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Using the Library FAQs

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Library Accounts

Getting a library card

Carol Stream residents aged 13+ can register online for a library card by clicking here.

If you are a resident of Carol Stream and you want to open a new account or need a replacement card, you can bring in a current government-issued photo identification and a document that verifies residency.

Forms of identification include current:

  • Driver's License
  • State ID
  • Student ID
  • Military ID
  • Passport

Residency verification documents must be issued within the current year and have applicant’s name on one of the following:

  • Driver’s License with Carol Stream address
  • Current rent receipt or property tax bill
  • Vehicle registration
  • Current (30 days) imprinted statement or bill such as credit card, bank statement, utility bill, pay stub.

Your Carol Stream Library account will be registered at the following public libraries:

  • Batavia
  • Bensenville
  • Bloomingdale
  • Geneva
  • Glen Ellyn
  • Glenside (Glendale Heights)
  • Itasca
  • Messenger (North Aurora)
  • Oak Brook
  • Roselle
  • St. Charles
  • Villa Park
  • Warrenville
  • West Chicago
  • Wood Dale
  • Many more (click here for a full list)

Resident accounts are automatically renewed after a period of three (3) years or until a minor’s 18th birthday. 

Library cards for residents under age 18

Residents under 18 years old may have an individual borrower’s card. The parents/legal guardian of residents under age 18 must sign the minor’s application and provide the required residency verification in person.

Resident accounts are automatically renewed after a period of three (3) years or until a minor’s 18th birthday.

When a juvenile account reaches $20 in charges, the borrowing privileges of the responsible party are also blocked until payment is made to bring total under $20.

Library cards for non-residents

Non-residents who are not served by another public library may acquire a library card by paying a fee based on property valuation, comparable to the costs paid by residents of the Village of Carol Stream.

  • Non-Resident Homeowner – Family and individual non-resident homeowners’ annual fee for library privileges will be determined upon presentation of the most recent property tax bill by multiplying most recent equalized assessed valuation with the Library’s current tax rate (Net Taxable Value x .002639).
  • Non-Resident Renter – Family and individual nonresident annual fee for library privileges will be equal to 15% of the average monthly rent verified by current lease, rent receipt, or cancelled check for rent paid.
Lost library cards

Lost or stolen library cards should be reported to the Library immediately to prevent unauthorized use. The cardholder is responsible for all items checked out on their lost or stolen card along with any fines, fees, or damages incurred prior to the date the library is notified. 

Account notifications

Library notifications you may receive via email:

  • Hold pickup notices
  • Overdue and Billing notices
  • Courtesy notices (Items are due soon)
  • Auto-Renewal notices

Also available: Phone and text notifications

  • If you'd like to receive notifications via automated phone call, let us know. 
  • If you'd like to receive some notifications via text message, visit My Account and select Set Up Text Messaging.

Checking out and returning materials

Borrowing materials

You will need your library card, CSPL mobile app barcode or photo identification in order to check out materials.

You may request to have items placed on reserve (on hold) either in person, by telephone, or through the library’s online catalog via web browser or mobile app.

Material loan periods and Borrowing privileges

The Library no longer charges daily fees for overdue materials. However, the Library depends on borrowers returning materials in a timely manner so that others may enjoy them. 

Item

Loan
Period

New DVDs/Blu-rays
Limit 10

Video Games
Limit 5

Playaway Launchpads
Limit 3

Wi-Fi Hotspots - link
CS residents only
Limit 1

 7 days

New DVD/Blu-ray sets
Limit 10

 21 days

DVDs
Playaway Views

 7 days

ALL Books
Audio books
DVD/Blu-ray sets
Music CDs
Magazines
Puzzles

 21 days

Borrowing Privileges

When borrowed materials are 14 days overdue or when total charges on an account reach $20, the account will be suspended. The account may be reactivated by returning the overdue materials, or by paying for the lost/damaged/unreturned item. 

Lost or Damaged Materials

When materials are lost or damaged beyond repair, the borrowing account is charged the replacement cost of the item. 

Collection

When fees on an account reach $25 or more for lost, damaged, or unreturned materials, the account will be referred to a materials recovery service. Collection referrals for Juvenile accounts are made in the name of the Responsible Party.

Renewing materials

Automatic Renewals

Borrowed materials will automatically renew two days before their due date UNLESS:

  • An item has been reserved by another customer
  • An item was borrowed for you from a library outside our system
  • Fines on your account exceed $20.00
  • Your renewal limit has been reached (5)

The default method of communication is to have an email sent to let you know whether your items renewed and what the new due dates are. Text messaging is also an option. If you do not have access to these methods, you may call us at 630-653-0755 to check your account or log into My Account.

What to do if the Library doesn't own the material you want

Request a item for the collection or on interlibrary loan. Email suggestions to questions@cslibrary.org or fill out this online form.

Interlibrary loan
Items that are not available at the Carol Stream Public Library may be requested from other libraries. Patrons will be notified when items are available for pick up at the Carol Stream Public Library. Interlibrary loans are available for Carol Stream card holders only. Patrons are also responsible for any fees charged by the owning library.

Reciprocal borrowing
Carol Stream Public Library participates in the Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS) which allows participating libraries in Illinois to accept cards from other member libraries. Residents with a valid Carol Stream Public Library account may borrow materials from any other Illinois library that also participates in the program.

Returning materials

The book drop in the parking lot is available twenty-four hours a day for all Library materials. There is also a drop box in the lobby that is available during open hours.

Computers, Internet access, and office equipment

Computers available for public use

Our Adult Services computer lab offers computers with Internet access, Microsoft Office products, and the Library’s catalog. The computer lab also has one iMac computer that has the Adobe Creative Suite.

There are also public computers in the Youth Services computer lab that provide access to a suite of Microsoft Office products, the Library's catalog, and non-Internet games for ages 3 through 10.

 

How to access computers at the Library

Use of the internet workstations requires one of the following:

· A valid CSPL library account according to the Policy on Library Accounts

· A valid library account at another public library that is registered at CSPL, or

· A guest pass from the Adult Services Desk.

The Library uses an automated reservation system to manage use of the Internet workstations. Reservations are made using a valid library account number. 

Wireless Internet access (WiFi)

The Library provides free wireless access to the Internet for those users who have a wireless-enabled computer or device. There is no log-in or password required.

Carol Stream residents may also check out a WiFi hotspot for unlimited internet access while away from the Library (see catalog to place one on hold - link).

Printing, scanning, and downloading

Computer workstations are networked to a color laser printer. All printouts are $.10/page. We accept cash and credit card payments. When using a credit card, a temporary hold of $20 (up to 200 pages max) will accrue before being charged the exact amount of printing. 

For self-serve print in the library or remotely using your own devices, visit our REMOTE PRINTING PAGE. For either self-serve print method, to release and pay for the print, visit one of our print kiosk towers in the library's Adult Business center. Prints sent remotely are held in the queue for 24 hours before expiring and have a max page count of 200. Visit the Adult Reference Desk for help and/or questions. 

The Library has a free public scanner that scans to a USB drive, e-mail, a smartphone, Google Docs, and Fax. The Library also has a copier that allows the scanning of documents to an external USB drive.

Work can be saved temporarily to the workstation during a session. Once the session closes, your work will be removed automatically. If you wish to save your work, bring your own removable data storage device. If you do not have a data storage device, the Library may have data storage devices available to purchase.

Fax machine

Patrons have access to the public use fax machine. The SimpleScan station in the Business Center (located in Adult Services) now has a "Scan to Fax" option which is free to you for both outgoing domestic and international faxes.

Photocopier

The Library has one photo copier for public use. It is located in the Business Center in Adult Services. The copier produces black and white, as well as color photo copies. Black and white copies are $.10/copy and color copies cost $.25/copy.

Tax forms

During tax season (usually January - April), the Library has limited amounts of Federal 1040 and IL-1040 forms and instructions. After supplies run out, the library will print out tax forms for free. However, tax form instructions and publications will cost $0.10 per page. If you need a special form or want to check the availability of a specific form, please call the Library and ask to speak to a Reference Librarian at the Adult Services Desk.

For more information on tax publications, please see our Tax topic page.

Acceptable use of the Library's computer and Internet access by adults and children

Use of the Library's computers and Internet access constitutes acceptance of and agreement to the Technology Resources Policy by a User.

Study Rooms, Proctoring, and Display Spaces

Study Rooms and Conference Room

The Library has four Study Rooms and a Conference Room that can be reserved up to one week ahead of time in 1 hour increments. To use the rooms, patrons need to be at least of high school age and present a valid CSPL library card at the Adult Services Desk. For more information, please consult the Study Room Procedures or contact the Adult Services Desk at 630-344-6123. You can reserve a study room or the conference online.

Study Room Procedures
  • Study rooms, which include the Conference Room, are available by reservation only. You can reserve online or call 630-344-6123.
  • Patrons must have and present at the time of room reservation a valid CSPL library card.
  • Users without a CSPL card may use a study room on a walk-in basis, first come first served, if a study room is available for up to 1 hour.
  • These rooms are intended for use by high school students and adults.
  • Rooms are reserved in one-hour time increments with a max of 2 hours for CSPL cardholders. Advanced reservations (CSPL cardholders only) may be made up to one week ahead of time for up to two hours.
  • 1 reservation Max per day per group or per user.
  • If there are no other reservations at the end of a session, users may continue occupying the study room until it is needed.
  • Group reservations count as 1, and multiple reservations by members of the party will not be allowed. Consecutive bookings will be canceled and the use of the study room will be terminated for the day.
  • Those making the reservations must be present in the room at all times.
  • Reservations are held for 10 minutes past the start time, after the 10-minute period if the user does not show up, the reservation will be canceled.
  • The Library reserves the right to limit or change room assignments based on group size or room capacity.
  • A maximum number of people in each room cannot exceed the capacity as determined by the Library.   
    • Study Room A - 4 people 
    • Study Room B - 6 people 
    • Study Room C - 2 people
    • Study Room D - 2 people
    • Conference Room - 10 people
  • All rules and regulations as outlined in the Standards of Public Behavior Policy and Code of Conduct of the Carol Stream Public Library apply.
  • Library staff reserves the right to deny study room or conference room use to any individual or group violating any Carol Stream Public Library policies or procedures.
  • Please do not leave items unattended in the Study Rooms. Users exiting the room for an extended period of time may result in their reservation being forfeited. The Library is not responsible for the security of a patron's personal property. (Code of Conduct)
Exam proctoring

The Library offers proctoring services free of charge to adult Carol Stream Public Library cardholders on exams that are four hours or less, with the following stipulations:

Proctoring must be scheduled at least one week in advance and is administered by appointment only. The Library cannot guarantee a dedicated quiet space for taking exams. Proctors will NOT remain with the student but will intermittently monitor them. Tests requiring software must be downloaded on the student’s own device. Students are responsible for providing a pre-paid mailing envelope for paper tests that need to be mailed back to the institution. Proctoring Services is by appointment only with 1 week advance notice, between the hours of 9-5pm Monday through Friday. Click Here to fill out a request or visit www.cslibrary.org/proctoring for more info.

Visiting the Library

Patron behavior at the Library

Policy Governing Patron Behavior

In accordance with the Illinois Compiled Statutes, (75 ILCS 5/4-7), the Board of Library Trustees of the Carol Stream Public Library has the following powers:

“To make and adopt…rules and regulations…for the government of the Library…” and

“To exclude from the use of the Library any person who willfully violates the rules prescribed by the Board.”

Therefore, the Board of Trustees of the Carol Stream Public Library adopts the following as its policy on patron behavior:

1. The Library Director is delegated the authority to develop and amend as necessary reasonable rules and regulations governing appropriate patron behavior. This Code of Conduct will be available for examination in the Library.

2. Any patron who engages in any activity that materially disrupts the use of library facilities, collections, or services by patrons or materially disrupts the ability of the staff to perform its duties shall be given a verbal warning that his/her behavior is unacceptable and informed of the consequences should the behavior continue.

3. If, following this direction, the patron fails or refuses to comply, or responds to the request in an abusive manner, he/she will be required to immediately leave the Library property for the balance of that calendar day. If he/she fails to leave, the Carol Stream Police will be summoned.

4. Library personnel will maintain a record of instances in which patrons are required to leave the Library.

5. The Library staff has the right to request to see identification of any person on the premises who is violating Library policies or rules governing patron behavior.

6. Parents or guardians of minors will be notified in writing, whenever possible, after the first recorded instance in which a minor is required to leave Library property, and advised of the consequences of any further recorded instances.

7. Upon the second recorded instance within a four week period in which a patron is required to leave the Library, the Director shall ban the patron from Library property for a period of thirty days.

8. In the event a patron banned from Library property attempts entry to Library property during any such period of exclusion, the police will be immediately summoned to respond to this trespassing violation.

9. In the event the patron persists in abusive conduct or disruptive behavior following a period of exclusion, the Library Director shall report to the Board of Library Trustees to request consideration of a long-term period of exclusion of that patron.

10. The Library is not required to go through the entire intervention process detailed in this policy. Intervention may begin at any step, including immediate involvement of the police and/or banning from Library property, depending upon the severity of the incident or behavior.

11. Any redress for grievance regarding any actions taken by the Library staff to enforce Library public behavior standards must be submitted in writing to the Director. The Director shall respond in writing to this grievance. If the patron does not accept the Director’s response to the written grievance, the patron may submit a written redress for grievance to the Board of Library Trustees. The Board shall review this grievance and provide a written response. The Board’s decision shall be final.

Also see: the Library Code of Conduct

Supervision of children at the Library

Great effort is taken to make the Library a warm, pleasant and inviting place. The Library staff is committed to the well-being and safety of children; however parents/caregivers must be aware that the Library is a public building, open to all, and as such it is unsafe to leave a child unattended/under-attended. Libraries are not designed or licensed to provide childcare. Parents/caregivers are responsible for the behavior of their children while on Library property. The Carol Stream Public Library’s Policy Governing Patron Behavior and its companion Code of Conduct apply to all patrons regardless of age.

Children eight (8) years of age and under must be attended by a responsible caregiver while in the Library. 

What happens if a child is disruptive?

The Carol Stream Public Library’s Policy Governing Patron Behavior and the Code of Conduct apply to all patrons regardless of age. Both policies are in place to ensure that all users of the Library experience a safe and welcoming environment conducive to both educational and leisure pursuits. Patrons of all ages are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects respect for fellow patrons and Library staff and policies, behaving in a manner that does not hinder others from using the Library or Library materials.

Library users who disregard the Code of Conduct may be subject to follow-up action as detailed in the Policy Governing Patron Behavior.

 

Policy on children left at the Library after closing

Parents are responsible for being aware of the Library’s hours and for picking up their children on time. Children are encouraged to contact their parents before closing to verify that transportation is available. Children under the age of 16 left unattended at closing time may be deemed at risk. If a child under the age of 16 is not picked up within 15 minutes of the Library’s closing time, the Carol Stream Police Department will be called.  Under no circumstances will Library staff transport any child in their personal car or library vehicle to the child’s home or to any other location. [Policy Governing Patron Behavior]

Commemorating friends, loved ones, and special events

The Library can accept monetary donations on behalf of your loved one. The Library can also be named as a benefactor in a trust or will. For more information, call 630-653-0755.

Does the Library accept donations?

Library visitors may purchase items from the Friends of the Library Fundraiser Sale. The Library welcomes books, CDs, and DVDs in good condition and in small quantities (one box or less). Bring items for donation to the front desk.

We can accept:

  • Recent Adult Fiction
  • Recent bestsellers
  • Children's Fiction
  • Music CDs
  • DVDs and Blu-Rays
  • Recent Adult Non-Fiction:
    • Cookbooks
    • Crafts
    • Gardening
    • History
    • Biographies
    • Popular culture
    • Sports

We cannot accept:

  • Items damaged by water, mold, smoke, or with torn, stained, yellowed, or missing pages
  • Textbooks
  • Magazines
  • Encyclopedias
  • Condensed Readers’ Digests
  • VHS tapes
Lost and Found

The Circulation Department maintains a Lost and Found for personal belongings left behind or mistakenly returned to the Library. If a misplaced item contains identification, every effort will be made to contact the owner. In instances when this is not possible, the Library will hold the article for 14 days. Patrons are asked to contact the Circulation Department to inquire about missing items. The Library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended anywhere on Library property.

Library Policies

Library Accounts Policy

Carol Stream Public Library
Library Accounts Policy
(Approved 8/19/15, Revised 9/15/21)

1. General Information
Illinois Compiled Statutes states, “Every library … shall be forever for the use of the residents and taxpayers of the village…subject to such reasonable rules and regulations as the library board may adopt in order to render the use of the library of the greatest benefit to the greatest number of such residents and taxpayers.” (75 ILCS 5/1-3)

Current government-issued photo identification and residency verification are required to open a library account and to obtain a new or replacement library card. Resident accounts do not expire until you move from your current residence. Applicants under the age of 18 require a parent/legal guardian’s signature to open a library account.

The Accountholder agrees to comply with all Library rules and policies and accepts responsibility for all use of card(s) issued under his/her signature.

A valid library account is required to check out, renew, and reserve library materials. A valid account is defined as:

  • Account that has not expired.
  • Patron address information on file is correct.
  • Patron does not have fines or fees in excess of the current threshold.

Through a Reciprocal Borrowing Agreement with the Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS), residents with valid Carol Stream Public Library accounts may borrow materials directly from any library participating in the Reciprocal Borrowing Program in the State of Illinois.

2. Confidentiality

Carol Stream Public Library complies with the Library Records Confidentiality Act (75ILCS 70/1). The registration and circulation records of the Library are confidential information. No person shall publish or make available to the public any information contained in those records, unless:

  1. the information is requested pursuant to court order, or       
  2. the information is requested by a law enforcement officer as part of an investigation concerning a matter of public safety, the law enforcement officer represents either orally or in writing that immediate law enforcement activity that depends upon the disclosure would be materially and adversely affected by waiting until a court order could be obtained, and the information sought is limited to assisting in identifying a suspect, witness, or victim of a crime.

3. Lost Cards
Lost library cards should be reported to the Library immediately to prevent unauthorized use. The accountholder is responsible for all items borrowed on their lost card along with any fees for damages incurred prior to the date the library is notified.

4. Suspension of Privileges

Borrowing privileges may be suspended. Reasons for suspension include but are not limited to:

  • Unpaid fees or overdue materials exceeding the Library’s threshold on one or more associated accounts.
  • Returned mail from the address on one or more associated accounts.
  • Loss of borrowing privileges at another Illinois library due to outstanding fines/fees.
  • Violation of the Carol Stream Public Library Policy Governing Patron Behavior and/or Code of Conduct.

The Library reserves the right to enforce its policies through use of collection agencies, civil actions and/or criminal prosecution.

5. Temporary Residents
A person temporarily residing in the Village of Carol Stream for a minimum of thirty (30) consecutive days may be issued a temporary virtual library account with an expiration date set to ninety (90) days upon approval of application. This account allows 24/7 access to the Library’s online resources. Photo ID and verification of temporary Carol Stream address is required.

6. Non-Residents Who Own Property in Carol Stream
Persons who reside outside the Village of Carol Stream and pay taxes to the Carol Stream Public Library are eligible for a library account. One account will be issued per tax parcel and expire one (1) year from date of issue. Photo identification and verification of ownership are required. 75 ILCS 5/4-7 (12).

7. Non-Resident Accounts

The Board of Trustees is empowered to extend the privileges and use of the library to persons who are not served by a public library and to impose a non-resident fee for such services comparable to the cost paid by residents of the Village of Carol Stream. (Eligibility as defined in 23 ILAC 3050 and 75 ILCS 5/4-7 (12)).

  1. Non-Resident Homeowner – Family and individual non-resident homeowners’ annual fee for library privileges will be determined upon presentation of the most recent property tax bill by applying the Library’s current tax rate to the applicant’s most recent equalized assessed valuation.
  2. Non-Resident Renter – Family and individual nonresident annual fee for library privileges will be equal to 15% of the average monthly rent verified by current lease or rent receipt.

8. Institution Special Borrowing Accounts
Accounts may be issued annually to institutions such as Schools, Government Agencies or Non-Profit Organizations located within the Village of Carol Stream for use of Carol Stream Public Library resources and services that directly benefit the mission of the organization. The institution agrees to be responsible for all fees incurred and must provide a list of authorized users limited to classroom instruction or research staff. Photo ID and verification of institution’s and applicants’ addresses are required.

9. Business Special Borrowing Accounts
Accounts may be issued annually to Businesses located within the Village of Carol Steam for use of Carol Stream Public Library resources and services that directly benefit the mission of the business. The Business Owner agrees to be responsible for all fees incurred and may provide a list of up to five (5) authorized users. Photo ID and verification of the business and applicants’ addresses are required.

10. Reciprocal Borrower Accounts
Reciprocal borrowing privileges are extended to a holder of a library card that is issued from an Illinois library that participates in the Reciprocal Borrowing Program. Reciprocal borrowers must present a library card issued by their local public library and current government-issued photo identification. Library privileges will be granted for one year or less dependent upon verification of eligibility and expiration date of card at home library. Some restrictions may apply.

Borrowing Policy

Carol Stream Public Library Borrowing Policy

(Approved 8/19/15, Revised 10/21/20, Revised 8/18/21)

General Information

All members of the community may share equally in the use and enjoyment of library materials. People of all ages may use materials from most Carol Stream Public Library collection. The Library respects the right and responsibility of a parent/legal guardian to determine which library materials are appropriate for their children.

General guidelines for use of library materials include:

  • A valid library account, as defined in the Library Accounts Policy: General Information, is required to check out, renew or reserve library materials.
  • As a public library member of SWAN (System Wide Automated Network), the Carol Stream Public Library will abide by the SWAN Governing Board’s established standards for their public library members regarding borrowing and circulation rules. These standards have been established to improve the patron experience for the public library members.
  • Loan periods, renewals, and reserve limits vary based upon material type and are posted on the Library’s website.

 

Replacement Costs

Carol Stream Public Library reserves the right to bill an account for replacement cost of overdue, lost or damaged material.

Notices will be sent reminding patrons to return overdue materials. Failure to receive notices does not absolve responsibility or liability for replacement costs. 

Borrowing privileges are suspended due to overdue materials or bills exceeding our current threshold. Current thresholds are posted on our website.

Library accounts with charges in excess of $25 for lost, damaged or unreturned materials are transferred to Unique Management Services for recovery and an additional referral fee is charged to the account. Please be advised that charges incurred on a juvenile account are payable by the parent/legal guardian.

Service charges, in the amount equal to the bank’s current fees, will be billed to patron accounts for checks returned to the Library for insufficient funds.

 

Theft, Damage, or Failure to Return Library Materials 

Taking materials from the Library, including but not limited to books, media, and equipment without proper checkout is a crime. Theft, damage, or failure to return Library materials in the amount of $50.00 or more is subject to the provisions of the Criminal Code of the Illinois Compiled Statutes. (720 ILCS 5/16-3 (c))

 

Resource Sharing Services

Carol Stream Public Library maintains membership in Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS) and cooperates in reciprocal borrowing and interlibrary loan. The Library reserves the right to limit the number of items or restrict reciprocal borrowing access to specific collections.

Technology Resources Policy

Carol Stream Public Library Technology Resources Policy

Approved November 2008. Amended April 2010, July 2015, August 19, 2015 and December 15, 2021

The Carol Stream Public Library provides access to the Internet and other technology to be used to: learn about the technology; obtain information; create content; communicate with others; and carry out other appropriate tasks. All library equipment is the property and responsibility of the Carol Stream Public Library.

The purpose of this policy is to define appropriate use of the technology resources at the Carol Stream Public Library by library users and includes technology and resources accessed with equipment in the Library, loaned by the Library and/or via the Library’s wireless internet connection.

Wireless Internet access is available throughout the Library building, to users who have the necessary devices and software, via an open, unsecured network.

Staff will provide a limited amount of basic guidance to computer users. If a patron requires further assistance or instruction, one on one computer appointments can be arranged at the Adult Services Desk. One on one computer instruction is dependent on staff availability.

Use of the Library’s computer and Internet access constitutes acceptance and agreement of this Policy by a User.

Responsible Use

Library technology users must use the Library’s technology resources responsibly. Reliable and safe access to the Library’s technology resources requires that users accept their responsibilities to behave in ways that protect the community, and by so doing they also preserve their own access.

Use of the Library’s technology resources shall be guided by the following principles:

  • Patrons may not use the library’s facilities, including but not limited to its computers and Internet connections, for any activity prohibited by federal, state or local law, or any activity which violates copyright laws or license agreements.
  • Users must be sensitive to others when accessing potentially controversial information and images including but not limited to pornography, first person shooter games, R rated movies, etc. Some Internet sites are inappropriate for viewing in a public setting.
  • Users shall not develop or utilize programs that compromise the security and functioning of the Library and any other computer networks, systems or hardware; or harass, libel, or slander others.
  • Users shall not invade the privacy of an individual or interfere with the work of others;
  • Users may not represent themselves as other persons;
  • Users may not represent themselves as other persons;
  • Patrons are expected to abide by policies regarding food, drink, and behavior as outlined in the Carol Stream Public Library’s Code of Conduct and Policy Governing Public Behavior.

Use of the internet workstations requires one of the following:

  • A valid CSPL library account according to the Policy on Library Accounts,
  • A valid library account at another public library that has been registered at CSPL, or
  • A guest pass from a Library Service Desk.

Access by Minors

Parents or legal guardians, not Library staff, are solely responsible for monitoring which Internet or other technology resources are appropriate for their own children. It is the responsibility of parents to warn their children of the inherent dangers of disclosing or disseminating personally identifiable information.

Minors, 8 years of age and under, must be under the direct supervision (within eyesight) of their parent or legal guardian when using any Library computers.

Use of the Internet computers is limited to the workstations in the Youth Services Department for minors between the ages of 9 – 13 years, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. As space and availability permits, adults who have young children with them may use Youth Computers to remain in the Youth area with their children.

Filtering:

As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”), the Library has implemented content filtering on the public Internet station(s) in the Youth Services Department in an effort to minimize access to visual depictions of obscenity, child pornography, and other materials that are “harmful to minors.” Use of this software is not a guarantee that all sites considered objectionable have been filtered.

Users should be aware:

The Library does not monitor, nor have control over, the information available through the Internet, and the Library cannot be held responsible for the content of, or information accessed through, the Internet.

  • No person shall use or the Library’s Wi-Fi internet connection in such a manner that any pictures, graphics, documents, or images which are patently offensive by current community standards can be viewed by any other person. The Library has the right to end an Internet session when such material is displayed or printed.

Sanctions

Unacceptable use of the Library’s Internet connection will result in the suspension or revocation of Internet privileges and may result in the loss of other Library privileges as well. Illegal acts involving Library computer stations and Internet use may also be subject to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities. Use of the Library’s Internet connection can be traced to individual users, subject to the Library Records Confidentiality Act.

(75 ILCS 70/1 et. Seq.).

Downloading

Patrons wishing to save their work must provide their own removable data storage device. If the patron does not have a data storage device, the Library may provide data storage devices when available. No work may be saved to the hard drive.

Grievance Procedures:

Any redress for grievance regarding any actions taken by Library staff to enforce the Policy must be submitted in writing to the Director. The Director shall respond in writing to this grievance. If the patron does not accept the Director’s response to the written grievance, the patron may submit a written redress for grievance to the Board of Library Trustees. The Board of Library Trustees shall review this grievance and provide a written response. The Board’s decision shall be final.

Indemnification by Users

All users agree to defend, indemnify, and hold the Library harmless from any liability or expense, including attorney fees, resulting from use of the Library’s technology resources by the user or caused by the user. Limitation of Liability

IN NO EVENT SHALL THE LIBRARY BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY INJURY, LOSS OR DAMAGE TO USERS OF LIBRARY TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES, WHETHER SUCH DAMAGES ARE DIRECT OR INDIRECT, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION DAMAGE TO A USER’S PERSONAL EQUIPMENT, SOFTWARE, OR DATA, OR LOSS OR INVASION OF THE USER’S PRIVACY IN THE USER’S COMPUTER ACCOUNTS, PROGRAMS, OR FILES, AND REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SUCH DAMAGE OR INJURY RESULTS FROM AN ACT OR OMISSION OF THE LIBRARY OR ITS PERSONNEL ARISING FROM USE OF THE LIBRARY COMPUTER STATION OR INTERNET CONNECTION

The Library reserves the right to revise these policies at any time. All revisions will be posted in the Library. The user is responsible for staying informed of any and all revisions. Any grievances will be addressed according to the policies identified herein.

Library Code of Conduct

Policy Governing Patron Behavior | Library Use by Children and Vulnerable Adults | Grievance Procedures

Carol Stream Public Library Code of Conduct:
The Code of Conduct for the Carol Stream Public Library, in conjunction with the Policy Governing Patron Behavior, seek to ensure that all users of the Library experience a safe and welcoming environment conducive to both educational and leisure pursuits.
Patrons are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects respect for fellow patrons and Library staff and policies, behaving in a manner that does not hinder others from using the Library or Library materials. More specifically, all patrons are expected to:

  • Understand that acts which are subject to prosecution under Federal, State or local criminal or civil codes are expressly prohibited and may be subject to legal action.

  • Avoid actions and/or language that can be perceived as offensive, abusive or threatening to others. Profanity is prohibited.

  • Maintain the volume of conversations and/or electronic devices at an acceptable level.

  • Use library equipment, furnishings, hardware and software in a manner consistent with their intended use and in a way that will avoid damage.

  • Be fully clothed when visiting the Library, including footwear.

  • Make appropriate use of Library restroom facilities. Examples of inappropriate use include, but are not limited to, use as laundry facilities, bathing facilities or gathering places.

 

Additional Standards:

  • Reasonable direction of Library staff members will be respectfully followed.

  • Children eight (8) years of age and under must be attended by a responsible caregiver while in the Library. (Refer to the Policy on Library Use by Children.)

  • Service animals are welcome in the Library. Other pets or animals are not permitted.

  • The Library is a tobacco-free zone. Use of tobacco in the facility or smoking within 15 feet of the Library entrance is prohibited.

  • Enjoy your covered beverage; however food is not allowed in the Library.

  • Use of the Library for the purpose of solicitation, selling or canvassing is prohibited.

  • Bicycles are to be parked in the provided bike racks. For your convenience, bike locks are available for checkout at the Circulation Desk.

  • Use of recreational and/or sports equipment is not permitted in the Library facility.

  • The Library is not responsible for the security of a patron’s personal property.

Library users who disregard the Code of Conduct may be subject to follow-up action as detailed in the Policy Governing Patron Behavior.

Policy Governing Patron Behavior

Policy Governing Patron Behavior:

In accordance with the Illinois Compiled Statutes, (75 ILCS 5/4-7), the Board of Library Trustees of the Carol Stream Public Library has the following powers:
“To make and adopt…rules and regulations…for the government of the Library…” and “To exclude from the use of the Library any person who willfully violates the rules prescribed by the Board.”
Therefore, the Board of Trustees of the Carol Stream Public Library adopts the following as its policy on patron behavior:

1. The Library Director is delegated the authority to develop and amend as necessary reasonable rules and regulations governing appropriate patron behavior. This Code of Conduct will be available for examination in the Library.

2. Any patron who engages in any activity that materially disrupts the use of library facilities, collections, or services by patrons or materially disrupts the ability of the staff to perform its duties shall be given a verbal warning that his/her behavior is unacceptable and informed of the consequences should the behavior continue.
3. If, following this direction, the patron fails or refuses to comply, or responds to the request in an abusive manner, he/she will be required to immediately leave the Library property for the balance of that calendar day. If he/she fails to leave, the Carol Stream Police will be summoned.
4. Library personnel will maintain a record of instances in which patrons are required to leave the Library.
5. The Library staff has the right to request to see identification of any person on the premises who is violating Library policies or rules governing patron behavior.
6. Parents or guardians of minors will be notified in writing, whenever possible, after the first recorded instance in which a minor is required to leave Library property, and advised of the consequences of any further recorded instances.
7. Upon the second recorded instance within a four week period in which a patron is required to leave the Library, the Director shall ban the patron from Library property for a period of thirty days.
8. In the event a patron banned from Library property attempts entry to Library property during any such period of exclusion, the police will be immediately summoned to respond to this trespassing violation.
9. In the event the patron persists in abusive conduct or disruptive behavior following a period of exclusion, the Library Director shall report to the Board of Library Trustees to request consideration of a long-term period of exclusion of that patron.
10. The Library is not required to go through the entire intervention process detailed in this policy. Intervention may begin at any step, including immediate involvement of the police and/or banning from Library property, depending upon the severity of the incident or behavior.
11. Any redress for grievance regarding any actions taken by the Library staff to enforce Library public behavior standards must be submitted in writing to the Director. The Director shall respond in writing to this grievance. If the patron does not accept the Director’s response to the written grievance, the patron may submit a written redress for grievance to the Board of Library Trustees. The Board shall review this grievance and provide a written response. The Board’s decision shall be final.

 

Library Use by Children and Vulnerable Adults

Approved 12/15/21 (Replaces Policy 5.1.a Policy on Library USe by Children, approved 8/19/13.)

Library Use by Children

The Carol Stream Library work diligently to create a welcoming and safe environment for all our patrons, and especially for children and their families.

The Library staff is committed to assisting children and adults with informational needs and providing a space where people can create, search, play and learn.

The Carol Stream Public Library’s Policy Governing Patron Behavior and its companion Code of Conduct apply to all patrons regardless of age.

Children--Safety

Parents and caregivers must be aware that the Library is a public building, open to all, and as such it is unsafe to leave a child unattended or under-attended.

Parents and caregivers are solely responsible for their children while they are on Library property regardless of whether the parent or caregiver is in the library. Libraries are not designed or licensed to provide childcare, nor does the library act in loco parentis (in place of parents).

When the safety of an unattended or under-attended child is in doubt, or if the library is closing, library staff will attempt to contact the caregiver before calling 911. In the case of an immediate safety concern, staff will contact 911 immediately and then attempt to contact the caregiver.

Children, Age 8* and Under

Children, age eight (8) and younger, must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver (age fourteen (14) or older) who has been designated by the legal guardian to care for the child. Children under age eight (8) must be in sight of the parent/caregiver at all times. Library staff are happy to retrieve resources from other areas of the Library required by parents/caregivers.

*Age eight (8) and under is the age designated for Early Childhood Education Certification.

Children, Age 8 and Under – Programs

Some Library programs require that the parent/caregiver accompany the child. For all other Library programs, parent/caregivers of children eight (8) years of age and younger must remain in the Library and be readily available, returning to the program area by the end of the session.

Children, Age 9 and Up

Children, age nine (9) and up, are welcome to use the Library, unsupervised, if their behavior is in accordance with the Library’s Policy Governing Patron Behavior and its companion Code of Conduct.

For safety’s sake, parents/caregivers should make sure their children are sufficiently mature enough to observe proper conduct when visiting the Library by themselves. Parents/Caregivers are further advised that if children cannot follow the Code of Conduct, they may be asked to leave the Library. The Library shall notify the parent in writing, whenever possible, of incidents involving an unattended child.

Library Use by Vulnerable Adults*

The Library seeks to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all community members, and is concerned for the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults using the Library. A parent, guardian or caregiver over the age of 18 must be responsible for monitoring the activities and managing the behavior of vulnerable adults during their Library visits.

If a vulnerable adult is able to understand and follow the Code of Conduct and can care for their own needs, they are welcome to be in the Library unattended. They should have contact information to reach their parent or caregiver for transportation home or in case of emergency

During library hours, when the safety of a vulnerable adult is in doubt, library staff will attempt to contact the caregiver before calling 911. In the case of an immediate safety concern, staff will contact 911 immediately and then attempt to contact the caregiver.

*A vulnerable adult is functionally, mentally or physically unable to care for themselves beyond normal assistance with Library services. For their safety, it is recommended they be accompanied by a caregiver when visiting the Library.

Grievance Procedures

Any redress for grievance regarding any actions taken by Library staff to enforce Library public  behavior standards must be submitted in writing to the Director. The Director shall respond in writing to this grievance. If the patron does not accept the Director’s response to the written grievance, the patron may submit a written redress for grievance to the Board of Library Trustees. The Board of Library Trustees shall review this grievance and provide a written response. The Board’s decision shall be final.

Social Media Comment and Terms of Use Policy

Social Media Comment and Terms of Use Policy

Adopted 5/20/20 by the Carol Stream Public Library Board of Trustees

PURPOSE

Carol Stream Public Library (CSPL) uses social media to advance the Library’s mission to provide the community with exceptional services, enrichment opportunities, and diverse resources in a welcoming environment. Our intended audience is people residing within our official service area. The purposes of Carol Stream Public Library-sponsored online social networking are:

  • To help broaden awareness and increase knowledge of library services, resources, and activities.
  • To promote the value of the Library’s services
  • To provide a welcoming place where our neighbors can find useful and entertaining information and interact with fellow community members
  • To maintain open, professional, and responsive communications with members of our community
  • To facilitate the sharing of ideas, opinions, and information about library- and literacy-related subjects and issues 

SCOPE

This policy applies to any web application, site, or account created or maintained by CSPL which facilitates the sharing of opinions and information about library related subjects or issues. For the purposes of this policy, social media includes formats such as blogs, instant messaging, texting, social networking, and media sharing sites.

PROVISIONS

By posting any comments, posts or other materials on Carol Stream Public Library’s social media pages, you give the Library permission to reproduce, distribute, publish, display, edit, modify, delete and otherwise use your submissions for any library-related purpose in any form on any media.

By posting content, the user agrees to hold harmless and indemnify CSPL and CSPL’s officers and employees from and against all liabilities, judgments, damages, and costs (including attorney’s fees) which result from or relate in any way to the user’s postings, opinions, or comments.

Comments containing any of the following content will not be permitted on CSPL’s social media sites and are subject to removal and/or restriction by CSPL:

  • Obscene, sexual, or pornographic content and/or language
  • Content that promotes discrimination on the basis of race, age, religion, gender
  • Content that violates a legal ownership interest (copyright or trademark)
  • Threats to any person
  • Conduct that violates any federal, state, or local law or encourages illegal activity
  • Promotion of any commercial activities not related to CSPL business
  • Spam or links to malware/viruses
  • Content that advocates or promotes a candidate, referendum, or campaign

A comment posted by a member of the public on any CSPL social media site is the opinion of the poster only, and publication of a comment does not imply endorsement of, or agreement by, CSPL, nor do the comments necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of CSPL.

CSPL reserves the right to deny access to CSPL social media sites for any individual who violates the CPSL’s social media policy, at any time and without prior notice.

All comments posted to any CSPL website or social media site hosted by a third-party (ex: Facebook, Twitter, etc.) are also bound by the third party host’s terms of use. CSPL reserves the right to report any violation of the third party host’s terms of use to the third party host with the intent of that host taking appropriate and reasonable responsive action.

Users who enter private or personal information on CSPL social media sites do so at their own risk, and CSPL is not responsible for any damages resulting from the public display of, or failure to remove, private or personal information. This policy and terms of use may be amended from time-to-time, without further notice.

DISCLAIMER

Comments and opinions expressed in external links appearing in posts are the views of that organization and may not reflect the official position of Carol Stream Public Library, its officers, or its employees.

PRIVACY

The Library may occasionally refer to or respond to public comments made on social media. However, it will not collect, sell, or knowingly transfer to any third party any personally identifiable information related to social media engagement with the Library unless otherwise required by law. Please be advised that each social media platform has its own privacy policies and should be carefully reviewed.

COPYRIGHT

Photo and video content on the Carol Stream Public Library System online social networking sites is governed by a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-SA).

COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS

All CSPL websites and social media sites must adhere to applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies.

Any content posted to a CPSL website or social media site that is related to CSPL business may be a public record subject to public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Content related to CSPL business must be maintained in an accessible format so that it can be produced in response to a request.

The Illinois Local Records Act may also apply to certain website and social media content. CSPL will preserve records required to be maintained pursuant to a relevant records retention schedule for the required retention period on a CSPL server in a format that preserves the integrity of the original record and is easily accessible.

E-discovery laws may apply to CSPL website and social media content. Therefore, content must be able to be managed, stored, and retrieved to comply with these laws.