Purpose

The Upper Skagit Library cultivates an inclusive environment that welcomes all community members to use and enjoy the facilities, collections, programs, and services. This policy aims to ensure safe, secure, and respectful use of the library and its grounds.

Statement of Policy

While the library is open to all, no one has the right to interfere with another patron’s use and enjoyment of the library. Behavior is unacceptable when it violates the law, impacts access and usage of others, endangers the health and safety of oneself or others, or results in damage to library facilities, resources, or equipment. 

Policy Enforcement

A patron who is disruptive will be notified that their behavior is not appropriate. If the behavior continues, the patron will be asked to leave. If the patron refuses to leave, the proper authorities will be contacted. Disruptive behavior and/or continued disruptive behavior on the part of the patron may result in a suspension of a patron’s use of the library, the length of which will be determined by the library staff.

Guidelines:

Treat library staff and patrons with respect and kindness. Hate crimes, discriminatory behavior, verbal hostility, harassment, stalking and other threatening behavior are not tolerated.

Accompany children. A parent or caregiver should accompany any child not mature enough to be alone and supervise them during their visit. Adult use of children’s areas is limited to parents and caregivers with children or those utilizing the collections.

Prevent injury to oneself or others. Conduct must never endanger the health and safety of other library users or employees.

Wear appropriate attire for a public place including shoes, tops, and bottoms.

Minimize disruption to others. Be aware of other patrons’ use of the library and their right to privacy, including harassing another patron, taking pictures of another patron without their permission, ect. 

Keep personal property nearby without obstructing walkways or access to library resources and furnishings. Any items left unattended for more than 5 minutes will be placed in the library lost and found.

Respect library property. Use library facilities, resources, and equipment as intended.

Snacks and covered beverages are allowed except for in computer areas. Minimize disruption by limiting noisy and messy foods and dispose of any trash.

Service animals are welcome. Other animals are allowed only when authorized by the library director.

No soliciting or proselytizing in the library or on library property.

Adhere to library policies and federal, state, and local laws.

• Selling, using, possessing, or being under the influence of illegal controlled substances or alcohol is prohibited.
• Using tobacco, e-cigarettes, cannabis, or any vapor device on library property or within 25 feet of the library is prohibited.
• Physically threatening behavior including carrying, exhibiting, or displaying any weapon in a manner that manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons is prohibited.
• Sexual activities and misconduct are prohibited.

For the safety of yourself and others, bring safety and other concerns to the attention of library staff.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, July 20th, 2023. 

Purpose

The Circulation Policy of the Upper Skagit Library (USL) exists to facilitate community access to the materials and information contained in the library’s collections. The system serves a community of diverse needs and ages, and is open to all members of the public.

Eligibility

The following categories of people or individuals are eligible to register for an USL library card with provision of proof of current address and valid identity:

• Anyone who resides within the Concrete School District’s service area.
• Students who attend school at the Concrete School District or utilize the Concrete Boys and Girls Club.
• Educators and staff at the Concrete School District, homeschool groups, preschools and child care centers within our service area.
• Non-residents of the USL district who pay taxes to support the library, such as individuals who work in our service district or own businesses or property located in our service district.
• Members of a Native Tribe in the United States may get a free card, no matter where they reside, with proof of tribal registration.
• Seasonal residents, whose permanent residence is outside of the district or state, but who lives inside the Library District for a portion of the year.
• Residents of jurisdictions within Washington State that provide equitable tax support for public library service. In addition to current address and proof of identity, applicants must present a library card from their local jurisdiction.
• Non-residents of the Library District who do not meet any of the criteria described above may purchase a library card for a fee to borrow materials.

Registration

Individuals applying for a library account must present a current picture identification (ID) with their birth date. Acceptable forms of identification include but are not limited to, State-issued driver’s licenses or identification cards, tribal IDs, and passports.

If the ID presented has the current residential address on it, then that is all that needs to be presented to the staff. If the ID does not have the current residential address on it, one of the following must be provided to prove residency:

• Lease or land/house deed.
• Mortgage documents.
• Utility bills.
• Bank statements.
• Voter’s registration.
• Car insurance statement, cell phone bill, or paystub.
• Mail sent through USPS with the residents name and address on it.
• Proof of local Post Office (PO) Box

If residents do not have any of these, they can ask for a postcard at the front desk of the library. This postcard will be mailed to the patron and can be brought back as proof of address.

All resident accounts are valid for three years, at the end of which time borrowers will be asked to confirm their address and personal information before their account will be renewed. Non-resident accounts are only valid for the amount of time that is purchased, and must be renewed at the end of the purchased term.

Temporary Cards

Temporary cards will be issued to individuals who have no proof of ID or local address, and have no way to obtain either. These cards will be issued on a case by case basis, and must be applied for in-person. These cards are intended to give access to patrons who are experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or another situation that would result in loss of access to their documents and/or housing. Temporary cards expire after three months, will give digital access to the individual, and will allow for the check-out of two books or DVDs. Cards that remain in good standing can be renewed in-person every three months.

Non-Resident Cards

An individual who does not meet any of the eligibility requirements is considered a non-resident and may purchase a resident card for use by their household. The non-resident fee is set by the Board of Trustees, and can be bought for a full or partial year. 

Cards for Minors

School age children – ages 4 to 17 – may apply for and get a card at any time, but do not have to show ID. Minor accounts are not charged fines or fees, as written in our Minor Fines Policy, and can be linked to a parent account upon the child’s request. Adults cannot check-out items on a minor account.

The library does not act in Loco Parentis, meaning the library does not monitor or limit what items are checked out by minors. 

When an individual turns 18, their account will expire, and the minor will have to reapply for an adult account, following the procedures laid out in the rest of this policy.

Borrowing

Borrowers are expected to present their library card each time they wish to check out. If a borrower forgets their card, they will be asked to verify their identity before being allowed to use their account. Failure to return an item or damage to an item may result in the restriction of borrowing materials.

Lost or Stolen Cards

Lost or stolen library cards should be reported immediately to USL. A replacement card will be issued at no cost. Borrowers are responsible for any materials checked out on their account up to the time that they report the card as stolen.

Use of Account by Others

Borrowers may grant the use of their account to other individuals, either by giving that person their card, or by asking for notes to be made on their account in-person at the library. Another individual may not use a borrower’s account without one of these two criteria being met, even in the case of a minor’s account. 

Borrowers giving permission to another individual to use their account are still responsible for all materials borrowed on the card.

Charges

USL does not charge overdue fees for materials.

Items not returned to the library within 30 days of the due date, will be marked as lost, and the borrower will be billed a replacement fee. This fee will be forgiven upon receipt of the lost item.

Items returned damaged or with missing parts may be charged a replacement fee for the whole item.

Payment

The library will accept payment at the front library desk any time the library is open. Other payment options may become available and will be listed on the library website. The library does not accept similar or exact replacement of a lost or damaged item in lieu of a monetary fine. Once an item has been paid for, it becomes the property of the person paying for the item.

If a borrower is facing financial hardship, they may ask for a payment plan, or volunteer at the library (at state minimum wage) to work off the cost of the item. 

Refunds

The library does not issue refunds for any payments made to the library.

Claims Returned

Items a borrower claims to have returned but cannot be located in the library may be considered Claims Returned. At this point the borrower is no longer monetarily responsible for the item. Only 5 Claims Returned may be on any one account at one time.

Old Debt

Accounts with a balance on them will have the balance forgiven after 4 years, for all items except technology kits. This includes but is not limited to laptops and hotspots.

Confidentiality of Library Records

The Board of Trustees and Administration of the Upper Skagit Library recognize that the reading activity and interests of library borrowers are and should be private, and that any attempt to invade such privacy, without direct and legitimate need, is an invasion of the personal right of library borrowers and the “right to read” implicitly guaranteed in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. The Board of Trustees and Administration also affirm their adherence to the Revised Code of Washington section 42.56.310, which reads as follows:

“RCW: 42.56.310. Library records. Any library record, the primary purpose of which is to maintain control of library materials, or gain access to information, that discloses or could be used to disclose the identity of a library borrower is exempt from disclosure under this chapter.”

Furthermore, the information contained in library registration records will also be considered confidential and will not be released without the authorization of the individual, or by court order, except as needed by the library for the legitimate recovery or protection of library materials.

The Board interprets “any library record” to include all transactions associated with the use of library materials including but not limited to library transit records, records of reference questions, and other documents or electronic records that would link the individual with particular materials or services. Please review the Library’s Privacy Policy for more details.

Library staff may permit the individual listed as parent or guardian to view or know their child’s transaction record, or other account information, only upon presentation of the child’s library card, and official picture ID and/or documentation establishing their identity as the adult responsible for the child’s account. Further corroborating identification from the parent or guardian may be required at the discretion of library staff.

Requests for transaction activity, or other account information, by law enforcement officials should be referred to the Library Director at the time. Any cost incurred by the Upper Skagit Library in performing a court-ordered search may be billed to the agency requesting the search.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, July 19th, 2024. 

Minors, aged 17 and younger will not be charged fines or fees relating to lost or damaged books. Minors will otherwise be held to the same policies related to their cards and accounts as adults.

Excessive lost or damaged books by a minor, can result in:

• A loss of the ability to check out physical books, and only the ability to check out digital items
• A restriction on the amount of items they can check out for a period of no more than 3 months

Electronic items such as hotspots or laptops are exceptions to this rule, and the loss or damage to these items will result in a replacement fee and loss of physical library privileges until the fee is paid.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, May 16, 2024

Scope

This policy applies to the community covered under the service area of the Upper Skagit Library.

Policy/Conditions

• Library collections meet the diverse needs of the community.

• • • The vision of the Upper Skagit Library is: serving and inspiring our diverse community.
    • Our community is composed of individuals of varying ages, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and faiths from diverse educational, cultural, and economic backgrounds. The library is committed to providing meaningful collections that are inclusive, unbiased, and responsive to a wide variety of interests and viewpoints.
    • The purpose of this policy is to support the Library’s mission and vision statement and to serve as a guide for the selection, acquisition, maintenance, and retention of materials by establishing roles, responsibilities, and processes for addressing Library user concerns.

• Library collections are developed using the principles of intellectual freedom.

• • • The Library Board of Trustees supports an individual’s right to read, listen, view, or otherwise experience a wide and varied expression of ideas and thoughts. Furthermore, the Library Board endorses the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article I of the Washington State Constitution, and the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights and its interpretations.

• The Library encourages parental participation in materials access for their children.

• • • Individuals are free to select or reject materials for themselves or their minor children but may not restrict the freedom of others to use or access materials or information. Parents and guardians are responsible for guiding and directing the reading, listening and viewing choices of their minor children. The Library does not stand in loco parentis (in the place of a parent).

•  The Library sets these collection priorities:
  • • • Children’s/Teen materials and materials for people who work with children and teens. Emphasis is on reading readiness, early learning, promoting the joy of reading and learning, and the diversity of the collections as a whole.
      • Lifelong learning for adults.
      • Popular recreational reading, listening, and viewing for all ages.
      • General research, information, and fact finding sources.
      • Occupational and vocational guidance materials.
      • Supplemental educational materials for students.
      • World languages and English language learning materials for existing and emerging populations of non-native English speakers in the Upper Skagit community.
      • Genealogical research.
      • Local and regional history, and the literature of the Upper Skagit Valley, as well as Skagit county as a whole.
        • General subjects will be collected broadly to meet anticipated and expressed individual and community needs. Collections of local relevance to the citizens of Upper Skagit, specifically history and  literature will be collected in greater depth.

•  Criteria considered when selecting library materials are:
• • • Community relevance.
    • Timeliness.
    • Diversity of viewpoint and content.
    • Authenticity and accuracy of factual material.
    • Level of demand.
    • Audience for material.
    • Physical durability.
    • Current or historical significance of the author or subject.
    • Local significance of the author or subject.
    • Existing subject coverage.
    • Aesthetic considerations: literary, artistic, or social value; appeal to the imagination, senses, or intellect.
    • Quality of writing and its readability.
    • Popular appeal: reading, listening or viewing enjoyment.
    • Favorable critical reviews.
    • Budget and space limitations.
    • Suitability of the format for Library use.
    • Availability in other formats.

• Electronic collections have additional considerations for selection.
  • • Usability: the product is user-friendly, well indexed, and offers numerous points of access.
    • Availability: to multiple simultaneous users 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    • Accessibility: to retrospective information when necessary or desirable.
    • Best Format: the electronic resource provides added value over other formats.
    • An item need not meet all of these standards to be included in the Library’s collection.

• Collections are selected and maintained by qualified library staff.
  • Selection and maintenance of library materials are guided by the Library Director and will be assigned to qualified library staff based on their experience, training, expertise, and interest. Final responsibility for the collection rests with the Library Director, under the authority of the Library Board.

• Library collections are continually evaluated and maintained.
  • Withdrawing materials is a vital part of collection maintenance and ensures attractive, relevant, current, and responsive collections.  The Library follows these withdrawal guidelines:
    • This library is not a historical repository for last copies, hard-to-find materials, or materials that have had limited use or checkouts.
    • Condition, currency, content, usage, and consistency with the library’s mission are the primary criteria for determining retention in the library collections.
    • Collection evaluation and maintenance is an ongoing process.
  • Withdrawn library materials or donated materials that are not added to the library’s collection are given to the Friends of the Upper Skagit Library. The proceeds raised by the Friends from the sale of withdrawn or donated items are used to enhance library programs, services and collections.

• The Library accepts materials donations for the library or its collections.
  • Donated materials in good condition and of value to library collections are gratefully accepted.

• The Library welcomes collection suggestions and comments from the community.
  • Individuals are encouraged to submit suggestions for purchase of individual titles, the development of subject areas, and the addition of new formats.
  • If an individual objects to a title in the library collection, they are asked to complete a “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form.  
    • The request must be completed in its entirety, either online or brought in person to the Library, in order to initiate a review of the item in question. 
    • The request can only be submitted by someone with an active resident card. Requests for Reconsideration from reciprocal borrowers will not be considered. 
      • Organizations may not make a “Request for Reconsideration.”
    • The individual making the request must have watched, read, or listened to the item they are requesting reconsideration for in its entirety, for the request to be valid.
  • The Library then reviews the item for inclusion in the collection in light of the library’s overall objectives, this policy, the Library Bill of Rights, and ALA guidelines on intellectual freedom.
    • Once this process is completed, a written response, signed by the Library Director, will be mailed to the requester, stating the outcome of the review. 
      • If still unsatisfied, the requestor may present concerns to the Library Board, which is the final arbiter in matters of this nature. When necessary, information on how to do this will be included with the written response from the Library Director.
    • One appeal may be made per “Request for Reconsideration.”
      • The library will also only review a book for Reconsideration one time in a three year period. Any “Request for Reconsideration” form filled out for an already reviewed book during that three year period, will be sent a copy of the Library Director and/or Board of Trustees’ decision.
    • The final authority regarding removal or retention of Library materials ultimately resides with the Library Board of Trustees, as advised by the Library Director.

Other resources:

Library Bill of Rights

ALA’s Freedom to Read Statement

ALA’s Freedom to View

ALA’s Free Access to Libraries for Minors

ALA’s interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights

United States Constitution, Bill of Rights

Washington State Constitution, Article I

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, April 20, 2023. 

Children are welcome at the library. 

The Upper Skagit Library welcomes children of all ages and we encourage children to make full use of the library, materials, and programs that we have to offer. 

The Library desires to provide a safe and appropriate environment for visitors of all ages. For the safety and comfort of children, a responsible parent or caregiver should accompany and supervise children who are using the Library. While in the Library, parents and caregivers are responsible for monitoring and regulating the behavior of their children. The Library is not equipped, nor is it the Library’s role, to provide long- or short-term child care.

Safety 

The Upper Skagit Library is a public place, open to all people. Children left alone are at risk and should be supervised by a mature, capable parent or guardian. 

What the Library Does 

We strive to provide a safe, appropriate environment for different age groups, including small children. Library staff are trained to assist patrons in using Library materials, services, and programs. Library staff are not responsible for supervising children left alone while on Library property. The policy on children in the Library is not intended to be restrictive. The policy was adopted to ensure the general safety and well-being of these patrons. 

Responsibilities 

Parents and Caregivers

Parents and caregivers are responsible for their children’s safety, comfort, and behavior while on Library property. 

Toddlers and Preschoolers  

• Are encouraged to use the Children’s section in the Library  
• Must be supervised by a responsible caregiver at all times while in the Library  
• Must be accompanied by a caregiver to attend Library programs such as Storytimes and LEGO Club

Older Children

Elementary school-age children may use the Library unattended for an amount of time appropriate to their age and maturity. Children must follow the same rules as adults, or they may be asked to leave the Library for the day. Quiet play is fine. Running or loud play disturbs others.

Protection 

Parents and caregivers must be familiar with the Library’s hours and pick up their children before closing time. Please ensure that your minor child has ways to contact you in case of an emergency. 

When The Library Intervenes 

• Library staff will intervene when an unsupervised child is:  Frightened, crying, or confused  
• In danger or acting dangerously toward others  
• Not following Library rules  
• Not met by a caregiver at closing time 

Library staff will evaluate the situation and attempt to contact a parent or guardian. In circumstances that give Library staff cause for concern, staff may contact the sheriff. 

Public Use of Children’s Areas Policy

The children’s area within the Upper Skagit Library is a special part of the Library. This area provides services and houses special collections and programs designed for children. The purpose of this area is to give children and their caregivers access to special children’s materials, programs, and services. This policy guides Library staff in regulating access to these areas and informs the public of the intended use of this area. The children’s area is available for use by any patron who is accessing the special materials contained in the collection and by children and their caregivers when attending children’s programs and utilizing other services provided by the staff. Patrons not included in these categories may be required to leave the children’s area and instead use other areas of the Library.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, April 21, 2022.

1. The Teen Room is a special area within the Upper Skagit Library that provides services and houses special collections, equipment, and programs for teens. It is intended for those aged 12-18. Patrons outside of this age range are free to browse the room to find materials to check-out, but may not linger to participate in activities, use teen materials or equipment, or “hangout.” 

2. Teens are welcome to be in the teen room while the library is open, with the exception of temporary closures for special programs or library staff needs. Library staff are not responsible for supervising teens left alone on library property. 

3. All patrons using the library are required to follow the Upper Skagit Library’s Code of Conduct. The following behaviors are not permitted in the library: 

• Violence

• Excessive noise

• Disruptive public displays of affection 
• Vandalism and destruction of library property

If you do not follow the library Code of Conduct the following actions may be taken:

• Patron will be asked to stop behavior. 

• Patron will be asked again to stop behavior and warned that they will be asked to leave if warned again. 
• Patron will be asked to leave the library.

Patrons may be asked to leave the library, at the discretion of a staff member, if the situation mandates. If necessary, the police may be contacted.

4. In the teen room we have multiple options for equipment, games, and activities available for use. These items are for teen use only, unless approved by staff. Items are to be treated with respect; misuse or intentional damage to these items may result in a ban from the teen room.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, July 21, 2022.

1. The Teen Room is for ages 12-18. Patrons outside of this age range are free to browse the collection to check out materials, but may not linger afterwards to participate in activities or “hangout.” 

2. All patrons using the library are required to follow the Upper Skagit Library’s Code of Conduct. In addition, while in the teen room, you also agree to abide by our Teen Room Policy and our Teen Community Agreements, both of which can be found on our website, or are available by asking a library staff member. 

• • If you do not follow the library Code of Conduct, the Teen Room Policy, or the Teen Community agreements you may be asked to leave the library at the discretion of any library staff member, if the situation mandates. If necessary, the police will be contacted.

3. Please make sure to give others the chance to use equipment and activities.

• • Time limits for equipment and activities may be created by staff to ensure all can participate. 

4. Treat library equipment with respect. 

• • Do not attempt to take equipment out of the teen room.
  • Do not break, throw, smash, or stomp on library equipment.
  • Do not eat or drink while using library equipment. 
  • When using library equipment use headphones or keep the volume low.

5. The teen room’s Nintendo Switch and gaming computer will be available for freeplay after 3pm on school days and all-day on Saturdays. During the summer, they may be accessed any time during open hours.

• • When using the Switch or gaming computer you agree to only use the library’s user profiles, and to not create or use your own personal profile on any software. 
  • You may not add friends or follow other accounts.
  • You may not purchase or install any software, games, upgrades, mods, etc.

6. A Snack Basket is available in the teen room. 

• • Teens are welcome to help themselves to items in the Snack Basket, however food must be eaten in the teen room. 
  • The Snack Basket has a limited budget, and the Snack Basket will become unavailable once the budget has run out. Please be mindful of leaving enough snacks for others. 

7. When you are done in the teen room, please do your best to clean up after yourself.

• • Place all garbage in the garbage bin.
  • Gather your belongings to take them with you.
  • Put the bean bag chairs, materials you used, controllers, etc. back where you found them.
  • If you need help with cleaning up, please ask library staff for assistance. 
  • Repeated failure to clean up after yourself may result in a loss of Teen Room privileges.  

This Privacy Policy explains how the Upper Skagit Library collects, uses, and discloses personal information about its patrons, prospective patrons, and visitors to our website (www.upperskagitlibrary.org), social media profiles, and the users of the SMS Advertising Service.

Collection of Personal Information:

Information collected directly from you:  The Upper Skagit Library may collect personal information directly from you, for example when you sign up for a library card, place an item on hold, sign up for a program or event, fill in a form on USL’s website, sign up for email newsletters or USL’s SMS Advertising Service, interact with USL on social media, contact USL for support, or use a library service. Personal information we collect directly from you may include your first and last name, birthdate, phone number, physical and mailing addresses, and email addresses. While the library does not collect and store them, social media usernames and other publicly displayed information on those sites may be visible to library staff when interacting via those platforms.

Information collected from your device:  Our Integrated Library System (“ILS”), website, email newsletter service, SMS Advertising Service, and social media accounts may use technologies such as cookies (small blocks of data created by a web server while a user is browsing a website and placed on the user’s computer or other device by the web browser), web beacons (any of several techniques used to track who is visiting a web page; can also be used to see if an email was read or forwarded or if a web page was copied to another website), pixels (snippets of code that are added to websites to gather data used to improve interaction), and other similar technologies to automatically collect certain information from your device including, for example, your IP address, date and time of your digital visit to the service, browser and operating system information, referring website address, and other information about how you interact with the website. Our website may also use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your user experience and enable certain features such as logging into digital library resources with your library card account information.

Information collected from our partners:  We may collect personal information about you from our third-party partners and combine it with other information we collect. Personal information that may be collected from our third-party partners may include demographic information, geographic location, and frequency of access of library resources.

Use of Personal Information:

We may use information collected about you for any lawful purpose, including the following:

• To provide and connect you with services and resources that the library offers
• To aid in patron services and support
• To optimize our website and other third-party services such as email newsletters and the SMS Advertising Service
• To market our services and resources to you
• To comply with the law and to maintain the security of our website
• With your consent, or as otherwise disclosed at the time information is collected

Disclosure of Personal Information:

We may share the information we collect on an as-needed basis with other parties including the following:

• With third-party service providers to assist us with providing and marketing our services and resources such as data hosting services, analytics services, and email and text message service providers
  • As of the writing of this Privacy Policy, USL uses Constant Contact as the service provider of email newsletters and the SMS Advertising Service. For more information on how information is collected, used, and disclosed with Constant Contact, you can read Constant Contact’s Customer Data Notice here.
• If necessary to comply with applicable laws and regulations, to otherwise protect USL’s rights or the rights of third-parties, or to protect the safety and security of any person or entity.
• With your consent or as otherwise disclosed at the time of data collection or sharing

USL reserves the right to share information that has been de-identified or aggregated without limitation for the purposes of statistical analysis and state and federal statistics reporting.

The Upper Skagit Library operates publicly on its website and on several social media outlets. These platforms may offer interactive features, such as the ability to leave reviews or comments or to participate in discussions that allow communication with other patrons or outside users of these platforms. If you disclose information in one of these platforms/forums, this information can be viewed, collected, and used by others. The Upper Skagit Library is not liable for any information you choose to share on these platforms.

Email, Text Message, Phone, and Other Communications:

If you wish to unsubscribe from our email newsletters or the SMS Advertising Service, please follow the instructions provided both at the time of sign-up and kept available on our website. Email newsletters and updates will contain links that will allow you to unsubscribe from further emails. Text messages sent by the SMS Advertising Service will include similar unsubscription options, such as recognizing return messages containing the phrases STOP, QUIT, CANCEL, OPT-OUT, or UNSUBSCRIBE. For more information on unsubscribing from the SMS Advertising Service, please see our SMS Advertising Service Messaging Terms and Conditions.

The Upper Skagit Library currently uses a software called Evergreen for its Integrated Library System (ILS). When signing up for a library card, you provided staff with your contact information including physical and mailing addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses, so that you may be contacted about library services such as holds, overdue notifications, due date notifications, billing details, and other account alerts. This information is stored in Evergreen as part of your library card account. Evergreen’s software will occasionally send reminders and alerts that were not generated by staff as part of its automation features. Additionally staff may manually access this information to contact you as the need arises. By signing up for a library card account with the Upper Skagit Library, you consent to the storage and use of this information by library staff and its ILS, Evergreen.

Updating Your Information:

You may review, change, or update the information you have provided to the library at any time. You may do this by (1) contacting staff members directly and asking them to take you through the process, either in-person, via phone (360.853.7716), or via email ([email protected]); or (2) by logging into your library account via our website or catalog (www.upperskagitlibrary.org, usl.skagitcatalog.org) and making the changes yourself when available.

Changes to this Privacy Policy:

The Upper Skagit Library reserves the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, with or without notice. Any such modification will take effect when it is posted to our website. While the Upper Skagit Library will endeavor to publicize any changes to the Privacy Policy, you agree to review the policy periodically to ensure you are aware of any modifications. Your continued participation in any library services that are covered by the Privacy Policy will constitute your acceptance of those modifications.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about this policy or the library’s privacy practices, please contact the Upper Skagit Library via phone at 360.853.7716, via email at [email protected], or by coming into the library and connecting with library staff.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, February 16, 2023.

Mission

The mission of the library is to help people of all ages achieve their full potential by providing access to diverse information and ideas in various formats and viewpoints, using progressive technology. The library belongs to the community it serves and is dedicated to fostering intellectual freedom and lifelong learning, thereby enhancing the social, economic, and cultural vitality of the Upper Skagit communities.

Purpose

The library provides Internet access to the citizens of its service area in fulfillment of its mission. The Board of Trustees has established this Internet Use Policy to ensure appropriate and effective use of this resource.

Policy

1. Access and Restrictions: Internet access is available to all users. This service may be restricted at any time for use inconsistent with this policy’s guidelines.
2. Technology Protection: Technology protection measures (filtering software) are implemented in compliance with CIPA, already configured through the LibTech router.
3. Minors’ Access: Children’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of their parents or guardians. The library does not act in loco parentis. 
4. Liability: The library is not responsible for damages related to the use of information accessed on the Internet from its equipment. Users are responsible for their actions while using the Internet and must comply with local, state, and federal laws.
5. Warning: The library does not control Internet content and cannot guarantee the accuracy or quality of information. Users use the Internet at their own risk, and privacy of email messages or online activities is not guaranteed.

Guidelines for Internet Use

1. Purpose of Use: Internet use is provided as a tool for lifelong learning to meet users’ educational, vocational, cultural, and recreational needs.
2. Email: Internet use for receiving and transmitting email is permitted.
3. Sessions: Internet use is offered in one-hour sessions on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of one session per day unless other arrangements are made.
4. Equipment Use: Users must take care of computer equipment and not cause deliberate damage. Copying or transmitting copyrighted or illegal material is prohibited.
5. Prohibitions: Users must not engage in illegal activities, including transmitting threatening, obscene, or copyrighted material.
6. Privacy: While the library respects users’ right to privacy, absolute privacy cannot be guaranteed for users of electronic resources. Other patrons may inadvertently view an Internet user’s screen.

CIPA Compliance

To comply with CIPA, the library:

• Has implemented filtering software through the LibTech router to block access to inappropriate content for minors.
• Provides ongoing training for staff and users on safe and responsible Internet use.

Comments and Updates

This policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure ongoing compliance with current legislation and industry best practices. The library is committed to maintaining open communication with the community to adapt and improve Internet access services continually.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, June 20, 2024

The Upper Skagit Library District uses social media to advance the Library’s mission as a community doorway to reading, resources, and lifelong learning and a center for people, ideas and culture. These tools help broaden awareness of the wide range of library resources, programs, and activities.

The Upper Skagit Library encourages and supports employees’ efforts to engage with communities served by the Library through the use of the Library’s social media accounts. Upon supervisor approval, employees may access Library social media accounts to facilitate community engagement within the scope of their duties. Employees may use their personal devices when accessing and engaging in Library social media. Personal devices may then be subject to Public Records Requests.

The Library will remain neutral on the topics covered on our social media pages and in the Library. The comments and opinions expressed on these forums (and external links appearing in posts) are the opinion of the person posting and may not reflect the official position of the Upper Skagit Library or the opinions of its employees. Everything posted to our social media accounts is part of the public record and subject to public disclosure.

By posting any comments, posts, or other materials on Upper Skagit Library social media pages, you give the Library permission to reproduce, distribute, publish, display, edit, modify, delete and otherwise use your submissions for any library-related purpose in any form on any media.

We reserve the right (but are not obligated) to review, screen, edit and delete comments before and after posting, in accordance with the Upper Skagit Library Public Comment Guidelines below.

Comments may be edited and deleted before posting or removed upon discovery, if it is:

• substantially off-topic or unrelated to the original post
• using defaming, demeaning, vulgar, offensive, threatening, or harassing language
• designed to advertise, promote or solicit for any business, commercial transaction or non-government service
•  fraudulent, including impersonating someone else or misrepresentations
• chain messages or obvious spam
• promoting or opposing current ballot questions or persons seeking office unless directly related to a Library program, event or resource
• violating copyright of images, music, video or published works without source credit or permission of the owner

Social media services that host our forums may also have their own policies regarding privacy standards and restrictions that may affect comments posted.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, June 14, 2018.

The Upper Skagit Library District (“Upper Skagit Library”, “USL”, “we”) operates an opt-in mobile messaging service (“SMS Advertising Service”) subject to these Mobile Messaging Terms and Conditions (the “Mobile Messaging Terms”). The Mobile Messaging Terms and the collection and use of your personal information is also subject to the Upper Skagit Library’s Privacy Policy. By enrolling, signing up, or otherwise agreeing to participation in USL’s SMS Advertising Service, you accept and agree to these Mobile Messaging Terms and our Privacy Policy.  

1. Service Description: The Upper Skagit Library may send promotional and informational mobile messages in various formats through the SMS Advertising Service. Promotional messages advertise and promote USL’s programs and collection items and may include messages about upcoming events/programs, new items in our collection, or new services the library is offering. Informational messages are intended to alert patrons to library operation status changes such as library closures or program cancellations, as well upcoming changes to library policies and rules. Mobile messages may be sent using automated technology. Message frequency will vary, but will not exceed 5 messages per month. By participating in the SMS Advertising Service, you authorize the Upper Skagit Library, through any third-party service providers the library utilizes, to send you messages regarding the aforementioned topics, and furthermore recognize that such messages may be made or placed using different telephone numbers or short codes. We do not charge for mobile messages sent through the SMS Advertising Service, but you are responsible for any message and data rates imposed by your mobile provider, as standard data and message rates may apply for SMS and MMS alerts. 

2. User Opt-In: By providing your mobile phone number to the Upper Skagit Library and signing up for the SMS Advertising Service you agree to receive recurring mobile messages from us at the phone number associated with your opt-in, even if such number is registered on any state or federal “Do Not Call” list. You agree that any mobile phone number you provide is a valid mobile number of which you are the owner or authorized user. If you change your mobile phone number or are no longer the owner or authorized user of the mobile phone number, you agree to promptly notify the Upper Skagit Library by emailing [email protected], calling 360.853.7716, or coming into the library and speaking to a staff member. Your participation in the SMS Advertising Service is not required to be a library patron nor is it required to receive email newsletters from the Upper Skagit Library. Your participation in the SMS Advertising Service is completely voluntary. 

3. User Opt-Out and Support: You may opt-out of the SMS Advertising Service at any time. If you wish to opt-out of the SMS Advertising Service and stop receiving mobile messages from the Upper Skagit Library, or you no longer agree to these Mobile Messaging Terms you may reply STOP, QUIT, CANCEL, OPT-OUT, or UNSUBSCRIBE to any mobile message sent from the Upper Skagit Library. Additionally, you can opt-out of the SMS Advertising Service by emailing [email protected], calling 360.853.7716, or coming into the library and speaking to a staff member. After opting-out you may continue to receive mobile messages for a short period of time while we process your request and you may receive a one-time opt-out confirmation message. You understand and agree that the foregoing are the only reasonable methods of opting-out. For support, reply HELP to any mobile message from the Upper Skagit Library.

• Our mobile messaging platform may not recognize requests that modify the foregoing commands and you agree that the Upper Skagit Library and its service providers will not be liable for failing to honor requests that do not comply with the requirements in these Mobile Messaging Terms. The telephone number or short code used to operate the SMS Advertising Service may change at any point in time; if this occurs we will attempt to notify you of any such change. You acknowledge that any requests sent to a telephone number or short code belonging to the Upper Skagit Library that has been changed may not be received by the Upper Skagit Library and that USL will not be responsible for failing to honor a request sent to a telephone number or short code that has been changed.

4. Disclaimer of Warranty and Liability: The SMS Advertising Service is offered on an “as-is” basis and may not be available in all areas, at all times, or on all mobile providers. You agree that neither the Upper Skagit Library nor our service providers will be liable for any failed, delayed, or misdirected delivery of any mobile message or information sent through the SMS Advertising Service. 

5. Modifications: The Upper Skagit Library may modify or cancel the SMS Advertising Service or any of its features at any time, with or without notice. To the extent permitted by applicable law we may also modify these Mobile Messaging Terms at any time. Any such modification will take effect when it is posted to our website. While the Upper Skagit Library will endeavor to publicize any changes to the Mobile Messaging Terms, you agree to review these Mobile Messaging Terms periodically to ensure that you are aware of any modifications. Your continued participation in the SMS Advertising Service will constitute your acceptance of those modifications. 

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, February 16, 2023.

The Upper Skagit Library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the Library. Official representatives of the Library may photograph or record (defined as both video and audio recording) within the Library and at Library-related events and activities. These photographs and recordings may be copied, displayed, telecast, and/or published (including on the Library’s website and social media) to promote and inform the public about the Library. This extends to Friends of the Library events and Library booths and/or programs in the community.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, October 21, 2021.

Purpose

The Upper Skagit Library strengthens our community and enriches lives by providing equitable access to information and opportunities to read, learn, connect, and create. The Library supports reading, 21st-century literacy, and lifelong learning.

Policy

The Library’s 3D printers are available to the public to create three-dimensional objects in plastic using a design uploaded from a digital computer file. Use of the 3D printers is subject to the following conditions:

1. Lawful Use Only:
   • The Library’s 3D printers may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use the Library’s 3D printers to create material that is:
     • Prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
     • Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others (such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer).
     • Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment.
     • In violation of another’s intellectual property rights (e.g., the printers will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection).
     • Larger than is deemed appropriate by staff.
2. Library Discretion:
   • The Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
3. Ownership of Printed Items:
   • Items printed from Library 3D printers that are not picked up within 7 days will become property of the Library. Items must be picked up by the individual who printed them.
4. Supervised Use:
   • Only designated Library staff and volunteers will have hands-on access to the 3D printer. Customers may only use the printer alongside designated Library staff or volunteers.
5. Liability:
   • The Library is not liable for any malfunctions or misprints.
6. Appointment and Design Approval:
   • You must be present at your 3D printing appointment. Library staff will check your design and if approved will get it started.
7. Behavioral Compliance:
   • Customers using the printer must abide by the Library’s behavioral rules policy.

This policy ensures that the 3D printing service at Upper Skagit Library is used responsibly and aligns with the Library’s mission to support lifelong learning and creativity within a safe and respectful environment.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, September 19, 2024

The Upper Skagit Library provides notary service in accordance with the Washington State Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts. Library notaries will decline to provide notary services that do not comply with the provisions of this Act and the Library’s Notary Service Policy as outlined below.

Patrons/requestors are encouraged to inquire before visiting the Library regarding the availability of notary service, as a notary may not be present at all times. Notary service is provided for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

A patron requesting notary service must provide the following items:

• The completed, unsigned document to be notarized
• A witness or witnesses, if required by the document
  • Witnesses may not be solicited from staff or patrons using the Library
  • In order to serve as a witness, the witness must personally know the requestor and be over the age of 18
  • Witnesses may be asked to show identification (explained below)
• Proof of Identification
  • Reliable, identification documents or ID cards,
    • Examples:
      • Driver’s License
      • State ID Card
      • US Military ID
      • Passport
      • Any other form of official government ID, that may not be listed here 
      • Expired IDs can be used, but cannot have been expired for more than 3 years
  • The oath of a personally known credible identifying witness who provides satisfactory evidence of their identity. This will only be done on a case by case basis, and only if approved by the notary before the appointment.
    • Witnesses must:
      • be personally know to the notary and the requestor
      • Must provide ID from the list above
      • Must be willing to swear an oath to the notary and sign the record book
  • If you are unknown to the notary, you may be asked to provide multiple forms of ID.

All notarial service will be entered in the acting notary’s Notary Public Record Book. Notary service will not be provided for anyone who declines to sign the record book.

Washington Law does allow for the use of a translator when signing. The library can currently provide a Spanish language translator upon request. Please call the library beforehand to make sure both the notary and Spanish language translator are available.

• Documents not in English will be required to have an English or dual language (one of which needs to be English) notary certificate, as required by state law
  • Dual language notary certificates will not be provided by the Library, and must be brought in by the requestor.
• Translators must present ID, and must be over 18 years of age. Translators who are not library staff will be required to sign the Record Book.
• Documents where a translator is not available and the notary cannot speak the language will not be signed by a library notary. The Library will only notarize documents that can be understood by the notary.

Accommodations for people who are unable to sign their name, will be made in accordance with state law. Requestors who need these accommodations will need to bring their own witnesses and appointees.

Library notaries cannot provide legal or professional advice or counseling regarding any documents to be notarized.

Library notaries may, at their discretion, decline to provide notary public service if the requestor, document, or circumstance of the request for notary services raises an issue of authenticity, ambiguity, doubt, or uncertainty for the Library, or is prohibited by state law.

Notary service is not available for the following documents:

• Blank forms; any blank spaces on a form should be crossed out or have N/A written 
• Documents with a photocopied or faxed signature
• Deeds, mortgages, or other real estate closing documents; these documents require technical or legal knowledge that is beyond the scope of our service.
• Immigration forms
• Documents that do not contain notary language or a notary certificate
• Documents where the notary is asked for legal advice from the signer
• I-9 forms
• Provide Apostilles, or certify documents, so that they can be recognized in foreign
  countries that are members of the 1961 Hague Convention Treaty.

Adopted by the Upper Skagit Library Board of Trustees, September 19, 2024