Library Policies

The Glen Cove Public Library welcomes everyone to use its collections and services. We strive to maintain a safe, enjoyable environment so that staff and patrons always feel comfortable and secure. The Board of Trustees has approved a policy concerning behavioral expectations and prohibited activities. Visitors who do not abide by this policy may be required to leave the Library. This Code of Conduct Policy is not intended to be a complete list of violations. The Library reserves the right to take action against any behavior which can reasonably be deemed offensive or disturbing. The Library staff is authorized to expel any person who does not follow the Code of Conduct. Law Enforcement will be contacted if an individual does not exit the Library premises when told to do so by Library staff.

Behavioral Expectations
● Visitors will abide by Library rules and hours of operation.
● Visitors will wear clothing appropriate to a public place, including shirts and shoes.
● Visitors will remain in public areas of the Library unless otherwise invited to enter a private area.
● Children in Grade 2 and younger must be accompanied and adequately supervised at all times by a responsible person (an adult or mature adolescent).
● Patrons shall comply with reasonable requests of the Library staff.
● Reasonable quiet is expected, especially in designated study areas.
● Cellular telephones, pagers, or other electronic devices should be muted or used with headphones so as not to disturb other patrons or Library staff. Patrons should not conduct loud phone conversations.
● Patrons using their own computers must comply with the Library’s Internet Policy.

Prohibited Activities
● Verbal or physical assault, harassment, or abuse.
● Indecent or obscene language.
● Following or stalking any individual.
● Soliciting.
● Bringing guns and other weapons onto Library property.
● Damaging or stealing Library, staff, or visitor property.
● Poor personal hygiene.
● Loud, disorderly, or aggressive behavior.
● Sleeping or lying down on Library property.
● Consumption, possession, or sale of alcohol, marijuana, or controlled substances.
● Appearing under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or controlled substances, causing behavior problems.
● Smoking, tobacco, or marijuana use on Library property, including e-cigarettes/vaping.
● Operating audio so others can hear (headphones required).
● Bringing animals into the Library, with the exception of service animals or Library program animals.
● Violation of any federal, state, or local law.
● Any behavior infringing on the rights or safety of others.
● Any behavior that disturbs Library operations.
● Engaging in sexual conduct or lewd behavior on Library premises, as defined under New York Penal Law (New York State Penal Code, Section 245 Public lewdness).

Enforcement
1) While the Library facilities are open, the Library Director or his/her designees, in the first instance, shall be responsible for the enforcement of these rules and regulations. Any violation thereof shall be immediately reported to the Library Director or his/her designees who shall thereupon immediately make inquiry of the facts and circumstances surrounding the complaint, and who may thereupon either direct the trespasser to cease and desist the violation or vacate the premises. Upon refusal of such person to obey the directive of the Library Director or his/her designees, such Library Director or his/her designees are hereby authorized and directed to make a complaint to the local Police Department and to sign any information as necessary charging said trespasser with the appropriate violation of the Penal Law. The Library Director shall forthwith make a report to the Board of Trustees.

2) When the Library is not open to the public, or when the Library Director or his/her designees are not present, any Library employee is authorized and directed, upon observing and being informed of any violation of these rules and regulations, to make inquire of the facts and circumstances surrounding the violation and any such employee may either direct the trespasser to cease and desist the violation or vacate the premises. Upon refusal of such person to obey the directive of the employee, such employee is hereby authorized and directed to make a complaint to the local Police Department and to sign any information as necessary charging said trespasser with the appropriate violation of the Penal Law. Subsequently, such Library employee, at the first opportunity, shall make a written report of the facts and circumstances surrounding the enforcement of these rules and regulations to the Library Director.

3) The Library shall indemnify and save harmless the Library Director, his/her designees, or any Library personnel, from any action, claim or proceeding instituted against such person arising out of the enforcement of these rules and regulation by such Library personnel.

4) In addition to all of the foregoing summary remedies against the trespasser and/or the person in violation of law and these rules and regulations, the Library Director may, in his/her sole discretion, remove the patron’s privilege to enter the Library premises and suspend his/her borrowing privileges for a period not to exceed one year.

Appeal
Appeals by Library patrons and registered borrowers of Library materials relating to suspension of borrowing privileges and revocation of their privileges to enter upon Library premises shall be made to the Board of Trustees.

Each patron shall have the right to submit a written notice of appeal to the Board of Trustees within thirty (30) days of any action of the Library Director suspending borrowing privileges or revoking their license to enter upon Library premises. The Board of Trustees, or their designee, shall convene a hearing within thirty (30) days of submission of such notice of appeal, at which time and place the aggrieved shall be afforded the opportunity to present evidence and testify on their behalf. Within thirty (30) days of such hearing, the Board of Trustees shall render a decision in writing either restoring the aggrieved person’s Library privileges or confirming the Library Director’s actions explaining the reasons for the continuance of the Director’s action.

These rules may be revised or amended at any time.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 20, 2026

The Glen Cove Public Library supports and complies with New York State Civil Practice Law & Rules Chapter 8, Article 45 with respect to the confidentiality of library records. All library records, which contain names or other personally identifying details relating to an individual patron’s use of the library and its resources, are confidential. These records may be consulted and used by library staff in the course of carrying out library operations, but will not be disclosed to others except upon the request or consent of the library user, or pursuant to subpoena, court order, or otherwise required by law.

§ 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 or pursuant to subpoena, court order or where otherwise required by statute

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 20, 2026

Purpose and Scope
The Glen Cove Public Library provides the public with information that satisfies educational and recreational needs through the purchase and organization of books, periodicals, non-print materials, and electronic media.

The Library Board of Trustees emphasizes materials that have contemporary significance and long-term value. Materials are selected within budget and space limitations to inform, entertain, enlighten, and inspire creativity.

The Library recognizes that many books, magazines and newspapers are controversial and that any given item may offend someone. Selections will not be made on the basis of any assumed approval or disapproval, but only on the merit of the work as it relates to the Library’s purpose and as it serves the needs and interests of the community as a whole. It is the right and duty of the Library to keep on its shelves a representative selection of books on all subject of interest to its reader and not prohibited by law, including books on all sides of controversial questions.

“Selection” refers to the decision to add an item to the collection or withdraw an item already owned.

The Library Director, and under their direction, qualified professional staff, are responsible for selecting library materials.

Selection of Materials
Materials are evaluated using objective guidelines. Materials will be judged on the basis of the content of the work as a whole, not by selected random passages. The Library takes no sides on public issues and does not attempt to promote any beliefs or points of view, nor does it endorse the opinions expressed in the materials held. The Library recognizes its responsibility to provide materials presenting various points of view in order to enable people to make their own decisions. Items do not need to meet all criteria to be selected.
1. Present or potential relevance to community needs
2. Importance as a document of the times
3. Relationship to the existing collection and other materials on the subject
4. Attention from critics, reviewers, or the public
5. Suitability of subject and style for the intended audience
6. Suitability of physical format for library use
7. Price
8. Professional judgment will be used to ensure representation of multiple viewpoints on controversial topics.
9. No material is excluded based solely on an author’s race, religion, nationality, or personal history.

The Library has a special interest in local history and works by local authors. These materials are evaluated using the same standards as all other items.

Gift materials are assessed using the same selection criteria as purchased items. Donations of books, magazines subscriptions or other library materials, or donations of money for the purchase of library materials, are welcomed. However, the Library accepts gifts without commitment as to final disposal. Those that are suitable for the Library collection will be retained, and other items disposed of in whatever manner the Library deems best. The Library reserves the right to integrate gifts into the general collection, as they cannot be given special housing.

Suggestions from Glen Cove residents are welcome and evaluated using the Library’s established criteria.

The Library also uses the resources of member libraries of the Nassau Library System to supplement its collection.

De-Selection (Weeding)
Materials that no longer meet selection standards will be withdrawn. Materials that become outdated quickly receive special attention. Space limitations may also influence decisions.

Items may be withdrawn for the following reasons:

1. Worn, stained, or damaged beyond repair
2. Outdated, inaccurate, or lacking historical significance
3. More current or comprehensive resources are available
4. A more desirable or updated format is available
5. Low circulation

Withdrawn materials may be sold for the benefit of the Library, donated, or disposed of properly.

Controversial Materials and Intellectual Freedom
The Glen Cove Public Library does not promote specific beliefs or viewpoints and does not deselect materials because of them. The Library provides materials representing a wide range of opinions, including unpopular and unorthodox viewpoints.

Language, subjects, or situations that may offend some community members are not grounds for exclusion if the material has overall value.

Parents and legal guardians are responsible for supervising their children’s reading, viewing, and listening. Material in the adult collection is not restricted because a child may access it. Parents may guide their own children, but not restrict access for others.

Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials
Should someone disagree with the inclusion of an item in the collection, a Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials form may be obtained at all public desks. The Director is available to discuss the interpretation and application of the selection criteria, and will make the final determination on all requests for reconsideration with the Library Board of Trustees. Requests for reconsideration will be accepted only from Glen Cove residents, groups, or organizations. Requests from individuals or organizations outside of Glen Cove will not be considered.

The Library Board of Trustees endorses the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights.

ALA Library Bill of Rights
The American Library Association affirms that libraries are forums for information and ideas. The following principles guide library service:
I. Materials should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people in the community. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of their creators.
II. Libraries should provide materials presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in fulfilling their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with individuals and groups resisting the abridgment of free expression and access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied because of origin, age, background, or views.
VI. Libraries that make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available should do so on an equitable basis regardless of beliefs or affiliations.
VII. All people have a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should safeguard all library use data, including personally identifiable information.
Adopted 1939; amended 1944, 1948, 1961, 1967, 1980, 2019.
Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed 1996.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 20, 2026

Museum passes may be borrowed, free of charge, by Glen Cove residents, over 18 years of age, who have a Glen Cove Public Library card in good standing.

Reservations may be made online at the Library’s website, in-person or over the phone. The Library reserves the right to monitor usage to ensure fair access to the greatest number of patrons.

There is a limit of one pass per family.

Reservations may be made 30 days in advance.

If a reserved pass is not picked up by close of business on day one, the reservation is cancelled, and the pass becomes available for others to borrow.

Passes circulate for 2 days.

A fee of $10.00 per day will be charged to the borrower’s library account for passes held beyond the 2 day loan period.

Passes must be returned inside the Library at the Reference Desk.

Passes may not be returned in the book drop.

If a pass is lost, patron is responsible for the entire cost of the pass.

Borrowers are responsible to call the museum directly for hours of operation, parking or directions. The museum pass may not provide admission to all exhibits at the museum.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees June 20, 2006

In view of the increased demand for Internet usage, the Glen Cove Public Library hereby reminds patrons of its policy for Internet usage, established by its Board of Trustees:

• Internet terminals are for use by GLEN COVE PUBLIC LIBRARY CARD HOLDERS AND RESIDENTS, with these exceptions: non-residents may use the Internet with the permission of the librarian on duty, as local demand permits.
  1. Local residents will be given preference.
  2. All users must produce proper ID upon request.
• User privileges include one hour daily (60 minutes) per patron, on a first-come, firstserved basis.
• Only ONE seated person per terminal is permitted, except for parent and child. Groups of bystanders will be asked to disperse.
• Printing is available at a cost of 10 cents per page. Patrons are responsible for costs resulting from printing commands sent. Please use the print preview command to check on the number of pages you are planning to print.
• Users are asked to avoid all CHAT ROOMS, ARCADE TYPE GAMES, AND INSTANT MESSAGING sites, as they are likely to produce stalled terminals.
• NO TAMPERING WITH SETTINGS, HARDWARE, SOFTWARE OR CONNECTIONS IS PERMITTED. If the terminal stalls, please notify the librarian. The Glen Cove Public Library reserves the right to remove the privilege of anyone who tampers with or damages the equipment or programs involved with Internet access.
• PUBLIC DISPLAY OF OFFENSIVE SEXUAL MATERIAL IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN. According to NYS Penal law #245.11, such display is a Class A misdemeanor. If you are discovered to be engaged in such display your Internet privileges will be revoked, and you may be asked to leave the Library.
• The Glen Cove Public Library cannot be held responsible for the content, quality, currency or accuracy of data gathered from Internet sites accessed through the Library. Internet Web site creators are not regulated and thus are free to publish whatever material they choose, with the exception of copyrighted materials. As in the use of print media, users must obey United States Copyright and other applicable laws.
• The Glen Cove Public Library cannot be held responsible for the Web site choice made by children. Parents, legal guardians or care givers are responsible for supervising their child’s Internet use.
• Any damage caused to patron computers from downloaded computer viruses is not the responsibility of the Glen Cove Public Library. Users should install virus-checking software onto their home computers in order to prevent computer damage by downloaded from the Internet.
• Finally, the Glen Cove Public Library cannot be held responsible for any loss of privacy, fees incurred, and/or personal harm caused to patrons due to disclosing of personal information over the Internet. Users are warned not to give their names, telephone numbers, addresses, credit card numbers, or any other personal information out over the Internet, since it is not known who is receiving it and for what purpose it is being used. Patrons should exercise extreme caution before arranging meetings with strangers they contact over the Internet.

Children in Grade 2 and younger must be accompanied and adequately supervised at all times by a responsible person (an adult or mature adolescent).

Children in Grades 3 through 5 may use the Children’s Library when unaccompanied, provided a responsible person remains in the Library building.

The accompanying adult, not Library staff, is responsible for the child’s behavior. When a child’s behavior is disruptive to other patrons, Library staff may request that the child and accompanying adult leave the Library.

The Library staff is not responsible for providing child care or supervision. If a child is found to be unattended, the Glen Cove Police Department will be notified to ensure the child’s safety.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on January 26, 1999
Updated October 20, 2026