Library Policies

The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library of Manitowish Waters is providing access to the Internet as a means to enhance the information and learning opportunities for the citizens of the library's service area. In providing access to the internet, the Koller Library fully supports the principles of  intellectual freedom as endorsed by the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights. The library's internet access is provided primarily as an information resource.

Access to the Internet is available to all customers entering the library; however, parents or guardians of children under 18 must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the library’s Internet service.  There are no filters on the public access computers.  The library does not police a child’s computer use.

WARNINGS:

The Internet is a decentralized, unmediated global network. The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library has no control over the content found there.  The library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information, and it is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the Internet.

The library cannot assure that data or files downloaded by users are virus-free.  The library is not responsible for damages to equipment or data on a user’s personal computer from the use of data downloaded from the library’s Internet service.

Because the computers are all in public view, we will not allow users to view pornographic material or any other websites deemed inappropriate by the staff.  These sites are NOT acceptable and you will be asked to refrain from these sites while at this library.  Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state and federal laws and can lead to prosecution.  Unacceptable uses of the services will result in the suspension or revocation of Internet use privileges.

Adopted:  October 25, 1999
Revised:  February 28, 2001
Revised:  August 31, 2005, January 30, 2008
Revised:  October 26, 2011 by The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library Board of Trustees

 Donations are accepted.

Policy accepted by the Library Board on 5-31-06.
Revised:  10-26-11

I, the wireless user, understand that: The library Wi-Fi is completely funded through donations and use is at your own risk!

1. The speed of a Wi-Fi connection is unpredictable, but it is FREE to use.   Donations are needed to keep it running.

2. The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library provides an unfiltered wireless access for patrons with wireless capable devices called Wi-Fi.             
                
3. Individuals will need to know how to use their wireless device’s configuration software to connect to the wireless network. 

4. Due to liability issues, library staff  will not be allowed to configure patrons’ laptops or handheld computers or install any devices or software on those computers. Technical support is only available from the wireless service vendor.

5. Wireless networks are not secure and use is at the individual’s own risk. Virus, security and privacy protection are the responsibility of the patron and are not provided by the library. 

6. The library is not responsible for any damage to data files, alteration to file systems, or functionality of a patron’s computer/equipment resulting from connecting to the wireless network, or electrical power surges if using a library power outlet.

7. The library does not supply printing on the wireless network. 

8. The Wi-Fi connection cannot be used for illegal purposes, nor shall it be used in any way that violates library internet policies.

The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library built its book collection on donations. Since the library opened for business in June of 1987 thousands of books have been donated by many generous people, for the enjoyment of all.

The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library does have a specific policy to follow with donated books. We would ask the donator please take notice of this policy:

  • The library does NOT accept old encyclopedias, Readers Digest condensed books, magazines, school textbooks, VHS, dated non-fiction, books on cassette.
  • Due to the large volume of donations, the library is unable to send personal thank yous.
  • The library cannot put a value on a book donation for personal tax purposes, but will indicate on paper the specific number of books donated
  • The library WILL NOT accept books that are in any way dirty, dusty, moldy, smell of mildew or are torn, bent out of shape, or written on. It takes precious time and money from the library to discard such books.
  • Books not kept by the library or used in the book sale will be discarded.
  • Please do not drop donations in the book drop. or leave at the front door if the library is closed
  • Books added to the library collection are subject to weeding, and may be discarded after spending time on a library shelf. Do not expect your donated book to stay on a library shelf forever.

We thank you for your donation.

Amended: March 28, 2001, reviewed on July 31, 2003, by the Library Board, approved and amended on February 28th, 2018.

The Sullivan Room, constructed in 1988 and donated by Robert Sullivan in honor of his father, Willis G. Sullivan, is available as meeting space for community organizations. Contact the librarian to view the meeting room policy or to schedule use of the room.

Community Room / Sullivan Room Policy

Frank B. Koller Memorial Library

The Community and Sullivan Rooms at the Frank B. Koller Memorial Library are available for meeting of non-profit organizations or groups providing services as follows:

  • Instructional
  • Educational
  • Community Service

The room is not to be used for monetary gain groups/events i.e. Tupperware parties, or selling of other goods or services.

The following rules apply:
  • We reserve the room, but will not accept RSVPs of your group.
  • Maximum capacity in Community Room is 35 without tables, only chairs.
  • The Community Room cannot be closed during a meeting, it must be open for public use.
  • Maximum capacity in the Sullivan Room is 20.
  • Facilities are available for serving light refreshments, but no alcoholic beverages may be served.
  • Smoking is not allowed in the building.
  • No parties permitted, such as birthdays or weddings.
  • The room must be left in the condition in which it is found.
Other guidelines:
  • Arrangements for use of the room may be made by scheduling with the library staff. A two week notice is preferred.
  • The meeting time should be made during library hours or during work hours of a staff member, as keys to gain access to the library cannot be distributed.
  • There is no charge for use of the community room, although donations are greatly appreciated to help defray expenses of extra electricity and heat.
  • Audio Visual equipment is available upon advance request. Donations are accepted for use of such equipment to cover maintenance and replacement costs.
  • Large groups are asked to park at the Community Center when possible.

These regulations may be amended to meet the needs of the community.

Adopted by the Library Board: August 24, 1987

Revised: 1991, 1996, and February 26, 2004, January 30, 2008, February 28, 2018.

The purpose of this policy at the library is to ensure a safe, orderly, and comfortable atmosphere in which all library patrons can effectively use the library. Staff and patrons should be mindful of the effects of their behavior on others using the library's facilities. From time to time, the Library Board may adopt additional policies under public behavior as an incidence arises.

Policy on Unacceptable Behavior

The following instances of unacceptable behavior will be enforced by Library staff:

  • Any illegal activity including stealing, damaging, or altering any Library property i.e. altering or damaging setup of computer equipment or software, damaging Library materials and furniture
  • Disorderly, drunken, dangerous, disruptive or threatening behavior endangering staff or patron i.e. approaching patrons or staff and engaging in unwanted, inappropriate interaction; threatening the personal safety of patrons or staff
  • Loitering *Consumption on intoxicants, tobacco, food, and drink *Possession of a weapon
  • Stalking i.e. Conduct that alarms, annoys or harasses another patron or staff
  • Indecent exposure;harassment;displaying pornography
  • Unacceptable personal hygiene
  • Producing excessive, unnecessary noises
  • Bringing in animals or pets, unless for Seeing Eye dog.
  • Will not leave when the library closes, after being asked by library staff
  • Following staff or customers around the building or staring at staff or customers such that performance of their duties or use of library services is materially disrupted.
  • Any behavior or actions not listed above will be left to the discretion of the library director In addition, the Library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended. Personal items left by patrons are subject to disposal by library staff.

NOTE: Any person who is asked to leave the Library as a result of a violation listed above and refuses to do so shall be considered to be trespassing and may be subject to permanent exclusion from the Library and/or arrested.

Each cardholder is allowed up to seventeen (17) items per card at any time, with a maximum of five (5) videotapes and/or DVDs. 

Books, CDs, audio tapes and most other items are available for a 3 week loan period. Books on the "new" shelves are available for a 2 week loan period. Videotapes and DVDs are available for a 5 day loan.

Most materials are available to be renewed for 3 additional weeks. New fiction titles, videotapes, DVDs and books on a reserve list for other patrons cannot be renewed. Renewals may be made in person, by phone or through the online catalog.

The library is fine free, but if items are not returned, we reserve the right to charge a replacement price to the patron.

 

The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library will not accept court ordered Community Service Workers.

Young people who would like to help at the library to earn better grades in school are welcome to volunteer.

Approved: July 31, 2003, Amended and approved February 28th, 2018.

Library  Operation During a Pandemic  Policy 

Disclaimer:   We are keeping the library as clean as possible.  However, we cannot guarantee a germ-free environment.   This is an enclosed area.   Enter by your own choice. 

The Frank B. Koller Memorial Library will strive to keep the building clean during a pandemic for staff, volunteers and customers.  Guidelines from Wisconsin Dept. of Health will be used:   Everyone in the building will be asked to wear masks, although not mandatory.   Hand sanitizer, masks, and possibly gloves, will be made available to customers, IF the library is able to purchase them.  Signs will be posted for customers to social distance at the recommended distance, although staff and volunteers will be unable to “police” this policy.    However, if a problem arises between customers, the Code of Conduct Policy will be referenced. 

If a customer does not wear a mask and wants help at the computer, copy machine, finding books, etc., the volunteer/staff can decline to help anyone not wearing a mask. 

Regular hours of the library will be followed, unless there is a lack of staff, volunteers or adjusting into reopening.  The library director will adjust hours if necessary.     If the Pandemic worsens in the community, the library may close unexpectedly, with or without a governor order. 

Customers who handle materials they do not wish to take, will be asked to place them in a cart for quarantine. 

If necessary, all items returned will need to be in quarantine for a recommended period of time. 

Curbside Service will be in place when it is deemed safe for staff to be in the library building. 

Before opening, advertisements will be sent out on library hours and procedures. 

The number of customers allowed in the building will be determined by a Fire Code formula.    

Group gatherings must be approved by the library board. 

The Library Director may be compelled to make quick decisions regarding library operation during times of pandemic, as pandemics are volatile situations with constantly changing conditions. In these instances, the library director will make decisions based in good faith of doing what is best for the community served by the library. 

Adopted May 27, 2020