Below you will find the policies governing the various services, facilities, and resources managed by the library. We aim to provide clear, easy-to-understand policies. If you should have any questions, please reach out using the details at the bottom of the page and we’d be happy to clarify.

Library Bill of Rights

The American Library Association (ALA) affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services. The David A. Howe Public Library abides by and endorses the Library Bill of Rights.

  • Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves.
  • Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
  • Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
  • Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
  • A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
  • Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Adopted June 18, 1948. Amended February 2, 1961; June 28, 1967; and January 23, 1980, inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996, by the ALA Council. Formally adopted August 13, 2007 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees.

Rules of Conduct

Cameras are monitoring the facility for security purposes.

No eating in the library except for special events by organizations. Drinks may be brought into the library as long as they are in a sealed tight container or they contain a top or lid. Food is permitted on the library’s South Terrace.

Any action that damages library property is prohibited.

Shirt and shoes and appropriate hygiene are required.

Young children must be attended at all times.

Smoking, sleeping, loitering and/or soliciting are not permitted on library premises.

Unlawful, disorderly, disruptive and/or hazardous behavior is prohibited.

Cell phone conversations are not permitted inside the library. Cell phone ringers must be turned off.

Interference with staff or other library users is not permitted.

Only service animals are permitted in the library.

All rules and regulations available in electronic or print form or posted in the library, governing use of materials, computers and equipment, must be followed.

The Library strives to foster a positive, creative and healthy social media experience. Anyone who interacts with social media formats in contrast to this belief will be blocked from use. The Library reserves the right to create, edit and remove any content on its social media sites.

Violation of any of these rules will subject an individual to exclusion from the library premises and/or to other appropriate action.

Policy on Access for Individuals with Disabilities

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Library Bill of Rights and any governing Federal and New York State constitutional and statutory laws, the David A. Howe Public Library will provide equal access to library services through any method that makes the resources of the library accessible.

The library will exercise every effort to assist any individual with physical and mental impairment to the best of the library’s ability with the resources that it possesses. Policies concerning accessibility are extended to both patrons of the library as well as employees.

Resources of the David A. Howe Public Library are available to individuals with disabilities by:

  • Telephone: Any person can call the library for information or reference assistance.
  • Mail or Email: At the library’s expense, when possible, books and materials will be sent to the individual.
  • Physical Assistance: When requested, the library will retrieve materials within the building that are not yet made accessible to individuals with disabilities.
  • Volunteer Delivery Service: As volunteers are available, the library will provide home delivery of books and materials.

Any type of new construction to the existing library building that impacts accessibility will adhere specifically to the guidelines and design standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Adopted August 14, 1986 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees. Amended March 10, 2008 and January 9, 2024

Policy on Board Meeting Public Comments

PURPOSE: The purpose of a board meeting public comments policy is to provide time for members of the general public to orally address the board during its monthly board meetings in a fair and organized manner.

 POLICY: The Board of Trustees of David A. Howe Public Library complies with the Open Meetings Law of New York State. Its meetings are open to the public.

The State’s Open Meetings Law does not include any provisions about the public addressing the Board during its meetings. However, the David A. Howe Public Library will allow visitors to its meetings to address its Board. In order for the Board to fulfill its obligation to complete its scheduled agenda in an effective and efficient fashion, a maximum of fifteen minutes of public participation will be permitted at the beginning of each meeting.

All persons wishing to address the Board are required to sign in prior to the call of order and will be recognized in the order in which they signed–in. Each speaker is given a maximum of three (3) minutes to address the Board. If several persons wish to speak, each will be allotted a maximum of three (3) minutes until the public participation of fifteen (15) minutes is used. Persons who address the Board may speak only once per meeting and for no longer than a maximum of three (3) minutes each. Speakers must limit their topic to Library matters only, and must reside in the Library’s service area. Library card holders will be given precedence.

The Board President or the Trustee presiding at the meeting will introduce each registered speaker and will keep track of the time. The Board appreciates comments from the public, but may not address the issues. No items raised during the public comment period may be acted upon by the board unless it was on the posted agenda.

Adopted December 14, 1998 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees. Amended February 12, 2007; February 14, 2011, April 14, 2014, January 12, 2024

Policy on Computer, Internet Access and Usage

Accessibility

As part of the library’s initiative to provide free and equal access to computer technologies and the Internet, public computers are made available to library users for the purpose of educational and recreational research. Library users agree to use the computers and the Internet in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. Any use outside these established policies may result in loss of privileges. Unlawful activities will be dealt with in accordance with local, state and federal laws.

Governing Rules

To achieve a place of safe and friendly research, the library has established the following rules regarding the use of public computers.

Library users may not:

  • Display web pages that contain images, sounds, or messages that will negatively affect those who find them objectionable, offensive, or disruptive.
  • Damage computer equipment or software; degradation of system performance. (Library users are fiscally responsible for damage to library computers.)
  • Engage in activity that is harassing, defamatory, or violates the physical safety or mental well-being of other library users and library staff.
  • Use any library computers for illegal or criminal purposes, including but not limited to: coercion, fraud, theft, copyright infringement or violation of software agreements.

Filtering

As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding, the library has implemented Internet filtering on all of its public computers. This filtering system does not block all “offensive” content and may block content that has educational value. The library cannot guarantee the performance of Internet filtering. Under CIPA, the library will disable Internet filters for any library user 18 years of age or older to access websites that have been blocked. Access will only be granted for bona fide research and lawful purposes.

Access to Children

To provide a safe environment for our community’s children, the library requires that any child age 8 and under must be attended by a parent or legal guardian when using the computers. Parents and legal guardians must also be responsible for children 8 years of age and older by taking an active part in their child’s learning experience. The library expects that parents and caretakers of children will guide them in their exploration of the Internet the same way that they provide guidance in the child’s choice of reading, listening or viewing materials.

All children and parents or legal guardians of children that have a juvenile library card must read and sign the library’s Children Internet Use Rules. All children with a juvenile library card must use the public computers in the Children’s Section of the library. The library makes information about Internet safety and child-appropriate sites readily available to all library users in Web Guides and provides links to children’s websites in the Children’s Section.

Signing-Up for Computer Use & Time Limits

  • All adult library card holders in good standing may use public computers in the Reference Room and Stacks of the library.
  • Users must sign in at the main desk, staff will log users onto the computer, and will assist users in getting started and using tutorials. Manuals and tutorial software may be signed out at the main desk.
  • Patrons may not install, delete, or modify library hardware or software. Users are asked to leave all settings as they found them, close all windows and return to the desktop after use.
  • Library users must pay by the page for all documents that they print. Users are advised to ask for assistance if they are new to printing or if they experience print delays.
  • In the Adult Section, no more than 2 adult library card holders may use one computer at one time. Library users are asked to be considerate of others with regards to conversation and software program noise levels.

The Internet is an electronic dynamic source for information. The library cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information on the Internet. Library users should carefully evaluate the information they find when using the resource. All transmissions (including e-mail) are not secure or private. The David A. Howe Public Library has no control over the information accessed through the Internet, and cannot be held responsible for its content.

Adopted May 10, 1999 and amended June 9, 2008 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees.

Policy on Confidentiality of Library Records

The Council of the American Library Association strongly recommends that the responsible offices of each library in the United States:

  1. Formally adopt a policy which specifically recognizes its circulation records and other records identifying the names of library users with specific material to be confidential in nature.
  2. Advise all librarians and library employees that such records shall not be made available to an agency of state, federal, or local government except pursuant to such process, order, or subpoena as may be authorized under the authority of, and pursuant to such process as may be authorized under the authority of, and pursuant to, federal, state or local law relating to civil, criminal, or administrative discovery procedures or legislative investigatory power.
  3. Resist the issuance or enforcement of any such process, order or subpoena until such a time as a proper showing of good cause has been made in a court of competent jurisdiction.*

*Note: Point 3, above means that upon receipt of such process, order, of subpoena, the library’s officers will consult with their legal council to determine if such process, order, or subpoena is in form and if there is a showing of good cause for its issuance; if the process, order, or subpoena is not in proper form or if good cause has not been shown, they will insist that such defects can be cured.

Adopted January, 20, 1971 by the ALA Council. Adopted August 13, 2007 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees

New York State Civil Practice Law and Rules. Article 45–Evidence. Paragraph 4509. Library Records

Library records, which contain names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of public, free association, school, college and university libraries and library systems of this state, including but not limited to records related to the circulation of library materials, computer database searches, interlibrary loan transactions, reference queries, requests for photocopies of library materials, title reserve requests, or the use of audio-visual materials, films or records, shall be confidential and shall not be disclosed except that such records may be disclosed to the extent necessary for the proper operation of such library and shall be disclosed upon request or consent of the user of pursuant to subpoena, court order or where otherwise required by the statute.

Adopted August 13, 2007 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees.

Library Records with regards to the United States Patriot Act

The Patriot Act (federal legislation) requires that authorities present a search warrant to access patron information. A search warrant differs from a subpoena in that a warrant can be executed immediately and a subpoena allows time to respond to and contest the court’s order. An agent or officer serving a warrant can begin the search as soon as the warrant is served.

The library and/or its employees are entitled to ask the officer to allow them to consult with legal counsel and to ask that the counsel be present for the search, but there is no opportunity or right to refuse the search warrant.

The library and/or its employees may not notify the person whose records are the subject of the search warrant.

Adopted August 13, 2007 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees.

Policy on Exhibition Room Use

The library’s Exhibition Room is a unique area of the community that allows the library to display works of local artisans. In order to preserve the Exhibition Room’s architectural integrity the following guidelines have been established. Any organization that is responsible for hosting displays in the Exhibition Room is required to sign this policy to acknowledge and adhere to its guidelines.

Schedule for Exhibition Room

The library requires a minimum of 2 months advance notice for bookings. The following dates must be provided when reserving the Exhibition Room for an art display:

  • Bring in art work
  • Hanging
  • Reception
  • Open to the public
  • Take down

The library must be notified of changes in dates and times as soon as they are realized. Any group that does not provide a minimum of 30 days cancellation notice may not be guaranteed use of the Exhibition Room in the future.

Responsibilities of Organization Hosting Displays

  • The artist(s) must take out all nails, tacks, or staples following a show.
  • Sale of art work within the facility is not permitted, but presentation of prices is acceptable.
  • A kitchenette is available. Refreshments may be served. No alcoholic beverages may be served without advance permission of the library Board and presentation of proper New York State Liquor Authority permits.
  • The library must be contacted one week prior to bringing in art work to have free-standing display units moved into the Exhibition Room.
  • Glass display cases are not always available and must be reserved when the Exhibition Room is reserved.
  • Any displays that are moved before, during or after an exhibition must be done so by library maintenance staff. Organizations’ hosting displays are encouraged to supervise.
  • The library assumes no responsibility for the preservation, protection, or possible damage or theft any item displayed or exhibited. All items that are placed in the library are done so at the owner’s risk.
  • The library subscribes to the Library Bill of Rights, which does not allow for the censorship of content or materials. Artists are still asked to use reasonable discretion when displaying works that will be seen buy audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Exhibition Room Policy Acknowledgement Form 2014

Adopted June 12, 1986 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees.

Policy on Materials Selection

The David A. Howe Public Library seeks to select, organize, preserve, and make freely available those materials, print and non-print, which will fulfill the informational, recreational, social, and educational needs of the community.

Whenever possible, at least two (2) favorable reviews from reputable sources will be required before ordering a title. In addition, the following factors will be considered when selecting materials:

  • The expressed or anticipated interest in the subject within the community.
  • The contemporary significance and/or permanent value of the title to the collection
  • The scope and depth of the existing collection
  • The authority and literary standing of the author
  • The appearance of the title in special bibliographies and indexes
  • The availability of material elsewhere in the Southern Tier Library System
  • The price

The David A. Howe Public Library is an unbiased repository for the recorded expression of humanity. It provides free access to the public of all points of view. The addition of an item to the collection in no way represents an endorsement by the library of any theory, idea, or policy contained therein. The David A. Howe Public Library will endeavor to represent all sides of an issue as far as budget, space, and availability of materials allow. The race, religion, nationality or political views of an author; the frankness of language; the controversial content of an item; or the endorsement or disapproval of an individual or group will not automatically dictate the inclusion or exclusion of an item. The library subscribes to the provisions of the Library Bill of Rights and the Intellectual Freedom Statement as adopted by the American Library Association.

The library will provide books and materials which are suitable for young adults and children. Materials will be selected which are authentic in fact, straightforward in presentation, unbiased in point of view, and within the child’s ability to comprehend. However, the library will not follow a selection policy which prevents adults from reading mature literature even though it may fall into the hands of children. Responsibility for the reading choices of children rests with their parents or caregivers.

Adopted November 12, 1981 by the David A. Howe Public Library Board of Trustees. Amended October 9, 2007.

Policy on Website Privacy

Our Commitment to Privacy

The Village Library is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all library users. We uphold the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and Code of Ethics, which affirm that privacy is essential to the exercise of free speech, free thought, and free association. We protect each library user's right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired, or transmitted.

Website Information We Collect

Our website (powered by WordPress with Divi theme) may collect the following information:

Information You Provide:

  • Name, email address, and phone number when you contact us through our contact forms (WPForms)
  • Comments or feedback you submit through our website
  • Newsletter subscription information, if applicable

Information Automatically Collected:

  • IP addresses for security and technical purposes
  • Browser type and version
  • Device information
  • Pages visited and time spent on our website
  • Referring website information

How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

  • Provide library services and respond to your inquiries
  • Maintain our library catalog and circulation system
  • Improve our website functionality and user experience
  • Send library updates and notifications (with your consent)
  • Comply with legal requirements when necessary

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to:

  • Remember your preferences and settings
  • Analyze website traffic and usage patterns
  • Ensure website security and functionality

Essential cookies are necessary for basic website functionality and cannot be disabled. Non-essential cookies require your consent and can be managed through your browser settings.

Third-Party Services

Our website may use:

  • Google Analytics for website statistics (data is anonymized)
  • Social media plugins that may place cookies
  • Content delivery networks for improved website performance

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties except:

  • When required by law or legal process
  • In response to law enforcement requests with proper legal authority
  • With your explicit consent
  • To protect the rights, property, or safety of the library, our users, or others

Library Records Protection: In accordance with state privacy laws, library records including borrowing history, registration information, and computer usage are confidential and will only be disclosed when legally required.

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information, including:

  • Secure hosting and encrypted data transmission (HTTPS)
  • Regular security updates for our WordPress website
  • Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
  • Regular backup and data protection procedures

Your Privacy Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access personal information we hold about you
  • Request correction of inaccurate information
  • Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal retention requirements)
  • Opt out of non-essential communications
  • Control cookie preferences through your browser settings

Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to:

  • Provide library services
  • Comply with legal requirements
  • Maintain accurate records for operational purposes

Library borrowing records are typically deleted when materials are returned, unless you choose to maintain your borrowing history.

Children's Privacy

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 through our website without parental consent. Library services for minors follow established library policies and applicable laws regarding access to library records.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this privacy policy or wish to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us:

David A. Howe Public Library
115 N. Main Street
Wellsville, NY 14985
Phone: (585) 593-3410
Email: wellsville@stls.org

Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will post the updated policy on our website with the revision date. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

This privacy policy is designed to comply with applicable privacy laws including:

  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
  • California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
  • State library privacy laws
  • Other applicable federal and state privacy regulations