The Fountaindale Public Library uses security cameras to help document events involving the safety and security of Library users, staff, and property. The security camera installation consists of dedicated cameras which may provide real-time surveillance through a video management system. The primary use of security cameras is to discourage inappropriate and illegal behavior and to enhance the opportunity to apprehend offenders. Library use is governed by the policy established by the Library Board of Trustees and any applicable rules or regulations adopted by the Library. The Library Director as the executor of the policy for the Board of Trustees has discretion in determining what use is “in the best interest of the Library” and is authorized to act accordingly, including limiting the use of the building and services by individuals whose activities interfere with Library operations, adversely affect public safety, or cause public disturbances. The Board of Trustees may modify, amend or supplement this policy, as it deems necessary and appropriate.
The Library shall post and maintain signs giving notice of the use of security cameras for monitoring and recording activity in public areas of the Library property.
Cameras are located to view service desks, exits, and areas prone to theft, vandalism or other activity that violates Library policy or criminal law. In no event shall cameras be located in areas where patrons and/or staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as restrooms or areas designated for breast feeding.
Video data is recorded and stored digitally. Recorded data is considered confidential and secure. Access to live feeds of images is available to staff at services desks in order to monitor current activity. Access to recorded video data is limited to the Library Director and staff of the Building Operations Department.
Recordings shall be kept for approximately 30 days with the exception of appropriate still shots or selected portions of the recorded data relating to specific incidents. These shall be retained for one year after the incident. The storage media shall be kept in a secure area.
Video surveillance records are not to be used directly or indirectly to identify the activities of individual Library patrons except as viewed in relation to a specific event or suspected criminal activity, suspected violation of Library policy, or incidents where there is reasonable basis to believe a claim may be made against the Library for civil liability. Authorized individuals may use a still shot or selected portions of recorded data to request law enforcement review for assessing the security risk of a specific individual or for investigating a crime on library property.
Video data will be made available to law enforcement officials or agencies upon written request. The Library shall retain a copy of the request. Recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users by Illinois state law and the Library’s policies with respect thereto.
Any patron or staff member shall be given a copy of this policy regarding use of the security cameras upon request. The Library disclaims any liability for use of the video data in accordance with the terms of this policy, given that the Library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.
Any individual using the Library shall be held responsible for willful or accidental damage to the Library’s building and collections caused by the individual in accordance with the Library Conduct Policy.
The Board of Trustees of the Fountaindale Public Library District will review the Security Camera Policy and regulations periodically and reserves the right to amend them at any time. The Board authorizes the Library Director to waive regulations under appropriate circumstances. The Library Director is the chief person empowered to make decisions regarding the use of the security cameras.
Any appeals for changes to, or exceptions to, any portion of the Security Camera Policy will be considered. An individual wishing to file an appeal shall submit it to the Library Director in writing. The Library Director will respond in writing.
