Staff
Sitka Public Library staff select, acquire and organize library materials and assist in providing free and equal access to informational, educational, cultural, and recreational resources to meet the informational needs of its patrons. Library staff will provide assistance for individuals seeking information.
Cooperation
As cooperation promotes effective and efficient Library service, Sitka Public Library staff actively promotes cooperation with other libraries to improve services in Sitka, Alaska and throughout the nation.
Interlibrary Loan
The Library will participate in interlibrary loan services to supplement and enhance its collection and those of other libraries. Material not part of the Library’s collection may be obtained through interlibrary loan. Books are received via mail service from other libraries, and serial citations are generally received via fax. Most reference and many audio-visual materials cannot be obtained through interlibrary loan.
Volunteers and Friends
Volunteers
We encourage individuals and groups to volunteer their time and efforts in the service of the Library. The Volunteer Program is designed to expand and enhance public service to the community. Volunteers generally provide support services to paid staff and/or work on special projects. Volunteers learn more about the Library and its place in the community and observe first-hand the way the Library serves the community’s needs.
Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Library is an association of people who plan and execute programs and events to benefit the Library. In particular, the friends group is involved in fund-raising for the Library.
Confidentiality
Library circulation records are confidential (Alaska State law 09.25.140). Names, addresses, and other personal information about people who have made inquiries or used library information sources shall be kept confidential except upon court order.
Hours
Library services will be provided during the hours which meet the needs of the community within the limits of budget constraints and staff availability.
Bulletin Boards
The bulletin boards at the Sitka Public Library may be used to publicize upcoming public events, performances, and meetings. Library programs take precedence over all other requests. Public service announcements from city, state and federal agencies are also prioritized. Educational or non-profit organizations may submit notices which will be considered on a space available basis. Authorization of a submission does not indicate library endorsement.
Limited space allows only for short-term posting. All notices must be submitted to library staff. Authorized notices will be dated and posted by staff. Items or materials placed without authorization are subject to removal. Removed or expired notices will not be returned.
Educational or non-profit public events or activities that include a registration or participation fee may be posted. Solicitation of monetary donations or sales of merchandise will not be posted. Buy, sell, or trade notices will not be posted. Notices for individual or commercial financial benefit will not be posted.
The library director will have the final determination of any bulletin board posting. Appeals or exemptions to any of these policy terms should be submitted in writing to the director for consideration and decision. (Approved April 2020)
Solicitation
Solicitation of the public or the staff is not permitted in the Public Library building. Solicitation refers to the sale or distribution of merchandise, sales materials, tickets, insurance, coupons, magazine subscriptions, private services, political campaign materials, petition or letter signatures, requests for money or other activities not connected to the work of the library. (Approved April 2020)
Emergency Closing
Emergencies or catastrophes, including, but not limited to, extreme weather, utility failure, bomb threat, fire, explosion, or terrorism may require closing the Library. The primary consideration in any emergency or catastrophe is the safety of all persons in the building and on the property. The Library cooperates fully with public safety departments and emergency safety providers. The Library Director or, in their absence, the Acting Director, will determine when to close the Library during an emergency or catastrophe.
Programs
The Library offers a variety of programs for children and adults to increase the use of the Library, to promote good public relations and understanding of the Library’s services and objectives.
