Title
Approve and Authorize the County Library Director and or Designee to implement revisions to Board Policy G-130, Library Behavior Policy for Monterey County Free Libraries, effective upon Board of Supervisors review and approval.
.Report
RECOMMENDATION/SUMMARY:
Approve and Authorize the County Library Director and or Designee to implement revisions to Board Policy G-130, Library Behavior Policy for Monterey County Free Libraries, effective upon Board of Supervisors review and approval.
DISCUSSION:
Board Policy G-130 governs behavior rules in the County libraries. This Policy is of crucial importance to the Monterey County Free Libraries, enabling the Department to provide a welcoming, safe, and pleasant environment for the community. The protection of individuals, the ability to conduct Library business, and preservation of rights are all factors in developing and implementing a Behavior Policy that governs use of our shared public spaces.
The assessment from the Library Department Executive Team was that in general, the current policy and processes were serving the public well. The Policy enables repeat or significant violators to be restricted from use of the facilities. If someone is restricted from use of one or more branch libraries, options for fulfilling needs include Library By Mail, wireless access outside the libraries, and curbside service.
Revisions include updated language regarding service animals as the law has changed; modifications regarding clothing in the library; modifications regarding personal odor; removal of language where changes in law has superseded the need for Policy; and updating use of pronouns throughout for more inclusivity.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
County Counsel has reviewed and approved the Library Behavior Policy Revision.
FINANCING:
This Board Policy revision does not involve financial terms, and has no impact on the General Fund. There is minor operational impact to the Library Department budget for printing new posters, notices, and applicable forms.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Improve the health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs and services, promoting access to equitable opportunities for the communities it serves.
__Economic Development
__Administration
X Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
__Public Safety
Prepared by: Jacqueline C. Bleisch, Administrative Services Officer, (831)883-7576
Approved by: Hillary Theyer, Library Director, (831)883-7566
Attachments:
Revised Board Policy G-130 Library Behavior
Current Board Policy G-130 Library Behavior