Library Use Policies

​​Welcome to the Salem Public Library

The Library works to provide patrons and members of the Salem community facilities that are clean, comfortable, inviting, and safe. This environment allows all library users to perform research, select reading materials, spend time studying and writing, and to attend programs and meetings.

The Library needs your help to provide this experience.

Administrative Rule No. 101-01
Adopted: 11/13/2017

Introduction

The Salem Public Library (Library) welcomes all residents and visitors and is dedicated to free and equal access to information, knowledge, independent learning, and the joys of reading for our diverse community. 

The Library seeks to provide its users with a safe and pleasant library experience in an atmosphere conducive to studying, reading, learning and appropriate use of materials and services. The Library recognizes its unique position and responsibility to educate, inform, and enlighten the community through the sharing of a vast collection of resources that enable all to participate fully in our democratic society as members of a knowledgeable and educated citizenry.

Practice

With public service being its highest priority, the Library has established certain rules and regulations governing its use, such that all persons may enjoy the benefits of the Library. All Library staff are authorized and expected to enforce these rules and regulations and may intervene to stop prohibited activities or behaviors. Library staff is authorized to issue exclusion notices to individuals violating this Code of Conduct. Individuals visiting the Library or using its facilities or services must comply with this Code of Conduct.   

Individuals who interfere with Library staff in the performance of their duties or who fail to follow any instructions by a staff member to correct prohibited behavior will be subject to exclusion from Library property. Individuals refusing to leave after receiving a notice of exclusion will be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespassing pursuant Salem Revised Code (SRC) 95.550. 

This Code of Conduct incorporates exclusion periods and other consequences that may be imposed by the Library but does not preclude or supersede other consequences or penalties that may be imposed by federal, state, or local law. Illegal activity, as well as willful or repeated violations of this Code of Conduct or other posted Library regulations (i.e. Acceptable Use of the Internet), may result in removal from the facility and/or suspension of Library privileges. In addition, where authorized by Federal, State or local law, violations of this Code of Conduct may also result in arrest. Repeat violations will result in longer periods of exclusion. Library users who wish to request a reasonable modification of this Code of Conduct due to a disability or health problem may contact Library staff or may call the Library Administration office at 503-588-6071.

To ensure access to library services and for the safety of all users, the following behaviors are prohibited on library property.

Appeal procedure 

​Patrons who have been issued an exclusion notice may appeal this action by filing a written request with the City Librarian at the administration offices for the Salem Public Library, within fifteen (15) business days after receipt of the notice, setting forth the name and address of the appellant and the reasons why the exclusion notice should be rescinded. Failure to file an appeal within such fifteen (15) business day period shall be a waiver of all rights to review the action, and any appeal filed after this time shall be dismissed by the City Librarian or the City Librarian’s designee. The name and address set forth in the written request for appeal shall be deemed correct, and mailing to the person at such address, by first class mail, shall be deemed delivered three (3) days after the date of mailing. Failure of the person to actually receive notice of the appeal hearing or the City Librarian or designee’s decision if mailed to the address set forth in the written request shall not invalidate or otherwise affect the validity of any action or decision. If a request for an appeal is filed, the exclusion notice shall be stayed until such time as the City Librarian or designee has issued a final decision upholding or rescinding the notice.

Unless the appellant and the City agree to a longer period, an appeal shall be heard by the City Librarian or designee within fifteen (15) business days of the filing of the request. At least five (5) business days prior to the hearing, the City shall mail notice of the time and location of the hearing to the appellant at the address set forth on the request.

The appellant must personally appear at any hearing regarding the appeal. Failure to appear at the hearing, absent good cause shown, shall result in the dismissal of the appeal.

The City Librarian or designee shall hear and determine the appeal on the basis of the appellant’s written statement and any additional evidence the City Librarian or designee deems appropriate. The appellant has a right to be represented by counsel at appellant’s sole expense. At the hearing the appellant may present testimony, evidence, and oral argument and may cross-examine any witnesses. The City has the burden of proof to demonstrate, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the issuance of the exclusion notice was based upon the requisite prohibited conduct by the appellant.

The City Librarian or designee shall issue a written decision within ten (10) business days of the hearing date. A copy of the decision shall be mailed to the person’s address as set forth on the request and shall be deemed effective upon actual receipt, or three (3) days after mailing, whichever is sooner. If issuance of the exclusion notice is upheld, a period of exclusion shall commence immediately upon the effective date of the decision.

Reference: SRC 95.550

Salem Public Library is pleased to provide wireless internet access to patrons and guests. In order to ensure access to everyone in a quiet, comfortable and safe setting we ask that you agree to abide by our Internet Use Rules. By connecting to and using the Library wi-fi you agree you will not do any of the following:

• Transmit offensive, threatening, harassing, abusive, or defaming language and images
• Conduct a business or commercial enterprise, engage in commercial activity, or engage in the sale or promotion of any illegal substance
• View, transmit or download pornographic materials
• Violate intellectual property rights by making unauthorized copies of copyrighted, licensed, or otherwise controlled software or data residing on the Internet
• Intentionally transmit worms, viruses, or other harmful programs
• Hack into unauthorized computers, networks, or information systems  
• Invade the privacy of others.
  
  You also agree to respect the comfort of others by:

• Keeping conversations quiet
• Using cell phones in lobbies or outside
• Confining computer sounds to the headphones
• Arranging for childcare elsewhere

In addition to the above, violation of any Federal or State statute or local ordinance will be regarded as a violation of Salem Public Library rules. The City of Salem reserves the right to cause to be ejected or refuse further admission to those individuals who violate Salem Public Library rules, create disorder, or engage in illegal activity. Violators are subject to arrest or Trespass under Salem Revised Code 95.550. These sanctions are not exclusive, and any other remedies available at law or equity to obtain compliance with these rules will be pursued.

Administrative Rule No. 101-02
Adopted: 11/13/2017  

Introduction

Salem Public Library is committed to providing an inviting, safe space for youth that is responsive to their needs. The Children's and Teen areas of the Library are specifically designed to serve the needs of younger library users. The Children's area is intended for children (infants through grade 5) and their parent(s) or caregiver(s). The teen area is intended for teens (grades 6-12) and their parent(s) or caregiver(s).

Practice

Children's Area

Parents and guardians are welcome in the Children's area when accompanied by children and/or to attend a program with their child.

• If an unaccompanied adult requires access to the children's collection, we ask that they limit their use to 15 minutes. Adults not fitting this description will be asked to leave the area.

• Library staff may make exceptions to the 15 minute time limit for unaccompanied adults who are (student) teachers, daycare providers or others who require access to the children's collection for research or other educational purposes.

• Gaming and internet computers in the Children's area are reserved exclusively for use by children and/or teens. Adults who are supervising children and/or teens in the Children's area are free to use catalog computers and/or personal devices only.

• Children's programs are held for the instruction and enjoyment of children and their caregivers. Adults attending programs without children may be asked to leave.

Teen Area

• Parents and guardians are welcome in the Teen area when accompanied by children and/or to attend a program with their child.

• If an unaccompanied adult requires access to the Teen area, we ask that they limit their use to 15 minutes. Adults not fitting this description will be asked to leave the area.

• Library staff may make exceptions to the 15 minute time limit for unaccompanied adults who are (student) teachers, daycare providers or others who require access to the teen collection for research or other educational purposes.

• Gaming and internet computers in the Teen area are reserved exclusively for use by teens. Adults who are supervising children and/or teens in the Teen area are free to use catalog computers and/or personal devices only.

• Teen programs are held for the instruction and enjoyment of teens and/or their caregivers. Adults attending programs without teens may be asked to leave.

Approved by the Salem City Council:  November 13, 2017

Administrative Rule No. 101-02
Adopted: 11/13/2017 

Introduction:

The Salem Public Library is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment that encourages children to visit the Library, use Library collections and services, and attend Library programs. Library staff are available to assist and support children with their use of Library resources. The Library is a public building, open to everyone and a child's safety cannot be guaranteed. Children may encounter hazards in the Library such as doors, furniture, electrical equipment and other Library patrons.

The Library is not responsible for a minor's selection of Library materials, attendance at programs or use of the Internet or other services. Parents, guardians, or responsible adults are expected to accompany their minor children in the use of Library materials and services, including computer use.

The responsibility for the behavior and well-being of children using the Library rests with the parent, guardian, or designated caregiver. Library staff members cannot supervise children in the Library. The Library does not serve in loco parentis.

Practice:

Children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or designated responsible caregiver (16 years of age or older) at all times while in the Library. Caregivers must supervise and provide guidance for children during the entire Library visit.

Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 163.545: Child neglect in the second degree. (1) A person having custody or control of a child under 10 years of age commits the crime of child neglect in the second degree if, with criminal negligence, the person leaves the child unattended in or at any place for such period of time as may be likely to endanger the health or welfare of such child. (2) Child neglect in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor.

In the following situations, Library staff will take the actions outlined below for all children zero (0) to seventeen (17) years of age:

• A child is alone and frightened or crying in the Library

• A child is alone and doing something dangerous, or another person in the Library seems to be a danger to the child

• A child is alone and is not following the Library Code of Conduct

• No caregiver comes to pick a child up at closing time

Library staff members will evaluate the situation and try to contact the child's parent or guardian. If staff cannot reach the parent or guardian, he or she will place the child in the care of the appropriate local law enforcement agency.

Approved by the Salem City Council: November 13, 2017

This Collection Development Policy will be evaluated annually by library management and revised as needed.

Introduction

Salem Public Library’s collection development policy reflects the mission of public libraries to provide access to information and support diversity, democracy, lifelong learning, and intellectual freedom. The policy both informs the public of the principles supporting selection decisions and provides guidance for the selection and evaluation of library materials that anticipate and meet the needs of the Salem community.

It is the goal of the library to provide free, equal, and equitable access to a high quality collection of information resources in a variety of formats, reflective of the diversity of the community. Materials available in the library present a diversity of viewpoints, enabling the community to make the informed choices necessary in a democracy. In support of preserving and encouraging the essential free expression of ideas, Salem Public Library endorses the principles documented in the Library Bill of Rights the Freedom to Read Statement, and the Freedom to View Statement of the American Library Association, as well as the City of Salem’s SRC SRC Chapter 97 on human rights.

Responsibility for selection and collection maintenance

Selection and collection maintenance of library materials is delegated to qualified library staff, under the authority and at the discretion of the City Librarian. All staff members and the Salem community are encouraged to recommend materials for consideration.

Selection criteria

All materials, whether purchased or donated, are considered in terms of the criteria listed below. An item need not meet all of these standards in order to be added to the collection.

• Popular interest
• Contemporary significance
• Currency of information
• Accuracy
• Local emphasis
• Readability
• Creative, literary, or technical quality;
• Relationship to other materials and adequacy of coverage in subject area
• Significance of item within subject area
• Professional reviews from a variety of sources
• Format and ease of use
• Cost and availability
• Availability of copies in the system and relationship to materials in other area libraries
• Physical appearance and condition
• Space limitations

Scope of the collection

The Salem Public Library is a popular materials library, and maintains a varied and current collection covering a wide range of subjects and containing multiple points of view. The library's collections are dynamic, with an emphasis on up-to-date and in-demand materials. The library provides information resources in physical and electronic formats in an effort to deliver the broadest possible access to content both within and beyond the library’s walls. The primary responsibility of the Salem Public Library is to serve the Salem community by providing a broad choice of materials to meet informational, educational, cultural, and recreational needs.

Collections are developed in response to current use patterns, community needs, budgetary and space constraints, evolving technology, and the library's mission and purpose. The majority of the library's collection development activities will be conducted to create a collection of popular and informational works that is evaluated continually. The collection embraces broad fields of knowledge with basic, representative works in most subject areas, emphasizing materials that are useful for the general public. Textbooks and materials of a highly technical or specialized nature of limited community interest are generally not collected.

Collections in languages other than English will be guided by needs of significant population groups living within the city of Salem that have a language other than English as their primary language. Access to other specialized and comprehensive collections that exist elsewhere in the Chemeketa Cooperative Regional Library Service (CCRLS) or in the state of Oregon is provided through cooperative networking, interlibrary loan, and direct referral.

Suggestions for purchase

The library encourages input from its community concerning the collection. A suggestion for purchase procedure enables the Salem community to request that a particular item or material on a certain subject be purchased by the library. All suggestions for purchase are subject to the same selection criteria as other materials and are not automatically added to the collection. It is the library’s intent that suggestions for purchase be used to help the library in developing collections which serve the interests and needs of the community.

Material and fund donations

Donations of books and other materials are to be made through the Friends of the Salem Public Library, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For further information on their procedures, contact the Friends of the Salem Public Library directly. The library cannot guarantee that unsolicited materials will be returned to donors.

The library reserves the right to accept or refuse materials or funds and any conditions placed upon gifts of materials or funds, and to evaluate and dispose of donated items in accordance with the criteria applied to purchased materials.

Collection maintenance

In an effort to maintain a relevant, popular, and appealing collection, the library engages in ongoing evaluation of owned materials. This policy’s selection criteria, the CREW method, and other best practices are used when evaluating collections.

Disposition of withdrawn materials

Materials that have been withdrawn may be first offered to the Friends of the Salem Public Library. Items not provided to the Friends of the Salem Public Library will be disposed of in accordance with general City policies and procedures.

Replacement

Replacement of damaged, missing, and withdrawn materials is not automatic. The decision to replace is determined by the selection criteria listed in this policy.

Request for reconsideration

Members of the Salem community that are concerned about the appropriateness of a particular item in the library's collection will be referred to a staff member designated to answer questions regarding collection development at the discretion of the City Librarian. If, after speaking with the designated staff member, the patron still wishes to pursue review of the item, they must complete a Request for Reconsideration form. The City Librarian will review the request and apply the selection criteria set forth in this policy to determine if the item should be removed or re-categorized. The City Librarian’s decision on reconsideration is the City of Salem's final decision. The item under review will not be removed from circulation during the review process. Reasonable efforts will be made by library management to respond in writing regarding the disposition of the Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receipt of the completed Request for Reconsideration form.

Conclusion

The Salem Public Library is committed to providing a broad and diverse collection, and its collection development activities are guided by the above principles and criteria. This policy expresses the library’s commitment to intellectual freedom. Library resources are for use by all members of the Salem community, and the library strives to reflect the needs and diversity of that community in its collections.

Administrative Rule No. 101-03

Adopted: 3/15/2022​

Purpose

The Salem Public Library has public meeting and study rooms for programming, community, and City use. The meeting and study rooms are part of the library's mission, operations, and Code of Conduct. The Library has created this policy to ensure safe and fair access and use. The policy is also guided by Articles V and VI of the American Library Association's Bill of Rights:

V.  A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age,background, or views.

VI.  Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Guidelines for Meeting and Study Rooms Use

• All meeting room groups and users must follow the Salem Public Library Code of Conduct (Administrative Rule No. 101-01), as well as local, state, or federal laws and regulations.
• Meeting room fees are set by Salem City Council. Meeting room fees are set by Salem City Council. Commercial uses of the meeting rooms have different fees from non-commercial uses. In order to receive the non-commercial rate, meetings and events must meet all of the following criteria:
• The sponsoring/organizing group or individual is not a for-profit business. Only 501©3 non-profit, not-for-profit community groups, and government organizations will be given the non-commercial rate; and
• The meeting or event does not include any sale of items or services, potential future sale of items or services, or collecting of donations; and
• The meeting or event must be free and open to any member of the public who wishes to attend.
• Library staff must always be able to see into and enter the rooms and may enter the meeting rooms at any time.
• Room users may eat and drink (drinks must be covered). Users must clean up food packaging and other garbage.
• Smoking or vaping is not allowed anywhere within the library.
• Possessing, consuming, distributing, or selling any alcoholic beverage or marijuana product is not permitted anywhere within the library.
• Meeting and study room users may not:
• Block library entrances,
• Yell at or intimidate library visitors,
• Create noise at levels that disturbs other users,
• Block streets or sidewalks,
• Approach people using the library asking them to buy things, take information, or sign petitions,
• Interfere with library operations or any other patrons' use of the library.
• Meeting and study room users must follow all posted guidelines for how many people are allowed in the room. Users may not add chairs, tables, or other furniture. Moving into other library spaces is not allowed.
• The person who rented the room is expected to be at the meeting or event during the entire rental period and is responsible  for making sure all rules are followed.
• Meeting and study room groups and users who violate the Library Code of Conduct may be asked to leave the library. If someone who has been excluded from the library doesn't leave then they may be arrested for trespassing due to Salem Revised Code (SRC) 95.550.

Meeting Room Closing Checklist

Before leaving the library meeting rooms, all users must:

• Place trash in available trash cans. If trash overflows cans, the user is to pull out the bag, tie it up, and put a new bag in place. (Extra bags can be found at the bottom of cans.) Place full used bags near the trash cans.
• Wipe tables and chairs and clean up any spills using the cleaning supplies found in a basket in the room.
• Sweep or vacuum floor using tools in the room.
• Remove all personal items and technology. Any items left behind will be put in the library's lost and found.
• Stop at the Ask Here on Floor 1 to tell library staff that the meeting room is empty and  return the keycard.

Checking Out from Meeting and Study Rooms

• Users and groups must leave the meeting rooms 30 minutes and study rooms 15 minutes before the library closes.
• There will be a minimum charge of $25 if cleaning the room requires staff time.
• Users will be charged for the cost of repair or replacement if facilities or equipment are damaged.

Meeting Room Reservations

• Applications to reserve a library meeting room may be completed online, by phone, or in person.
• An application does not guarantee approval.
• Reservations will be confirmed when the group pays for the room. Payments can be made online or by alternate arrangement with library administration.
• Reservations must be made no more than six months and no fewer than seven days in advance.
• Meeting rooms can be reserved once per week for up to four hours at a time. Users may contact library administration if more time is required.
• A separate reservation must be made and confirmed for each event.
• The library must be notified in writing of a cancellation at least 48 hours before reservation start time. If a user doesn't inform the library of a cancellation, the user gives up the rental fee.

Parking

Parking passes are not included in room rentals. Main Library parking is available in the metered areas of the library parking garage and lot. The first three hours of parking are free. After three hours, parking is charged at a rate set by Salem City Council. Library parking meters are enforced from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Saturday. Meeting room users at the West Salem Branch should park close to the library in the shared parking lot with Roth's Hospitality Center.

Library Use of Meeting Rooms

Salem Public Library staff may schedule meeting rooms for library and City of Salem events at any time and are not restricted to the six-month window. Exceptions to the six-month scheduling window will also be made for library-affiliated groups including: the Library Advisory Board, the Salem Public Library Foundation, the Friends of Salem Public Library, the Chemeketa Cooperative Regional Library System (CCRLS), the State Library of Oregon, and the Oregon Library Association, including its divisions and round tables.

Library Partnership Statement

The Salem Public Library pursues a limited number of partnerships for programs and events. Partnerships must bring value to the community and align with the library's mission. Partnership is defined as library-hosted programs coordinated and staffed by library staff working with an outside entity (Partner) in library facilities, supported and co-marketed by the library. Library staff will be present at any partnership event. Agreements between the library and its partners must benefit all parties. These relationships should further the library's goals in one or more of the following ways:

1. Increase library visibility in the community
2. Support library activities, services, events and programs
3. Enhance or create ways to respond to identified community needs

Endorsement and Marketing

• Publicity for an event by groups using the meeting spaces must not be presented in a way that implies Salem Public Library support. Unless part of a partnership agreement with the Salem Public Library, all printed and electronic advertisements and notifications for meetings and events held in library spaces must include the statement: "This event is not sponsored or endorsed by the Salem Public Library."
• Flyers, posters, billboards, and other related event marketing materials may be posted only on the designated community information bulletin boards. Signs may not be posted on library doors, windows, entryway walls or elsewhere on library property. Unapproved signage will be removed.
• Identifying signs may be placed in the 8.5x11 plastic holders provided on the doors of the meeting rooms during the reservation.
• Soliciting, petitioning, distributing written materials or canvassing for any purpose is not permitted within the library.
• The Salem Public Library will not advertise or promote room rental events held in meeting rooms via its print or digital information channels.

Liability

All of persons and groups applying to rent a Salem Public Library Meeting Room must agree to hold harmless and indemnify the City of Salem from any and all liability for injury to persons or property occurring as a result of rental activity, and agree to be liable to said City for any and all damage to any facility, building, equipment, and furniture owned or controlled by the City which results from the activity or applicant or is caused by any participant in said activity. Each applicant shall be fully responsible for the physical condition in which the facility is left. The library is not responsible for items left unattended. The library will not secure patron items in any library spaces. The expenses resulting from any damage or maintenance which is above the normal level of service shall be charged to the applicant. Failure of the applicant to meet this obligation within 30 days billing will be cause for cancellation of future privileges, as well as legal action.

Study Room Specifics

In general, this policy applies to meeting rooms and study rooms where applicable. This section calls out some requirements unique to the study rooms.

• The Salem Public Library has six general use study rooms (five at the Main Library and one at the West Salem Branch) that are available to the public free of charge during library open hours.
• Study rooms can be reserved up to one week in advance online, via telephone, or in person on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Users may use the study rooms for up to two hours, once per day, either individually or as part of a group.
• Reservations may be cancelled if a user has not arrived within 15 minutes after the start time.
• Recurring reservations are not permitted.
• During study room use, doors must remain unlocked and lights turned on.
• Study rooms are not soundproof. Playing musical instruments is not allowed. Users must wear headphones when listening to music or other electronic audio.
• Study rooms are not secure, and the library is not responsible for items left unattended.
• All study room groups and users are subject to the Salem Public Library Code of Conduct (Administrative Rule No. 101-01), as well as local, state, or federal laws and regulations.
• Users must be prepared to leave promptly at the end of their reservation time.
• Study rooms must be empty 15 minutes before the library closes.

Teen Scene Study Room

There is one study room in the Teen Scene at the Main Library that is available for use only by middle and high school aged youth and only during Teen Scene open hours. Other rules for the Teen Scene study room are the same with one exception: playing musical instruments is allowed.

Additional resources

• Library Mission and Core Values
• Library Strategic Plan