To fulfill its mission for providing public access to information, the Monmouth County Library is committed to providing automated access to a vast network of electronic content resources in digital formats. As part of our goal to meet the recreational, informational and educational needs of our public, the Library makes available free access to resources on the Internet. Library users must review and agree to the Internet Policy when reserving a public internet computer at all branches of the Monmouth County Library System.
Library internet computers and workstations must be used in a responsible manner that is consistent with appropriate behavior in the Library and respecting the rights of others as described in the Library Code of Conduct. The library reserves the right to ask users to discontinue the display of information and images that cause a disruption or discomfort to others using the library.
Parents or legal guardians of minors under the age of 17 are responsible for monitoring their use of the Internet. Parents or legal guardians are encouraged to provide them guidelines about acceptable use and determine which Internet resources, materials, and services are appropriate for their children.
You may not use the Library’s computers for any fraudulent or unlawful purposes, including activities that violate federal, state, or local laws. New Jersey Statute 2C:34-4 (Public Communication of Obscenity) prohibits you from accessing or displaying pornographic and/or obscene materials. Any illegal activity involving the library’s internet resources may be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities.
Users may not modify Library hardware or software settings, tamper with Library software, or circumvent or disable the Library’s PC Reservation system. Users may not make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software. Any attempts to gain unauthorized access to restricted files, networks, degrade performance, damage and/or intentionally misuse of the Library’s computers or software will result in loss of your internet privileges as defined by policy.
Unplugging or restarting any Library internet computers, workstations, or other public use equipment is prohibited. Staff assistance is required for restarting Library internet computers.
The Library cannot be responsible for the availability, timeliness, security or reliability of the network.
The Library cannot assume responsibility for the security or privacy of any of your online transactions.
To maintain your security and privacy, please log out of all accounts at the end of your session.
Violators of the policy that governs the use of the Library’s public internet resources will have their session immediately terminated, and may result in suspension or loss of your internet privileges. First offense will result in a loss of Internet privileges for 30 days, second offense for 90 days, third offense for 180 days, and fourth offense for one year. Any suspension enforcement thereafter for any chronic offender is at the discretion of the Library Director.
Adopted by the Library Commission 3/10/2020
The Monmouth County Library is dedicated to protecting the rights and safety of library patrons, employees, and volunteers. Our goal is to enable all library visitors to enjoy an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Each person is expected to respect the rights of others and comply with the Library Code of Conduct Policy while on library property.
Permitted conduct in the library includes:
- Quiet enjoyment of library facilities.
- Small group congregation of social, study or discussion purposes that does not disturb the quiet enjoyment of other patrons.
- Service animals.
- Quiet and courteous use of cell phones.
- Any materials removed from the library must be checked out on a valid library card or through other standard procedures such as interlibrary loan.
Prohibited conduct in the library includes but is not limited to:
- Any activity that constitutes a violation of federal, state, or local criminal statutes or ordinances.
- Carrying a weapon into the library unless authorized by law. Any patron authorized to carry a weapon must notify the library staff that he/she is carrying a weapon and must provide proper identification.
- Damage, defacement, or theft of any library property, facilities or material.
- Possession, distribution, or use of alcohol except at authorized library events.
- Possession, distribution, or use of controlled substances.
- Use of tobacco products except in designated areas outside of the building if permitted by law.
- Sexual conduct on library premises or displaying print or nonprint materials of an offensive nature.
- Use of profanity, abusive or threatening language, threatening gestures, unwanted physical conduct, intimidation, following, staring, or other harassing behavior.
- Unreasonable noise levels including shouting, loud talking or disruptive conversation, uncontrolled or repeated ringing of cell phones, and loud cell phone conversations.
- Solicitations, petitions or canvassing in the library or on library premises.
- Leaving property unattended. Patrons must keep possession of their personal property at all times while in the library or on library property. The library is not responsible for unattended or abandoned property and reserves the right to remove or discard it.
- Rollerblading, roller-skating, skateboarding, or wheeled shoe use in the library or on library premises or bringing bicycles, skate boards, scooters or similar items inside the library.
- Consumption of food and/or open container beverages except in designated areas or at authorized library functions.
- Bringing animals inside the library with the exception of service animals or those allowed at a library-approved event.
- Neglecting to wear shoes, shirt, pants, or to remain fully clothed. Upper and lower body must be appropriately covered and footwear must be worn at all times.
- Lack of personal hygiene that interferes with the use of and enjoyment of the library by others or interferes with the work of library staff. Those individuals whose bodily hygiene is offensive so as to constitute a nuisance to others may be required to leave the building.
- Use of the library restrooms for sleeping, bathing, shaving, washing hair or changing clothes.
- Sleeping in the Library or on library property is prohibited.
- Use of personal electronic equipment at a volume that disturbs others.
- Unauthorized use of the library’s computer network or failure to comply with the library’s Internet Policy may result in suspension of library computer privileges.
- Leaving children or adults in need of supervision unattended.
Enforcement:
Violation of these rules may be cause for a prohibition from future use of library facilities and/or privileges. In cases of disruptive behavior, customer identification including name, address, and phone number may be requested.
The Commission authorizes library administration to suspend the library privileges of customers whose behavior prevents or interferes with the effective use of the library by other customers to the extent warranted by the nature of the violation and/or any previous violations.
Library customers unable or unwilling to abide by the Library Code of Conduct may be asked to leave. Any person who repeatedly violates these rules, or any person who commits a single, serious violation of these rules, in addition to being asked to leave the library, may not be allowed to return to the library for a period of time designated by the Library Director. Acts of illegality will be referred to police for prosecution.
Any patron whose privileges have been denied may have the decision reviewed by the Library Commission, upon written request submitted by the offending patron.
Approved by the Monmouth County Library Commission – September 19, 2023
Adopted by Monmouth County Library Commission, September 8, 2020
The Monmouth County Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all community members. We strive to be a doorway through which a life-long interest in learning and reading takes place. The purpose of this policy is to provide the greatest possible degree of protection for minor children** and vulnerable adults* in the community and to create a productive and enjoyable environment for all patrons and staff.
Children 9 years of age and younger:
Must be under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or caregiver when in the Library or on library grounds, which means that the child must remain within view at all times during the entire library visit.
Children 10 to 13 years of age and vulnerable adults:
Shall not be left unattended in the Library or on library grounds. Attended is defined as a parent, guardian, or caregiver being present in the building, but not necessarily with direct supervision of the child or vulnerable adult.
Children under 18 years of age and vulnerable adults:
Parents, guardians, or caregivers are solely responsible for the conduct, behavior, and safety of minor children and vulnerable adults in the Library or on library grounds.
- Library staff is authorized to contact police in the event the parent, guardian, or caregiver fails to comply with these regulations, or leaves a child or vulnerable adult unattended or unattended at closing.
- Exceptions to this policy occur when programming requires children to attend on their own. At these times, children should be brought to the activity prior to the program, and the responsible parent, guardian, or caregiver should remain outside the door of the activity room awaiting its conclusion.
- It is essential for the safety of all children and vulnerable adults that they be picked up prior to the Library’s closing time. Library staff will call the police or other appropriate municipal, county or state agency if a child or vulnerable adult is left unattended when a Library facility closes or if an individual otherwise appears to be at risk.
- Guardian or caregiver is defined as an individual 18 years of age and older possessed with the ability to assume responsibility for behavior of children or vulnerable adults.
*A vulnerable adult means a person 18 years of age or older who resides in a community setting and who, because of a physical or mental illness, disability or deficiency, lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make, communicate, or carry out decisions concerning his/her well-being and is the subject of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Vulnerable adults may not be left alone in the Library. This includes adults who need staff help outside the scope of regular library services. Staff cannot assist with tasks related to personal care.
**Leaving a child unattended may result in violation of N.J.S.A. 2A:53A-14, N.J.S.A. 2A:53A-15; liability of parent or guardian for negligence.
BOOKS DONATION POLICY
The Monmouth County Library appreciates donations of books and other materials. Donations of books and other materials are accepted at most Branch Locations during hours at the discretion of the librarian. The Library staff does not have the expertise to appraise donated materials. Donated materials may not be left outside the library or in the bookdrop. For additional information or questions about specific items, contact the library location nearest you.Acceptable Donations:
- Paperback and hardcover books in excellent condition, both fiction and non-fiction, for children and adults. Due to space considerations, the library will normally accept only materials that are less than five years old.
- DVDs and Books on CD.
We cannot use:
- Books which have been stored in basements, garages, and attics.
- Magazines (including National Geographic) or newspapers.
- Reader’s Digest condensed books.
- Dated publications such as tax guides, travel guides, workbooks, test books, technical books, and textbooks.
- Encyclopedias.
- Videocassettes.
- Puzzles.
- Toys.
| Branch | Books (Paperbacks, Hardcovers) | DVDs | Books on CD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Eastern Branch | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Allentown | |||
| Atlantic Highlands | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Colts Neck | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Hazlet | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Holmdel | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Howell | |||
| Marlboro | Call library first. | ||
| Ocean | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Oceanport | Not accepting donations. | ||
| Wall | |||
| West Long Branch | Not accepting donations. |
Donated Materials Policy for Self-Published and/or Local Authors
We receive numerous requests from local authors to add their self-published books to our collection. We wish to support local authors while maintaining the standards in our permanent collections. All donations presented to the Library as gifts are subject to the same selection criteria as purchased items.
We have established two Local Authors shelves at Headquarters: one in Adult and one in Juvenile. These are not part of our permanent collection.
Guidelines for placement on the Local Authors shelves:
- Authors must be a Monmouth County resident or otherwise demonstrate a strong local interest.
- We cannot accept a children’s book for the Local Authors shelf, unless it includes a review from a reputable source.
- The author is expected to present the book to the library personally; books presented by a third party will not be accepted.
- Each book must meet certain standards determined by a designated librarian before being accepted for placement.
- A brief listing for the book will be created in the catalog, so that borrowers may access them by title or author.
- Books will be given a barcode and MCL stamps. They will not be jacketed, bound, or covered
- Items will rotate out of the collection and be withdrawn after one year, unless they have circulated regularly.
- Materials that are donated become the property of the Monmouth County Library System and cannot be returned to the donor.
For a donation to be considered for purchase to our permanent collection, the author or publisher is asked to do the following:
- Include a copy of a published review from a professional journal or publication.
- Provide a listing of the item’s availability in other locations such as libraries, historical societies, or bookstores.
2/23/2019
COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT POLICY
Policy Statement
Monmouth County Library’s mission is to support the lifelong pursuit of knowledge through reading and learning. We aim to help patrons of all ages meet their educational, recreational, and cultural needs through our extensive collections, information resources, and electronic content resources. To ensure that the Monmouth County Library’s collection is balanced, current, and reflective of community interests, this policy outlines the underlying philosophies behind the selection and acquisition of materials. This policy serves as a guideline for active collection, maintenance, and provides a framework for responding to changing community needs.
General Principles
The Monmouth County Library System’s collection development is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, the education and enlightenment of the people of the community, and the provision of educational, informational, and recreational reading, viewing, and listening. Emphasis is placed on popular materials and general information rather than on scholarly and specialized materials.
The service population of the Monmouth County Library comprises a range of culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse individuals from an array of socio-economic backgrounds. As such, the Monmouth County Library actively seeks to acquire materials representing views, authors, subjects, and life experiences that are of interest to people of differing ages, gender identities, ethnicities, lifestyles, and beliefs. Materials will be acquired in a variety of languages and non-standard formats as needed.
The digital collection includes research databases and instructional programs, as well as popular downloadable and streaming eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and movies. These digital resources are available through the Library’s website and app.
Selection Criteria
Materials purchased for the Monmouth County Library’s collection are evaluated as complete works and not on the basis of any one particular passage. A work will not be excluded from the Library’s collection solely because it represents a particular aspect of life, frankness of expression, or because it is controversial. Similarly, no work will be removed from the collection solely because an individual or group finds it to be objectionable, so long as the work meets the standard of this policy statement. The inclusion or non-inclusion of any particular work is based on the considerations described in this policy statement and does not amount to an act of endorsement by the Library of any particular viewpoint or position. Sources for selection of works to be included in the Monmouth County Library’s collection include, but are not limited to, published recommendations from standard review sources and specialized publications, publisher/vendor catalogs, advertisements and availability, professional and trade bibliographies, and customer requests/recommendations with accompanying community demand. In the case of digital subscription services, direct selection of materials is not always available to the Library.
The general selection criteria listed below apply to the selection of all materials for the Monmouth County Library.
• Quality of the work as assessed by one or more reliable reviewers
• Authority and competence of the author
• Reputation and standing of the publisher
• Date of the publication
• Appropriateness of the work to the collection in which it is to be placed
• Cost, availability, and impact on the materials budget
• Relationship of the work to other works in the collection
• Local significance of the author or subject
• Demand and/or predicted demand and interest
• Contribution to diversity, depth, or breadth of the collection
• Likelihood of enduring value
Additional criteria for digital resources:
• Ease of use
• Licensing and System Requirements (hardware, software, networking, storage, etc.)
• Assessment of content, quality, and cost as compared to other available formats
• Long term availability and accessibility
The Monmouth County Library is aware of the purposes and resources of other libraries in the State and shall not unnecessarily duplicate functions and materials.
Children’s Materials
Monmouth County Library understands that materials acquired for the youth must be regarded with special care due to the developmental needs of children and their readiness to master sensitive topics and/or content. In response, the Monmouth County Library asserts that the responsibility of a child’s use of materials as well as content appropriateness lies with the parent or guardian.
Young Adult Materials
Monmouth County Library maintains a collection of materials for young adults (grades 6-12) which consider the development needs of teens and involve their readiness to master sensitive topics and/or content. In response, the Monmouth County Library asserts that the responsibility of a young adult’s use of materials as well as content appropriateness lies with the parent or guardian.
Suggestions for Purchase or Loan
Monmouth County Library patrons may suggest items for purchase. Requests will be reviewed by designated library staff in consultation with the selection criteria as outlined in this policy. Customers can also request items that the Library does not own by completing the Library’s Interlibrary Loan Request form available at branch reference desks. Interlibrary loans are governed by the Monmouth County Library’s Interlibrary Loan Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Reconsideration of Library Materials
The Monmouth County Library has a responsibility to provide a comprehensive collection representing a wide range of ideas and viewpoints; moreover, the Monmouth County Library has committed to the right of free access to information for all individuals. Patrons wishing to recommend the removal or reclassification of a particular item may submit a Request for Material Reconsideration form. All requests for reconsideration will be reviewed by the Library Director in consultation with the selection criteria as outlined in this policy and may include librarians chosen for a review committee.
The Library Director or an appointed designee will review the Request for Material Reconsideration and provide a written response to the reconsideration request. The material in question will not be removed from the shelf during the reconsideration process.
Collection Management
Responsibility for Collection Management
The ultimate responsibility for material selection rests with the Library Director who operates within the policies determined by the Monmouth County Library Commission. Day to day implementation of the Collection Development and Management Policy and management of the collection is assigned to Library staff.
Criteria for Weeding and Withdrawal
A regular review of materials is essential to maintaining the quality of the Monmouth County Library System’s collection. Materials in the collection are managed through an assessment and evaluation process to ensure that the collection remains up-to-date, balanced and attractive. Professional staff with collection management responsibility will evaluate materials for possible withdrawal using the following criteria:
• Physical condition
• Number of copies available in the collection
• Accuracy and currency of information
• Enduring value
• Local interest or specific community relevance
• Current demand and recent usage patterns
• Availability elsewhere, including other libraries and online resources
Gifts
Monmouth County Library may accept donations of materials in a variety of formats, at select locations but ultimately has the right to accept, refuse, use, or dispose of the materials in whatever manner is most beneficial to the Library, whether selling at a book sale, adding to the collection, or in any other way. The Library does not appraise donated items.
Statement on Intellectual Freedom
The Monmouth County Library is committed to the principle that the constitutionally protected freedoms of speech and press are enjoyed by all. To this end, the Library strives to offer a collection that represents the needs of our diverse communities. Inclusion of items in the collection does not imply endorsement of any theory or statement contained in those materials and resources.
While every patron may not agree with the viewpoints offered in some Library material, the Library has a responsibility to provide a balanced collection with access to material reflecting diverse ideas through which opposing sides of a question, cause, or movement may be explored, provided that the material meets the outlined selection criteria. The balanced nature of the collection is reflected in the diversity of materials, not in the equality of numbers. Customers are free to choose what they like from the collection and to reject what they do not like, but not to restrict the freedom of others to make the same choice.
Selection of materials for adults is not constrained by possible exposure to children or teenagers.
Statements endorsed by the Library
The Monmouth County Library System endorses the following statements:
• American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement
• American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights Statement
• American Library Association’s Freedom to View Statement
Approved by the Library Commission April 12, 2022
Please Note: To obtain a Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials form, email mcl@monmouthcountylib.org or contact the reference desk at the Headquarters Library (732-431-7220) or Eastern Branch Library (866-941-8188)
Monmouth County Library appreciates the interest of community partners for volunteer opportunities to support the mission and goals of the library and further recognizes the great contributions volunteers can provide. Volunteerism strengthens the Monmouth County Library’s relationships throughout the community. Volunteer opportunities offer citizens a way to contribute to the community, fulfill personal goals, achieve satisfaction and advocate for quality library service.
A volunteer is anyone who assists the Monmouth County Library on a regular basis with Library activities without financial compensation. Volunteers will not be used to replace the work done by paid staff.
The Monmouth County Library embraces Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in all of its practices including volunteer service.
Volunteer Requirements:
- Volunteers are required to submit a completed Monmouth County Library Volunteer Application.
- Volunteers are required to complete the Monmouth County Library Volunteer Agreement.
- Volunteers are selected based on their qualifications in relation to the needs of the Library at any given time; if not selected applications will be kept on file for six months.
- Acceptance of an application is at the Library Director’s (or designee’s) discretion.
The Monmouth County Library’s Responsibility to Volunteers:
- Review job duties and expectations;
- Confirm work dates, times, and anticipated duration of the assignment;
- Provide procedures and training for all volunteer tasks;
- Ensure that all volunteers serve in positions which reflect their skills and interests as closely as possible while meeting the needs of the Monmouth County Library;
- Provide supervision in accordance with sound supervisory practices and Monmouth County Library policies;
- Maintain accurate volunteer data;
- Supply volunteer with a name tag which must be worn while on assignment.
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Volunteers are responsible to carry out the agreed upon duties to the best of their abilities;
- To arrive on time and notify the library prior to any absence;
- To work with the aims, objectives, values and goals of the Library;
- To work under the Monmouth County Library rules, regulations, policies, and Code of Conduct;
- To be honest and reliable;
- To be capable of interacting with staff and public in a positive manner;
- To wear a name tag at all times while working in the library.
Guidelines for Volunteers:
- Volunteers are ambassadors for the Monmouth County Library and must present a positive image to the public.
- The privacy of Library customers and co-workers must be respected at all times. State law requires that information regarding staff members, Library operation and registered users stored in any form is confidential and is made available only to staff and volunteers in the line of duty and to others only in response to a subpoena.
- It is expected that each volunteer’s dress and grooming will be appropriate for a business environment and in keeping with his or her work assignment. If a volunteer is dressed in an inappropriate manner, they may be asked to leave and return when they are appropriately dressed.
- Volunteers are required to maintain a professional, friendly demeanor at all times and are asked to direct all questions to a staff member.
- Volunteers are responsible for updating personal data, such as change of address or telephone number, and emergency contact information, etc., with their Supervisor.
- The Library may at any time, for whatever reason, decide to terminate the volunteer’s relationship with the Library, or to make changes in the nature of their volunteer assignment.
- Library owned equipment and supplies are for library use only and may not be used for personal business.
- Volunteers are asked to be alert at all times to safety hazards and to report unsafe acts or conditions to their supervisor. Volunteers should also notify their supervisors of any assignment which causes physical discomfort or which could lead to personal injury. All injuries, whether minor or serious, must be reported directly to a supervisor.
- Personal telephone calls except those of an emergency nature are discouraged. Telephone calls using library equipment placed for personal business or recreational use are not permitted.
- To end a volunteer commitment, please notify your supervisor of that decision and the effective date.
- Volunteers should always wear their name tags while working in the Library.
Due to the availability of staff supervision and public health situations, Monmouth County Library reserves the right to accept volunteers, limit volunteer opportunities and suspend the volunteer program.
