Guest author/artist @ the library
mark your calendars for this one!
Baba Wagué Diakité, the award winning author, book illustrator, and artist, will visit the Gadsden County Public Library on two days in
April:
April 11, Friday Bill McGill Library Quincy
5:00 PM
April 12, SaturdayHavana Public Library
11:00 AM
These events are free and open to the public of all ages.
The program is sponsored by the GCPLS in partnership with Gadsden County Schools and the Gadsden Arts Center.
The author visit is funded by a Library Services and Technology Grant from the Florida's Institute of Museum and Library Services, throught he Department of State, with additional help from the Friends of the Gadsden County Public Library and Allison House Bed and Breakfast.
Baba Wagué Diakité will also be at
The Gadsden Arts Center, Quincy, as part of the "Artist Talk" series:
Firday, April 11, at 7:00 PM.
Help us get books
Valued Patrons,
We are trying to get a hometown helper grant from Hamburger Helper, and we need your support. If you can, please go to the website
http://www.hamburgerhelper.com/ViewProject.aspx?id=37188
and enter in a short comment of support as to why you think we should get this grant.
The 'comment field' is limited to 400 CHARACTERS, and you have to scroll down on the 'agreement box' and check 'I agree to the terms' to have your comment posted.
In advance, thank you for your support.
Our entry:
The Gadsden County Public Library in Quincy, Florida, has been in operation for 28 years. We operate under the auspices of the Board of County Commissioners. Although we are 20 miles from the capital of Florida, we are located in a rural agricultural and largely impoverished county, with 56% African-American, 42.7% white and 8.2% Latino population. English is a second language for many of our residents, and there is a high illiteracy rate as well. Our Main Branch was recently re-named for a local educator, William A. “Bill” McGill, a strong advocate of public libraries.
Due to the tight budget concerns in Florida, our materials budget for this year has dropped to only $20,000, which barely covers the expenses of purchasing recent best sellers, children’s books, and a limited number of audio books.
However, our needs extend to updating our non-fiction books as well, especially in the areas of pregnancy, parenting, and families; general basic health care information; basic English skills; GED and similar educational test preparation; African-American history and biography; and college and career information. Our desire is to continue to provide the best and most up-to-date information to our residents as we can without charge.
But we just cannot afford to update our collection of these books without assistance from you. We estimate that our collection needs at least another $15,000 dollars to update our collection in these areas; however any amount you can provide would help. Thank you.
Updated Library Policies
Valued Patrons:
listed below are the recently updated and revised Library Policies and Procedures.
We hope that you will take a few moments to read over these policies. A print copy is available at the Circulation Desk, upon request, for IN-LIBRARY review.
If you have any questions about the revised policies, please do not hesitate to ask.
We thank each and every one of you for your continued patronage and support, and hope to see you in the Library soon!
--Lilbrary Staff
Updated Patron Code of Conduct
Gadsden County Public LibraryPATRON CODE OF CONDUCTPublic supported library service is based upon the First Amendment right of free expression. Gadsden County maintains a library environment that is conducive to all users’ exercise of their constitutionally protected right to receive information.
The intended use of the Library is as a place for reading, study, gathering information, cultural and educational enrichment, and/or programmed activities. People using the Library have the right to expect that the Staff will maintain decorum by requiring courteous and reasonable behavior from everyone.
In order to protect all library users’ rights of access to library facilities, to ensure the safety of users and staff, and to protect library resources and facilities from damage, the following rules are intended to ensure the comfort and safety of the Patrons and Staff.
Parents or other adults accompanying minor children are responsible for those children in the library. The library is not responsible for unattended children. Parents or other adults accompanying minor children should remain in the library during scheduled library-sponsored children programs.
No child under the age of 13 years of age may be left unattended at the library except with library permission. No child should be left at the library after closing time. Any of the library staff is authorized to contact, either, Children and Family Services and/or an appropriate law enforcement agency for assistance.
No smoking, eating, or drinking is allowed in the library, including the restrooms. The staff, at library-designated functions, may permit food and non-alcoholic beverages.
The library is not responsible for any property left on library premises or in library materials.
Unacceptable Behaviors in the Library To ensure everyone’s comfort, safety, and access to library resources and facilities, the following behaviors are not considered acceptable in the library:
Noise or talking which disturbs others;
Sleeping;
Board, card, and other games;
Intoxication resulting from the use of alcohol or drugs;
Soliciting, peddling, or vending, whether in the library or on library grounds, parking areas, or cartilage;
Fighting;
Harassment; and verbal, visual, or physical abuse of other library patrons or library staff; and no loud and/or abusive language is permitted.
Use of radios or TVs without headphones;
Improper use, destruction or theft of property;
Running and noisy playing;
Campaigning and petitioning in the library and upon the library entryways;
Possession on library grounds of a weapon, an electric weapon or device, a firearm, a destructive device or explosive as defined in Chapter 790, Florida Statutes. The exceptions are law enforcement officers of the 2nd Judicial Circuit and library security personnel.
Everyone is required to wear shirts and shoes at all times and be appropriately dressed for the library.
Patrons who exhibit any of the above unacceptable behaviors will be asked to stop and may be asked to leave the library if the behavior continues. If anyone – adult or child –breaks library rules or appears to be under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs, the library staff, after consultation with the Library Director or his or her designee, is authorized to direct that person to leave the library. If anyone is told to leave the library and does not leave promptly, any of the library staff is authorized to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency for assistance. Failure to leave the library when asked to do so will subject the person to possible arrest under Chapter 810.08, Florida Statutes, “Trespass in Structure or Conveyance.” Persons whose behavior is disruptive or dangerous may be placed on “Trespass after Warning” notification with the police.
Patrons engaging in criminal activity as defined by Florida Statutes are reported immediately to law enforcement authorities.
In no situation and at no time is the library responsible for the care and/or safety of anyone.
The Gadsden County Public Library extends the privilege of computer and Internet usage and governs all aspects of that use, including, but not limited to, time and seating assignments. The Library reserves the right to at any time revoke the Internet privilege of any patron making any inappropriate use the Internet, (i.e., any criminal activity; placing unlawful information on the system; the use of obscene, abusive or objectionable language, audio, and/or pictures; and/or any variance from the GCPL computer usage agreement.)
Anyone who violates library rules with unreasonable frequency will be told they may not enter the library for any reason without the permission of the Library Director or the Director’s designee.
Attached to this policy and incorporated herein are "Procedures for Implementing Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy."
Procedures for Implementing Patron Rights and Responsibilities Policy Library staff members are responsible for notifying a patron that his or her behavior is unacceptable.
If, after a first warning, the patron does not cease the unacceptable behavior, he or she may be asked to leave the library for the day. Decisions to ask a patron to leave the library are made by a Library Director or his or her designee in consultation with the library staff reporting the unacceptable behavior.
If anyone is told to leave the library and does not leave promptly, any of the library staff is authorized to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency for assistance.
An incident report should be completed by the library staff and signed by the Library Director after a patron has been asked to leave the Library. Copies of the report should be kept by the Library Director and sent to the County Manager.
Persons who do not follow policy and procedure when using library services but who are not committing acts which warrant Trespass After Warning as the final activity may be suspended from one or all library services either permanently or for a period of time determined by Library Administration.
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated Internet Safety Policy
Gadsden County Public Library System Internet Safety PolicyThere is no charge for registration as an Internet user and for use of the Internet system at the Library. However, registered Internet users at the Library are limited to persons eighteen years old or older with proper photo identification or children under the age of eighteen who are accompanied by a parent or guardian of eighteen years old or older with proper identification.
In exchange for the use of the Gadsden County Public Library system computers for Internet usage, patrons must agree to the terms of the following policy:
In providing public access to the Internet, the Gadsden County Public Library System makes no warranties of any kind, neither expressed nor implied, for the Internet access it is providing. The library is not responsible for the accuracy, nature, or quality of information gathered through library-provided Internet access.
Users are prohibited from viewing or downloading sexually explicit Internet sites or images on library computers. For personal safety, users must be cautious when using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, discussion groups and all other forms of communication. Users may not make unauthorized disclosure of, use of, or dissemination of a minor’s personal information by means of the Internet, e-mail or any other electronic technology. A minor must have the authorization of their parent or guardian to disclose their own personal information.
In accordance with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), all library computers are equipped with a technology protection measure to filter and block access to images that are obscene as defined in section 1460 of Title 18, United States Code; or child pornography, as defined in section 2256 of Title 18, United States Code; or harmful to minors as defined in section 1703 of CIPA (Pub. L. 106-554). It is technically impossible to prevent access to all objectionable resources. Filters are not 100% effective and may not filter images that should be blocked, and conversely, may block images that should not be blocked. Designated library staff may, at their discretion, temporarily disable the filter for adult library users for lawful purposes. The filtering software will not be disabled for minors.
The use of the Gadsden County Public Library System is a privilege which may be revoked at any time for inappropriate use. Conduct that may lead to revocation of a patron’s privileges to Internet use would include, but not be limited to, suspected criminal activity, the placing of unlawful information on the library system, and the use of obscene, sexually explicit, abusive, or otherwise objectionable language, audio, and/or pictures. The staff of the Library system will be the sole arbiter of what constitutes inappropriate Internet use.
The Gadsden County Public Library system reserves the right to review any material stored in files to which all users have access and will edit or remove any materials which is believed to be unlawful, obscene, sexually explicit, abusive, or otherwise objectionable. No assurance can be made for the privacy of any communication on the network. Additionally, to prevent unlawful, obscene, sexually explicit, abusive, or otherwise objectionable materials, authorized system administrators and/or appropriate law enforcement officials may monitor a user’s activity and/or examine computer records of private correspondence and files.
Use of the Library’s equipment for unauthorized access or reading of library materials or other unauthorized computers or networks is strictly prohibited.
All information services and features contained on the Library network are intended for the personal use of its patrons, and any commercial or unauthorized use of the Library’s network services and features, in any form, is strictly prohibited.
All information contained on the Library network is placed there for general informational and educational purposes and is in no way intended to refer to or be applicable to any specific person, case, or situation.
The Library shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages (including lost data, information, or profits) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation, or inability to use the network.
Patrons agree to abide by such rules and regulations of system usage as may be promulgated from time to time by the Library, including but not limited to charges or time limits.
In consideration for the privilege of using the network and for having access to the information contained on it, the patron releases the Gadsden County Public Library, its director(s), officers, staff, and firms with which they are affiliated from any and all claims of any nature arising from use of, or inability to use, the network.
Parents and designated guardians of minor children have the right and the responsibility to direct the use of the Internet by their children. Parents or designated guardians should personally oversee the use of the Internet and other forms of electronic information by the children in their custody.
A parent or legal guardian’s signature is for registration as an Internet user and usage of the Internet at the Library is required for any youth under 18 years of age. The parent or guardian assumes responsibility for the child while he is using the Internet station. They agree that they will bear the cost for repairs of any damage done by this youth due to vandalism or improper use. The Library will not be responsible for the content of the material on the Internet. The Internet contains material that is unfit for minors. There is a potential for unscrupulous users to use the Internet to attempt to lure children into harmful situations. Please be advised to educate your child or those under your guardianship to treat those they meet via this media with caution, never divulging their identity, address, or personal information. As in the case of all library materials, the Library encourages parents and guardians to take an active interest in their children. What children view on the Internet must be the responsibility of parents or guardians, and not the Library.
Users of Library computing resources must comply with federal and state laws, Gadsden County and Library rules and policies, and terms of applicable contracts including software licenses while using Library computing resources. Examples of applicable laws, rules, and policies include the laws of libel, privacy, copyright, trademark, obscenity, child pornography, the Florida Computer Crimes Act, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, and the computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
I have read and understood this policy. By signing my registration card, I agree to abide by this policy.
(Applicable to those under 18 and their parent/guardian). We have read and understood the policy stated here and on the Internet registration card. By signing the registration card, my parent/guardian and I agree to abide by this policy.
Approved 1/29/2008
Updated Appeals Policy
Appeals Policy All library policies may be appealed in writing to the Library Commission.
The Library Commission will review the appeal and make a final determination as to the appropriateness or applicability of the policy.
Notice of the Library Commission’s determination will be sent to the person appealing the policy.
If the Library Commission determines that the policy should be changed, the Library will make the necessary policy changes within 30 days of the Library Commission’s determination.
Final decision on any appeal rests within the sole discretion of the Library Commission. However, the Board of County Commissioners may request review of any Library Commission’s decision for appropriateness if they determine a substantial public interest or right may be affected.
[The form below is an example. Offical forms available upon request]Policy Appeals Form:
DATE OF APPEAL _______________________________
APPEAL MADE BY___________________________________________
ADDRESS_________________________________________________
CITY______________________, STATE________________ZIP_____________
TELEPHONE_________________
DO YOU REPRESENT YOURSELF_____
AN ORGANIZATION OR GROUP (NAME) __________________________________
What policy are you appealing?__________________________________
What is the nature of your appeal? ____________________________
Please turn appeal in to a Library assistant at the front desk of Library.
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated "Challenge of Materials" Policy
CHALLENGE TO OR REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF BANNED MATERIALS
The Gadsden County Public Library adheres to the principles adopted by the American Library Association (ALA) with respect to access to library materials, services, and resources. The ALA’s Library Bill of Rights prescribes at a minimum that:
Library materials should be provided for the interest, information and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background or view of those contributing to their creation.
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.
Libraries should challenge censorship attempts made to restrict them in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background or views.
The Library Commission and/or Library Director shall be responsible for developing materials selection guidelines based on the above principles. In addition, the following factors are to be considered in the evaluation of materials or acquisitions:
Authenticity of the media: accuracy, currency
Authoritativeness
Clarity of presentation and readability
Social significance: for individuals and groups
Importance of the subject matter to the collection
Availability or scarcity of materials on the subject
Timeliness or permanence of the work: its historical value
Appearance of the title in special bibliographies and indexes
Availability of the materials elsewhere in the area
Literary value
Public demand or popular appeal
Professional reputation of the publisher and/or author
Format
Library objectives
Price
Additional factors for non-print media:
- potential utilization: interest level, user appeal
- availability of equipment
- technical quality
-Reviews of materials contained in library professional publications.
The Library Commission and/or Library Director shall also be responsible for implementation of a formal procedure for the general public to request review and evaluation of library materials.
Challenges to or request for reconsideration of books that have been selected or rejected by the Library on the basis of principles set forth in the Selection Policy must be presented in accordance with the procedures described below:
Complaints about library materials must be in writing, using the provided form and the form must be filled out completely.
The complainant must adequately identify the issues before the challenge will be considered.
The complainant must provide reasonable arguments and establish the merits of his/her request.
The complainant must have or be entitled to have, a valid Gadsden County Library card.
A challenged item will be left in the library collection unless it is removed as directed by the Library Commission.
The complainant will be notified in writing one week prior to the Library Commission meeting at which their complaint will be considered and decided upon.
[Form below is an example. Official form may be obtained upon request.]REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION OF MATERIALS
TITLE_____________________________________________
BOOK_____________ PERIODICAL___________OTHER________________
AUTHOR_____________________________________________________
PUBLISHER___________________________________________________
REQUEST MADE BY_____________________________________________
ADDRESS____________________________________________________
CITY______________________ZIP___________________
TELEPHONE_________________
DO YOU REPRESENT YOURSELF_____
AN ORGANIZATION OR GROUP (NAME) __________________________________
What are your specific objections to the material? _________________
Did you read, view, or hear the entire work? _______What parts? _________
What negative effect do you feel will result from the reading, viewing, or hearing this work? ____________________________
4. What do you believe is the theme of this work? ____________________
5. Are you aware of judgment of this work by literary or other qualified critics?
____________________________________________________
6. In its place, what work would you recommend that would convey as valuable a picture or perspective of the subject treated? ______________________________
7. Additional comments:
__________________________________________________________________
Signature ___________________________Date _________________
Please return this to library personnel for consideration.
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated Childrens Borrowing Policy
CHILDREN’S BORROWING POLICY AND PARENT INTERNET INFORMATION GUIDELINES “Children” refers to any persons under the age of eighteen.
Children must have a parent or guardian sign their user registration and Internet card.
Children have access to all of the materials and services offered by the Library. If parents or guardians want to limit their children’s access to Library materials, they are entitled to do so but the Library cannot be involved in the monitoring of such limitations. Children cannot check out any items, such as a videocassette or DVD that has a late charge attached to them.
The Library encourages all parents and guardians to take an active interest in their children’s reading and listening. Although the Library endeavors to provide only suitable books and materials for children of all ages, ultimately what children read and view is the responsibility of their parents and guardians, and not the responsibility of the Library.
Parents Internet Information Guidelines
Internet Disclaimer
The Gadsden County Public Library does not monitor, has no control over, and cannot be held responsible for the content of information accessed through the Internet. As with all other library materials, children's access to the Internet is the sole responsibility of the child's parent or guardian. Many pages are sponsored by commercial sites and include advertisements.
The Internet is a global, decentralized network of computers which provides a means to access information far beyond the Library's own collections.
No individual, company, or government controls or monitors the Internet. While most of the information accessed can be valuable and enlightening, the user may also find materials that are unreliable, personally offensive, or illegal under U.S. law. Therefore, parents are advised to supervise their children's Internet sessions at the Library. By taking responsibility for their children's online computer use, whether at the Library or at home, parents can minimize any potential risks associated with online computer use.
Below are many suggestions that will help you monitor your child's use of the Internet.
Be aware of your children's online activities. If certain online material is offensive to you, take the time to teach your child your values. Explain to your child why you believe the material is wrong and the harm you believe it might cause.
Should you become aware of the transmission, use, or viewing of child pornography while online, immediately notify your online service, if at home, or the librarian, if at the Library. You should also report it to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-843-5678.
Never give out identifying information-home address, school name, or telephone number-in a public message or anywhere else, and be sure you're dealing with someone whom both you and your children know and trust before giving out any information via e-mail. Think carefully before revealing any personal information such as age, marital status, or financial information. Consider using a pseudonym or unlisting your child's name if your Internet Service Provider allows it.
Have your child use a nickname distinct from his or her real name when entering chat rooms, bulletin boards, and other public rooms.
Never allow a child to arrange a face-to-face meeting with another computer user without parental permission. If a meeting is arranged, make the first one in a public spot, and be sure to accompany your child.
Never respond to messages that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent, threatening, or make you feel uncomfortable. Encourage your children to tell you if they encounter such messages. If you or your child receives a message that is harassing, of a sexual nature, or threatening, forward a copy of the message to your service provider and ask for their assistance.
Remember that people online may not be who they seem. Because you can't see or hear the person, it would be easy for someone to misrepresent him or herself.
Remember that not everything you read online is true. Any offer that's "too good to be true" probably is. Be very careful about any offers that involve your coming to a meeting or allowing someone to visit your house.
Report suspicious activity. Some conduct is illegal in both the real and the virtual world. If someone is harassing your child, keep copies and records of the messages and let the authorities know. You may also wish to notify the systems administrator of both your service and the service from which the message was transmitted.
Make the Internet a family activity. Consider keeping the computer in a family room rather than in the child's bedroom. Get to know your children's "online friends" just as you get to know their other friends.
Set reasonable rules and guidelines for computer use by your children. Discuss these rules and post them near the computer as a reminder. Remember to monitor your children's compliance with these rules, especially when it comes to the amount of time spent on the computer. Remember that personal computers and online services should not be regarded as electronic baby-sitters.
Get to know the Internet services your child uses. If you don't know how to log on, ask your child to show you. Find out what kinds of information it offers and whether there are ways for parents to block objectionable material.
Inquire into the availability of child accounts. Some online services have special accounts geared for children, with restricted access to chat rooms and the Internet.
Be careful when setting up accounts that the information provided will not be publicly available.
Consider purchasing filtering software. There are a number of programs that filter and block access to adult Internet sites.
Monitor your credit card bill. Many adult Internet sites require credit cards in order to gain access.
Approved 1/29/2008
Updated Circulation of Materials Policy
CIRCULATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS AND OVERDUE LIBRARY MATERIALS POLICYBooks and materials will be circulated to anyone with a valid Gadsden County Public Library card. Library cards are provided to Gadsden County residents and Gadsden County employees without an initial charge and can be used to borrow books and materials at the main library, at any branch library, or on the bookmobile. All patrons must show proof of their current address to obtain a library card.
Persons not residing in Gadsden County or not a Gadsden County employee can obtain a library card by paying $5.00 per family.
A maximum of ten (10) materials including books and audio-books may be checked out at any one time per patron. Teachers are allowed twelve (12) materials to be checked out for classroom use.
Materials (except videocassettes or DVD’s) are circulated for a two (2) week period and can be renewed for an additional two weeks. However, such materials can only be renewed once. Interlibrary loan books cannot be renewed unless the library loaning the book has, before the due date, agreed.
Videocassettes and DVD’s are circulated for a one (1) week period. They cannot be renewed. There are no fines for overdue materials except videos. A maximum of four (4) videocassettes or DVD’s can be checked out to adult patrons who have signed the back of their registration card and shown proof of their current address.
Reference books and periodicals are not allowed to be checked out.
Books may be reserved by patrons and will be held for seven (7) days after notice reporting the availability of the book has been given. Videocassettes and DVD’s cannot be reserved.
The Gadsden County Public Library reserves the right to restrict the number of materials checked out by a patron on a single subject at one time. It is not the intent of this policy to restrict patron access to materials or information but to insure that a single patron is not permitted to monopolize limited library resources.
The Gadsden County Public Library does not discriminate because of disability. Accessibility to the main library and branch libraries is through their front doors. If a person is unable to reach any library materials, the staff will promptly assist them.
Overdue Library Materials Gadsden County Public Library circulates library materials to eligible borrowers and seeks the return of all overdue library materials borrowed from the library.
An overdue notice shall be sent to the delinquent patron when an item becomes overdue, informing the patron of the overdue status and any overdue charges that have accrued or will accrue and the possibility of further action.
Patrons’ borrowing privileges for all materials will be suspended until overdue materials are returned and/or paid for. No Library materials shall be borrowed or renewed for any Library patron identified as being delinquent in returning borrowed Library materials, nor shall a new Library card be issued to a patron being identified as delinquent until all accrued fines and fees have been paid.
If materials are identified by the patron as lost or destroyed, the current replacement cost plus $1.00 processing fee will be charged. Videocassettes and DVD’s cost will include the price of the material plus any overdue fines.
Fees and fines for overdue or lost materials shall be:
Videocassettes and DVDs--Overdue fines for videocassettes or DVD’s are $1.00 per video per day over the due date. Overdue charges will not exceed the cost of the videocassette or DVD.
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated Display Policy
EXHIBITS AND DISPLAY POLICY
The Library has very limited display space. Nothing may be displayed in the library without official permission. Decisions as to what may be displayed will be made by the Library Commission, who may delegate this responsibility to a committee or the Library Director. Selection of a display item is not an endorsement by the Library of the work. The Library is not financially responsible for loss or damage to art works or display items. Prior to the setting up of any exhibit/display the following must be submitted:
(1) A completed application listing all pieces included and indicating the participants willingness to abide by the display policy, and
(2) A library indemnity agreement.
The time period for the display will be agreed upon prior to the display. After the display is over, the exhibitor must sign off that all pieces have been collected by them from the Library. The Library is not financially responsible for any loss or damage to items on display. The source of the display or person displaying the item must be included as part of the display.
Children’s artwork is coordinated solely by the Library Children’s Department. An indemnity agreement/ liability waiver signed by a responsible adult will be required prior to displaying the exhibit.
The exhibitor is solely responsible for transporting, arranging, dismantling and removing display items. If staff must dismantle the display after the scheduled removal date, staff will not be responsible for any loss or damage that occurs. The Library staff will supervise the method and instructions for hanging and displaying exhibits. The Library reserves the right to veto a display of an item on any reasonable grounds, including unreasonable damage to the walls, safety of patrons and staff, or other potential problems to the library.
No artwork may advocate the election or defeat of a candidate for public office or a vote for or against any proposition, political or otherwise. Displays may not contain donation receptacles. No display may solicit for a service or product. No displays may include price tags. No displays may include unlawful, obscene, abusive, or otherwise objectionable materials.
[form below is an example, official form available upon request]Exhibit/Display Agreement
The object(s) described below has (have) been offered for display to the Gadsden County Public Library by:
Exhibitor’s Name__________________________________________ Date___________
Address___________________________________________
Telephone daytime_______________________ Evening_________________
The exhibit has been accepted subject to the conditions stated in the Exhibits and Display Policy.
Description: Listing of all items
_______________________________________________
Special needs for hanging or displaying that will be required & will be included by the Exhibitor:
_______________________________________________
Exhibitor’s signature: ______________________________ Date____________
I certify that all of the above items have been returned to me following my display in the Gadsden County Public Library.
Exhibitor’s Signature: ___________________________________________
Indemnity Agreement
In consideration of the opportunity afforded me to display said exhibits at the Gadsden County Public Library, and in recognition of possible damage or loss which may occur, the undersigned hereby knowingly, freely, and voluntarily agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Gadsden County Public Library and its agents, representatives, officers, and staff from liability and waives any right or cause of action of any kind arising as a result of damage, loss, costs or theft occasioned by or to the said items listed.
Signature_______________________________ Date________________
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated Gift/Donation Policy
GIFT POLICYFINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS
The Library welcomes and solicits financial contributions. Community support of this kind is essential to the Library’s growth and strength. Financial contributions should be made through the Friends of the Gadsden County Public Library, a non-profit Florida corporation.
Please note: In accordance with the Florida Commission on Ethics Law (F.S. 112.313 (2) SOLICITATION OR ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS—No public officer, employee of an agency, local government attorney, or candidate for nomination or election shall solicit or accept anything of value to the recipient, including a gift, loan, reward, promise of future employment, favor, or service, based upon any understanding that the vote, official action, or judgment of the public officer, employee, local government attorney, or candidate would be influenced thereby.
BOOK DONATIONS
The Library appreciates the in-kind offerings of books and other materials. In-kind offerings of books and other materials are accepted with the understanding that they may be retained, discarded and used at the discretion of the Library. The Library cannot be responsible for transporting books or other materials to the Library. The Library does not appraise books and materials. Donors should be informed of conditions under which such items will be accepted.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Although the Library does not appraise books and materials, the Library can supply upon request a letter acknowledging receipt of any donations and indicating the type, quantity and date of the donation.
CRITERIA FOR ACCEPTANCE OF BOOK DONATIONS
Items must be in good condition. Items must be suitable for the Library’s collection. Items must be given without restrictions or costs associated.
RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
The Library reserves the right to dispose of such gifts to its best advantage. Such disposition may include:
Retention in the main library, a branch library or the bookmobile.
Donation to other libraries.
Donation to local or other institutions or organizations.
Exchange with other institutions or organizations.
Sale.
Discard or recycle.
Approved 1/ 29/2008
Updated Meeting Room Policy
LIBRARY MEETING ROOM POLICYLibrary meeting rooms are available to the public on the basis of the following priorities:
Highest Priority – Library sponsored activities.
Second Priority – Civic, cultural, recreational, political, religious and educational organizations (broadly interpreted to include special interest groups such as hobby clubs).
Third Priority – Gadsden County businesses for such activities as, but not limited to, staff development programs.
Meeting rooms will not be available for weddings, parties or for any organization or business when the purpose of the meeting is to sell anything or to promote any commercial enterprise.
Organizations sponsoring cultural, recreational, or educational activities that are open to the public may charge fees so long as the purpose of such fees is to pay instructors or to pay for materials required for the program. The Library does not take any position regarding political or religious meetings.
Meetings held in the library are subject to the following rules and restrictions:
Rooms will be assigned in the order of receipt of written applications from organizations or patrons, in accord with the above priorities.
Meetings must be sponsored by a responsible person or organization. This sponsor is responsible for the character and duration of the meeting and for restoring the facility to its original condition. Facilities must be left in the same condition as they were found. If not, arrangements will be made for their cleanup and the sponsor will be charged for this services.
A responsible adult must be identified as representing the sponsor in the application and must be present during the entire program.
Refreshments or meals may be served if they are provided by the sponsor holding the meeting and if proper cleanup is assured. Smoking and the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises are prohibited.
No one may monopolize the use of facilities, nor will regularly scheduled meetings be allowed for an indeterminate period of time. This means, for example, that if a sponsor schedules meetings on the same day of the week for two successive weeks in a row, or schedules meetings on the same day of the week for two weeks in a month, or schedules meetings on the same day of the month for two months in a row, that sponsor will lose priority to any other sponsor who wants a meeting on a succeeding conflicting date.
Rooms can be utilized after library hours only with the agreement of library staff.
Sponsors may not store materials or equipment at the Library nor will the Library be held responsible for such property while on the premises.
Sponsors that abuse facilities or violate the provisions of this policy or other rules of the Library may be denied future facility use.
The written application for meeting room use must include a statement accepting the conditions of this policy.
Approved 5/18/2004
Amended 1/29/2008
Public Announcement: updated Library Video Policy
VIDEO POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
THE COLLECTION
The Gadsden County Public Library circulates a collection of VHS cassettes and DVD’s. VHS cassettes are available at both branches, but the primary collection is at the main library in Quincy. DVD’s are available at the main library and the Havana branch. VHS cassettes and DVD’s are not available on the bookmobile. All videos in the Library’s collection are protected by copyright laws (See COPYRIGHT below).
LIBRARY RESPONSIBILITY
The Library does not guarantee that there are viewer ratings on videos. If there are ratings, the Library is not responsible for whether the ratings are appropriate. It is therefore advisable for borrowers to use prudence in choosing their videos, as videos have been chosen for viewers with a wide variety of tastes. In any event, the Library has no responsibility for the contents of any videos and is not liable for any damage, injury, or loss that might result from the use or failure to operate a video from the Library’s collection.
WHO MAY CHECK OUT VIDEOS
In order to check out videos from the Library, a person must be at least eighteen years of age, have a library registration, and have proof of their current address.
LENDING POLICY
Videos are loaned for a 7-day period with no renewals. A person may check out a maximum of 4 videos at one time. Videos may not be reserved in advance. Videos must be rewound and in the container they were in when they were borrowed. Videos must be returned to the circulation desk. Videos may not be returned to the book drop because of possible damages and moisture. Videos returned to the book drop after hours will be considered overdue. The fine for videos (VHS cassettes and DVD’s) is $1.00 per day but the fine will not exceed the replacement cost of the video. The fine for lost and overdue videos will be the cost of the video plus the appropriate overdue fine. If a person fails to pay a fine specified in this policy, that person’s borrowing privileges will be forfeited until the fine is paid.
DAMAGES
Borrowers are responsible for the safe return of videos and video cases to the Library. The fine for not doing so will be the cost of repairing any damages (aside from normal wear and tear) to a video or video case whether the damage was accidental or not.
PLEASE NOTE: EXCESSIVE HEAT CAN WARP THE CASE AND SHRINK THE TAPE.
COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT PROHIBITED
Videos in the Library’s collection are protected by copyright laws. Videos are available for private home use only. No videos may be copied or duplicated. All borrowers must, prior to borrowing any video from the Library, sign a registration card accepting responsibility for any copyright infringement of any video they borrow.
Approved 1/29/2008
Policy update notice
Valued Patrons,
We have recently updated and revised our
"PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT" and our
"LIBRARY INTERNET SAFETY" policies.
The revised forms of both of these are posted on the bulletin board in the Main Branch lobby (over the bench) as well as available in a hand-out form upon request from the front desk.
While not as gripping reading as the latest John Grisham best-seller, we hope that you will take a few moments to read over the updated version of these policies.
Thank you!
--Library staff
Holiday Closings
All Branches of the Gadsden County Public Library will be closed on:
Friday, March 21, 2008 for Good Friday
The Main Branch, the William A. 'Bill' McGill Library, will also be closed on:
Sunday, March 23, 2008 for Easter Sunday.
All branches will be
OPEN on Saturday, March 22, 2008.
Please make note of these dates.
Thank you!
Holiday Closings
All Branches of the Gadsden County Public Library will be closed on:
Friday, March 21, 2008 for Good Friday
The Main Branch, the William A. 'Bill' McGill Library, will also be closed on:
Sunday, March 23, 2008 for Easter Sunday.
Please make note of these dates.
Thank you!
March -- the official month of:
Irish-American Heritage/History Month
National Women's History Month
Music in our Schools Month
Caffiene Awareness Month
Craft Month
Frozen Foods Month
National Mirth Month
National Umbrella Month (can use that today!)
Red Cross Month
Save Your Vision Month
National Social Work Month
National "On Hold" Month (remember that next time you call the phone company!)
International Listening Month (well, we can
listen to that nifty music while on hold)
Employee Spirit Month (employers, are you listening?)
For even more, as well as offical WEEK and DAY celebrations, visit the "Brownielocks and the 3 bears" website at:
http://www.brownielocks.com/march.html
Did you know?? part 2
Jodi Picoult recently extended her talent to writing comic books!
She began a stint with DC Comics by scripting several issues in the "Wonder Woman" title. She is only the second woman to work on the title.
In an interview, Ms. Picoult tells how her writing styles differ in her novels and comics:
My books are very different from my Wonder Woman issues - and yet I hope my readers recognize some similar themes and character development, within a new framework - my fans have been very excited about my upcoming run on the comic book. But then again, with Wonder Woman, I'm not writing exclusively to teenagers either. Ironically, bridging the two demographics is also what I do as a novelist. I have a huge young-adult following, but I never label myself as a young-adult writer. What I try to do is write about issues that are pretty sophisticated, that have sophisticated humor or sophisticated problems, and teenagers will read themselves into the books, either through teenager characters or through some of the moral and ethical problems that I'm addressing.
If you're talking about a mother-daughter conflict, for example, you can look at it from the mother's point of view or the daughter's point of view, which is why you can attract a variety of age groups. And that's something I consider when I sit down to write Wonder Woman.
...writing a novel for me is a very visual medium. I've always said it's like seeing a movie in my head, and then somehow translating it into words for people who aren't seeing the same film that I'm seeing.
Writing a comic book to me is very similar. It's very visual, obviously, and pacing is incredibly important. What I find harder in a comic book script is that instead of sticking with one character and one situation and one point of view for, say, an entire chapter, you wind up switching between many different points of view in the course of one issue. So the pacing feels a little different, it's choppier, and that of course contributes toward making it feel more action-packed.
But like any novel, I think just as a chapter would have a beginning, a middle, a cliffhanger at the end, you would feel the same way about a comic-book issue. I want my comic-book issues to have a beginning, a middle, and a cliffhanger at the end to get you to pick up the next one.
Read the full interview at:Part 1:
http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=94768
Part 2:
http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=94951
Who says Comics are just for kids???
(Did you see the price on the cover? $2.99?!? Definately not only for kids at these prices.)
Happy Birthday, "Anne of Green Gables"!
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first publication of "Anne of Green Gables" by Lucy Maud Montgomery (in 1908).
"Marilla Cuthbert and Matthew Cuthbert, middle-aged siblings who live together at Green Gables, a farm in Avonlea, on Prince Edward Island, decide to adopt a boy from an orphan asylum in Nova Scotia as a helper on their farm. Through a series of mishaps, what ends up under their roof is a precocious girl of eleven named Anne
(That's "Anne" with an "e"!) Shirley. Anne is bright and quick, eager to please but dissatisfied with her name, her pale countenance dotted with freckles, and with her long braids of red hair. Being a child of imagination, however, Anne takes much joy in life, and adapts quickly, thriving in the environment of Prince Edward Island."
At the library, you will find not only the books, but also the acclaimed Wonderworks/Disney Channel movie versions of both
Anne of Green Gables and
Anne of Avonlea (also released as "
Anne of Green Gables the sequel"), as well as the first three volumes of
Anne of Green Gables: the animated series. All of these were produced by award-winning Canadian producer Kevin Sullivan.
So, Happy Birthday, Anne Shirley!
Did you know: Dawn Evelyeen (Evelyn) Paris, who also acted under the name "Dawn Day", was one of the first actresses to portray Anne Shirley in a 1934 movie. She was so impressed with the character that she changed her professional screen name to 'Anne Shirley',and appeared in seven films under that name. Dawn retired from acting in 1944, and passed away in 1993 at the age of 75.
Did you know??
Fans of Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander" series can thank BBC's hit show "Doctor Who" for inspiring the story.
The author based the character of "Jamie Fraiser" on "Jamie McCrimmon", a companion of the second Doctor (played by Patrick Troughton).. She was so intrigued with the idea of a time traveller going back to the historic highlands of Scotland and meeting a romantic clansman/warrior that the germ was planted for the best-selling series.
quote:
Essentially, I just wanted to write a book for practice. I thought a historical novel would be the easiest kind to practice with... and then saw a rerun of "Dr. Who" with a minor Scottish character with a kilt,... and well, one thing leads to another.
end quote.
The Doctor Who website "Who's Doctor Who?" gives a biography of Jamie McCrimmon:
James Robert McCrimmon was a young Scottish piper caught in the aftermath of the battle of Culloden when he met The Doctor, Polly and Ben.. After helping them free his friends from the clutches of the English, he stayed with them to guide them back to the TARDIS. The Doctor, perhaps fearing for Jamie's safety, invited him aboard
(The Highlanders), and Jamie soon became a seasoned adventurer. Although confused a bit by technology, he adapted quickly and seemed to suffer few effects of what is often described as "culture shock". Jamie was The Doctor's longest-serving companion, remaining with him until the end of his second incarnation. While fond of Ben and Polly, he seemed more comfortable with Victoria Waterfield, whose own time was not so far removed from his, and Zoe Herriot, a tiny girl whom he felt quite protective of. Jamie and The Doctor had a relationship marked by good-natured teasing, although their association sometimes had its dark side, as when the young man threatened to leave when The Doctor was apparently helping the Daleks in their latest plan
(The Evil of the Daleks). Jamie accompanied The Doctor on several missions for the Time Lords, encountering The Sixth Doctor and his companion Peri Brown (The Two Doctors), and battling the Cybermen on Planet 14
(The Invasion). The Time Lords erased his memory of these events, and did so again after The Doctor was brought to Gallifrey to stand trial for his interference. Jamie was allowed to remember his first adventure with The Doctor, and was returned to his own time, where he almost immediately became involved in a fight against an English soldier
(The War Games). His final fate is unknown.
http://www.whosdw.com/compan2.html
Titles of individual episodes appear in italics. All grammatical errors are in the original. :-)
