• Code of Conduct

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  Please watch your possessions; the library is not responsible for lost items. Unattended belongings may be sent to the police station for security reasons. All library visitors and patrons are expected to abide by these standards of behavior. If you do not abide by these policies, you will be asked to leave the premises.

  • Any activity prohibited by the Texas Penal Code or Laws or City Ordinances including:

  • Unsupervised Children
  • Bomb Threats
  • Harassment or Assault of patrons and/or staff
  • Indecent Exposure
  • Intoxication Resulting from Alcohol or Drugs
  • Loitering
  • Mistreatment and Vandalism of Library Facilities or Property
  • Soliciting and Panhandling
  • Theft of Library Property
  • Weapons
  • Viewing obscene or objectionable materials in violation of Texas Penal Code

  • Bikes, roller blades, skateboards, scooters etc. in the library or lobby
  • Disruptive and disorderly behavior including excessive noise, running, and use of audible devices
  • Entry into Unauthorized (Staff) Areas
  • Fighting
  • Sleeping
  • Unauthorized presence in children’s areas, only parent/caregiver and children allowed in these areas
  • Food or Unlidded Drinks in Library
  • Not Wearing Shirts, Pants, and Shoes
  • Refusal to Leave When Asked by Library Staff
  • Smoking/Vaping, Tobacco Use and Alcohol

  Anyone who violates these Standards of Conduct could be subject to loss of library privileges and removal from the library. Failing to leave the premises after requested to do so by library staff or a law enforcement officer may result in criminal trespass charges under Texas Penal Code.

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• Photography/Filming

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  In order to provide all library patrons with the safest and most pleasant library experience, those wishing to use cameras and/or recording equipment for non-personal use within the library facilities must have their request approved in advance by the library director. Those photographing or videotaping children must have both the permission of a library supervisor and a written release signed in advance by each child's legal guardian. Those photographing or videotaping adults must have permission from the subject as well as a library supervisor. Those not following this policy may be asked to put away their equipment or leave the facility.

  While the library is a public place, libraries may reasonably restrict the exercise of free speech rights in their buildings, particularly when the conduct would be disruptive to, or interfere with, the other patrons or staff. Library access by photographers may be limited either by time constraints or to specific areas.
  
  Library staff have the right to photograph, film, and record library events and patrons for promotional use in print, online, and video. Visitors to the library, or anyone participating in any library event being captured on film or by photograph, will be advised verbally or through signage that their participation acts as consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded, unless they indicate otherwise to library staff.
  
  Photography, video, or audio recording by visitors to the library are generally permitted if it is strictly for personal use. However, in order to protect the rights of individual patrons and to prevent disruptions, interference with staff or patrons, photography, video or audio recording on library property are restricted as follows:

  1. Under no circumstances may the public or members of the media take photographs or record video and/or audio without the express permission of any library patron or staff member who would be included within the composition. In the case of minors, permission must come from the parent or legal guardian.
  2. Media are subject to the provisions of the Code of Conduct policy and may not disturb the normal operations of the library.

  The above policy applies only to open, public events. Closed events such as class visits would require releases and/or permissions from the supervisor of the visiting organization.

  Sources:

  GOVERNMENT CODE Sec. 552.021
  
  Office for Intellectual Freedom of the American Library Association

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• Unattended Children

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  The Burnet County Library System is dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe environment for patrons of all ages. Staff strive to create a warm, inviting, fun environment for children. However, the safety and well being of children at the library is of serious concern. It is the intention of this policy to enlist the cooperation of parents and other adults responsible for children to ensure that the library provides a safe and pleasant experience for all who use it.
  
  Guidelines:

  • Children who are unable or unwilling to care for themselves may not be left alone in the library and must have adequate supervision while in the library. Staff are not responsible if children leave the library unattended.
  • The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the library rests with the parent/caregiver and not with library personnel. Library employees cannot be responsible for children who are unattended or demonstrating inappropriate or dangerous behavior.
  • Children are expected to respect library property and adhere to the rules outlined in the policies.
  • Library staff will attempt to contact a parent/caregiver in circumstances as the following:
    • An unattended child is engaging in behavior that is disruptive to other library patrons, staff or the normal operation of the library business;
    • An unattended child is involved in a situation that is potentially harmful to the health and safety of the child and/or others;
    • An unattended child is left alone at the library at closing time.
  • The situations listed above will be handled on a case-by-case basis. If parents/caregivers cannot be reached or are unresponsive, the library will work with other city/county departments as needed, including police and/or truancy officers.
  • Parents should ensure that the child knows how to reach them and provide them with an emergency contact number.
  • Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children in the library, whether or not the parent is present.

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• Animals in the Library

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  SERVICE ANIMALS:
  
  The Burnet County Library System recognizes that some of our library users may have disabilities that require the assistance of a service animal. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are defined as:

  A dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with disabilities. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability.

  This does not include emotional support, therapy, or companion animals. These terms describe animals that provide comfort, but have not been trained to do a specific job and are not covered under ADA. These animals are considered pets. If it is not immediately apparent what service an animal provides, staff members may ask two questions:

  1. Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
  2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

  Access will be granted to disabled individuals and their service animals to all areas where members of the public are permitted.

  Library users with service animals, and service animals in training, are responsible for the care and supervision of their animals, including cleaning up after them, and must keep them under control:

  The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, or other forms of control (e.g. voice control, signals, or other effective means) if the use of a harness, leash, or tether would interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks.

  In accordance with ADA, a library user with a disability may be asked to remove their service animal from the premises if:

  1. The animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it;
  2. The animal is not housebroken.

  If a service animal is wandering unleashed (not performing a task), barking excessively, displaying disruptive or aggressive behavior, the handler will be asked to remove the animal from the library.

  In such cases, the disabled individual will be given the opportunity to receive services and participate in programs without the presence of the service animal.

  PETS:

  Pets are not allowed in the library.

  EXCEPTIONS:
  Exceptions to this policy are animals that are in the library as part of a library sponsored program or event.

  This policy is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities ACT, Titles II & III, and the Texas Human Resources Code, Title 8. Portions of this texts are directly from the following sources:
  For more information on the ADA and service animals, visit:

  https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.pdf
  
  https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm

  For the Texas Human Resources Code, Title 8, visit:

  https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HR/htm/HR.121.htm

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• Borrower's Policies

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  Library Privacy laws do not allow a borrower’s history or account information to be shared with anyone. Current Driver’s License may be used instead of Burnet County Library Card for in-house transactions.
  
  A person receiving a Burnet County Library System card:

  • Accepts full responsibility for all library materials borrowed on their card;
  • Agrees to present the card each time a transaction is made in the library and for Internet access;
  • Agrees to use their library card number when a transaction is made over the phone or remotely from our website;
  • Agrees to abide by all library policies, procedures, and standards of conduct as distributed and/or posted;
  • Agrees to pay fines and fees for lost or damaged library materials and/or library card as posted in the library;
  • Agrees to keep personal information current and give the library prompt notice of change of name, address, phone number, e-mail address or lost card;
  • Agrees to the check out limits and card restrictions.

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• Patron Types/Requirements to Obtain a Library Card

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  PATRON TYPES:
  The following are the patron types of the Burnet County Library:

  • ABC - Adult Burnet County
  • AO – Adult living outside Burnet County
  • CHILD – Ages 5-16
  • GROUP - Facilities and Organizations responsible for the care of multiple individuals

  Group accounts are available to facilities and organizations that provide daily, weekly, or long-term care for multiple individuals, such as daycares, group homes, and assisted living facilities. An employee authorized by the Facility must bring their Photo ID, proof of employment (name badge, or other documentation with their name and the facility name), and proof of the Facility’s contact information. Up to two additional cards can be attached to the main account for Facility use. Each employee will need to sign for their card. By authorizing their employee to get a group account, the Facility assumes all responsibility for items checked out, including returning items by their due date, renewing eligible items, and paying any fines and fee that may accrue. In getting an account, the Facility is agreeing to abide by the Burnet County Library System’s borrowers’ agreement.

  PATRON’S REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN A LIBRARY CARD:

  •  Read the Borrower’s Agreement at the time of application
  • Complete and sign the registration form
    • 17 years or older:
      Submit form with acceptable photo ID and proof of current mailing address
    • 5 to 16 years old :
      A parent or legal guardian with a library account in good standing is required to submit a signature and library card number. Child account will then be attached to parents or guardians.

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• Circulation Policy

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  A loan period for books and audio books is for a two-week period and may be renewed for a total of two times unless a hold has been placed on an item or the card has restrictions. Renewals may be made in person, by phone or online using a patron’s library card number. Check the library branch for circulation restrictions on special collection items (i.e. hotspots, STEAM kits).

  Items may be returned to any library branch. Special collection items must be returned to the branch they were checked out at.

  All overdue items must be returned and fines exceeding $5.00 must be paid before additional materials may be checked out or renewed.

  • First time check-out is limited to two items.
  • Initial library card is given at no charge.
  • Interlibrary loan requests are accepted for card holding patrons.
  • Items may be returned to any library in the Burnet County Library System.
  • Unreturned items may be considered as an act of theft.

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• Technology/Internet Policy

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  The Burnet County Library System provides digital services and internet access free of charge as part of our ongoing commitment to serve our communities and visitors. Use of the internet by account holders and guests must be in accordance with library policy, and all local, state, and federal laws. Use of the internet must be in a courteous and responsible manner.

  There is no guarantee that there will be uninterrupted service at any given time. The library has no control over the content of the internet and users access it at their own risk. We encourage our internet users, both with public computers and WiFi, to use common sense and caution when accessing the internet.

  PUBLIC COMPUTERS:
  Usage Requirements:
  Public computers are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Computers are available to account holders in good standing and visitors.

  • Computer users under the age of 17 years must use the filtered computers in the Juvenile section of the libraries.
  • Computer users may bring their own headphones, or purchase headphones at some branches. Volume must be kept low so as to not disturb others.
  • No more than two people at a computer at one time.
  • All computer sessions end 15 minutes before the libraries close.
  • Computer users must respect the privacy of other computer users and conduct their business in a courteous manner. Disruption of other users may result in being asked to leave the computer area.

  Prohibited Uses:
  Computers are provided for bona fide research and lawful purposes. Violation may result in the loss or suspension of computer privileges and possible prosecution and repair expenses. Staff members have the authority to end a session if a violation has occurred. Prohibited uses are:

  • Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials.
  • Unauthorized use of the library or other networks, or “hacking”.
  • Any attempts to evade security measures.
  • Damage to, or misuse of, the computer and its components
  • Viewing, downloading, distributing, or exhibiting materials that are harmful to minors. Library computers may not be used to access illegal or obscene materials or to display materials that violate the Texas Penal Code, Sections 43.24 and 43.25. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.43.htm
  • Install any software programs not provided by the library.
  • Use the library computers or WiFi for unauthorized, illegal, or unethical activities.
  • Use the computers in such a way that is disruptive to other library users.
  • Turn off, unplug, or alter the computers or software in any way. Any computer issues must be reported to staff immediately.

  Violations to this policy may result in the loss of computer privileges.

  Session/Time Limits:
  Computer sessions are limited to two sessions a day, with each session being 90 minutes for adult computers and 60 minutes for children’s computers. Session times and limits may be adjusted at individual locations at the discretion of the director without prior notice.

  Downloading/Saving Information:
  Information may be temporarily saved to the provided public storage space on each computer, emailed to a personal email account, or saved to a personal USB. All public computers are wiped of any downloads, saved information, web searches, and passwords upon resetting. Staff members are unable to retrieve information once a computer has reset.

  Printing:
  Printing is available from public computers and with Mobile Printing. Print charges are posted at the print release stations and on the libraries’ websites. Print refunds will only be issued if the printer produces a damaged or unreadable print. Blank pages and other non-machine caused print errors are not eligible for a refund. Print users are encouraged to use print preview and make any needed adjustment prior to submitting print jobs.
  
  Staff Limitations:
  Staff members may assist in helping computer users navigate the basic functions of websites and the provided computer programs, and give guidance on how to achieve desired search results. Staff members may not assist users with personal tasks, such as filling out applications, nor give advice on personal matters.
  
  Minors, CIPA, and Filters:
  Library account holders between the ages of 8 – 16 years may use the filtered computers in the Juvenile section of the library. Parents and/or legal guardians, not library staff, are responsible for a minor’s use of library computers. If a parent or guardian does not wish their child to use this library resource, it is their responsibility, not library staff, to see that the child complies with their wishes.
  
  In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), BCLS computers are filtered for images that are:

  • Obscene
  • Child pornography
  • Harmful to minors

  No filtering is fool-proof and our filters may be updated at any time without prior notice.
  Certain websites are blocked; if a computer user feels a website is blocked unnecessarily, they may request it be unblocked. The request will be reviewed by the library director and the director’s decision is final.
  Staff computers and computers for adult access (users 17 years and older) have disabled filters for bona fide research and lawful purposes.
  
  Liability Disclaimer:
  Using the library computers is done at the user’s own risk. The library and its staff members are not liable for any damages, direct or indirect, arising from the use of the libraries’ computers.
  
  WiFi:
  Public wireless internet is available 24/7 at most branch locations. Availability and access procedures are subject to change without prior notice.
  
  Usage Rules:
  The same rules for usage apply as for Public Computers.
  
  Mobile Printing:
  Mobile printing is available at the Bertram, Burnet, and Marble Falls locations. Technical issues can occur and there is no guarantee that this service will work perfectly at all times.
  
  Filters:
  Library WiFi is used by adults and minors; certain types of websites are blocked. If a WiFi user feels a site is being blocked unnecessarily, a WiFi user may submit a request for it to be unblocked. The request will be reviewed by the library director and the director’s decision will be final.
  
  Staff Limitations:
  Library staff may assist WiFi users in connecting to the WiFi, but may not assist with the operation or troubleshooting of personal devices.
  
  Disclaimer:
  Using the WiFi is done at the user’s own risk. WiFi users are expected to be responsible for the security of their personal devices and any information they may transmit. The library and its staff members are not liable for any loss or damage that may occur when using public WiFi.
  
  SPECIAL COLLECTIONS:
  MOBILE HOTSPOTS:
  Some branches of the BCLS offer mobile hotspots for check out. Hotspot checkout times, requirements, and restrictions will be set by the director of each branch location.
  Please check with the lending branch to see their requirements.
  
  Usage Requirement:
  Hotspots are available to adult account holders in good standing.
  
  Rules for Usage:

  • Hotspots must be returned on time and in the same condition they were checked out in. Failure to do so will result in damage/replacement fees. The library reserved the right to deny the use of hotspots to any account holder who returns the device late, in a damaged condition, or in violation of the usage policy and/or branch borrowing policy.
  • The account the hotspot is checked out to assumes all responsibility and liability for loss or damage to the device.

  Limitations:
  Hotspots may not work in all areas. The library cannot guarantee that the hotspot will be usable at any given location.
  
  GENEALOGY COMPUTERS:
  Computers for genealogy research are available at the Elizabeth Van Gorkom Genealogical Research Center, located at the Herman Brown Free Library in Burnet. These computers are for the express purpose of genealogical research. All other use of these computers is prohibited. Violation of this policy can result in the loss of access to these computers.
  Charges apply for any printing or copying done from these computers.
  
  Usage Requirements:
  Research computers may be accessed by library account holders in good standing and guests. Specific requirements apply and researchers should call the library or check its website to learn what these requirements are.
  
  PUBLIC ACCESS CATALOG COMPUTERS:
  Public Access Catalog (PAC) computers are available to search the BCLS catalog and may not be used for any other purpose.
  
  ELECTRONIC SERVICES:
  Apps/Services:
  The library provides a variety of online and digital services. Access to these services is available to library account holders in good standing.
  Limitations:
  Like all technology, our eServices occasionally have problems. Our library staff is able to do limited troubleshooting with these services, but cannot do in-depth troubleshooting or make any changes to a service user’s personal device.

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• Materials Selection

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  Presence of materials in the library is not a personal endorsement of their contents by any member of the staff or the governing body of the library. This includes physical and digital materials.

  Standards that guide the selection of materials are as follows:

  • Materials should possess qualities of:
    • Contemporary significance or value
    • Accuracy and objectivity of viewpoint
    • Authority of the author in the field
    • Clear presentation and readability
    • Social significance
  • Works of imagination should possess qualities of:
    • Representation of important movements, genres, trends of national culture
    • Vitality and originality
    • Artistic integrity
    • Effective characterization
    • Authenticity of historical or social setting
    • Sustained interest
  • Materials considered for inclusion in the library’s collection must meet one or more of the following standards:
    • Importance of subject matter to the collection
    • Literary, artistic, political, historical, or scientific value
    • Timeliness
    • Reputation and significance of author, illustrator, editor, artist, performer, etc.
    • Accuracy and authenticity of content
    • Readability
    • Popularity
    • Local interest
    • Reputation and professional standing of publisher
    • Price
    • Format
  • Periodicals will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
    • Frequency of use
    • Interest, as indicated by patron requests
    • Reputation and quality of publication
    • Titles on subjects of current interest
  • Digital Collection
    • Digital content is composed of subscriptions, consortiums, and databases. This collection is not entirely curated by the Library System. Digital content purchased by the Library System is subject to the same selection criteria as physical materials.
  • Some items that are not deemed suitable for collection include:
    • Collectors’ materials
    • Philosophy and religion materials that have as their primary purpose to proselytize converts
    • Textbooks
    • Obscene Materials
  • Tools used in the selection of collection materials include but are not limited to:
    • Award lists
    • Special bibliographies
    • Various professional journals
    • Patron recommendations

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• Maintenance of the Collection

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  Library materials will be periodically examined to maintain a balanced collection. When materials are deemed no longer useful or needed, the library will discard them at the discretion of the library director. Withdrawn materials may be sold to the general public with proceeds benefiting the library.

  WEEDING:
  Materials that no longer meet the stated objectives of the library (including items that have become damaged or obsolete) will be systematically withdrawn according to the accepted professional practices described in the publication, CREW: A Weeding Manual for Modern Libraries. Disposal of withdrawn library materials will be at the discretion of the library director.

  Reasons for withdrawal of materials include:

  • Poor physical condition
  • Datedness
  • Inaccuracy of information
  • Lack of reader interest based on the number of check-outs in a given period of time
  • Duplicates not justified by demand
  • Materials that do not meet the current selection criteria

  The controversial nature of materials shall not be deemed a sufficient reason for removal unless and until the material has been subjected to a review as outlined in our Censorship policy.

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• Censorship

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  CENSORSHIP:
  The selection of library materials is predicated on the library patron’s right to read and freedom from censorship by others. Many materials are controversial and any given item may offend some persons. Selections will be on the merits of the material in relation to the building of the collection and to serving the interests of the readers. Burnet County Library System holds censorship to be a purely individual matter. No one can exercise censorship to restrict the freedom of others.

  With respect to the use of library materials by minors (children under 17), the decision as to what a minor may read or view is the responsibility of his parent or guardian. The library and its staff do not serve in place of the parent. This library subscribes to the principles of the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, Statements on Labeling and Free Access to Libraries for Minors and of the Texas Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom.
  
  COMPLAINTS REGARDING CONTROVERSIAL MATERIALS:
  Anonymous complaints will not be considered. To have a request considered, the patron must:

  • Have a current library card from the Burnet County Library System;
  • File a completed Patrons Request For Reconsideration of Materials form with the library director.
  • No duplicate requests.

  A patron wishing to discuss the selection of any library materials must complete a formal request form. No materials will be added or removed on demand. When the completed form is returned to the library director, the reasons for the complaint will be considered using the principles of the Burnet County Library System selection policy as a guide.

  Directors and a representative from the Commissioner's Court will decide the validity of the complaint and their decision will be final. Once a decision has been reached on a material, it will not be considered again for removal. A written response from the librarian will be provided within a two-week period from receipt of the written form.
  
  SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
  Library Bill of Rights
  Freedom to Read
  Freedom to View
  Labeling Statement 
  Access to Library Resources and Services for Minors Statement
  Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form

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• Special Collections

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  SPECIAL COLLECTIONS:

  HISTORY AND GENEALOGY COLLECTIONS
  The Burnet County Library System recognizes its obligation to assist the public by providing materials pertinent to the area.
  The Burnet County Library System supports state and local history and acquires works by and about local authors and interests. The System is under no obligation to add items to its collections that do not meet the selection guidelines.
  The Elizabeth Van Gorkom Genealogy Research Center is part of the Herman Brown Free Library and is the repository for Burnet County history. This collection includes local history and genealogy and genealogical resources. Additions and deletions from this collection are at the discretion of the Herman Brown Free Library director.
  
  STEAM KITS
  The Herman Brown Free Library’s STEAM kits are specifically curated with Pre-K to 4th grade students in mind, helping to build skills and learning in circuits, robotics, computer science, engineering, art, language, creativity, math, problem solving, and more. The range of STEAM kits includes games, robots, computers, and phonics. Each type of kit offers unique skills and activities to students.
  
  ELIGIBILITY:
  The Herman Brown Free Library lends STEAM kits to Burnet County Library System cardholders, in good standing, ages 18 or above.
  
  TERMS OF USE:

  By checking out a STEAM kit, you agree to these terms and conditions:

  1. STEAM kit checkout is limited to 2 per household for a period of 14 days, with no renewals.
  2. STEAM kits must be returned to the lending branch's circulation desk.
  3. The cardholder is responsible for damages or expenses resulting from use or misuse of the kit, including damage, loss, or theft. The library reserves the right to deny future use.
  4. Adult supervision is required when using STEAM kits.
  5. Kits will be checked for contents when checked out and returned.

  If a component does not work, please alert library staff as soon as possible.
  
  REPLACEMENT COST:
  Please replace batteries as needed.
  Damaged/Lost charges will evaluated on a case by case basis. Kit replacements cost is noted on each STEAM kit.
  Late Fee per Day: $1.00

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• Patron Requests

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  The library welcomes patron interest in the collection and will consider all requests for specific materials depending on the availability and suitability of the item for the collection. The library is under no obligation to fill any particular request.

  Patrons may offer selection recommendations. Final responsibility for selection of all library materials is vested in the Library Director of each library in the Burnet County Library System. Other trained staff members may contribute to collection development.

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  Book Title (with Series Title if Applicable)required

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• Interlibrary Loan

  ▲

  Cost of postage will be charged to patrons for each Interlibrary loan item which must be returned to the lending library by mail. If the lending library requests postage reimbursement for sending the item to and/or requests that the item be insured when returned to them, then these additional expenses will be passed along to the patron. All postage costs MUST BE PAID by the patron. 
  
  Interlibrary Loans (ILLs) are available to adult library patrons in good standing. Please consider the following before requesting an ILL:

  • That this is not requesting an item from another Burnet County Library branch.
  • Postage must be paid for when you pick up the item. It is usually between $3.00 and $5.00.
  • Request times will vary and it may take up to 6 weeks to get an item. Usually we get it in one to two weeks.
  • The lending library sets the circulation time frame. We do not have control over this. It can range from 2 weeks to a month.
  • Some lending libraries allow renewals. Others do not. We can always submit a renewal request it if needed.
  • Overdue fees are $1.00/day late.
  • Items can be returned in the book drop but they have to be returned to the branch they were requested at.
  • You will be held responsible for any damages or lost items.

  At Check out -

  • Postage must be paid before checkout.
  • DO NOT REMOVE THE ILL STICKER located on the book cover.
  • The due date will be listed on the ILL sticker as well as your checkout receipt.

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• Gift & Donations

  ▲

  The librarian on behalf of the library may accept unconditional gifts, donations, and contributions to the library in the form of materials, money, honorariums, or memorials. No gifts or donations conditionally made shall be accepted without the approval of the library director.

  • All gifts are subject to the previously stated criteria for standards.
  • The library may refuse any material not deemed desirable.
  • When gift materials are deemed no longer useful or needed, the library will discard them at the discretion of the library director.
  • Collections of books will not be accepted with restrictions which necessitate special housing, or which prevent integration of the gifts into the general library collection.
  • A receipt for donated items for tax purposes is available upon request.

  MEMORIAL DONATION FORM

  
  

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• Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form

  ▲
  Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form

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• FEES

  ▲

  FEES:

  Fees are charged for:

  • Replacement cards;
  • Replacing lost or damaged materials;
  • Printing from the computers;
  • Making copies/faxes.

  Material Charges:

  • The total charge to replace a lost or damaged item includes the cost of the item plus the processing fee. No refunds will be provided. Items bought by patrons for replacement are not accepted.

  FINES:
  Overdue fines accrue at a rate of $0.25/item per day. Special collection fines will vary.

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• Elizabeth Van Gorkom Genealogical Research Center

  ▲

  Access to the Research Center is available during library business hours:
  Monday - Friday
  10:00 AM - 4:45 PM  
  Saturday
  10:00 AM - 2:45 PM

  • Researchers are asked to sign in at the front desk before entering.
  • Microfilm is by appointment only. Users will be given a brief training session.

  For more information on what is available in the research center, please visit our Genealogy & Local History tab.

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• Meeting Room Policy

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  The Goodrich Meeting Room is provided to promote education and enrichment to the lives of our communities and is available to nonprofit and civic organizations that meet the meeting room policy. Permission to use the library facility does not constitute an endorsement of the group by the library staff or its governing authorities.

  • Meetings held at the library must be public and open to all.
  • Solicitation, admission or other charges, money-raising activities and/or sales not related to the library are not allowed. All programs and exhibits must be free-of-charge. Library sponsored events and programs may require a donation to cover the cost of program expenses at the discretion of the library director.
  • All advertising must include a disclaimer that the event is not in any way affiliated with or sponsored by the Burnet County Library System and must be clearly visible. Library phone numbers and email addresses may not be provided as a contact on any material or otherwise. The library is not obligated to post notices or flyers for functions it does not sponsor. 
  • The following uses are not permitted:
    • Meetings that promote, support, or further a commercial interest
    • Meetings that support a political issue, candidate, or campaign
    • Meetings that are purely social functions
    • Religious Meetings

  • Library related functions may preempt existing reservations. Some branches may restrict usage for extended periods to accommodate these functions.
  • Reservation requests will be honored on a first-come, first-serve basis. A completed Meeting Room Request Form must be on file and approved before a meeting date and time can be finalized. Cancellations should be made as soon as possible. Failure to notify the library of a canceled meeting may result in the loss of usage privileges, at the discretion of the library director.
  • Meeting rooms may be available when the library is closed, but the key must be picked up during library hours. It is the requestor’s responsibility to check the library’s schedule for holiday closings and other closings. Keys will only be issued to the person(s) listed on the Meeting Room Request Form. The person(s) on the request form, and the group, are responsible for key and lock replacement costs if the key is lost or not returned before closing time the next day.
  • Allowable occupancy for the Goodrich Meeting Room is posted at 60.
  • The group collectively is responsible for observing the Meeting Room Policy and will be held responsible for damages that may occur as a result of the use of the facilities.
  • Meetings may not disrupt the use of the library by others. Persons attending the meetings are subject to all library rules and regulations. Meeting participants must keep their noise to a minimum, especially in the public areas of the library. Parents are responsible for their children.
  • Permission to use the library meeting room may be withheld from groups for noncompliance with the Meeting Room Policy and
    • From any group who damages the room, equipment or furniture, or causes a disturbance;
    • Any requestor who has falsified any information on the Meeting Room Request Form;
    • A group or requestor that is disruptive to library service, a library building, or to any library equipment;
    • A group that does not show for their scheduled meeting time without first canceling their reservation.
  • The HBFL director/designee has the right to terminate any meeting in their facility in progress that disrupts library business.
  • The HBFL director/designee will resolve questions involving meeting room policies and procedures.

  CARE AND USAGE OF THE MEETING ROOM:

  1. Food and drink are allowed in the meeting room. A sink is provided and all supplies, food items, and trash must be removed when the meeting concludes. Trash must be disposed of in designated dumpsters in the ally behind the library.
  2. Do not affix anything to the walls.
  3. Groups are welcome to arrange the tables and chairs to meet their needs, but must put them away at the conclusion of the meeting.
  4. The meeting room must be left in a clean and orderly condition. The library is not responsible for materials, equipment, or possessions left in the meeting room.
  5. Before leaving, ensure that the closing checklist is complete and that the doors are locked. The meeting room key may be returned in the book drop if the meeting is after hours, otherwise, return the key to the front desk.
  6. Smoking/vaping, tobacco use, and alcohol are not permitted anywhere in the library.

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• Conference Room/Other Meeting Spaces

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  CONFERENCE ROOM POLICY:

  A Conference room is available for small private meetings that meet the conference room policy.

  1. Conference room usage is available during library business hours on a first come, first serve basis for parties of 6 or less.
  2. Conference rooms close prior to the end of regular business hours.
  3. Refreshments are not allowed in the conference rooms. Lidded drinks are the only exception.
  4. Any damage is the responsibility of the individual or group using the conference room and may result in the loss of usage privileges.
  5. The library has the right to terminate any meeting in progress that is disruptive to library business.
  6. Reservations may be made ahead of time by calling 512-715-5228.

  OTHER MEETING PLACES INSIDE THE LIBRARY:

  Permission to meet in another part of the library may be given to small groups when the Meeting Room and Conference Room are not available. The same rules apply to these places with the exception of food being allowed. 

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• Postings and Displays

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  Re: Posters, Advertisements, Brochures, Pamphlets, Flyers, Signs Priority will be given to library sponsored or created displays in all display areas. Information signs and posters from nonprofit groups or organizations only (no “for-profit”material) will be permitted in designated areas and posted by staff if the following criteria are met:

  • The library director or designated staff person has reviewed, approved and initialed the item prior to display.
  • Library display area is available.
  • Items promote or advertise activities, groups or events of civic, educational, or informational nature. (No “for-profit” advertisements, etc.)
  • No political party, position, issue or person may be promoted.
  • No worship service may be advertised or promoted.

  Sales: Only items whose proceeds directly support the library may be sold in the library.

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