Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Continuing Education

The library system’s staff training program, designed to encourage continuous development, is basic to the vitality and effectiveness of the institution, and to the satisfaction of each individual in his work. The administration encourages and expects staff members to develop their skills by both formal and informal methods.

In-service training is an integral part of the library system’s program. New staff members are given orientation or induction training, history and objectives of the library, its general operation, as well as instruction concerning their own duties.

Staff members are required to participate in workshops and in-service training to facilitate use of computer and software technology. This will ensure a high level of service to patrons and provide opportunities for staff to acquire skills necessary to provide service.

Employee participation in management is fostered by means of staff meetings and individual conferences. Each employee has the opportunity to work closely with the library director in formulating the policies and procedures which will enable the library system to achieve its objectives of service. Few important decisions are made without staff participation in thinking and planning.

The library may require staff to complete a minimum amount of CE credits to qualify for any increases in pay or for positive evaluation status. The library director must also obtain the minimum required CE units to remain certified in accordance with L.R.S. 25:222.

Adopted: July 15, 1999
Revised: October 18, 2023

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Displaying Community Info

The display of community information complements the Terrebonne Parish Library System’s mission of providing access to informational needs. The library adheres to the principle of providing materials representing many points of view because providing access to information can raise public awareness of issues and concerns, help people become better informed, and give them the tools necessary to form their own opinions.

In keeping with the Library Bill of Rights:

• Materials will not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation;
• Materials will not be removed because of partisan disapproval;
• Exhibit space is available on a first-come, first-served basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals or groups requesting its use.

The display of materials in the library system does not imply endorsement by the library.

Designated space is available for display of community information. The library has first priority for all exhibit and display space for library purposes. The space is available, at the discretion of the library director, to nonprofit organizations engaged in intellectual, charitable, civic, cultural, educational, and/or recreation activities. The primary purpose of the display must be to inform the public of the organization’s programs, services, and events.

The library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items, the schedule of any display, and the frequency with which a group or organization may display.

The library assumes no liability in the event of damage, destruction, or theft of display information.

Display space may not be used by individuals seeking political office, or for-profit groups, companies, organizations or individuals. Commercial advertising, solicitations, and business cards may not be posted.

Adopted: September 16, 1999

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Displays and Exhibits

The Terrebonne Parish Library System encourages use of space at the Main Library, East Houma Branch, and North Terrebonne Branch for exhibits and displays of general interest. Exhibit space is available on an equitable basis to other governmental agencies, non-profit community organizations and individuals representing educational, cultural, and intellectual exhibits. Choice of exhibits or items to be exhibited rests with the library director and assistant director. Commercial exhibits will not be acceptable unless they are general and educational.

All exhibits considered for display must support the mission of the library and not cause disruption of the regular flow of library work and service.

The use of display space for exhibits is not a right but a privilege which is subject to review. Exhibitors must submit slides, photographs, or color copies of the exhibit to the assistant director or director for consideration.

In accepting material for display, the library does not endorse the content of the material or the organization submitting the material.

The following conditions apply to all displays and exhibits:

1. Library sponsored displays are given priority in scheduling display space. The library reserves the right to cancel an exhibit if the space is needed for library use.
2. The library will try to protect materials displayed but will not be responsible for loss or damage to such material. If items are to be covered by insurance, the exhibitor is responsible for coverage.
3. Prices may not be attached to articles on display or published in brochures, exempt from this are the library system and the Friends of the Terrebonne Library.
4. The setup and removal of the exhibit is the responsibility of the exhibitor and must be accomplished when specified by the library administration. Exhibits must be properly displayed in the display cases and/or on the art panels. A clear visible sign identifying the group responsible for the exhibit must be included.
5. Nothing should be attached to walls. Do not use tape, labels, thumbtacks or adhesives for signage on any of the walls in the library.
6. The library will not provide storage for the property of exhibitors.
7. In all instances the library reserves the right to refuse any item of an exhibit or to revise displays. No nudity, political or religious propaganda will be allowed.
8. Exhibitors must complete an exhibit application form.

Adopted: August 24, 2004

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Electrical Failure and Outages

As a safety precaution for patrons and library staff, library branches will evacuate areas immediately after electrical failure. Library staff will be assigned to specific areas and will guide patrons to foyers. Patrons can remain in foyers during the outage.

Elevators will not be in operation. Library staff will be stationed at the bottom, landing, and top of the stairs to guide patrons to the foyer.

Adopted: July 27, 2004
Revised: October 18, 2023

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Electronic Use Policy

Mission
The Terrebonne Parish Library System provides free Internet access, both traditional and wireless, to its patrons and visitors as part of our mission to meet the needs of the community. This policy is intended to serve as a guide to acceptable use of electronic information, not to exhaustively list all possible uses or prohibitions.

Using this service and/or our equipment, implies agreement to this and related policies and releases the library from any liability related to using our services or resources. Failure to adhere may result in loss of library privileges and/or legal action.

Limitations – Safety and Security

• Library computers may be used only for legal purposes. Unacceptable use includes, but is not limited to: harassment, libel or slander; destruction, modification, or damage to equipment, software, or data; accessing websites that are harmful to minors or depict child pornography (any visual depiction that is or appears to be, of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct); disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications; unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material; unauthorized access, including hacking, and other unlawful online activities.
• Patrons risk loss of library privileges if they access sites that are illegal (for example, gambling,) or are disruptive to the use of the library by other patrons because of offensive content (for example, pornography, racism, etc.).
• The Library Board of Control explicitly restricts access to any material related to pornography or gambling, and as such, filters are in place to prevent access to such sites. Filtering parameters are set to exclude websites with descriptions or depictions of illicit sex or of sexual immorality [La. R.S. 14:91.1] in order to be compliant with the Child and Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Due to the vastness of the Internet, all pornography and gambling sites may not be blocked. Every effort will be made to minimize these intrusions. If notified of an inappropriate site, and it violates the guidelines of CIPA, the library can manually block access to this material.
• The Internet may contain material of a controversial nature. Not all sources on the Internet provide information that is current, accurate, unobjectionable, or complete. Some content is obscene and/or harmful to minors. The library does not guarantee protection from controversial material. Parents of minors must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet while using the library’s connection.
• The Internet may contain material of a controversial nature. Not all sources on the Internet provide information that is current, accurate, unobjectionable, or complete. Some content is obscene and/or harmful to minors. The library does not guarantee protection from controversial material. Parents of minors must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet while using the library’s connection.
• The library has no control over the Internet and its resources and assumes no responsibility for the quality, accuracy, or currency of any Internet information.
• Patrons under 18 years of age will not have access to social media sites on computers in their designated areas (in branches that support such configuration).
• Any unauthorized attempt to circumvent security software, session controls or gain unauthorized access to private information is a violation of library policy and will result in loss of library privileges and/or legal action.
• Patrons must respect all copyrights. The downloading or sharing of copyrighted materials is strictly prohibited.
• Equipment may not be modified or moved without permission from library staff.
• The library may limit data speeds and bandwidth at any time.
• Internet access and rates of speed are not guaranteed and may not be available due to maintenance, loss of electricity, equipment failure, and/or circumstances beyond the library’s control.

Responsibilities

• The Library assumes no responsibility for any activities conducted by users of the library’s computers.
• Use of the wired or wireless network is at your own risk and the library is not responsible for any damage that may occur to your computer while connected, including, but not limited to, electrical surges, data loss, file corruption, physical damage and/or theft. The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment, security, or data files resulting from connecting to the library’s connection.
• While the library performs all possible steps to fully protect systems, users should be aware that due to the complexity of current software and computer networks, it is not possible for the Library to ensure privacy of online activity. The library assumes no responsibility for identity theft or issues related to privacy.
• The library reserves the right to terminate a patron’s computer session if the patron is in violation of the Library’s policies or procedures.
• Patrons must use their own library card to access the library’s network. Patrons found in violation of this rule will be subject to the following penalty:
  • First offense – Session will be terminated and patron will not be allowed to use the library’s computers for the period of one (1) month.
  • Second offense – May be subject to library ban (up to six (6) months) at the Director’s discretion.
• The library does not provide data storage. library computers are erased upon restarting. If patrons choose to save files they must provide their own storage devices or purchase a USB drive or CD at the Information Desk. Data downloaded from the Internet may contain computer viruses. The Library is not responsible for damage to any patron’s disk or computer, or any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur.
• Library staff has the right to determine the appropriateness of workstation use and can at any time require a patron to leave the workstation. Staff may also issue written or verbal
  warnings before terminating access. In accordance with the library’s general policy, appeals of such loss should be addressed in writing to the library director. The library director has sole discretion of penalty due to illegal activity or non-compliance of this policy.
• All computers can be viewed and/or monitored at any time.

By using the library’s network (wired or wireless), patrons acknowledge agreement to abide by all laws, rules and regulations of the State of LA and the federal government that are applicable to Internet use.

Adopted: August 29, 1995
Revised: June 24, 2003
Revised: October 21, 2003
Revised: January 27, 2004
Revised: April 18, 2012
Revised: October 18, 2023

Coming soon.

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Gifts and Donations

The Terrebonne Parish Library promotes and encourages gifts and donations. The library director is authorized to accept gifts, donations, and endowments to the library. Gifts of books and other materials will be accepted unconditionally with the understanding that the library may make such dispositions as to their location, rebinding or disposal. La. R.S. 25:221.

No determination of the value of any item donated will be made by any staff member. The donor cannot be furnished with a value or price information or estimates.

Donations become the unconditional property of the library. All gifts are subject to the library acquisition criteria.

The library has a memorial collection fund and encourages donations for memorial purposes. Books and other materials purchased with this money are labeled as memorial. A special book plate is placed on the material. An acknowledgment of the donation is sent to the family of the deceased and a note of appreciation is sent to the donor.

The board considers the library the appropriate place to gather books, newspapers, and manuscripts on its bayous, sugar cane, seafood, fishing, hunting, oil, and local history. The library cooperates with the Terrebonne Parish Council in the oral history of Terrebonne Parish Council in the oral history of Terrebonne Parish project and houses and circulates this material.

Acceptance of money, real property and/or stock, personal property, art objects, portraits, etc., and material not designated as an outright gift will be accepted only with the approval and ratification of the board.

Adopted: July 15, 1999

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Grievance Procedure

It is the purpose of the Library Board of Control to provide an effective and acceptable means for employees to bring problems and complaints concerning their work and their well-being at work to the attention of management. For that reason, a formal grievance procedure has been established for the benefit and use of the Terrebonne Parish Library employees.

Punitive action shall not be taken against any employee for submitting a grievance in good faith.

A grievance is any condition of employment that the employee feels is unjust or unfair, or thinks should be brought to the attention of management.

Procedure
A. To assure prompt attention a grievance must be filed in writing to the employee’s immediate supervisor within eight days after the cause of grievance. The grievance must be signed and dated by the employee. A copy of the grievance must be forwarded to the Director.
B. It shall be the responsibility of the immediate supervisor to attempt to resolve the grievance at the supervisory level. The supervisor must respond in writing to the employee within eight working days of the receipt of the grievance. If the employee is not satisfied with the action of the supervisor, the employee has the right to request that his/her grievance be forwarded to the Director. This action must be within eight working days of the supervisor response to the grievance. The Director must respond to the grievance within eight working days of the receipt of the grievance. Any attempt by an employee to bypass a level of supervision in the grievance process shall be considered grounds for disciplinary actions.
C. Should an employee want to continue her grievance beyond the decision of the Director, the employee shall make an appeal in writing to the Library Board of Control within eight working days after the decision of the Director. The Library Board will investigate all aspects of the matter and render a decision within twelve working days after receiving written notice of the employee’s grievance. A written response to the employee will serve as official notification of the Library Board’s decision.

Adopted: February 26, 1998

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Investment

Statement
This investment policy for the Terrebonne Parish Library applies to the investment of those funds under control of the Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control.
The investment objectives of the Library Board are first to place emphasis on the safety of principal, secondly to maintain liquidity to meet operating requirements of the entity and finally, to obtain the most favorable rate of return.
All funds managed and invested by the Library Board are done so in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statues Title 39 Chapter 7.

Prudence
The standard of prudence shall be the “Prudent Investor” rule, which states, “Investments shall be made with judgment and care, under circumstances then prevailing which persons of prudence, discretion and intelligence exercise in the management of their own affairs, not for speculation but for investment, considering the probable safety of their capital as well as the probable income to be derived.”

Ethics
Officers and employees involved in the investment process shall follow the State of Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics.

Safekeeping and Collateralization
Any institution issuing certificates of deposit, maintaining an interest bearing checking account or regular checking account in excess of the FDIC insurance will be required to pledge collateral to secure the investments. The collateral pledged must be held by a third party bank serving as custodian. Collateral acceptable will be according to the listing issued by the State of Louisiana “Collateralization for State Deposits.” Each financial institution will be required to execute with the entity a security agreement in accordance with the Financial Institutions Enforcement, Reform and Recovery Act of 1989 (FIERRA).

Internal Controls
All investments shall be approved by the Library Board.

Types of Investments
Types of investments will be in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 33:2955 as presently enacted and hereinafter.

Adopted: July 25, 1996
Revised: June 17, 1999

Library Bill of Rights

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
5. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
6. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Adopted: June 18, 1948
Amended: February 2, 1961
June 27, 1967
January 1980
January 23, 1996
by the ALA Council

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Registration and Eligibility of Library Card

Eligibility for a Terrebonne Parish Library card are reliant on the following:

• Must be a resident of Terrebonne Parish OR a resident of Lafourche Parish or St. Mary Parishes (reciprocal borrowing).
• Photo identification with correct address. Electronic IDs, such as LA Wallet are acceptable. May use a bill (rent, utility, etc.) to show correct address.
• Patrons are considered an adult at age eighteen (18).
• Patrons must sign and accept cardholder responsibilities including responsibility for fines or fees incurred by dependents.
• A patron’s privileges may be revoked by failing to abide by policies including overdue fees and lost books.

Cards are issued with a two-year expiration date at which point information will be checked for validity and renewed.

Pursuant to Act No. 436, the Terrebonne Parish Library has six (6) tiers of card options for patrons to choose based on age or parental consent. For any person under the age of eighteen (18), a parent or guardian MUST sign, date, and choose the level of card appropriate for themselves or dependent. This form must be filled out any time a cardholder chooses to change tiers.

• Tier 1
o Juvenile rated materials only
o No access to “sexually explicit” materials
o Rated G DVDs only
o No access to digital collections

• Tier 2
o Juvenile rated materials
o No teen materials
o Rated G, PG DVDs only
o No access to digital collections

• Tier 3
o Juvenile to Teen rated materials only
o No access to “sexually explicit” materials
o Rated G, PG DVDs only
o No access to digital collections

• Tier 4
o Juvenile to Teen rated materials only
o Rated G, PG, PG-13 DVDs only
o Access to digital collections

• Tier 5 – All Access
o Access to all collections of the library including digital content
o May be under eighteen (18) with parental consent

Adopted: October 18, 2023
Effective: January 1, 2024
Fully implemented: June 1, 2024

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Materials Selection Policy

Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to guide in the selection of materials and to inform the public about the principles upon which selections are made. This statement was approved and adopted by the Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control, which assumes full responsibility for all legal actions which may result from the implementation of any policies stated herein.

Library Aims
The goal of the Terrebonne Parish Library System is to provide service to all people. This encompasses individuals and groups of every age, education, philosophy, occupation, economic level, ethnic, and human condition. Fulfilling the educational, informational, and recreational needs of these people is the Terrebonne Parish Library System’s broad purpose. More specifically, the library helps people to keep abreast of change in all areas, continually educate themselves, become better members of their community, become socially and politically aware, be more capable in their occupations, develop their creative abilities, appreciate and enjoy literature and art, contribute to the overall expanse of knowledge, and stimulate their own personal and social well-being. All print and non-print materials are selected by this library in accordance with these basic objectives.

Responsibility for Materials Selection
The Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control adopts as part of its policy the LIBRARY BILL OF RIGHTS (See attached). The library does not promulgate particular beliefs or views, nor does the selection of a resource express or imply endorsement of the viewpoint of the author or vendor. All materials will be judged as a whole rather than by isolated passages. Library resources will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of the contents, nor will items be sequestered, or access denied, except for the purpose of protecting resources from damage or theft, or required by law. No materials are excluded or removed from the Library on the basis of race, nationality, political, social, or religious beliefs.

Final responsibility for the selection of library materials is and shall be vested in the director. However, the director may delegate to such members of the staff as are qualified by reason of training the authority to interpret and guide the application of the policy in making day to day selections. Unusual problems will be referred to the director for resolution.

Criteria for Selection
Certain factors influence the selection of library materials, such as books, periodicals, books-on-CD, microfilm, recordings, and vertical file information:
1. The importance of the subject matter to the collection;
2. Timeliness or permanence of the work;
3. Authoritativeness;
4. Inclusion in standard bibliographies or indexes;
5. The author’s reputation and significance;
6. Price;
7. Availability of the material in the system, in other libraries, or for purchase;
8. Format, legibility, and quality of the materials construction;
9. Popular demand;
10. Community standards

Materials added are selected from reviews, availability lists, vendors’ catalogs, bibliographies, and local experts. The library staff is constantly gathering information concerning the needs of library users by means of circulation statistics, interlibrary loan requests, and patron input. The library system strives to present materials representing all sides of an issue in a neutral, unbiased manner. The existence of a particular viewpoint in the collection is an expression of the library system’s policy of intellectual freedom, not an endorsement of that particular point of view.

The DVD collection is very popular containing informational, educational, feature films, and television series. Feature films include current titles of high interest and classics. The television series will be considered when the series is no longer in production, with the exception of series with local interest or educational value. The basis for selection of DVDs follows the criteria of selection. DVDs purchased are for home-use only.

The collection is divided into juvenile, young adult, and adult. Parents are ultimately responsible for determining what their child will check-out.

Scope of the Collection
The library system recognizes this obligation to provide reference and research materials for the direct answering of specific questions and for continuing research. It also recognizes the purposes and resources of other libraries in the community and shall not needlessly duplicate functions and materials.

The library system acquires textbooks and other curriculum-related materials when such materials serve the general public.

The library system acknowledges a particular interest in local and state history; therefore, it will seek to acquire state and municipal public documents and it will take a broad view of works by and about Louisiana authors, as well as, general works relating to the state of Louisiana.

Maintaining the Collection
Systematic withdrawal of materials no longer useful is necessary in order to maintain relevant resources.

The decision to withdraw library materials shall be based upon the (1) physical condition of the material; (2) use of the material as determined by the last date of loan or by the number of loans in the last five years; and (3) age of the material as a misinformation factor, particularly in the areas of science and law.

Censorship
The selection of library materials is predicated on the library patron’s right to use library materials and, similarly, his freedom from censorship by others. Many items are controversial and any given item may offend some persons. Selection for this library system will not, however, be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the merits of the material in relation to the interests of the readers. This library system holds censorship to be a purely individual matter and declares that—while anyone is free to reject for himself books and other materials of which he does not approve—he cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrain the freedom of others.

With respect to the use of library materials by children, the decision as to what a minor may use is the responsibility of his or her parent or guardian. Selection will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may inadvertently come into the possession of minors.

Adopted: October 1, 1987
Revised: September 15, 1999
Revised: October 21, 2011
Revised: October 18, 2023

Meeting Rooms
The Terrebonne Parish Library System has meeting rooms available at the Main Library, East Houma, and North Terrebonne Branches. The primary purpose of these rooms is to provide facilities for activities and programs related to the library’s goals and objectives. These rooms are dedicated first to library sponsored programs including Friends of the Library activities.

The rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis to cultural, educational, charitable, historical, fraternal, and civic groups. The rooms are prohibited for: commercial purposes, social affairs, private parties, political meetings, religious worship and preaching, and money-making affairs, or for programs by commercial firms.

The meeting spaces at the Main Library may be rented by businesses for not-for-profit activities. Programs involving the sale, advertisement, or promotion of commercial products or services or the solicitations for the future sale of products are prohibited. Businesses may rent the room spaces for employee educational training only.

$40 per hour for the large meeting room, capacity 100 or less / multimedia room, capacity 50 or less. Includes access to: computer, podium, and sound system.
$10 per hour for downstairs conference room, capacity 8 or less / Charles Davidson Board room, capacity 12 or less.
Groups may not exceed the capacity of meeting rooms.

Non-profit organizations MUST PROVIDE non-profit status by PROOF of a no-profit tax certificate or with the organization’s bylaws or constitution.
No admission fee shall be charged by the group using the facility. The library system or Friends of the Terrebonne Public Library are the only organizations that can hold fundraising activities with proceeds to benefit the library system.
All meetings shall be open to the public.

Responsibility for scheduling the meeting rooms is vested in the Branch Managers. Applications must be submitted in advance by a person with a valid Terrebonne Parish Library System Knowledge card. The meeting room may be booked by adults, persons eighteen years or older, only. If teenagers or children are to be present, an adult must be responsible, in charge of, and present during the entire meeting. Groups requesting the use of a meeting room must designate an authorized contact for the group who will ensure that all policies are followed.

A new updated application form for meeting room use and a signed policy statement must be submitted each year in January. If an emergency requires closing the library, every effort will be made to notify the contact person for the group or an officer of the organization. When the library reopens, reservations will be honored as scheduled. If a group cancels the use of a meeting room, the contact person must notify the library 24 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting. If two cancellations occur without library notification, the organization will have meeting room privileges revoked for six months.

Library staff has a right to enter and remain in the meeting room/conference rooms at any time during a scheduled meeting. Library staff has the authority to terminate any meeting which is disruptive of the quiet and orderly functions of the library.

Failure to observe meeting room policies may result in denial of meeting room privileges.

Meetings may be catered at the Main Library and North Terrebonne Branch large meeting rooms; however, cooking on the premises is not allowed. Small coffee pots, serving 10-12 cups and large coffee pots with 30 servings are available; however, coffee and supplies are not provided. Coffee pots, utensils, and the kitchen must be clean before the group vacates the room. The organization must leave the room clean and in the order that the room was found including the replacement of tables and chairs and removing trash.

Groups are responsible for arranging the room for their meeting. The applicant is responsible for reasonable care of the meeting rooms, kitchens, and furnishings, and is financially responsible for damages to facilities, equipment, or contents. The organization must remove any clutter caused by its activities. Activities must be approved by the branch manager. No woodworking or painting projects are allowed. Materials are not to be attached to walls, windows, doors, or furnishings. Trash containers and /or trash bags will be available.

Alcoholic beverages of any kind and possession and/or use of controlled substances, gambling in any form, and smoking and other uses of tobacco are prohibited throughout the library or on library property, except for designated smoking areas.

Standard fire code regulations restrict any open flame, burning candles, or other flammable, combustible or hazardous materials in the library. Also, the occupancy number for each room must adhere to fire marshal requirements.

Storage is not provided in the library for the property of the organization. The library is not responsible for equipment, supplies or other items owned by a group and used in the library.

All meetings must be held within regular library hours. No exceptions will be made. At the East Houma and North Terrebonne Branches all meetings must finish 15 minutes before library closing. Meetings held at the Main Library must end 30 minutes before the library closes.

It is the intent to prohibit any one group or organization from dominating the use of the meeting rooms. No more than two meetings per month will be scheduled for any group (larger rooms). No group may transfer a room reservation to another group.

If any group or individual violates any of these policies, the Terrebonne Parish Library Director retains the right to cancel subsequent use of meeting rooms by the group.

Any publicity materials, invitations, flyers, and press releases promoting events or meetings held at the library may not list the Terrebonne Parish Library System as a co-sponsor unless the Library Director has officially designated the event as co-sponsored. The library phone numbers may not be listed as a contact for meetings/events.

Authorized use of a Terrebonne Parish Library System meeting room does not constitute endorsement or sponsorship of the organization or the views expressed by the group as a whole or by individual participants in the meetings. Meetings held will not be allowed or disallowed solely on the basis of race, creed, or national origin provided that the meeting falls into the category of approved type of organizations.

Revised: September 1981, 2/18/99, 2/25/03, 9/26/03, 2/20/05, 9/27/09, and May 18, 2011
Revised: October 18, 2023

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Political Activities

The Terrebonne Parish Library System is a public non-partisan institution. While the library system allows voting precincts in library branches and the main library, employees of the Terrebonne Parish Library System or people, including candidates, are not allowed to solicit votes or support on Terrebonne Parish Library property, including during Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control and staff meetings.
Employees are free to engage in whatever political activity they choose so long as their involvement does not infringe on library time and is not conducted on the library premises. Employees shall not wear clothing, buttons, or other articles or items promoting a political position during working hours.
The Terrebonne Parish Library System and the library board of control will neither seek, nor grant endorsements of elections issues. No advocacy is assumed by the library on any election issue other than its own.

Adopted: December 7, 2011

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Proctoring Policy

The proctoring of exams is a service offered by the Terrebonne Parish Library System. The library system offers proctoring at the North Terrebonne Branch and the main library. Proctoring service is based on the availability of personnel, facilities, and technology.

Proctoring of exams is available Monday through Thursday during regular library hours. Proctoring of exams cannot be scheduled on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday because staffing is not available to adequately monitor the student taking the exam. The exam must be completed at least fifteen minutes before the library closes.

Appointments to take an exam should be scheduled at least one week in advance and must be confirmed the day before the exam. Reservations may be made in person, by telephone, or e-mail.

The Reference Services staff at the main library and manager or assistant manager at the North Terrebonne Branch will proctor written tests and computer based test that do not require downloads or constant supervision.

The student must be allowed to take the exam without constant supervision. The library cannot provide a staff member to sit with a student while taking an exam. The staff member will check on the student periodically. The use of cell phones or visiting with others is prohibited during an exam. The proctor will enforce any time limits that are placed on the exam.

Before taking the exam, the student will be required to present photo identification and provide a copy if required by the institution or association. Students are expected to have necessary or required supplies to take the exam.

It is the student’s responsibility to obtain needed signatures and arrange for the exam to be delivered to the library. The proctor will contact the student when the exam has arrived; however, it is the student’s responsibility to verify receipt of the test. Library staff will not sign proctoring verification that attests to more than they are able to do. The student must speak to a degreed librarian.

At the conclusion of the exam, the written exam will be returned directly to the testing institution via the U.S. Postal service at the next regularly scheduled postal pickup from the library. The student is responsible for postal costs. Exams will not be returned via UPS or FedEx nor will the exams be scanned, e-mailed or faxed.

The library will hold exams for up to sixty days or the exam’s stated deadline. If the student does not pick up the exam by that time, the exam will be destroyed. Library staff will not copy finished exams or hold exams past the date they are to be taken.

The Terrebonne Parish Library System is not responsible for any delayed exams, nor for any completed exams once they leave the library’s possession and have been mailed back to the educational institution or association.

The fee for proctoring is $20 for parish residents and $30 for non-residents for each exam and is due before the test is taken. The library system will take checks payable to the Terrebonne Parish Library System or cash with bills no higher than $20.

Adopted: May 21, 2009
Effective July 1, 2009

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Safety

The Library Board of Control wants to provide a safe and appropriate environment within the library system to facilitate the public’s use of the library’s resources and services. The library’s policy is to outline clearly the standards of conduct for use of the library system. Standards shall comply with federal, state, and local laws and ordinances, and provide for safety of persons and property.

The library staff has the responsibility to maintain order in the library system. From time to time, the staff may have to deal with patrons who violate the rights of others or who create disorder in the library. When and if such incidents occur, the staff should use this policy as a guideline in taking action.

Regardless of the urgency of the moment, there are five points crucial to the successful handling of the problem patron:

1. Recognize your limitations in a specific situation. Do not try to play the role of policeman, social worker, or psychologist.
2. Get your message across but avoid the appearance of confrontation.
3. Be consistent. Inconsistency of response only enhances the appearance of weakness, vacillation and vulnerability.
4. Support your colleagues in any interaction with problem patrons.
5. Maintain an active liaison with local security agencies.

Disruptive Conduct
When the behavior of a patron constitutes a disruption which interferes with the use of the library by other patrons or interferes with a staff member’s completion of his duties, this is disruptive conduct. Some of the incidents that constitute disruptive behavior are: loud talking, fighting, throwing objects, boisterous behavior, obscene language, damaging property, etc.

The following steps will be taken:
1. Issue a verbal warning, with the statement that the person(s) will be asked to leave if the behavior in question does not cease.
2. Request that the person(s) leave the library
3. If the person refuses to leave the premises, call the police.

Some behavior is illegal and should be handled in a different manner. For the following incidents a supervisor needs to be informed immediately and the police notified: assault, criminal mischief, drunk/disorderly conduct, harassment, public lewdness, theft, and trespass.

Any person who threatens library patrons or staff with harm, causes property damage, or whose actions cause disruption of normal library routine will have criminal charges brought against him and/or that person will be banned from all library branches.

Library staff and police officers may ask a patron to leave the premises with or without prior warning, depending upon the seriousness of the violation of these guidelines for behavior. The length of the eviction shall depend upon the nature and seriousness of the offense that required removal, the extent of damage or disruption caused, any history of prior infractions policies, and other relevant circumstances.

When possible, any patron who has been evicted and/or prohibited from returning to the library shall be provided with written notification indicating the reasons for the ban, the time period of the ban, and the appeals process. When a minor has been banned for 30 days or more, the Library Director may attempt to contact the child’s parent or legal guardian by telephone and/or send a certified letter to the child’s parent/guardian.

Any patron whose library privileges have been suspended has the right to appeal the decision to the Library Director. A patron may appeal in writing to the Library Director or in person after scheduling and appointment with the Director. The Director will bring the appeal to the Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control within 10 days who may or may not shorten, modify, or terminate the banning period if the information submitted by individual warrants such modification. Until such time as determination has been reviewed and/or modified or reversed on appeal by the Terrebonne Parish Library Board of Control, a banned individual may not enter or remain on library premises.

Solicitation
Selling anything, such as raffle tickets, candy, etc., for personal gain or for a charitable cause is forbidden in the library system. Begging, panhandling, or circulating petitions are prohibited.

Clothing
Patrons are not permitted in the building without shoes or shirts. This is for health and sanitary purposes.

Unattended Children
The library system welcomes youth to use its facilities and services. In order to provide for the general welfare of all persons using the library system and in order to provide for the general safety of children using the library, responsibility and accountability for the general welfare of any child rests with the parent (or guardian or care giver assigned by the parent) and not with the library’s personnel. The safety of all children left alone in the library is a serious concern.

All children ages 12 years or younger shall, at all times, be attended and adequately supervised by an adult. During story times or programs, adults do not have to attend the program with the child, but must remain in the building and must return to the story area by the end of the program.

No public place, including the library, can guarantee the safety of children. Therefore, it is required that children 12 years and younger be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.

Children Left Unattended
Unattended children who appear lost or frightened should be comforted by the staff. A staff member will try to identify and locate the parents or responsible adult. If the responsible adult cannot be found within 30 minutes, law enforcement officials will be contacted.

If children are left unattended at closing time, a staff member will call the parents or care giver. After fifteen minutes, the staff member will contact law enforcement personnel if staff are unable to reach the care givers by telephone.

Staff will not drive children home.

Adopted: September 16, 1999
Revised: June 28, 2005
Revised: July 10, 2007

Sexual Harassment Policy Terrebonne Parish Library does not tolerate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment may include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other unwelcome verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature when such conduct creates an offensive, hostile, and intimidating working environment and prevents an individual from effectively performing the duties of their position.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued guidelines setting forth the commission’s interpretation regarding sexual harassment as a violation of Title VII or the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These guidelines are consistent with the library’s policy that conduct creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment will not be tolerated, and those violating this practice may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Any employee who is affected by sexual harassment is directed to immediately report the incident to the employee’s supervisor. The supervisor must then inform the Director or Assistant Director. Complaints will be handled confidentially and impartially. Sexual Harassment Training Effective January 1, 2019, Act 270 of the 2018 legislative session requires all public library board members and employees to have annual training on preventing sexual harassment. Proof of training will be kept in the employee’s personnel file.

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Sex Offender Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the Terrebonne Parish Library is in compliance with Louisiana Act No. 693 that excludes registered sex offenders convicted of offenses against victims under the age of 13 from Louisiana public libraries. The statutory mandates are set forth in La. R.S. 14:91.2.

Regulation:
I. Effective January 1, 2013, persons who have been convicted of sex offenses where the victim was under the age of 13 are restricted in their access to public library property, as follows:

a. Children’s Areas – No sex offender shall be physically present in any area of the library designated as a “children’s area.”
b. Peak Children’s Hours – No sex offender shall be physically present on public library property during peak hours of children’s use of the library.

i. During the school year, peak hours are defined as 2 pm to 8 pm.
ii. During the summer, peak hours are defined as 9 am to 8 pm.
iii. Peak hours of children’s use also include hours during which children’s programs are scheduled.

c. No sex offender shall loiter within 1,000 feet of public library property.

II. Exceptions to these restrictions are:

a. Polling precinct – There shall be no violation of this regulation if the sex offender is reporting to a polling precinct that is within the restricted area.
b. With special permission – There shall be no violation of this regulation if the sex offender has requested and has been granted written permission to be physically present on public library property from the library director or his designee, and the sex offender complies with any special restrictions contained within the permission.

Violations of this policy will be immediately reported to law enforcement, and violators will lose all library privileges. Violators will be subject to prosecution for the violation of Louisiana Law.

Adopted: December 6, 2012

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Group Study Rooms

The Terrebonne Parish Library System provides group study rooms for use by the public at the Main Library and North Branch. The purpose of the rooms is to allow people to work together on projects, to study, or for not-for-profit tutoring, and to do so without disturbing other library users.

Group study rooms are not intended for single users. No groups smaller than two people or for profit business meetings (including tutoring) may reserve or use group study rooms at any time.

Single users wishing to study in a quiet area may use the Quiet Study Room (Main Library only).

Main library only – The second floor study rooms are in the adult non-fiction area cannot be reserved or used by those not yet in the seventh grade unless a parent is present.

The group study rooms can be reserved in advance by contacting the applicable library. Walk in usage is allowed if the rooms are not already reserved.

A group can use a room for two hours per day; extension of time in one-hour increments may be granted if another group is not waiting for a room. Only one representative from a group may reserve a room per day.

Each study room is intended to hold as many people as there are chairs. Adding chairs to accommodate larger groups is prohibited.

There is to be no excessive talking, loud noises, or playing allowed in the study rooms. No standing on furniture will be tolerated. Any group violating these rules after a warning will be evicted from the room.

Study rooms may be monitored by staff for compliance with rules and regulations. Any violation of these rules may result in loss of study room privileges.

Adopted June 1, 2003;
Revised June 24, 2003;
Revised August 26, 2003;
Revised February 25, 2015

Terrebonne Parish Library
Statement of Concern

The library does not promulgate particular beliefs or views, nor does the selection of a resource express or imply endorsement of the viewpoint of the author or vendor. All materials will be judged as a whole rather than by isolated passages. Library resources will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of the contents, nor will items be sequestered, or access denied, except for the purpose of protecting resources from damage or theft, or required by law. No materials are excluded or removed from the library on the basis of race, nationality, political, social, or religious beliefs.

Some materials may be offensive to individuals or groups because of individual perceptions of profanity, human sexuality, social, economic, and political ideas, religious viewpoints, the background of the author, or the kind of information provided. However, these items may be meaningful and significant to other users.

The use of a Materials Selection Policy is a standard practice for libraries to ensure that the materials added to their collections meet certain criteria, such as relevance and accuracy for the community. This policy helps maintain the library’s mission and ensures that the collection remains valuable and beneficial to its users.

The library’s stance on censorship aligns with the principles of intellectual freedom, which are fundamental to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. It recognizes that individuals have the right to reject materials they do not approve of for personal reasons, but it firmly opposes the act of censorship that restricts the freedom of others to access information and ideas.

By upholding these principles, the library encourages an open and inclusive environment where people can explore a wide range of perspectives, engage in critical thinking, and make informed decisions for themselves. This approach supports the democratic values of free speech and the exchange of ideas, which are essential components of a thriving and enlightened society.

The library welcomes expression of opinion by customers, but will be governed by our Materials Selection Policy in making additions and deletions to the collection.

Any person wishing to issue a request of concern that is for any reason other than the aforementioned reasons, must fill out a “Statement of Concern” form. Two forms are available: “sexually explicit” and “other” which is for any other form of reconsideration such as reclassification.

The petitioner MUST be a resident of Terrebonne Parish with a valid library card and forms must be clearly and fully filled out or will be considered invalid.

Sexually explicit requests will be submitted to the Library Board of Control at their regularly scheduled board meetings and voted on at their leisure. Majority rules in determination of
approval or denial. Written notification via email or traditional mail will be made to the complainant.

Appeals may be made via written request only, and must address the complaint. They will be discussed at the next available time slot via a scheduled board meeting. All requests and appeals will be responded to within one hundred eighty (180) days, if possible.

All other statement of concerns will be directed to the library director and addressed in a timely manner and voted on by a library committee. Notification of approval or denial will be made through email or traditional mail to the complainant. The appeal process is the same as above.

Adopted: October 18, 2023

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Surplus Property

The Business Manager shall be responsible for the sale or disposal of all library furniture, equipment, and inventory that is no longer of any use to the library system. Branch managers are responsible for reporting to the business manager any items that need to be disposed. The business manager will prepare a resolution for the Library Board of Control’s consideration to declare items “surplus property” so that the items can be sold. The library administration adheres to L.R.S. 49:125 in regards to the procedure in declaring, advertising, and awarding of surplus property.

Technological and/or telecommunications equipment may be declared surplus in three years.

Adopted: September 16, 1999
Revised: May 23, 2006

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Termination without Prejudice

Termination without prejudice (i.e., “lay-offs”) may result from these or similar situations and shall not be considered disciplinary action:

1. Revenue shortage and/or expenditure cuts
2. Other financial emergency
3. Closure or relocation of branch(es)
4. Discontinuance of a library activity or service
5. Major library reorganization

Layoffs shall be carried out on the basis of seniority. Part-time employees shall be laid off before regular employees performing similar duties. A seniority list shall be established.
Whenever possible, at least two weeks’ notice shall be given to an employee prior to termination.

Should there be a vacancy in another area and an employee is qualified, that employee may be transferred.

When a position is abolished, an attempt will be made to transfer the employee, if possible, to another position for which they are qualified. This may cause the layoff of a lesser qualified employee. It must be recognized that transfers will not be possible in all cases, and the layoff of one or more employees may be necessary.

These employees would be eligible to keep their names in the application files for consideration of re-employment if and when the library’s situation changes to allow such activity. Recalls should be made in the order of termination.

Adopted: February 27, 1997

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Transfers/Reassignments

Each staff member is assigned to work primarily in a particular area or branch; however, all employees work for the library system and first consideration must be given to needs of the organization as a whole.

Under normal circumstances, the library does not transfer or reassign employees. Most “movement” of employees occurs if they apply for, and are accepted to, job vacancies.

Under special circumstances, transfers or reassignments may become necessary. In such cases, the needs of the library and requirements of the particular position are the primary determining factors. Seniority would be a primary determination.

Adopted: February 27, 1997

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Tobacco Policy

In local ordinance no. 7074, article XI, section 2-251 libraries are defined as a public place. In the same article, section 2-253 states that the use of tobacco in public places is prohibited. It also states that tobacco use is prohibited within ten (10) feet of the entrance or exit of any building or facility owned, operated or occupied by the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government or any political subdivision, commission, agency, entity or district created by such government.
For the purposes of this policy, “tobacco” is defined to include, but not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and any other smoking product; dip, chew, snuff and any other smokeless tobacco product; and nicotine delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes. FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapy products used for tobacco cessation are excluded from this definition.

Adopted: March 18, 2015

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Travel

Travel of Library Director
When approved by the Board, the Library Director shall be reimbursed for travel.

Travel of Staff
The Director shall provide guidance to employees. It is advisable that either the Director or professional staff assigned to work with branches visit each branch on a regular basis.

In order to provide opportunities for professional guidance and education, the Library Board deems it in the library’s interest to allow staff time for attendance and to reimburse them for certain expenses of attending conferences, workshops, and other professional meetings, as funds permit.

Attendance shall be rotated among staff members giving preference to officers of the association, chairpersons of committees, or those appearing on a program. This should not close the library system.

When a library van is not available, employees occasionally use personally owned vehicles to travel within the city to carry the library programs to organizations, schools, and other institutions, to run errands to city offices and transact other library business. They shall be reimbursed. When two or more staff members travel in one automobile, only the owner of the automobile shall be entitled to reimbursement for mileage.

Travel of Board Members
Well-informed Board members are better able to serve the interest of their communities.
Therefore, Board members are urged to attend area, state, regional, and national library meetings.
Board members shall be reimbursed for such travel.

Plane Travel
A staff or Board member traveling on library system business by plane shall be reimbursed for air coach/economy fare. When a staff or Board member uses his personally owned vehicle for out-of-state travel on library business, he shall be reimbursed travel costs (transportation, lodging, meals while en route) not to exceed the cost of travel by coach/economy class air rates. Reimbursement shall be on the basis of the most direct route.

Lodging
It is recommended that library administration reserve lodging in the designated conference or meeting hotels due to conference discount rates and safety for the employee.

Meals/Mileage
The library will follow the most current U.S. GSA (General Services Administration) reimbursement policy for meals and mileage.

Adopted: November 1980
Revised: January 1982
Revised: February 18, 1999
Revised: June 19, 2019

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Wireless Network Use Policy

The Library provides free wireless Internet access to anyone who has the necessary device(s). The network is open and unsecured. It is strongly recommended that you do not use such a network to transmit personal, financial or legal data. It is not possible for the Library to protect against malicious theft or interception of such data transmitted over our network. Wireless Internet access in the library is governed by the Library’s Electronic Use Policy.

The wireless network is not meant as a replacement for the wired network and is not meant to be used as a primary network connection. Users are expected to avoid using applications that will use large amounts of bandwidth. These include, but are not limited to, servers and file sharing applications.

As mentioned in the Library’s Electronic Use Policy, use of the wireless network is at your own risk and the Library is not responsible for any damage that may occur to your computer while connected. The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device configurations, security or data files resulting from connection to the Library wireless access. Users must keep their equipment with them at all times.

The following policies are in addition to the Library’s Electronic Use Policy. Actions that are detrimental or inappropriate when accessing the Library network resources include, but are not limited to, those listed below:

• The Library does not supply or loan network cards. Laptop computers are only available to loan through the State Library of Louisiana’s laptop loan program.
• Library staff will provide NO technical assistance for wireless networking.
• Users may not modify the network in any way. This includes adding access points and installing bridges, switches, hubs or repeaters. The Library reserves the right to remove or disable any unauthorized access points.
• Individual users will be responsible for all costs associated with purchase, installation, operation and support of wireless adapters in client computers.
• Any attempt to break into or gain unauthorized access to any computers or systems for a wireless connection is prohibited.
• We reserve the right to limit bandwidth on a per connection basis on the wireless network, as necessary, to ensure network reliability and fair sharing of network resources for all wireless users.
• Users are responsible for ensuring they are running up-to-date anti-virus software on their device (if applicable). By not maintaining current anti-virus/firewall programs, devices are open to worms, viruses, Trojan horses,      denial-of-service attacks, intrusions, packet-sniffing and other abuses by third parties.
• Wireless access or speed is not guaranteed.

Library staff does not provide technical assistance with wireless access, and will not under any circumstances make changes to the configuration of a privately owned wireless device. However,
we do provide information which may help you if you have questions or are having difficulty making a connection.

Any restriction or monitoring of a minor’s access to the Library’s wireless network is the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian.

By using the Library’s network (wired or wireless) or resources, patrons acknowledge agreement to abide by all laws, rules and regulations of the State of LA and the federal government that are applicable to Internet use.

Adopted: April 18, 2012

Terrebonne Parish Library Policy
Zero Tolerance Policy

Any person who threatens library patrons or personnel with harm, causes property damage or whose actions causes disruption of normal library routine will have criminal charges brought against him and that person be banned from all library branches.

Adopted by: August 19, 1999