SECTION 1: General Library Operations & Conduct 

Behavior Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all. To support this, patron behavior must not interfere with the ability of others to use and enjoy the library.

General Guidelines

All visitors are expected to:

• Treat others with courtesy and respect
• Maintain appropriate noise levels
• Follow staff directions
• Keep personal belongings attended and out of walkways
• Use phones and devices in a way that doesn’t disturb others
• Keep personal belongings with you at all times. Unattended items may be removed by staff for safety or security reasons.

Prohibited Conduct

Examples of behavior that may result in a warning or removal include, but are not limited to:

• Harassment, threats, or abusive language
• Loud, disruptive, or unsafe activity
• Damaging library property
• Being visibly intoxicated or under the influence
• Eating in non-designated areas or at computer stations
• Sleeping or loitering without library use

Serious Violations

Immediate removal and potential suspension of privileges may result from:

• Physical violence or threats
• Sexual misconduct
• Theft or vandalism
• Possession of weapons

Police may be called if needed. Patrons may appeal suspensions in writing within 6 months. Records of violations are kept for up to 2 years.

Library Closing Time Policy

To ensure a smooth and timely closing process, the following procedures are in place:

Closing Announcements

• Announcements will be made 15 minutes, 5 minutes, and at closing time to inform patrons of the impending closure.
• Staff will begin routine closing procedures during this time.

Computer Shutdown

• All public computers will automatically shut down 10 minutes before closing. Patrons are encouraged to save their work in advance

Book Drop & Returns

• The exterior book drop will be checked 30 minutes prior to closing.
• Any items returned after this time will be processed the next business day and may accrue fines or fees if overdue.

Circulation Services

• No checkouts or renewals will be processed after closing time.
• Patrons are encouraged to arrive with adequate time to complete their transactions.

Patron Departure & Transportation

• Patrons are expected to exit the building promptly at closing time.
• Patrons are responsible for arranging their own transportation.
• For liability and safety reasons, staff are not permitted to provide rides or wait with patrons for transportation.

Safety and Compliance

• Staff will conduct a walk-through at closing to ensure all patrons have exited the building.

Children’s Safety Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library welcomes children and encourages them to view the library as a safe, engaging space. However, the safety and supervision of children is the responsibility of their parents, guardians, or designated caregivers—not library staff.

Supervision Requirements

• Children under 11 must not be left unattended on library property and must be actively supervised at all times by a parent, guardian, or caregiver.

A caregiver must be at least 12 years old, able to demonstrate maturity, and actively supervise the child—not engaged in other activities.

Library staff are available to assist children with materials and services, but the Library is not equipped to provide child care—short- or long-term.

When Staff May Intervene

Library staff may take action and follow established procedures if a child:

• Is left unattended or unsupervised
• Appears frightened, distressed, or disruptive
• Is observed in potentially harmful or abusive situations
• Experiences uninvited or inappropriate interactions
• Is left at the library without transportation at closing time

This may include contacting a parent or guardian or, if necessary, notifying law enforcement.

Parental & Caregiver Responsibilities

• Individuals under 18 years old are considered children under this policy.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s behavior and any damage caused by them, whether present or not.
• While in the library, children must be respectful of others and use the space appropriately. Parents and caregivers are expected to manage noise levels, bathroom needs, and social interactions.
• Caregivers accompanying young children must remain within a reasonable distance and maintain visual and verbal contact.

Additional Notes

Library staff reserve the right to inspect personal bags or backpacks when safety is a concern. 

The Library Director may restrict patron privileges if policies are violated.

Elevator Use Policy 

The library elevator is available to support accessibility and convenience for patrons. All users are expected to treat the elevator and fellow patrons with respect.

Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult when using the elevator.

Vandalism or misuse of the elevator may result in loss of elevator privileges.

Animals/Pets Policy:

• Pets are not allowed in the library.
• While the library occasionally presents educational programs that feature animals, members of the public may only enter the library with an animal if it is a service animal that requires accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Under the ADA, a service animal is a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The dog must be trained to take a specific action to assist the person with a disability, and the task(s) performed must be directly related to the disability.
• Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals which have not been trained to perform a specific job or task do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
• If it is not obvious that a dog brought into the library is a service animal, a staff member may ask the following questions:
  • Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
  • What specific work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
• A staff member attempting to ascertain whether a dog is a service animal will never ask about the nature of a person’s disability.
• Service animals must be under the immediate control of their handlers at all times.
• Service animals which are not housebroken, bark excessively, are uncontrolled, or are otherwise disruptive will be required to leave the premises.
• Animals may never be left unattended on library grounds.
• Service animals are not allowed on library furniture or fixtures, or in library baskets or carts, and must remain on the floor or be carried (as appropriate) by their handlers at all times.
• Misrepresenting a dog as a service animal is a violation of the library’s Patron Code of Conduct and may result in suspension of library privileges. 

Materials Brought into the Library

Patrons must obtain staff approval before bringing personal craft supplies into the library. Items such as paint, chemicals, hammers, or any materials deemed disruptive or unsafe by staff are prohibited.

Security Camera Policy

The library uses security cameras in designated areas to help maintain a safe environment for patrons and staff. Cameras serve to:

• Deter violations of library policies
• Support staff in responding to incidents
• Assist law enforcement when necessary

Cameras may be located in public areas both inside and outside the building. Security footage is handled in accordance with the Library Records Policy.

Library Lost and Found Policy

Intake of Found Items

• Any item found on library premises should be turned in to the circulation desk or designated lost and found location.
• Items left unattended on library property may be considered lost and handled according to this policy, provided they do not pose a safety or security risk.
• Staff will log the item with the date, time, location found, and a brief description.
• Items will be stored in a secure area accessible only to library staff.

Claiming Lost Items

• Patrons must describe the item in detail to reclaim it.
• Valid identification may be required for high-value items (e.g., wallets, electronics).
• Only the rightful owner or a verified representative may claim a lost item.

Retention Timeline

• General items (books, clothing, water bottles, toys, etc.) will be held for 30 days.
• Valuables (phones, wallets, keys, electronics) will be held for 14 days, after which they may be turned over to the appropriate authorities or securely disposed of.
• Library materials (e.g., borrowed books) will be checked in and returned to circulation or held for pickup.

Unclaimed Items

After the retention period, unclaimed items may be:

• Donated to charity
• Disposed of properly
• Turned over to law enforcement (if applicable)

Items Not Accepted or Held

• Perishable items (food, drinks, etc.) will be discarded at the end of the day.
• Hazardous or potentially dangerous items (e.g., sharp objects, unattended bags or packages) may be disposed of immediately or reported to law enforcement at staff discretion.

Liability

The library is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property. While we make every effort to return lost items, we cannot guarantee recovery.

Alcohol Policy

The Library is an alcohol and drug free zone.  The only exception to this rule is for a library sponsored event that will be insured and licensed for that specific event. 

Petitioning Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library respects the public’s right to petition but maintains rules to ensure a safe, disruption-free environment for patrons and staff.

• The Library does not endorse or regulate the content of any petition circulated near the building.
• Petitioning is not permitted inside the Library or within 50 feet of any entrance.

Petitioners must:

• Remain outside the 50-foot boundary from entrances
• Avoid blocking doors, walkways, or creating unsafe conditions
• Refrain from aggressive or harassing behavior toward patrons or staff
• Provide their own materials—the Library will not supply or store equipment or signage
• Not attach signs or materials to Library walls, columns, or fixtures
• Not solicit donations or funds on Library property

Failure to follow these guidelines will result in the petitioner being asked to leave. Law enforcement may be contacted if unlawful or disruptive behavior occurs.

Bulletin Board Policy

Allowed Postings:

• Non-profit announcements from community organizations for cultural, educational, or civic purposes.
• Library-related notices and events.
• Informational notices (e.g., about public forums, events).
• Posting must be no larger than 8×10.

Prohibited Postings:

• Commercial advertisements, sales, or solicitations.
• Materials promoting political candidates or ballot measures.
• Materials promoting a specific religious belief.
• Discrimination or hate speech.
• Illicit activities or violence.
• Anything libelous, obscene, or advocating criminal activity.
• Postings that interfere with equitable access to library resources.
• Lost pet notices.

Submission and Management:

• Any appeals or questions may be made to the Director or Assistant Director.
• All postings must be submitted to the library staff for review.
• Library staff will determine the appropriateness of postings based on this policy.
• Approved postings will be displayed for a reasonable period.
• Library staff will remove postings that are outdated, damage the board, or violate the policy.
• Postings submitted without prior library approval will be removed.
• The library does not endorse any views expressed in the postings.
• The library is not responsible for the preservation or protection of displayed items.
• Because of limited space all requests may not be able to be honored.
• Any appeals or questions may be made to the Director or Assistant Director.

 
SECTION 2: Library Facilities & Spaces

Pokagon and Meeting Rooms Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library offers meeting spaces to support both community engagement and individual patron needs.

• The Pokagon Room is available for use by government entities and non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations located within the Library’s service area: City of New Buffalo, New Buffalo Township, and Chikaming Township. It may be used for educational, cultural, informational, or civic events such as lectures, panels, and meetings. It may not be used for parties or private social functions.
• The Larry Bubb Conference Room and Otto & Margaret Zack Local History Room are available to individual patrons or small groups during library hours as a quiet space to read, study, work, or hold informal meetings.

Pokagon Room Use

Reservations & Applications

• Applications must be submitted in person along with the required deposit. (See Fees below)
• Reservations must be made at least 3 weeks in advance and no more than 1 year ahead by an individual 18 years or older.
• Events open to the public must be open to all and may not involve solicitation.
• The Library Director reserves the right to approve or deny applications and may cancel events due to weather or emergencies.
• Cancellations must be made promptly. Refunds are provided only if canceled at least 2 weeks in advance.
• The applicant is responsible for any damage and must ensure the event does not disrupt normal library operations.
• Groups with recurring use must reapply annually. Library-sponsored events have scheduling priority.
• Events involving minors must have adult supervision, and an adult must reserve and take responsibility for the event.
• Special requests must be directed to the Library Director or Assistant Director.

Fees

Government and Non-Profit 501(c)(3) groups in our service area:

• No charge for events with fewer than 25 people for up to 2 hours.
• $50 for events with 25 or more people for up to 2 hours.
• $25 per additional hour over the initial 2-hour reservation.

All groups (regardless of type):

• $50 fee for use of AV equipment
• $50 cleanup fee if food is served

General Use Guidelines

• Use of the Pokagon Room does not imply Library sponsorship or endorsement.
• Groups may not imply Library sponsorship or use the Library’s contact information in promotional materials.
• The Library will not promote or publicize events it does not sponsor.
• Party-type functions are not allowed, including birthday parties, showers, or other personal celebrations.
• Library staff will assist with equipment and kitchen area; only staff may connect electronics.
• Kitchen use (for prep and serving only) must be requested in advance. Cooking is not permitted.
• No sales allowed. Non-profits may charge to cover event costs. Book signings and donations may be permitted with prior approval.
• Event access is limited to the Pokagon Room, lobby, restrooms, and patio (if requested).
• Room capacity: Pokagon Room – 100 people; Patio – 25 people.
• Setup and teardown must occur within the reserved time. All spaces must be left clean and restored to original condition.
• Do not tape, pin, or attach materials to walls, windows, or furniture.
• All displays must be approved in advance by the Library Director or Board.
• Events must begin and end on schedule and conclude by 10:00 p.m.
• During library hours, the room must be vacated 10 minutes before closing.

Prohibited Uses

• No gambling, alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, weapons, or firearms.
• No open flames, candles, grills, or other combustible materials.

Liability

• The Library is not responsible for personal injury, property damage, or lost items.
• All users must agree to hold the Library harmless from any claims arising from their use of the facility.

Meeting Rooms: Larry Bubb Conference Room & Otto & Margaret Zack Local History Room

Usage Guidelines

• Rooms must be vacated 10 minutes before library closing. 
• Available free of charge during library hours.
• Library and staff use has priority.
• Patrons may reserve a room at the Circulation Desk or by phone. Patrons must sign out after use.
• Reservations may be made up to 7 days in advance, for up to 2 hours per day, extendable if no other bookings exist.
• If more than 30 minutes late, the reservation may be forfeited.
• Capacity limits:
• Conference Room – 6 people
• Local History Room – 8 people
• Intended for quiet reading, studying, working, or small group meetings.
• Maintain quiet behavior; disruptive activity is not permitted.
• Rooms must be left clean and orderly.
• Library staff will assist with equipment as needed.

SECTION 3: Circulation & Borrowing 

Library Card Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library issues library cards based on residency and reciprocal borrowing agreements. The majority of library funding comes from property taxes levied in New Buffalo City, New Buffalo Township, and Chikaming Township. As a result, residents and property owners in these communities are entitled to a free library card. All cardholders are responsible for the use of their account, including any fines or fees.

Resident Cards

Who qualifies:

Residents of New Buffalo Township (including the Villages within), City of New Buffalo, or Chikaming Township

Requirements:

• Completed application
• Photo ID and proof of current address (e.g., utility bill, tax bill)
• Proof of residency or property ownership (including boat slips)

Details:

• Free card valid for 1 year
• Renewable annually with updated documentation
• All outstanding fines and obligations must be paid before the card can be renewed

Renters/Lessees (1 year minimum):

• Must provide a driver’s license and copy of 1 year (minimum) lease agreement
• Short-term renters must purchase a non-resident card

Reciprocal Borrowing

Who qualifies:

Residents with a valid home library card from one of the following reciprocal libraries:

• St. Joseph/Maude Preston Public Library
• Bridgman Public Library
• Lincoln Township Public Library

Requirements:

• Home library card in good standing
• Completed application
• Photo ID and proof of address

Details:

• Borrowing privileges valid for 1 year; renewable with updated ID/proof
• Items must be returned to New Buffalo Township Library
• Services like MeL and OverDrive must be accessed at the home library
• Library barcode will be affixed to the back of the home card

Versa Shared Catalog Access

Patrons from these Versa Catalog libraries may use their home card to borrow materials from New Buffalo Library. However, all digital and interlibrary services must still be accessed through their home library:

• Three Oaks Township Public Library
• Galien Township Library
• Buchanan District Library
• Berrien Springs Community Library
• Sodus Township Library
• Eau Claire District Library
• Coloma Public Library
• Watervliet District Library
• Marcellus Township Wood Memorial Library

Non-Resident Cards

Who qualifies:

Anyone who does not live in or own property in New Buffalo Township, the City of New Buffalo, or Chikaming Township, and is not served by a library with a reciprocal agreement.

Details:

• Annual fee: $100
• 6 month fee: $50
• 3 month fee: $25
• Must present photo ID and proof of current address
• Subject to the same borrowing rules and responsibilities as resident patrons
• All outstanding fines must be paid before renewal

Children and Library Cards

• Children age 5 and older are encouraged to obtain their own card
• A parent or guardian must sign for minors under age 18, accepting responsibility for any materials borrowed or fees incurred
• The child may sign the physical card

Loan Policy

Books / Audiobooks / Playaways

1. Standard Loan: Most books, audiobooks, and Playaways may be borrowed for three (3) weeks. Items may be renewed up to two (2) times, provided there are no existing reservations. Items with a reservation are not eligible for renewal.
2. Limited Loan (“7-Day Books”): Certain high-demand items are designated as “7-day books” and may be checked out for one (1) week. These items may not be renewed.
3. Reference Materials: Reference materials are for in-library use only. Staff may provide up to five (5) free copies per day upon request.
4. Interlibrary Loans (MeLCat): Items borrowed through MeLCat are due on the date specified by the lending library. Renewal eligibility is subject to the lending library’s policies.

Periodicals

1. Periodicals may be checked out for two (2) weeks. Renewals are not allowed.
2. The newest issues of certain magazines are for in-library use only and will be clearly labeled as such.

DVDs and Blu-rays

1. DVDs and Blu-rays may be checked out for one (1) week.
2. A maximum of three (3) DVDs or Blu-rays may be checked out per account at one time.
3. Family DVDs and Blu-rays located in Youth Services may be checked out for three (3) weeks.

Extended Loans

Extended loan periods may be granted for patrons with special needs or extended absences (e.g., travel). The Library will determine which materials are eligible for extended loans. High-demand items may be excluded.

Limits on Materials

Limits may be placed on the number of materials checked out in specific subject areas. As a general guideline, patrons may check out up to three (3) materials on any single non-fiction subject.

Patron Claims of Returned Materials

If a patron claims they have returned an item the Library cannot locate or verify as returned, staff will inform the patron of the discrepancy and continue searching for the item. The patron will be asked to check again as well. A note will be added to the patron’s account indicating the item was claimed as returned for reference in future interactions.

Lost and Damaged Materials

If an item is lost or damaged, the patron will be responsible for the replacement cost and any applicable overdue fees.

• DVDs, audiobook CDs, and Playaways will be replaced, not repaired.
• All items, including books, must be paid for and will not be accepted as patron-provided replacements.
• No refunds will be issued for items that have been paid for.
  Patrons are encouraged to report lost or damaged items promptly to avoid additional fees.

Reserves

Patrons may place reserves in person, online, or by telephone.

• Notification of availability will be made via email or phone.
• Reserved items must be picked up within five (5) days of notification or will be made available to the next person on the list.
• Patrons who miss the pickup window may be added to the end of the waitlist if desired.

Return of Materials

All materials must be returned on or before their due date.

• Inside drops are located near the Circulation Desk and in Youth Services for use during open hours.

• The outdoor drive-up drop box is located on the east side of the building for after-hours returns.
• Please note: Drop boxes are checked 30 minutes prior to closing. Items returned after that time will be considered returned the next day and may be marked overdue.

Overdue Materials

The Library Director has discretion in handling the collection of overdue materials.

• At three (3) weeks overdue, a notification letter will be sent.
• At four (4) weeks overdue, a bill will be issued and the patron’s account will be suspended until the matter is resolved.

Account Statuses and Restrictions

Suspended Status

A patron’s account will be placed in “SUSPENDED” status when any of the following conditions apply:

1. The library is unable to contact the patron by U.S. Mail (e.g., mail is returned undeliverable or the patron has moved with no forwarding address).
2. The patron has not responded to a bill within one (1) week for unreturned materials.
3. The patron has outstanding fines totaling $5.00 or more.
4. The patron owes for lost or damaged materials for one (1) month or longer.

While suspended:

• No checkouts are allowed.
• All fines must be paid in full before borrowing privileges are reinstated.
• Three (3) or more suspensions will result in a permanent loss of library privileges.
  • To regain privileges, the patron must apply for reinstatement through the Library Board.

Withdrawn Status

A patron’s account will be placed in “WITHDRAWN” status when any of the following conditions apply:

• The library is unable to contact the patron by U.S. Mail (e.g., moved with no forwarding address, undeliverable mail).
• The patron has not returned borrowed materials for one (1) year or more.
• The patron has unpaid fines for one (1) year or more.
• The patron is a non-resident with an expired library card.

Probation Status

A patron may be placed on probation if they repeatedly violate circulation policies (e.g., returning items late, losing or damaging materials).

• The decision to place a patron on probation—and to return them to good standing—will be made by the staff member responsible for Overdue Materials in consultation with the Library Director.
• While on probation, patrons may have no more than three (3) items checked out at a time.

Account Deletion

Library cards that have been expired for five (5) or more years will be deleted from the system.

SETION 4: Payments & Equipment

Credit Card Payment Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library accepts credit and debit cards for the payment of fines, fees, and donations. This service is available to adults aged 18 and older.

Payments may be made at the main circulation desk or by phone. The Library uses Square to process credit and debit card transactions. Accepted card types include:

• VISA
• MasterCard
• American Express
• Discover

A $1.00 convenience fee will be added to each transaction.

Chargebacks and Disputes

If the Library is notified of a chargeback or payment dispute, the Library Director and Bookkeeper will review the transaction and respond accordingly.

Privacy Statement

The Library respects your privacy. Credit and debit card details are encrypted at the point of transaction.

The Library only has access to the last four digits of the card number used. No full card data is stored. This information is used solely for transaction verification and is not shared or used for any other purpose.

Disclaimer

By using the Library’s credit/debit card payment service, you acknowledge and accept all associated risks and responsibilities. The New Buffalo Township Library is not liable for any losses or damages that may result from the use of this service.

Equipment Use Policy

Telephones

Library telephones are reserved for staff use only. Patrons may use a library phone only in special circumstances, with staff approval. In such cases, staff will place the call to prevent any long-distance charges.

Copier

The copier is available for public use during regular library hours.

• No discounts are allowed on color copies.
• Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws; generally, only one copy per page for personal use is permitted.
• Students and service agencies may receive up to 25 free black-and-white copies for school-related or official use.
• Cardholders may receive up to five (5) free black-and-white copies (8.5” x 11”) per day from non-circulating materials (e.g., encyclopedias, reference books, periodicals). Non-cardholders must pay standard fees.
• Staff and Library Board members may use the copier free of charge.

IRS Forms and Publications

The Library provides a selection of pre-printed IRS forms and publications free of charge as a community service. Additionally, patrons may request blank IRS forms or publications to be printed from the IRS website at no cost. However, printing completed tax forms or other personal tax documents will incur standard photocopy or printing fees.

Laminator

Only library staff may operate the laminator for safety reasons.

• For small jobs, patrons may wait while staff complete the laminating.
• For larger jobs, patrons must leave the items and will be contacted when the work is complete.
• Charges: $1.00 per foot for up to 5 feet; $0.50 per foot thereafter.
• Minimum charge: $1.00 (minimum size: business card).
• Laminating services are free for staff and Library Board members.

Fax Service

Fax services are available to the public during regular library hours.

• Only staff may send or receive faxes on behalf of patrons.
• Outgoing faxes within the U.S.: $1.00 per page
• Outgoing international faxes: $3.00 for the first page, $1.50 for each additional page
• Incoming faxes: $0.10 per page
• Fax services are free for staff and Library Board members.

SECTION 5: Library Technology

Internet Use and Filtering Policy

Internet Filtering (CIPA Compliance)

In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the Library uses filtering software on all public computers and internet access points to block obscene content, child pornography, and materials deemed harmful to minors.

Filters may occasionally block legitimate content or fail to block inappropriate material. Filtering should not replace parental supervision or personal judgment.

Upon request, the Library will disable the filter for adults (18 and older) conducting bona fide research or other lawful activities, as permitted by law.

Inappropriate Network Use

To protect user safety and comply with CIPA, the Library prohibits:

• Unauthorized access (including hacking) or other illegal activity
• Sharing or collecting personal information about minors
• Viewing, sharing, or accessing obscene content or material harmful to minors

Parental Responsibility and Supervision

Parents and caregivers are responsible for monitoring their children’s internet use. The Library encourages families to discuss online safety and set expectations.

• Minors under 18 using the internet without a signed parental consent form must be supervised by a parent or legal guardian.
• Children under 8 must remain under adult supervision at all times while using library computers.

Computer Use Guidelines

Sign-In and Session Limits

1. Patrons must sign in at the computer station using their full name and accept the acceptable use policy.
2. Sessions are limited to 60 minutes per day, but may be extended if computers are available.
3. Users must log off when finished. If stepping away briefly, inform staff to hold the session.

Age-Appropriate Access

1. Minors must use computers in the youth or teen areas.
2. Adults with children under 8 must use computers in the Youth Services area and remain with their child.
3. Adults may not use Youth Services computers unless accompanied by their child and must use appropriate content in that area.

Printing

1. All print jobs must be retrieved and paid for at the circulation desk.
2. Black-and-white: $0.10 per page, $0.20 for double-sided.
3. See posted rates for color or oversized prints.

External Devices

1. Patrons may use USB drives or CDs at their own risk. Devices must be virus-free.
2. The Library is not responsible for data loss or damage to personal devices.

Software and Downloads

1. Patrons may not install or download software. Only authorized staff may modify library computers.

Shutdown Time

1. All public computers (except the online catalog) shut down 10 minutes before closing.
2. Patrons must complete printing and file-saving before this time.

Special Use Stations

The Library may reserve certain computers for special uses such as homework or research. These uses may take priority over recreational use, at the discretion of staff.

Privacy and Security Notice

The Library cannot guarantee the security of online transactions, files, or communications. Users should assume their activity may be publicly accessible.

While staff may assist with basic internet use, they cannot provide extensive instruction. Staff may monitor usage for security, service quality, and policy compliance.

Disclaimer

The Library makes no warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or usefulness of internet resources.

SECTION 6: Collection Management

Selection Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library provides the community with a thoughtfully curated collection that supports education, research, personal enrichment, and leisure. Due to limitations in space and budget, materials are selected based on clear criteria that reflect community needs and interests.

The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement are endorsed by the Library Board and are integral to this policy. This policy will be reviewed and updated as needed.

Responsibility for Selection

The Library Director is responsible for selecting materials, operating within the policies established by the Library Board. This responsibility may be shared with staff; however, the Director retains final authority over selection decisions.

Criteria for Selection

Materials are selected based on:

• Quality and individual merit
• Popular appeal and community demand
• Suitability for the library’s users
• Relevance to existing holdings
• Budget constraints

Selection is guided by reviews from reputable sources, including Kirkus, Booklist, Baker & Taylor, Ingram, Goodreads, and Amazon. A lack of reviews or unfavorable reviews does not automatically disqualify a title. Patron requests and widely discussed titles in public media are also considered.

Materials are judged in their entirety, not by isolated passages.

Interlibrary Loan

Due to space and budget limitations, the Library may not own all materials requested by patrons. In such cases, interlibrary loan (ILL) is used to obtain materials from other participating libraries.

In return, the New Buffalo Township Library will lend its materials to other libraries in the same ILL network and make an effort to maintain current listings of its holdings in shared catalogs.

Donations

The Library accepts donations of books and other materials. Donated items are evaluated using the same criteria as purchased materials. If accepted, items may be added to the collection, sold by the Friends of the Library, or otherwise disposed of at the Library’s discretion. The Library reserves the right to decline any donation.

Weeding

To ensure a current, appealing, and useful collection, the Library follows an ongoing process of weeding—the systematic removal of outdated, damaged, or underused materials.

Replacement of withdrawn items is based on demand, condition, and the availability of newer editions. The Library Director oversees this process, under the authority of the Library Board. Discarded items are handled according to the same guidelines used for donated materials.

Potential Problems or Challenges

The Library recognizes that some materials may be controversial or objectionable to some individuals. However, materials are selected based on the principles of this policy, not anticipated approval or disapproval.

• Responsibility for a child’s reading and viewing choices lies with parents or legal guardians.
• The Library does not label or restrict access to materials based on content.
• Items will not be sequestered unless required to protect them from damage or theft.

Challenged Materials

Patrons who wish to challenge an item in the collection may submit a “Statement of Concern About Library Resources” form, available at the Library.

The concern will be reviewed by the Library Board at the next regular meeting, provided the form is submitted at least one week in advance. The item in question will remain available during the review process.

SECTION 7: Records & Privacy

​Library Records Policy

Confidentiality and Privacy Commitment

The New Buffalo Township Library is committed to preserving the confidentiality and privacy of Library Records to the fullest extent permitted by law.

A Library Record, as defined by the Michigan Library Privacy Act and for the purposes of this policy, refers to:

“A document, record, or other method of storing information retained by the library that contains personally identifying information about a patron—such as name, address, or telephone number—or that indicates a person has requested or obtained specific materials or services from the library.”

Examples of Library Records include, but are not limited to:

• Patron circulation records
• Surveillance video
• Internet browsing histories
• Program attendance records

Library Records do not include aggregated or non-identifying data used for statistical or evaluative purposes.

The Library Director is responsible for determining whether a particular document, including video surveillance footage, qualifies as a Library Record.

General Policy

The Library strictly protects the confidentiality of Library Records, even when doing so may cause inconvenience. Library Records or other confidential information will only be released under circumstances outlined in this policy or as otherwise required by Michigan or federal law.

Requests for Records

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

Requests for public records that are not subpoenas, court orders, or other legal process must be processed under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), following the Library’s FOIA Procedures and Guidelines.

Note: Library Records are exempt from disclosure under FOIA.

Subpoenas, Court Orders, and Legal Process

If a Library employee is served with a subpoena, court order, or other legal request from:

• A state or local law enforcement agency, or
• A federal law enforcement agency,

they must immediately notify:

• The Library Director or designee; or
• If unavailable, the Library Board President.

Legal Review and Response

The Library Director, designee, or Board President has the authority to:

• Consult with the Library Attorney regarding the scope, validity, or other legal aspects of the request.
• Determine and execute an appropriate response to the request.
• Appear in court with legal representation, if necessary, to ensure compliance with privacy laws.

Confidentiality of Legal Requests

If a subpoena or court order includes a non-disclosure requirement, the Library must comply with that order and may not:

• Inform the patron that their records have been requested or disclosed.
• Notify the Library Board or individual members of the legal request.

Patron Consent for Disclosure

Under the Michigan Library Privacy Act:

• A patron may provide written consent to release their Library Records.
• A parent or legal guardian who has accepted financial responsibility for a minor’s (under age 18) library materials may authorize release of the child’s records by signing a disclosure and release statement on the minor’s behalf.

SECTION 8: Closures & Holidays

Holiday Closings

Emergency and Weather-Related Closures

For the safety of staff and patrons, the library will close when New Buffalo Area Schools close due to inclement weather (Monday–Friday). If schools close early, the library may also close early.

On weekends or in other hazardous conditions (e.g., fog or storms), closures are at the discretion of the Library Director or the staff member in charge

Library closings are announced on WNDU Channel 16 and WSBT Channel 22.

The library may also close occasionally for staff in-service training.

SECTION 9: Gifts & Donations

Gifts, Donations, and Bequests Policy

The New Buffalo Township Library welcomes and encourages gifts, donations, endowments, and bequests. While the Library will make every effort to honor donor intent, the Library Board reserves the right to use all contributions in a manner that best supports the Library’s mission and evolving needs.

Monetary Gifts

Monetary donations support library programs, collections, technology, and enhancements. Donors are encouraged to speak with the Library Director to discuss giving opportunities.

Donor Wall Recognition

Donors who contribute $1,000 or more may be recognized on the Library’s Donor Wall. Please include your name, address, phone number, and preferred plaque inscription with your donation.

Receipts

The Library can provide acknowledgment letters for donations under the following conditions:

• Cash or check donations: A receipt letter stating the amount.
• Gifts of appreciated assets: A receipt letter describing the items. Donors are responsible for assigning monetary value.
• Other donations: A receipt may be provided at the time of donation upon request, stating the number and type of items. No appraisals will be given.

The Library cannot issue receipts for items donated in the past or for tax valuation purposes.

Donated Items

All non-monetary donations are subject to review by the Library staff and/or Board and may be accepted or declined for any reason. Accepted materials not added to the collection may be given to the Friends of the Library for resale.

We accept:

• Hardcover fiction and nonfiction (published within 3 years)
• Paperback fiction in very good condition
• Children’s books in very good condition
• DVDs and audiobooks in good condition

We do not accept:

• Magazines
• Encyclopedias or textbooks
• Outdated formats (e.g., VHS or cassette tapes)

Gifts to Library Staff

Library staff are not permitted to accept personal gifts or cash. Patrons wishing to express appreciation are encouraged to contribute to the Library as a whole or provide something that can be enjoyed by all staff equally. This policy helps ensure fairness and avoids the appearance of preferential treatment.

Amended 08/12/2025