Thank you for visiting the New Castle-Henry County Public Library online. Our library’s top priority is to provide valuable services to the community. From pre-literacy programs for babies to life enriching activities for older adults and everything in between, the library is an important destination for the Henry County area.
The library’s board and our staff have diligently created and refined policies to create an open, enjoyable and safe environment for all of our guests. In order to reach this goal, please abide by the guidelines established in these policies.
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library is a member of the Evergreen Indiana library consortium. As a condition of membership, Evergreen Indiana libraries operate under uniform policies and procedures. The Evergreen Indiana Policies and Procedures may be found at https://blog.evergreen.lib.in.us/?page_id=2770.
A New Castle-Henry County Public Library card is required to borrow library materials and to access many of the library databases from home. The service district of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library includes all of Henry County with the exception of Fall Creek Township, Spiceland Township and Knightstown.
Individuals of all ages who reside, own real property, attend school or work in the library service district is eligible to receive a New Castle-Henry County Public Library resident card at no cost.
Adults (age 18 and older) must apply in person and present current photo identification and proof of residency to receive a library card. Acceptable forms of photo identification are:
Acceptable forms of identification for proof of residency are:
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their custodial parent or legal guardian in order to apply for a library card. The parent or guardian must present current photo identification and proof of current address and sign the library card application as the person responsible for all fees, fines and payment for lost or damaged materials charged on the child’s library card.
Registering a minor child for an Evergreen Indiana library card denotes an acknowledgement and understanding that Evergreen Indiana libraries own and circulate videos, DVDs and unrated television series that may be geared toward a more mature audience and that a minor child will have access to materials for both adults and children and will be able to check out any of these materials. A “limited access” card, which prevents the user from checking out “R-rated” audiovisual materials, is available for minors.
Resident library cards are valid for two years from the date of issue and may be renewed by verifying the card holder’s address and paying any outstanding fines/fees.
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library has reciprocal borrowing agreements with the other three library districts in Henry County. Patrons of the Middletown-Fall Creek Township Public Library, the Spiceland Town-Township Public Library, and the Knightstown Public Library are eligible to receive a New Castle-Henry County Public Library reciprocal borrower card at no cost.
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library is also a part of the statewide reciprocal borrowing covenant. Any patron of a library who is a part of the statewide covenant is eligible to receive a New Castle-Henry County Public Library reciprocal borrower card at no cost. A current list of libraries who participate in the statewide reciprocal borrowing agreement can be found at https://www.in.gov/library/files/RBCOVENANTS-20190725.pdf.
Reciprocal borrower cards are valid for use within the New Castle-Henry County Public Library system only; they will not be able to use other Evergreen Indiana resources.
Reciprocal Borrowers must present their home library card, valid photo identification and proof of mailing address.
Reciprocal borrower library cards are valid for one year from the date of issue and may be renewed by verifying the card holder’s address and paying any outstanding fines/fees.
Indiana residents who reside in an area where no library tax is levied to support a public library may apply for a non-resident card. Non-resident cards are available for a fee and expire one year from date of issue. The cost for a non-resident card is based on the operating expenditure per capita.
The Non-resident card provides access to the New Castle-Henry County Public Library as well as the Evergreen Indiana consortium.
Patrons with a valid library card from any Indiana public library are eligible to purchase a PLAC. They must be in “good standing” with their home library. The PLAC may be purchased from any public library in Indiana at an annual rate established by the State Library.
Persons applying for PLAC borrowing privileges at New Castle-Henry County Public Library must fill out a registration form and present a valid PLAC or their home library card. A New Castle-Henry County Public Library card and a PLAC, if not already owned, will then be issued. PLAC cards are valid for one year from the date of purchase. The PLAC card provides access to the New Castle-Henry County Public Library as well as the Evergreen Indiana consortium.
Students who do not live in the library service district, but who are currently enrolled in a public or non-public school located within the library service district may, with parental signature, be issued a Student library card which is valid within the New Castle-Henry County Public Library system only at no cost.
Proof of current enrollment such as a report card or mail from the school to the student from the current school year, is required. Parent or guardian must provide current photo identification and identification stating their current address of residency as defined above.
Current school personnel who do not live in the library service district, but who are currently employed in a public or non-public school located within the library service district may be issued a Student library card which is valid within the New Castle-Henry County Public Library system only at no cost.
Proof of school employment such as a school ID, pay stub, business card or other correspondence from the school must be provided in addition to photo identification and proof of address.
Student cards are valid for one year from the date of issue and may be renewed by verifying the card holder’s address and paying any outstanding fines/fees.
Adult members of the community who are temporarily residing in the New Castle-Henry County Public Library’s taxing district, but do not have a permanent residence may be eligible for a Transitional Borrower card. Examples include: seasonal workers, church missionaries, residents of an emergency shelter, or other long-term visitor such as a foreign exchange student. These patrons may receive a New Castle-Henry County Public Library reciprocal borrower card free of charge which is valid for use within the New Castle-Henry County Public Library system only. They are limited to a maximum circulation of three concurrent items and the card is valid for three months. They will not be able to use Evergreen Indiana resources. Transitional borrowers must present valid photo identification and a completed community sponsor form.
Adopted: April 18, 2011
Revised: 5/21/2012
Revised: 4/17/2017
Effective: May 3, 2017
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library is a member of the Evergreen Indiana library consortium. As a condition of membership, Evergreen Indiana libraries operate under uniform policies and procedures. The Evergreen Indiana Policies and Procedures may be found at https://blog.evergreen.lib.in.us/?page_id=2770.
A Library patron may borrow materials as long as his/her New Castle-Henry County Public Library card is in good standing (no long overdue items, no fines above $10, card not expired). Patrons are required to present their Library card in order to borrow materials.
In most cases, a maximum of 100 items may be checked out simultaneously on an Evergreen Indiana library card. There is a maximum limit of 10 music CDs, 10 videos, 5 equipment, 6 art, 2 ereaders, and 2 gaming software items per Evergreen Indiana library card. Borrowing limits are calculated at the consortium level and not at the library level.
Patrons must use their own Library cards when checking out Library materials. Spouses or designated caregivers may checkout materials on behalf of a cardholder if permission is granted in-person or by filling out a form available at the circulation desk by the cardholder.
As an occasional courtesy, the library may circulate materials to a patron by looking up the patron’s account using a current driver’s license. The current license must match the driver’s license ID number and/or the complete combination of name, DOB, and address in the Evergreen Indiana system. Patrons traveling to Evergreen Indiana libraries other than their home library must present their official Evergreen Indiana library card at all times. Patrons who repeatedly fail to present their library card at their home library will be required to purchase a replacement card for two dollars ($2).
Materials may be returned in the drop box located at the east end of the parking lot, or inside the Library at the main public service desk on the first and second floor.
Damaged items should be brought into the Library and not placed in the drop box. Items that have suffered from spillage should not be placed in the drop box, as this could damage other items.
DVDs and music CDs should be handled by the center hole and edges to avoid touching the playing surface. DVD and CD discs should be stored in their protective sleeves and cases when not in use. Keep DVDs and CDs out of direct sunlight and hot, unventilated areas.
Two listening rooms are provided to the public to watch videos, listen to CDs, or use the Sorensen Video Phone for the hearing impaired. Patrons with an adult or young adult New Castle-Henry County Public Library card may use the listening rooms alone; youth patrons with juvenile New Castle-Henry County Public Library cards must have a parent/adult guardian present when using a listening room.
Patrons with New Castle-Henry County Public Library cards that have long overdue or lost items, or fines or fees in excess of $9.99, are not permitted to use the listening rooms.
The Library is not responsible for patrons’ personal materials (CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes) brought in for use in the listening rooms.
The Library will attempt to borrow materials and acquire periodical articles from other libraries for New Castle-Henry County Public Library cardholders. The library will exhaust local resources first, including its own collection and that of Evergreen Indiana, before requesting items on interlibrary loan.
There is no charge to the patron if an available copy of the book can be located in Indiana. If the only copy available is from a library that charges fees to loan materials or photocopy an article, the patron will be notified of any cost prior to ordering the material. Any fees must be paid before the item will be ordered.
Certain items such as videos, reference books, new books or genealogical materials are difficult, if not impossible, to acquire through interlibrary loan and the library may refuse to pursue such requests.
Failure to return ILL materials will result in replacement costs and fines from the loaning library, as well as suspension of all privileges with the New Castle-Henry County Public Library until the items are paid for or returned and all fines have been paid. Loan periods and renewals of ILL materials depend on the policies of the lending library. NCHCPL staff will inquire whether the items may be renewed and will notify the patron.
The Library expects materials to suffer some wear with normal use. The Library also expects patrons to exercise care in the handling of borrowed Library materials. Patrons are not held responsible for what the Library determines is normal wear. If the Library determines that an item was lost or damaged due to mistreatment, neglect, etc., while charged to the patron’s card, the patron will be billed for the cost of repair or replacement, processing, and any overdue fines that have accrued while checked-out to the patron.
The patron is responsible for all fines that accrue from the date an item was due until the patron pays for replacement or requests to be billed for replacement. When the Library receives payment in full for replacement of an item or any part, the original item becomes the property of the patron.
No refund will be given to a patron for a “Lost” item for which a patron has paid. In addition, no fines/fees and third party collection fees will be refunded.
The Library will attempt to contact a patron immediately when it discovers that a part (e.g. case, booklet, DVD, audiobook disc, etc.) is missing from an item that has been returned. The patron is responsible for all parts of an item checked out from the Library. If the item has more than one part (e.g. 2 discs) and all parts are not returned, the fine for the entire item is owed.
If the Library is able to purchase a single part of a multi-part item, the patron will be charged only for the replacement and processing of the single part. If individual parts cannot be purchased separately, the patron will be responsible for paying the cost to replace the entire item. When the Library receives payment in full for replacement of an item or any part, the original item becomes the property of the patron. If the patron does not want the damaged item or part, the Library will dispose of it.
Renewal requests may be made in person, by phone or via the online catalog “My Account” feature. Certain categories of materials are not eligible for renewal. If a “HOLD” has been placed on an item, it may not be renewed.
Sometimes an item may appear as overdue on a patron’s account, but the patron is certain that the item was returned. In such an instance, the Library recognizes that either the Library or the patron may be in error. For this reason, a procedure is followed that allows both the Library and the patron time to look for the item for a period of thirty (30) days without accruing additional overdue fines.
At the discretion of the Library, fines may be waived on an item that a patron “claims returned” that has not been found by the Library or the patron during the thirty-day period. This grace may be given to the same patron up to two (2) times in a calendar year.
As a courtesy, the Library attempts to electronically notify patrons at least twice that items are overdue for return to the Library, however, failure to send a notice does not change the due date or cancel any fines or fees. Return of Library materials on or before the due date is the sole responsibility of the patron.
Patrons should ensure that a spam filter does not block emails sent from the Library, and should notify the Library of any change in email address.
An electronic notice is sent when an item is fourteen (14) days overdue. A second electronic notice is sent when an item is twenty-one (21) days overdue, and this notice states that the item will be considered lost and billed for replacement once it is twenty-eight (28) days overdue. If an item has not been returned before it is forty-two (42) days overdue, the patron’s account will be sent to collections and a nonrefundable $10 collections fee will be added to the patron’s account in addition to any other replacement costs, processing fees, and accrued overdue fines.
Resident, non-resident, and PLAC Evergreen cardholders, have full access to the consortium and may place holds on any Evergreen library’s holdable materials. Reciprocal borrower, student, transitional, or teacher profile cardholders may place holds only on the materials owned by the New Castle-Henry County Public Library.
Holds may be placed on most items in any Evergreen Indiana library (see list of exceptions below). Patrons will have one week after the hold is filled to pick up the held item. Some Evergreen Indiana libraries may impose a fee for failure to pick up a hold. Patrons may have 20 unfilled holds in the system. Evergreen Indiana does not allow holds to be placed on the following items by any patron:
Evergreen Indiana does not allow Evergreen Indiana library patrons to place holds that would generate Intra-Evergreen Indiana [transiting] loans on the following item categories:
These items may be borrowed by Evergreen Indiana library card holders by proceeding to the owning library and checking out the material. The patron may return such materials to any Evergreen Indiana library for transit to the owning library.
A library may place a six-month age protection on new items. Local patrons may place holds on such items. Non-local patrons may place holds on such items, but the materials will not be transited until the six-month age protection expires. Non-local patrons may place a hold on such an item, select the owning library as the pickup location, and proceed to the owning library to check out the item.
Patrons may place their own holds via the OPAC, and may select their pickup location and notification method. The software will refuse holds requests which do not conform to Evergreen Indiana policies.
Patrons may choose any pickup location for holds. Patrons whose Evergreen Indiana cards are “blocked” or “barred” will not be allowed to place holds until their card privileges are restored.
| Type of Material | Loan Period | Limit | Renewals | Overdue Fine Per item per day |
Maximum Fine Per item |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio book | 21 days | 2 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Barcode, jacket, case, etc. |
$1.00 per item | ||||
| Book | 21 days | 2 (1 on New) | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| DVD/Blu-ray | 7 days | 10 | 1 (0 on New) | $0.25 | $10.00 |
| Telescope | 7 days | 1 | 0 | $2.00 | $80.00 |
| Kit | 21 days | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Magazine | 7 days | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Mobile Hotspot | 7 days | 1 | 0 | $2.00 | $225.00 |
| Music CD | 7 days | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Video Game | 7 days | 5 | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 |
Computer Use Policy
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library provides access to computer equipment, programs, databases and the Internet for use by the public. All users of the Library’s computer resources are expected to use these resources in accordance with the Computer Use Policy and only for legal purposes. Failure to abide by these standards may result in the loss of Internet, computer and Library privileges.
Internet Access
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library offers access to the Internet at all public workstations. In addition to the useful and educational information available on the Internet, some sites may contain material that is inaccurate, defamatory, illegal or potentially offensive to some people. Adult users are responsible for determining that information they access is suitable to their needs and that it conforms to established Library policy. Parents, guardians, or caregivers are solely responsible for their children’s use of and/or exposure to the Internet through the Library connection.
In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, all Library computers are equipped with technology protection that blocks or filters visual materials that are obscene, contain child pornography, or are harmful to minors. In an effort to protect Library equipment from malicious attacks, sites that are known to contain spyware and malware are also blocked. Persons 17 years of age or older may request to have unfiltered access for any lawful purpose that is not prohibited by the Library’s criteria for acceptable use.
Guest Wireless Network
The Library provides an unsecured guest wireless network for patrons to use with their own devices. This is an insecure public wireless network and users are responsible for taking all precautions to secure and protect their individual computers from potential threats that may be on that network. Acceptable and unacceptable use standards apply to the library’s guest network.
Use of Workstations
Computers are available to all patrons on a first-come, first-served basis. If no workstations are available patrons may sign up using the Library’s Sign-Up station to be placed in the queue for the next available computer. Users may work in groups as long as they do not disturb other patrons.
Users must log-in to the computer using their library card or guest pass. Patrons with long overdue/lost items or with fines/fees in excess of $10 are not considered in good standing, however, they may convert their card to a Computer Usage only card.
Henry County residents are encouraged to have their own NCHCPL card. Users who reside outside of the Library’s service district may request the use of a guest pass.
Parents/Guardians of children age 17 years or under must sign a Computer Use Policy granting their child access to the library computers and Internet. The policy must be signed in the presence of the NCHCPL staff. Computer facilities in the Children’s Department are reserved for children age 12 and under.
Only program applications and hardware provided by the library may be used with the library equipment. Users are not permitted to delete or modify the installed hardware or software. Personal program applications may not be loaded onto library equipment. This includes programs and applications available for download from the Internet. Patrons needing to save files should provide their own portable storage device such as a USB flash drive.
Unacceptable Use
It is not acceptable to use the Library’s computers or network for:
Training and Instruction
Library staff can provide limited assistance for users accessing the Internet or utilizing the various applications on the workstations. Users are expected to have basic computer skills, including the ability to use a mouse. Whenever possible, staff will attempt to answer brief, basic questions. Library staff cannot fill out forms/applications or access user’s personal information.
Library staff will provide only basic assistance to wireless users. Staff will not troubleshoot or alter settings on individual laptops or other devices.
Limitation of Liability
The library assumes no liability for any loss or damage neither to users’ data or devices, nor for any personal damage or injury incurred as a result of using the library’s computing resources. This includes damage or injury sustained from invasions of the user’s privacy.
Revised March 15, 2010; November 21, 2011; January 22, 2018; August 20, 2018
Reviewed January 28, 2013; January 27, 2014
Meeting rooms in the New Castle-Henry County Public Library exist for cultural, civic or educational purposes. The purpose of the meeting and a description of the program must be included on the application to use the room. The Library Director shall determine whether a proposed meeting falls within library policy and make exceptions as deemed appropriate. Violations of this policy may result in the denial of future meeting room use.
General Guidelines
Meeting Rooms may be reserved through the library’s online room reservation system or by filling out a paper Meeting Room Application. By clicking the acceptance of the Terms and Conditions online or signing the application, the user accepts responsibility for damage or loss to the library’s meeting room equipment and furnishings. The person who signs the application is responsible for the conduct of the group and payment of fees, if applicable.
Groups and individuals who use the meeting rooms are guests of the library and their use of the space should reflect that understanding. Persons attending activities in the meeting room are subject to all library policies. Use of the meeting room must not disrupt other library patrons.
Sale of goods and services is not permitted in a library meeting room, unless related to a library program (class materials, craft supplies, author’s books, etc.). No charge may be made for admission.
Priority of meeting rooms will be given to library-sponsored events. The library reserves the right to preempt any event for an emergency or library-sponsored event; should this occur, the library will make every effort to provide ample notice and associated fees will be refunded.
The library reserves the right to cancel any program or change meeting rooms.
Use of meeting rooms does not constitute library endorsement of the beliefs or ideas expressed by organizations or individuals using the space. Meetings should not be publicized in a manner that suggests library sponsorship or affiliation. To establish the fact that the New Castle-Henry County Public Library is not sponsoring the event, all publicity which uses the name of the library must include the statement “Sponsored by (the name of the organization).” Contact information for the organization should also be included in all publicity. Groups that violate this policy may lose their room privileges for future meetings.
All rooms are ready for use in a standard setup determined by the library. Users are permitted to move tables and chairs to another setup, but must restore the meeting room to the original state and leave the room clean and free of trash. The user agrees to pay for all damages and losses incurred to the room or its contents, as well as the cost of excessive clean up. In such situations, the damage deposit will not be refunded.
Users may not store or leave equipment, supplies or personal belongings in the library. The library is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Rooms will be booked only to adults. Youth groups may use the rooms if a responsible adult has been designated and is present at all times. Children must be supervised at all times by adults responsible for their care.
Smoking, alcoholic beverages, candles, and any fire-lighted materials are prohibited. Food and drink are not permitted in the fixed seating area of the auditorium.
Attendance must be limited to the room capacity posted by the Fire Marshal.
The use of all Sound Booth equipment and any technology needs must be prearranged with library staff at the time of reservation. Only library staff is permitted in the Sound Booth.
Groups showing copyrighted movies in the library are solely responsible for obtaining written public performance licensing rights. Borrowing, renting, or purchasing a movie does not carry with it the right to show the movie outside the home.
Time-Related Guidelines
Meeting rooms may be scheduled up to 3 months in advance. Groups or individuals who reserve the meeting rooms are limited to a maximum of 4 times per month.
Meeting rooms are available only during the hours the library is open to the public. All meetings must be completed 15 minutes prior to the closing of the library. Failure to do so may result in a penalty charge of $50 per hour.
Cancellations should be made at least 48 hours in advance. Less than 48 hours will be considered a no-show. Groups with 3 no-shows within 12 months may lose their room privileges for 1 year. Consecutive use is limited to seven days.
Fees
For-Profit Groups / Individuals– New Castle-Henry County Public Library charges a usage fee plus sales tax for the use of the library’s auditorium and meeting rooms. The fee will cover a maximum of eight (8) hours of use. The Library Director will make fee adjustments as needed for special events.
The fee is to be paid in advance of the scheduled date. If the program is cancelled 48 hours before the event, the fee will be returned.
Not-for-Profit Groups– Not-for-Profit organizations and units of local government may reserve the auditorium and other meeting rooms without a usage fee. Organizations claiming nonprofit status may be asked to provide a copy of their IRS Form 501(c)(3), Articles of Incorporation, or a Tax Exempt Certificate.
Damage Deposit– A damage deposit fee ($25) is required with every reservation and will be refunded within 60 days after the meeting on the stipulation that the room is left in its original condition. This fee secures the date requested and reservations will not be considered final until the fee is paid.
Refunds – The library will not issue refunds due to poor attendance. If the library is closed (due to inclement weather or other emergency) on the date of a scheduled meeting, the library will make every effort to reschedule the meetings at no additional cost or reimburse the room reservation fees.
Fee Schedule
Damage Deposit Fee – $25
Auditorium – $75
Meeting Room A & B – $50
Board Room /Training Lab – $30 each
Upper Level Study Rooms- FREE
Use of Kitchen – $10
For questions regarding these policies or to make a reservation, please contact Tina Phelps at tinap@nchcpl.lib.in.us or 765-529-0362 x1346.
New Castle-Henry County Public Library actively works toward the prevention, containment and elimination of bed bugs and bed bug eggs in all materials and on library premises and the mobile library (bookmobile).
New Castle-Henry County Public Library ensures its staff is trained in bed bug detection, containment, elimination and prevention, and regularly examines and updates its procedures according to industry best practices.
New Castle-Henry County Public Library works proactively to:
Staff Protocol
Staff will consistently inspect all incoming materials, including those returned at the public desks, in the book drops, and through inter-library loan delivery, for evidence of bed bugs. Evidence includes live or dead bed bugs, bed bug eggs, bed bug nymphs, and feces and spotting associated with bed bugs.
Materials returned to the New Castle-Henry County Public Library with evidence of live or dead bed bugs will be treated or discarded at the discretion of the Library. Discarded items will be considered as damaged items under the Borrowed Materials Policy.
Materials with live or dead bed bugs returned by a patron will result in immediate suspension of New Castle-Henry County Public Library privileges for that patron and for any patrons in the same residence as original patron. Suspension will be lifted after the patron presents proof in writing that his or her residence has been successfully treated for and eradicated of bed bugs by a licensed and accredited pest control company.
Patron Protocol
New Castle-Henry County Public recognizes that all patrons and staff have a role to play in controlling bed bugs in the community. Library patrons must cease to borrow materials from New Castle-Henry County Public Library if they are experiencing bed bug infestations in their residences.
In the event that a patron discovers a live or dead bed bug, bed bug eggs, bed bug nymphs, or feces or spotting associated with bed bugs in New Castle-Henry County Public materials, the patron must immediately do the following:
Public Donations Protocol
Donors must inspect materials for evidence of live or dead bed bugs prior to donating them to New Castle-Henry County Public Library. If evidence is present or an infestation is known, the donor must not donate the materials to The Friends of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library.
The Friends of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library are trained and follow the same procedures as Library staff to identify, quarantine, and treat materials for bed bugs.
New Castle-Henry County Public Library and its Friends reserve the right to discard donated materials that show evidence of past or present bed bug activity.
New Castle-Henry County Public Library provides public bulletin boards for the posting of notices about community activities such as concerts, cultural events, lectures and workshops, as well as public service notices of educational, cultural or community interest.
The following applies to all Library public bulletin boards:
Library bulletin boards are not intended or permitted to be a forum for the expression of the views or opinions of individuals or groups. The following will not be accepted for posting:
Library information in any form about library patrons and their use of the Library is private in nature, and is protected to preserve the patron’s intellectual freedom.
Confidentiality also extends to information sought or received as well as materials consulted, borrowed or acquired. Confidential material includes search records, reference interviews, circulation records, computer use records, interlibrary loan records and other personally identifiable uses of library materials, facilities and services.
To obtain a library card, we ask for and record the following information on paper and in an electronic database: full name, mailing address, phone number, township and county of residence, date of birth and e-mail address (if applicable.)
A PIN (Personal Identification Number), in conjunction with the library card number indicated on your card, is required to access your account information from one of the library’s online public access catalogs or from any computer with Internet access. We do not write your PIN on your card; patrons are responsible for protecting their PIN. Your PIN is confidential.
By Indiana law (IC 5-14-3-4(b)), all records relating to library patrons and their use of library materials and services are strictly confidential. Library staff members are not authorized to disclose such records to any third party. Minors are accorded the same confidentiality rights as adults under Indiana law.
The Library does not make any information about patrons or patron use of library services or materials available to anyone or any group except in these situations:
The Library may provide patron information to a third party to be used in claims against library patrons for collection of fines, materials, and other expenses. The Library may also disclose patron information in litigation where these records are material.
The Library will provide information to law enforcement personnel if presented with a subpoena, search warrant, or court order. If such a document is issued, the Library Director may consult with legal counsel to assure the document is in proper form before complying.
Indiana law requires a library to provide information about a minor child under 18 to his parent, guardian or custodian. This information cannot be disclosed via telephone or electronically. The parent, guardian or custodian must come to the library with proper identification in order for the library to disclose the child’s library records.
The library will not allow a noncustodial parent access to a child’s library record if a court has terminated the parent’s legal rights and the library has received a copy of the court order.
The 2001 USA Patriot Act expands federal law enforcement’s surveillance, seizure and investigative powers. If library records are requested under the USA Patriot Act, the law states that, in certain circumstances, library staff cannot inform the person about whom the information is requested, cannot speak to co-workers, the media or other government officials about the inquiry. Such requests may only be reported to the appropriate higher authority within the library.
The Collection Development Policy upholds the mission of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library by directing staff in the development and maintenance of its collection of materials in various formats to support the educational, informational, and recreational interests of the community.
The Library respects the freedom of information for its users and adheres to the principles expressed in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights. The goal of the Library is to offer a diversity of ideas and opinions including those which may be unorthodox or controversial. The Library opposes any attempts by individuals or groups to censor items in its collection. Responsibility for the reading choices of minors rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of materials will not be restricted by the possibility that these items may come into the possession of children, nor does the Library use any system of coding, rating or labeling to identify or segregate materials for purposes of censorship.
The Library Director has the authority to make exceptions to this policy when benefiting the Library and community. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy and to rule on situations not specifically covered herein.
Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services:
Censorship and Areas of Controversy
The library is obligated to provide materials on all sides of an issue, if possible, since it operates under democratic principles. This is especially important in the subjects of religion, politics, and philosophy. In an attempt to keep a balanced collection, certain materials may be acquired which some individuals may find offensive. These materials are added to the collection in order to provide various and different viewpoints and to meet the interests of all library patrons. Selection of materials for the collection does not mean the Library endorses the contents or views expressed in those materials.
Criteria for Materials Acquisition
Selectors use several criteria when evaluating and purchasing materials, keeping in mind the Library’s financial resources and availability of physical space. Materials need not meet all criteria for inclusion in the collection. Evaluation criteria for acquisitions includes:
Additional evaluation criteria for electronic resources include:
Deacquisition
Deacquisition, or deselection, of materials from the collection is a vital part of successful collection maintenance. Continuous evaluation is necessary and materials are regularly removed to maintain a current, accurate and appealing collection and to facilitate its ease of use. Deselected items may be disposed of through book sales, donations to other organizations, recycling, or other means approved by the Library Director. An item may be deselected for several reasons, including but not limited to:
Local Authors, Self-Published Materials, Publisher Inquiries
We regularly receive inquiries from authors and publishers requesting that materials (including ebooks) be added to the Library collection. All materials requested to be added to the collection are subject to the same selection criteria as materials purchased by the Library. We may acquire self-published material if it fits within the scope of the Library’s collection plan, meets our selection criteria, or has received independent, positive reviews in one or more the of the major professional review journals; paid reviews do not qualify. Due to the number of submissions we receive, we do not notify submitters whether or not material is selected. Materials requested to be added to the collection may be brought to our attention in one of two ways:
New Castle-Henry County Public Library Attn: Collection Development
376 S. 15th Street
New Castle IN 47362
Gifts
The Library accepts donations that may supplement and enhance its collection. All donations must be offered free and clear without restrictions as to use or future disposition, and all donations become the unrestricted property of New Castle-Henry County Public Library. There is a financial cost incurred by the Library associated with the care, preservation, and maintenance of gift materials to ensure that the materials may serve the Library’s mission, therefore, all gift materials are evaluated according to the same criteria as materials acquisition. Donated materials not added to the Library’s collection are given to the Friends of New Castle-Henry County Public Library to sell, the profits of which directly support Library programs.
Request for Reconsideration
The Library welcomes users’ expressions of opinion concerning materials purchased. Complaints about materials in the Library’s collection will be handled as follows:
New Castle-Henry County Public Library will collect, organize, preserve and provide public access to a non-circulating collection of primary and secondary materials that document the history of New Castle-Henry County, its inhabitants, government, environment, businesses, institutions, and organizations. The historical materials included in the local history collection will be accurate and suitable for community need and interest.
Materials must demonstrate a direct or strong tie to New Castle-Henry County or Indiana to be considered for the local history collection. The local history collection includes both original materials and reproductions in a variety of formats including books, pamphlets, newsletters, reports, letters, manuscripts, maps, photographs, postcards, negatives, sound recordings, and films. All materials in the local history room are for reference use and do not circulate. New acquisitions will not be available to the public until proper archival storage arrangements are completed.
Staff, space, and budget limitations are considerations when adding materials. Materials that fall beyond the stated mission and scope of the collection, that are relevant outside the geographical area of New Castle-Henry County, that are in need of repair costing more than overall merit or intellectual value, or that require special shelving or storage will not be collected. Self-published books by local authors are typically not included in the local history collection; those that are considered for inclusion must meet the same selection criteria as materials purchased according to the Library’s Collection Development Policy. Three-dimensional objects and large maps or drawings are not collected due to space, preservation and storage considerations.
The local history collection is available to the public during regular Library hours. Some rare or fragile materials are kept in staff-only areas, and are generally available upon request from a designated staff member of the local history room. New Castle-Henry County Public Library may enter into cooperative arrangements with other organizations in order to preserve historical materials or to make them more widely available.
Donations
Private donations may require a signed donation form, a legal transfer of title, a deed of gift, or other official acknowledgement. All donations must be offered free and clear without restrictions as to use or future disposition, and all donations become the unrestricted property of New Castle-Henry County Public Library. The Library will not accept materials which are to remain closed to public access. Materials donated together may be separated or dispersed in several locations or collections as based on the professional judgment of designated Library staff. Materials will be named or categorized by designated Library staff based on professional judgment and practice.
The Library reserves the right to refuse an offered donation. When declining an offered donation, the Library wishes neither to offend the donor nor denigrate the value of the donation offered, but recognizes that there may be other organizations whose mission and available resources create a closer match with the donor and offered donation. The Library will not conduct any monetary appraisals of materials.
New Castle-Henry County Public Library reserves the right to withdraw, deselect, and dispose of any materials in its local history collection; materials may be moved to the circulating collection, offered to another institution, sold, or discarded according to the general collection development deselection procedures of the Library.
Acquisitions
Acquisitions and acceptance of donations to the collection will be made based on the following criteria:
The Library Director has the authority to make exceptions to this policy when benefiting the Library and community. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy and to rule on situations not specifically covered herein.
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library recognizes and honors our patron’s rights to access constitutionally protected materials on the internet and supports peoples’ rights to privacy, freedom of information, and lifelong internet learning.
While librarians select physical materials for the library, they have no control over information on the internet. Therefore, the Board of Trustees has decided to implement the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), passed in the U.S. Congress in 2000 and upheld by the Supreme Court in 2003. CIPA requires libraries receiving certain types of federal funding to equip all internet accessible computers with a technology protection that blocks or filters visual materials that:
• Are obscene,
• Contain child pornography, or
• Are harmful to minors.
Persons 17 years of age or older may request to have the filters disabled unfiltered access for any lawful purpose.
The Board of Trustees recognizes that filtering products do not control access to all materials that a patron might believe to be inappropriate. Likewise, filtering products may unintentionally block sites that have a legitimate research value and also fail to block all objectionable content. No filter product guarantees to block all objectionable internet sites, and, as a result, the Board of Trustees does not guarantee total effectiveness of its filtering product.
For further protection and security in complying with CIPA the library provides security cameras and a computer workstation sign-in and print management system. Most importantly patrons are urged to evaluate the sites and materials they access on the internet for quality, accuracy, and legality.
Patrons of all ages who use library computers must comply with this policy. Offenders who illegally access obscenity or child pornography will be reported to law enforcement. Any attempt to violate this policy may result in loss of computer use or total library access.
It is the policy of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library to adhere to the U.S. Copyright Law. Information concerning the copyright law will be posted on all copy machines, microfilm readers, computer lab and Interlibrary Loan forms. Patrons and staff are expected to obey the law.
At no time may patrons or staff use library equipment to copy an entire work. This includes print and digital materials.
Patrons are expected to copy their own materials. Patrons are expected to provide their own change in order to use copying equipment.
Copying time is limited to 10 minutes if another person is waiting to use the equipment. Staff will assist patrons in learning to use the copying equipment.
The library welcomes exhibits and displays of interest, information and enlightenment to the community. The library provides information to the community through displays, handouts, announcements, and exhibits in designated areas.
In accordance with Henry County policy, all New Castle-Henry County Public Library buildings, grounds, and vehicles are smoke and tobacco free. Tobacco use and smoking in all forms including e-cigarettes and vaping, is not permitted in any facility, vehicle or property owned by the library.
All buildings, doorways and walkways will be smoke and tobacco free. Smoking is not permitted in Library owned, leased, or operated licensed vehicles.
Advertising, sale, or promotion of tobacco products and the sponsoring of Library events by tobacco companies or tobacco-promoting organizations for the purpose of promoting tobacco related products is not permitted.
This policy applies to all persons, including employees, patrons and visitors to property owned by the library. Library customers who do not comply with this policy after being informed of the policy may have his/her privilege to use the Library revoked.
Smoking is permitted within personal vehicles as long as the vehicle is parked 25 feet from any facility entrance and/or 25 feet from any ventilation intake
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library has established this policy and standard practice for allowing orderly public expression and commentary at every regular meeting of the Board of Trustees.
5. The Board President (or presiding officer) shall be guided by the following rules:
The Board President (or presiding officer) may:
Tape or video recordings are permitted, providing the person operating the recorder has contacted the Library Director prior to the Board meeting to review possible placement of the equipment and agrees to abide by the following conditions:
The following policy has been implemented by the New Castle-Henry County Public Library Board of Directors in order to protect the children of Henry County.
The library cannot be responsible for unattended children:
In an effort to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all Library patrons, the Board of Trustees of the New Castle-Henry County Public Library has established a Library Unacceptable Behavior Policy. This policy is designed to provide clear and reasonable guidelines governing patron behavior within the Library and on the Library premises.
Unacceptable behavior includes behavior within the Library or on Library premises that interferes with the use of the Library by other patrons, creates a risk of injury to other patrons or Library personnel, interferes with the work of Library personnel, or creates a risk of damage to Library property. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to:
The Library reserves the right to require anyone who engages in inappropriate behavior to leave the premises, the right to restrict privileges for a specified period of time, and the right to ban the individual from the library for a specified period of time or permanently. Staff members will notify an individual that he or she is in violation of the standards of conduct and will provide one verbal warning. Unlawful activities will be reported immediately to the police.
The New Castle-Henry County Public Library strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for its employees and patrons. In pursuit of this objective, selected areas of Library premises are equipped with video cameras. The security camera system will be used only for the protection and safety of employees, patrons, property and library assets and operations. No monitoring shall be done on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability that can be reasonably accommodated, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.
Signage will be posted at library entrances disclosing security camera activity. Security cameras are positioned to record only those areas specified by the Director, and will complement other measures to maintain a safe and secure environment, and one that is in compliance with Library policies. Security camera locations will not be changed, nor will security cameras be added, without the permission of the Director.
Circulation Periods and Fine Schedule
| Type of Material | Loan Period | Limit | Renewals | Overdue Fine
Per item per day |
Maximum Fine
Per item |
| Audio book | 21 days | 2 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Book | 21 days | 2 (1 on new) | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| DVD/Blu-ray | 7 | 10 | 1 (0 on new) | $0.25 | $10.00 |
| Telescope | 7 | 1 | 0 | $2.00 | $80.00 |
| Kit | 21 | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Magazine | 7 | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Music CD | 7 | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 | |
| Video Game | 7 | 5 | 1 | $0.25 | $10.00 |
| Mobile Hotspot | 7 | 1 | 0 | $2.00 | $225.00 |
Lost or Damaged Materials Fees: All Lost or Damaged Materials will be assessed a $10 processing fee that is in addition to overdue fines and the replacement cost. There are no refunds for lost materials which have been paid for.
In the event that a barcode, jacket, case, etc. is lost or damaged the maximum fine is $1 per item
Other Fees:
Collection Agency Fee – $10.00
Replacement Library Card – $2.00
Non-Resident Library Card Fee – set annually by the Board of Trustees
Public Library Access Card (PLAC) – set annual by Indiana State Library
Copies Black/white – $0.20 per page
Copies Color – $0.50 per page
Poster Prints – $1.50 per foot (24×36 $5)
Lamination- ($1.25 Letter Size) ( $1.75 Legal Size)