exhibits. Selection is made of the basis of quality of the work and appropriateness for display in a public space. Selection is made by a system committee or building manager and each exhibit is on display up to a period of one month.

Exhibit Cases

In some library buildings, display cases are available to community groups and individuals on a first come, first serve basis. Each exhibit will be displayed up to one month.

Conditions of Exhibition:

1. Groups or individuals may request and reserve exhibit space one year in advance (e.g., 12 months from the date of application.) Artists exhibiting in the library will have their exhibit schedule confirmed by the system committee or building manager.
2. As part of the reservation process, the library may request that an individual or group representative present a sample photograph of the work to be shown. In order to display artwork, artists and groups are invited to submit slides or photographs of their work. A system committee or building manager schedules artists whose works are selected. Space for an exhibit opening is provided on a limited basis.
3. The library will provide basic publicity in its publication, the NPL Newsletter, within normal deadlines. An artist or exhibitor may make special media contacts only with prior notification of the manager of the scheduling library and his or her approval of any special arrangements.
4. Artists or sponsoring organizations are responsible for hanging/arranging all exhibits in library buildings.
5. Artists or sponsoring organizations will design and mount all exhibit related signage.
6. Exhibit case illustrations or signs accompanying exhibits must be legible, correctly spelled and neat in appearance.
7. The City of Norfolk assumes no insurance liability for materials on display. Artists and exhibitors are responsible for their own insurance coverage.
8. All exhibit pieces will remain for the duration of the exhibit period. No individual piece may be removed by an artist or an art organization.
9. Exhibit cases may not contain materials that will decay, become hazardous, or leave stains. Exhibitors will be charged for any damage cause by their display
10. A small tag with the artist's name and contact information, and the work's price, is permitted. No sales transactions may take place on library property.
11. Should the exhibit case materials not be picked up at the end of the exhibit, the library will attempt to contact the individual or group representatives for two weeks. If the material has not been claimed within that period, the library will discard the materials.
12. The Norfolk Public Library's policy concerning challenged materials will be followed should complaints about an exhibit or display be received by the library.

A. NPL Patrons 

Purpose of InterLibrary Loan 

To obtain for Norfolk Public Library patrons materials not owned by the NPL system.

Eligibility and Limits on InterLibrary Loan Borrowing.

Because InterLibrary Loan (ILL) involves items owned by institutions other than NPL and because of the labor the service requires, certain restrictions and limits apply to InterLibrary Loan borrowing.  

InterLibrary Loan service is available to NPL cardholders as long as they are in good standing with the Library--i.e., have no pending fines over $10, no delinquent items and no more than 5 claimed-returned items--and have a permanent, verifiable address and telephone number. 

Any patron may have only 5 active requests at any one time. Active requests include both items currently on loan and items currently being searched for. 

Patrons who repeatedly ignore InterLibrary Loan rules--for instance, removing the blue band from the cover of ILL books, returning ILL items in book returns or return ILL items damaged and frequently late--will not be eligible for ILL borrowing. 

Materials Offered

Books, microforms, film, dissertations, theses, photocopies and musical scores not currently owned by NPL are available through InterLibrary Loan. This includes items with no record in the NPL catalog or for which records show no holdings, missing, claimed returned or withdrawn.

Materials Not Offered

Some items cannot be offered due to limited staffing and/or limited availability. These include: Any item currently owned by the NPL system, including items checked out, reference items, items held in the local history Sargeant Memorial Collection and items on order for the system. Material marked as "New." Audiovisual materials, including videotapes, audiotapes, DVDs, CDs and films.

Cost

While NPL staff will attempt to obtain items without charge, fees, which are determined by institutions that have a requested item and are willing to lend it, cannot be predicted. Most items can be obtained without charge. Some items, including photocopies, genealogical materials and information obtained from medical libraries, routinely incur charges. Patrons must indicate a maximum amount they will be willing to pay for an item. If no amount is named, a zero amount will be assumed. Once charges have been incurred on a patron's behalf, the patron is responsible for charges up to the amount they have agreed to even if the item is not picked up. 

Overdue and Replacement Costs

The lending institution may impose a charge for overdue materials. This is passed on to the patron without limit. Replacement costs for damaged or lost items are determined by the lending institution and may amount to many times the actual value of the item. Some institutions have a minimum charge, such as $50 for lost or damaged items. 

Loan Periods, Recalls, Renewal of Items and Restrictions on Use

Loan periods and renewal options are determined by the lending institution. Moreover, a lender may recall an item at any time. Some libraries do not allow renewals or require that items be used within the Library. The loan period, lending restrictions and other pertinent information are indicated on the blue band attached to the InterLibrary Loan item. 

Renewals, which are solely at the discretion of the lending institution (not NPL), cannot be guaranteed. Requests for renewal must be made prior to 5 days before an item's due date.

Notification of Patrons 

Information regarding the arrival of items, approval or disapproval of renewal requests, overdues and recalls, unfilled requests and any other pertinent matters will be communicated to the patron by phone, email or surface mail. Because they are timelier, phone and email are preferred. 

B. Other Institutions 

Materials Offered 

Circulating books, apart from those published in the current year, are available for InterLibrary loan to other institutions. Copies of any material in the collection will be provided without charge, as long as the request is within reason. 

Materials Not Offered 

Audio/Video, films, microforms, reference items, genealogy material from the Sargeant Memorial Collection, items in poor condition and titles marked as "New" are not available for loan to other institutions

Loan Periods, Renewal of Items

Items are loaned to other institutions for a period of 28 days. Items will generally be renewed once, with the exception of items currently wanted by NPL patrons. 

Charges

No late or shipping charges will be imposed to other institutions. Charges will be imposed for lost or damaged items. 

Policy Statement

The Norfolk Public Library’s meeting rooms, besides being used for staff events, are available for public gatherings in the public interest.

Definition

Meeting rooms are the large rooms listed below which hold a maximum of 40 persons at a time. Smaller conference and group study rooms are available at some Library agencies and use of these rooms is addressed in a separate policy.

Regulations

1. The Library’s meeting rooms are used for Library staff training, for Library programming and for Library-sponsored events. Priority for meeting room use is given for these purposes and accordingly, if a meeting room conflict arises, Library staff may ask groups with an existing reservation to reschedule to another meeting day, time or location. However, the existing group is under no obligation to make the change and Library staff will honor the reservation if the group is unable or unwilling to do so.
2. Additionally, the meeting rooms are available for use by non-Library groups for non­profit public gatherings of a civic, cultural or educational nature. A non-profit public gathering is one which entails no profit of any kind either during the meeting or afterward to any party involved and which is authentically open to any members of the public who care to attend.
3. The meeting rooms are not available for group membership meetings that are closed to the public, business meetings, fundraising or commercial events, religious services, political campaigns or events for which a fee is charged. Planning meetings by civic and cultural groups that are authentically open to the public are permitted.
4. All gatherings must be free and open to the general public.
5. No admission fee may be charged, nor may a collection be taken up. Items may not be sold, with the exception that, with the Director’s approval, Library-sponsored groups may sell items when the proceeds benefit the Library, (as with the NPL Friends of the Library book sales) and authors and other media creators may sell their books or media in connection with Library-sponsored book signings, media presentations or speeches.
6. The first attendee(s) to arrive must check in at the Circulation Desk upon arrival.
7. A group arriving more than 15 minutes late may forfeit its reservation.
8. Reservation times include set-up and clean-up. Groups may not enter the Library before the official opening hour, not even to set up for their program. Groups are required to end meetings and vacate the room 15 minutes before closing time to give staff time to secure the building for closing.
9. The Library strives to maximize use of the meeting rooms for the community. It therefore reserves the right to limit the frequency of meetings by any organization, based on demand or to reschedule with 48 hours’ notice or in the case of an emergency.
10. Meeting rooms may not be reserved more than 3 months ahead of time.
11. A group may reserve the meeting room no more than 2 times in a given month, up to a total of 24 times per calendar year.
12. Refreshments may be served, provided the group cleans up after the meeting. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Arrangements to use Library appliances must be made 48 hours in advance. No other cooking is permitted. Vending machines are available in the lobby at Pretlow and Jordan-Newby at Broad Creek.
13. The group must make its own arrangements for projection equipment and audiovisual equipment not available in the branch and is responsible for any Library equipment used. Organizers must alert the Library if local media or private videorecording or photography is planned or expected. See application for City restrictions on videography or photography in a public building.
14. Neither the name nor address of the Library may be used as the official address or headquarters of an organization. The Library cannot be listed as the sponsoring organization for public relations purposes, but only as the "location site."
15. If it is necessary to cancel a meeting, the group is responsible for notifying participants and the Library. In case of inclement weather, the group is responsible for calling the Library or checking the Library’s website in order to obtain a closing schedule.
16. The Library’s Code of Conduct is posted at each agency and must be observed by all attendees. Library supervisory staff may enter meeting room during meetings to ensure compliance with the Meeting Room Policy and other Library policies and procedures.
17. The Library reserves the right to revoke permission to use the meeting room in the case of non-compliance with Library policies and procedures.
18. The door to the meeting room may be required to remain open at the discretion of the building manager. Locking meeting room doors or covering windows is prohibited and may result in the revocation of meeting room privileges for the group.
19. All applications must be made on the form provided by the Library, at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. The name and phone number of a person in charge or responsible for the organization must be given when the room is reserved. A new form is not required each time the group meets, but the completion of a new form is required every 3 months. Organizations must provide a copy of the government-issued nonprofit determination letter.
20. Groups agree to be responsible for the costs of any and all security measures required to ensure the protection of program attendees, the public, Library assets, or Library staff. These costs will include but are not limited to security personnel or other measures necessary for the protection of the Library. The type and amount of security required will be determined solely by the Library Director and may be determined before, during or after the program. If the Library Director determines that additional security is required prior to the event, the applicant may be required to prepay the estimated security costs. If the scheduled event appears to be controversial in nature, the applicant may be requested to provide the Library with an additional security bond.
21. Groups and representative agree to be responsible for leaving the room as found as well as any cleaning or repair costs incurred to walls, carpet, ceiling, furniture or equipment as determined by the Library. Any damage or costs will be billed to the organization and representative.

**Jordan-Newby at Broad Creek’s large meeting room and Pretlow's room can be divided into two 50-person rooms

Park Place and Van Wyck do not have meeting rooms.

Approved by Ad Team: March 23, 2013

Approved by Supervisors: April 25, 2013

Norfolk Public Library Online Collection Development Policy

Introduction

Because there are millions of sites currently on the Internet, with more being added every day, Norfolk Public Library provides access to a collection of prime websites to save the time of the library patron.

Library patrons not only have many interests but many points of view. Members of the Norfolk Public Library Collection Development Group make professional choices while choosing sites that meet the diverse needs and interests of their patrons.

The Norfolk Public Library subject guide is designed primarily for the citizens of Norfolk, the Norfolk Public Library librarians and those interested in Norfolk, Virginia, but we think all Internet users will find it useful.

Subjects

The subject areas for Norfolk Public Library have been determined by the Collection Development Group. Each team member is responsible for content in one or more subjects. Subjects are further broken down into subcategories for the ease of the user.

Selection Criteria

Content Criteria:

• Authority
• Qualifications of author/producer
• Authority statement should be obvious
• Accuracy
• Validity of information
• Currency
• Currency of time-sensitive materials
• Frequency of updating
• Scope
• Breadth of coverage
• Depth of coverage
• Treatment
• Bias or perspective should be obvious
• Usefulness/appropriateness for NPL audience

Access Criteria:

• Access
• No charge for access, at least to most services
• No requirements if registration necessary
• ADA-friendly
• Design
• Compatible with popular browsers
• Easy to use
• Interactivity
• Internal links
• Links to additional sites of useful material
• Reliability
• Stability of site and contents

The Norfolk Public Library Collection Development Group reviews the selection criteria for the Norfolk Public Library website at designated intervals as technologies develop and the needs of users change.

Acquisition and Retention Members of the Collection Development Group serve as team leaders for each of the subjects. Their teams are composed of Site Searchers who locate, examine and evaluate sites using the criteria in this policy. Teams then decide which sites will be included. These sites are submitted to the Collection Development Group Leader.

Subject teams review referred sites according to the above criteria and determine their suitability for inclusion. The Collection Development Group reviews disputed sites or those which do not fall within the subject categories.

The Collection Development Group makes every effort to make discerning choices. Challenges to any site may be handled through submission of a written statement requesting reconsideration of a site.

The Collection Development Group reviews sites at regular intervals to determine their ongoing value.

Disclaimer

The Norfolk Public Library does not warrant the information accessible through this site to be authoritative, accurate or factual. Further, the availability of networked information does not constitute an endorsement of the content of that information by the Norfolk Public Library.

Norfolk Public Library Personal Identification Number (PIN) Policy

Policy Statement

Any registered cardholder of the Norfolk Public Library System may select and use a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to electronically access their borrower's record.

Regulations:

It is the responsibility of the cardholder to keep their PIN private.

Using a PIN cardholders may check their library records to view materials currently borrowed or fines owed, to renew items, to place reserves, use library computers, or to accomplish other electronic transactions remotely without visiting the library's circulation desk.

To select and activate a PIN, a borrower must visit a Norfolk Public Library location in person with their library card and provide acceptable photo identification. The cardholder has the option to select a four digit number or use a system-generated number.

Should a patron forget their PIN or wish to change it, they must again visit the library in person with their library and acceptable photo identification. If a patron knows their PIN but would like to change it, they may also do so online by accessing their borrower's record in the library's online catalog. Cardholders may inquire about forgotten PINs by email if the email originates from the email account already on the cardholder's record. For security reasons PINs may not be disclosed or changed by telephone.

The Norfolk Public Library reserves the right to restrict the use of individual PINs should abuse occur.

Policy Statement

The Norfolk Public Library (NPL), in cooperation with the City of Norfolk Department of Information Technology (Norfolk IT), provides a wireless network with Internet access as an "as-is" feature. The wireless network is not designed as a primary information delivery tool and is in no way meant to take the place of or to extend the managed access to information offered by the Library's wired public-access computers, which are available throughout the Library system and freely available to all Library patrons.

The wireless network is configured separately from the Library's wired public-access computer network and is offered without any guarantee of service. While every effort will be made to render the wireless network functional and useful, the Library and Norfolk IT reserve the right to make any restrictions necessary to make maintenance and support of the wireless network manageable and practical, including but not limited to the use of passwords, filtering, limits on the number of simultaneous users, and the prohibition of certain technologies and Internet features and functions.

Regulations

1. User Responsibilities

1. Users may not display visually disturbing material on screens visible to other patrons, as per the Library's Code of Conduct. Sound should not be audible to other patrons. Users shall refrain from the use of visuals and sounds which disrupt the ability of other Library patrons or the staff to use the Library and its resources.
2. Users are responsible for properly configuring their computer to connect to the wireless network. Library staff will give out necessary passwords and general information but are in no way responsible for connecting a patron's computer to the wireless network and are prohibited from making any changes to a user's computer configuration.
3. Users are responsible for monitoring their computers and computer equipment. Library staff will under no circumstances assume responsibility for monitoring or safe-keeping computers or computer equipment. Users are urged to monitor their computer and computer equipment at all times.
4. Users may not use the wireless network or the Library's computer equipment for engaging in illegal activity. Individuals using the wireless network or the Library's computing resources for illegal purposes are subject to prosecution.
5. Users may not extend or in any way alter the configuration or settings of the wireless network.
6. Users may not attempt to defeat restrictions placed on usage or access granted through the wireless network.
7. Violations of this policy may result in suspension from the Library

2. Filtering of the Wireless Network

1. The wireless network is filtered for pornography, some visually disturbing material, and sites and content that presents network security and bandwidth issues. Filtering is set at one level for all users and cannot be adjusted or disabled by Library staff.
2. Any additional restrictions of a minor's access to the Internet via the wireless network is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
3. Users 17 years of age and older who need unfiltered access may request it on one of the Library's wired public-access computers, which are freely available at all NPL agencies.

3. Printing

Printing via the wireless network is not available at this time.

Credit Card Privacy Statement

In compliance with PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards), the credit/debit card payment details collected are encrypted at the point of swipe using secure server technology. At no time does the Library store credit card information. This information is only made accessible to authorized credit card vendors and financial institutions to complete your transaction.

Use of Third Party Analytics Software

The Norfolk Public Library website uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. (“Google”) to gather and analyze website-use data to better serve our web visitors. Google Analytics uses “cookies”, which are text files placed on your computer, to help the website analyze how users engage and use the site. The information generated by the cookie about your use of the website (including your IP address) is not personally identifiable and will be transmitted to and stored by Google on servers in the United States. Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of the website, compiling reports on website activity for website operators and providing other services relating to website activity and internet usage to improve this site. Google may also transfer this information to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google’s behalf. Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google. You may refuse the use of cookies by selecting the appropriate settings on your browser, however please note that if you do this, you may not be able to use the full functionality of this website. By using this website, you consent to the processing of data about you by Google in the manner and for the purposes set out above.

Libraries that use data from Google Analytics and other third-party software providers use such data in the aggregate and do not associate use of any web page or any resource with a particular computer or a particular user. Confidentiality of our visitors is of the utmost importance, and no private information is collected or distributed by the library through its use of Google Analytics.

For information on Google's cookie policies and privacy policies, please see Google Analytics Privacy. You may prevent Google Analytics cookies and tracking on all sites by disabling cookies on your browser or by using the Google Analytics Opt-Out tool.

Norfolk Public Library Sponsorship Policy & Procedures

The Norfolk Public Library welcomes sponsorship from local business, corporations, families and individuals. The aim of sponsorship is to obtain funding or in-kind support to provide services and equipment that may not otherwise be available. The Board of Trustees of the Norfolk Public Library believes that libraries play an essential role in the quality of life of our citizens and in this important function, the library should be supported through public funding. Therefore, sponsorship revenue should only be used to fund optional additional services or new, "start up" services.

Guiding Principles

The following principles will guide the Norfolk Public Library in the solicitation and acceptance of gifts, grants or support to enhance or develop library programs and services:

• All gifts, grants and/or support must further the library's mission, goals, objectives and priorities. They must not drive the library's agenda or priorities.
• All gifts, grants and/or support must safeguard equity of access to library services. Sponsorship agreements must not give unfair advantage to, or cause discrimination against, sectors of the community.
• All gifts, grants and/or support must protect the principle of intellectual freedom. Sponsors may not direct the selection of collections or require endorsement of products or services.
• All gifts, grants and/or support must ensure the confidentiality of user records. The library will not sell or provide access to library records in exchange for gifts or support.
• All gifts, grants and/or support must leave open the opportunity for other actual or potential donors to have similar opportunities to provide support to the library.
• Gifts of books or other library materials will be accepted in accordance with the terms outlined in the NPL Collection Development Policy.

Recognition and Acknowledgement

The library will ensure that each sponsor receives acknowledgement and to the degree that the donor is willing, public recognition. The following guidelines will be used in providing acknowledgement to and recognition for sponsors:

• A letter of acknowledgement for gifts of money and in-kind support will be sent to all sponsors and a copy will be placed on file.
• Any special recognition agreements will be stipulated in the letter.
• Public acknowledgement of sponsorship in the library's promotional materials will normally be restricted to a statement of the sponsor's name and a display of logo. Standards controlling the size format and location of such acknowledgment will be developed by the public information specialist to ensure both consistency and quality of appearance. Such acknowledgement will not take precedence or have prominence over the library's own logo or promotional material.
• For gifts and/or sponsorships valued at over $500, the library may submit a press release to local newspapers and/or publish an article regarding the sponsorship in their own newsletter if the sponsor is willing.
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship may also take the following forms at the library's discretion:
  • Launch of a special program or media campaign to announce the gift.
  • Sponsor's name on promotional materials.
  • Small standardized plaques may be placed on donated furniture or equipment.
  • Library bookplates.

In all cases, the type and scope of donor recognition required by the donor will be weighed against the benefit to the library.

Approval

All gifts, grants or in-kind support given with special requirements must be approved by the Director of Libraries. The solicitation of gifts, grants or in-kind support by library staff and valued at over $500 must receive prior approval of the Director of Libraries. All gifts valued at $5,000 or more must be accepted by ordinance through the Norfolk City Council per city regulations.

Authority for Implementation

The library reserves the right to make decisions regarding the implementation of each grant, gift, or offer of in-kind support. Purchasing decisions, including type of equipment, materials, furnishings, and other components of a gift will reside with library management. All details as to design of programs and allocation of resources for will also reside with library management.

Norfolk Public Library Social Media Policy

Policy Statement

In keeping with the Norfolk Public Library’s mission to “meet the needs of our diverse community for life-long learning, cultural enrichment, and intellectual stimulation,” the library incorporates various social media applications into its collection of tools and resources.  As technology changes and social media software increasingly becomes an essential communication tool, the library seeks to reach new audiences, engage with users more effectively, and enhance services by allowing greater interaction and feedback. These social media applications are to be used for the following purposes:

1. To enhance communication and collaboration between library staff and community members
2. To promote library services and programs through greater accessibility to NPL-specific information
3. To provide a venue for patron-contributed content
4. To improve library services, programs, and resources based on patron feedback
5. To reach new and inactive patron groups
6. To establish NPL as a leader in information services by utilizing technologies that are already popular with the public

Regulations

Public Generated Content

1. While NPL recognizes and respects differences in opinion, all content posted to sites maintained by the library are subject to the Norfolk Public Library’s Code of Conduct.
   • No Inappropriate Language – inappropriate or abusive language is prohibited.
     • Content on NPL maintained social media applications should adhere to NPL standards of language.  Obscene or racist comments, violent or abusive language, and/or cursing will not be allowed.
   • No Public Displays of Obscene Material
     • Public displays of obscene or visually disturbing material that interfere with the ability of others to use the library or that which is prohibited by law is also prohibited.
     • The posting of content that may be considered obscene as established by Norfolk’s City Code Chapter 28 will not be allowed.  Obscene material is identified as content that is considered as a whole, has as its dominant theme or purpose an appeal to prurient interest in sex; that is, a shameful or morbid interest in nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, excretory functions or products thereof or sadomasochistic abuse, and which goes substantially beyond customary limits of candor in description or representation of such matters.
   • No selling, soliciting, or mass distribution of materials
     • At no time will a user’s personal and private information be distributed by the library to a third party.  Additionally, patron-generated content containing personal or private information will be immediately removed.  Any user selling or mass-distributing information as spam using NPL maintained sites will be blocked from usage.
   • No Harassing Behavior
     • Harassment using NPL-maintained social media sites is prohibited.  Harassing behavior may include, but is not limited to unwanted conversations and advances of a personal or sexual nature that intimidate or make the other party uncomfortable and intentionally monopolizing staff time so that performance of duties is materially disrupted.  This may take a variety of forms and may include an overabundance of comments or posted content to NPL-maintained sites.
   • No Following/Stalking
     • Cyber stalking is strictly prohibited and may include excessive messages to a single staff member or library patron and/or seeking out another’s personal information using NPL-maintained social media sites.
   • No Abusive Behavior  
     • No abusive language or behavior will be tolerated.  This includes but is not limited to threats, violent or racist language, and personalized attacks.
   • No Unlawful Behavior
     • No unlawful behavior of any kind will be permitted including potentially libelous statements, use of plagiarized or copy-written material, or photos or other images or audio-visual materials that fall into the aforementioned categories.
2. The public is allowed to post comments related to NPL-generated content and must correlate with the topic being discussed.
3. Any comments that do not follow this policy will be removed from the site.

Policy Statement

The Library seeks to make it study rooms as easy to use and as widely available as possible for private and group study. Regulations governing their use are designed to provide safe and equal access to all members of the public. 

Definition

The Library’s study rooms are at Jordan-Newby at Broad Creek and Pretlow. Larger meeting and conference rooms are available at some Library agencies and use of these rooms is addressed in separate policies.
 
 Additionally, the meeting rooms of branch libraries that do not have study rooms may be used as tutoring rooms at the discretion of the Branch Manager. 

Regulations for Study Room Use at Slover Library

Find regulations on Slover's website.

Regulations for Study Room Use at Pretlow and Jordan-Newby

1. Study rooms are restricted to the use of groups of no more than 5 unless otherwise stated.
2. Study rooms may not be reserved prior to the day of their use, and sign-up is required. Please see the Reference/Information Children’s or other designated desk to request access to study rooms.
3. Study room use is limited to no more than 2 hours per day. During periods of heavy use, time may be restricted at the discretion of supervising staff, in order to provide access to as many users as possible.
4. Eating and drinking are prohibited, with the exception of bottled water, baby bottles, and toddler spill-proof cups.
5. A vacated room will be considered abandoned after 15 minutes and assigned to the next user. Any personal items remaining in the room will be removed to Lost & Found. 
6. Groups may not enter the Library before the official opening hour, not even to set up for their program. Groups are required to end meetings and vacate the room 15 minutes before closing time to give staff time to secure the building for closing. 
7. The Library’s Code of Conduct is posted at each agency and must be observed by all attendees. Library supervisory staff may enter the room during meetings to ensure compliance with Meeting Room Policy and other Library Policies and Procedures.
8. The Library reserves the right to revoke permission to use the room in the case of non-compliance with Library Policies and Procedures.

Regulations for Tutoring Space at Branch Libraries without Study Rooms

1. Library branches that do not have study rooms may use their meeting rooms as tutoring rooms. When being used as tutoring rooms, branch library meeting rooms are available for tutoring only. They will not be opened for general study.
2. Tutoring rooms are restricted to the use of groups of at least 2 and no more than 10. Two people must be present in the room at all times, and no more than 10 people may be present.
3. Tutoring rooms may be reserved prior to the day of their use at the discretion of the Branch Manager. Sign-up is required, and staff will follow the General Meeting Room Guidelines. Please see the Circulation Desk for access to group study rooms.
4. Eating and drinking are prohibited, with the exception of bottled water, baby bottles, and toddler spill-proof cups.
5. A vacated room will be considered abandoned after 15 minutes and assigned to the next group. Any personal items remaining in the room will be removed to Lost & Found.