Policies

Glen Ellyn Public Library is committed to providing technology that meets visitor expectations in delivering its primary mission. Scope The library's highest priority is to support and maintain the library website, the online catalog, and access to digital resources and software available on its computers. In fulfilling its primary mission, Glen Ellyn Public Library provides… Read More about Access to Evolving Technology

To provide an appropriate and safe atmosphere for children, adults age 18 and older who are not accompanied by children are to use the Youth Department only for the purposes of retrieving children’s materials or speaking with library staff. Read More about Adults in the Youth Department

Animals are not allowed in the library, with the exception of service dogs and miniature horses used by visitors with disabilities, or in conjunction with library-sponsored programs. Read More about Animals

Glen Ellyn Public Library upholds the individual’s right of access to the reading, viewing, and listening materials of their choice, the freedom to read, view, or listen to these materials and the freedom to enjoy these basic rights in the absence of external pressure or oversight by those who would obstruct free choice. In fulfillment… Read More about Basic Rights – General

Glen Ellyn Public Library programs, materials, and services are available in locations inside and outside the library building. Activities and behaviors in any location that interfere with the library's ability to deliver programs, materials, and services are prohibited. Persons who are noisy or otherwise disruptive or who interfere with the work of library staff in… Read More about Behavioral Expectations

1. Paid Holidays The following days or partial days on which the Library is closed are paid holidays as detailed below: New Year’s Day Easter Sunday (4 hours) Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Eve (4 hours) Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day New Year’s Eve (4 hours) The Library also recognizes the following… Read More about Benefits and Services

The privilege of checking out library materials may be denied to cardholders who do not follow library policy. Cardholders’ borrowing privileges will be suspended when they reach the following thresholds. Glen Ellyn Public Library Cardholders Five or more items overdue $25 in unpaid fees One or more items 42 days late $100 or more in… Read More about Borrowing Restrictions

Any corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, church, or unit of government located at an address in incorporated Glen Ellyn is entitled to a Glen Ellyn Public Library card upon request. Businesses must renew their cards annually. Please visit the Library Services Desk for more information. Read More about Business Library Card

Purpose Capital assets purchased or constructed by Glen Ellyn Public Library represent a major investment by the taxpayers. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the accounting policy as to how capital assets are to be accounted for and reported. Capital Asset Definition Capital assets are major assets that benefit more than a… Read More about Capital Assets and Depriciation

The library welcomes children of all ages. Please ensure that children under age seven are supervised at all times by a caregiver age 13 or older. Read More about Children in the Library

General Except in the case of emergency closures as stated below, the library Board of Trustees solely determines library closures. Holiday The library is closed on the following holidays New Year’s Day Easter Sunday Memorial Day (observed) Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Eve, 5 pm Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day New Year’s Eve, 1… Read More about Closures

Specific permission for the audio recording or filming of any person in the library must be granted by that individual. No identifying personal information may be included in any commercial media produced at the library without express written permission of the subjects. No person may make commercial use of media generated on library property without… Read More about Commercial Media Production on Library Property

1. Workweek The Library workweek begins Sunday and ends the following Saturday. Full-time employees are scheduled to work 37.5 hours per week on a regular basis. Full time employees receive a daily, paid meal break of thirty (30) minutes, for a total of 40 paid hours per week. Part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees are paid… Read More about Compensation and Performance

Glen Ellyn Public Library follows State law regarding public access to its registration and circulation records. (75 ILCS 70/1 Library Records Confidentiality Act, Registration and Circulation Records - Statistical Reports). Cardholder information will not be disclosed to anyone except by court order or to a law enforcement officer if there is imminent danger of physical… Read More about Confidentiality of Cardholder Records

Community News The library maintains a Community News bulletin board on the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors for not-for-profit community cultural and educational interest events and programs. Library staff review and post Community News items. Youth Department The Youth Department provides display cases for personal collections of children up to grade 8. The… Read More about Display and Exhibit Areas

The library maintains an Emergency Manual to help staff navigate situations that affect the safety of library visitors, such as bomb threats, tornadoes, power outages, and missing children or adults who need assistance being reunited with a caregiver (Code Adam). Read More about Emergency Manual

The Employee Handbook provides important information about the organization, and I understand that I should consult the Finance/HR Director regarding any questions not answered in the handbook. Since the information, policies, and benefits described herein are necessarily subject to change, I acknowledge that revisions to the handbook may occur. All such changes will normally be… Read More about Employee Acknowledgement

This Employee Handbook (aka Personnel Library Guidelines Policy) contains information on policies and benefits of Glen Ellyn Public Library. All employees are provided with a Handbook so that they may become more familiar with the Library. It is expected that employees will take the time to acquaint themselves with its contents. Because it will be… Read More about Employee Handbook

Staff at the Adult Desk are available to receive tests; if tests are emailed, print tests at the current per page printing rate; if a self-addressed stamped envelope is provided, return the exam to the school by mail; and mail or fax tests back to the school within 24 hours. Receipts of mailing are not… Read More about Exam Proctoring

In accordance with the provisions of GASB 54, the library has created a Fund Balance Policy. Fund balance measures the net financial resources available to finance expenditures of future periods. It is the policy of Glen Ellyn Public Library to maintain a fund balance of at least six months ("Cash Flow Commitment"). The Cash flow… Read More about Fund Balance

The selection of materials will be governed by the Mission statement and support the library’s areas of emphasis. To enable citizens to form their own opinions, the library will attempt to provide materials that present a variety of points of view. Due to the vast number of titles published and the limits of the library’s… Read More about General Criteria for Selection

The library is grateful for gifts. Its collection has been enriched and enhanced by many generous donations of money, books, periodicals, and other materials. Gifts to the library are tax deductible pursuant to Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code. Valuation of non-monetary gifts is the responsibility of the donor. Although unrestricted gifts are preferred,… Read More about Gifts – General

Glen Ellyn Public Library cardholders may place holds and interlibrary loan requests. Read More about Holds and Interlibrary Loan Requests

The library provides monthly scheduled delivery of materials to Glen Ellyn Public Library cardholders who are unable to visit the library for a period of 30 days or more due to health or mobility issues, and those residing in senior living facilities. Read More about Home Delivery Service

The policy with Regard to the Collection, Use, Disclosure and Protection of Individuals’ Social Security Numbers is intended to comply with Public Act 96-0874 of the State of Illinois, cited as the Identity Protection Act (“Act”). This policy does not supersede any more restrictive law, rule, or regulation regarding the collection, use, or disclosure of… Read More about Identity Protection

The library provides access to some services and materials inside the library building without a library card. In-Library Guests do not have borrowing privileges or remote access to digital resources.… Read More about In-Library Guest

Interlibrary loan is available to Glen Ellyn Public Library cardholders if the material needed is not available in the library. The library adheres to the State of Illinois Interlibrary Loan Code and therefore cannot request to borrow items of a type that we would not lend to another library. Items not available through interlibrary loan… Read More about Interlibrary Loan

Purpose and Scope The purpose of this policy statement is to outline the responsibilities, general objectives, and specific guidelines for management of public funds by Glen Ellyn Public Library. Its scope is all funds of the library. Responsibilities All investment policies and procedure of Glen Ellyn Public Library will be in accordance with Illinois law.… Read More about Investments

Cardholders who have paid fees to receive a library card may receive a refund on a prorated basis, based on the remaining full months of use. Please visit the Library Services Desk for more information. Read More about Library Card Refunds

Monday through Thursday 9 am – 9 pm Friday 9 am - 6 pm Saturday 9 am – 5 pm Sunday 1-5 pm Wi-Fi access is available daily from 6 am to 9:15 pm.… Read More about Library Hours

Loan periods for library materials are available in the Lending Schedule. Read More about Loan Periods

If borrowed items are lost or damaged, charges may be assessed to the responsible cardholder. Cardholders may request a Price Review if a replacement cost seems inappropriate. Lost Items An item is considered lost when a cardholder reports an item lost or when an item reaches 42 days overdue. The cost of the item will… Read More about Lost or Damaged Items

Cardholders are responsible for all items checked out with their library card. To prevent unauthorized use, cardholders should immediately report lost or stolen cards. Unauthorized use of a library card is the responsibility of the cardholder. Read More about Lost or Damaged Library Card

Purpose The makerspace is an open, collaborative environment to facilitate learning, creativity, and connection and is subject to the following criteria. Library Card Equipment bookings may be made by Glen Ellyn Public Library cardholders. Library cardholders with reciprocal borrowing privileges at Glen Ellyn Public Library may use The Workshop and available equipment on a walk-in… Read More about Makerspace

Glen Ellyn Public Library cardholders in good standing may borrow library materials. The library may allow borrowing privileges for cardholders in good standing at other libraries (reciprocal borrowing) within and outside of the SWAN Consortium. Please visit the Library Services desk for more information. Notices Notices available through cardholders' SWAN accounts are a courtesy and… Read More about Materials Lending – General

Individuals requesting permission to record, photograph, or film on library property must sign a Glen Ellyn Public Library Media Production Agreement. Read More about Media Production Agreement

Purpose Library meeting and conference rooms are designed primarily to meet the operational needs of the library and offer accommodation for educational, informational, cultural, and civic functions of the Glen Ellyn Community. Priority The meeting and conference rooms are available with a reservation on an equitable basis. Priority use of these rooms will be given… Read More about Meeting and Conference Room

The library is happy to accept monetary donations in memory or in honor of an individual or organization. Memorial/commemorative gift materials will be integrated into the general collection and acknowledged as appropriate. Read More about Memorial/Commemorative Gifts

The mission of Glen Ellyn Public Library is to serve the community as a vibrant center for accurate information, robust learning, and personal discovery.  We believe that a community flourishes when it sees itself reflected in its library and uses the library as a window for discovery.  We exist to provide an open, vibrant center… Read More about Mission

The library does not have sufficient space or atmospheric or security controls to be considered a suitable place for any but a very few pieces of permanently displayed works of art or historic artifacts. The library primarily confines itself to providing a location for temporary displays of local art from community residents. As currently interpreted… Read More about Non-Book Donations

Owners of property in incorporated Glen Ellyn who do not reside in incorporated Glen Ellyn contribute to the library through their property taxes and can register for a Glen Ellyn Public Library card at no additional cost. Please see Illinois State law 75 ILCS 16/30-55.60. Read More about Non-Resident Owners of Property Located in Incorporated Glen Ellyn

Cardholders with borrowed materials that are not returned by their due date may be subject to borrowing restrictions. Glen Ellyn Public Library does not charge late fees for overdue items.… Read More about Overdue Materials

1. Equal Employment Opportunity The Library will provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of actual or perceived race (and traits associated with race including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, sex, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, work authorization status, citizenship status,… Read More about Personnel Library Guidelines

The library has a significant interest in maintaining an environment that allows the public to freely access library information and resources. This significant interest requires the library to maintain policies that protect the privacy of its visitors and staff and ensures their freedom from harassment, intimidation, and threats to their safety and well-being. In order… Read More about Photography and Video

The library offers in-person and virtual opportunities for community members of all ages to connect, explore new trends, feed their curiosity, and access accurate information about topics that are timely promote robust learning allow for personal discovery are of interest to the community provide a window for discovery build community promote wellbeing share first voice… Read More about Programs – General

It is the intent of the Board of Trustees of Glen Ellyn Public Library to comply with the requirements and provisions of the Freedom of Information Act of the State of Illinois. In order to implement this law, it is necessary for the library to maintain and provide appropriate accessibility to library records covered by… Read More about Public Records

Our Vision Create and expect an atmosphere of courtesy, respect, and dignity. Customer service encounters impact perceptions of the library. Library staff strive to provide a consistent level of excellent service that fosters good communication, is equitable, and is personalized for people of all ages and abilities. Our Commitment To communicate clearly Library staff are… Read More about Public Service Standards of Excellence

The library will maintain a suitable location in the library displaying the names of donors contributing $1,000 or more. Read More about Recognition

Requests for withdrawal or restriction of access to any library material shall be referred to the director of the department in which the material is located. If a discussion with the department director does not result in a satisfactory outcome, they should be referred to the Library Director. If a discussion with the Library Director… Read More about Reconsideration of Library Materials

General Glen Ellyn Public Library is committed to providing excellent reference service to all cardholders, regardless of age, race, sex, disability, social, or economic status. Staff will assist visitors in the use of reference resources and library materials; provide current, accurate information in a timely manner; provide readers’ advisory service; and provide interlibrary loan to… Read More about Reference Services

Residents of incorporated Glen Ellyn, including residents of newly developed property subject to a developer's impact fee, contribute to the library through their property taxes and can register for a Glen Ellyn Public Library card at no additional cost. The library will reassess cardholders' library tax-paying status yearly. See also Non-Resident Owners of Property Located… Read More about Residents of Incorporated Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn Public Library cards may be available to residents of unincorporated addresses with payment of annual fees, in accordance with Illinois laws such as the Cards for Kids Act (2021) and Homestead exemption for veterans with disabilities, residing on tax-exempt property, through library programs like Open Books Open Doors, and in accordance with Illinois… Read More about Residents of Unincorporated Addresses

Schools located in Glen Ellyn, schools that are part of a Glen Ellyn School District, and organizations located in incorporated Glen Ellyn that provide student support services to Glen Ellyn schools may be eligible for Glen Ellyn Public Library cards according to intergovernmental agreements. Glen Ellyn Public Library cards issued to schools and partner organizations… Read More about School or Partner Organization Library Card

Glen Ellyn Public Library will cooperate with Law Enforcement Officials to allow access to items within the scope of the Search Warrant while at the same time seeking to protect the rights of patrons in accordance with the Illinois Library Records Confidentiality Act (75 ILCS 70/1-2) Designated Library Official (DLO) The Library Director will handle… Read More about Search Warrants

Library security cameras are used to enhance the safety and security of library users and staff by discouraging violations of the library Code of Conduct assist library staff in preventing the occurrence of any violations provide law enforcement assistance in prosecuting criminal activity while adhering to the applicable federal, state, and local law concerning the… Read More about Security Cameras

The use of tobacco products is not permitted in the library. Glen Ellyn Public library is a smoke-free campus. Smoking is prohibited within the building and on library grounds. Nonalcoholic beverages in enclosed containers and light meals are permitted in public areas of the library. Please dispose of trash and clean up after yourself. Food… Read More about Smoking, Chewing Tobacco, Vaping, Food, and Beverages

Smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco are not permitted in the building or on library grounds. Read More about Smoking, Vaping, and Chewing Tobacco

The library's presence on social media platforms helps disseminate information about and facilitates discussion of library programs and services and relevant community events. As a result, the library's social media accounts are a limited public forum. The library will review all comments and posts for appropriate content. Any comments or posts containing the following are… Read More about Social Media Comment

Public libraries in Illinois, as community institutions, are guided by the principles of intellectual freedom, equity, and access to information for all residents. A Societal Statement policy provides a framework for when and how the library will engage with and respond to public issues, ensuring its actions align with its core mission. Such a policy… Read More about Societal Statement

The following are not permitted on library property, except at library-sponsored events: solicitation admission fees sales posting of signs or flyers The name and contact information of the library may not be used in any publicity except as a designation of location. Receptacles No organization or individual shall be permitted to place in the library… Read More about Solicitation and Fundraising

Anchor institutions are large, usually non-profit organizations that are tethered to their communities, such as hospital systems or universities. The anchor’s future, and the future of the community, are deeply intertwined—they are part of community life and make significant contributions to the quality of life. On the best days, anchors are beloved by community members.… Read More about Strategic Plan

Enclosed study rooms in both the Youth and Adult departments are available as indicated by library staff. Users should be familiar with the Code of Conduct. In the Adult Department, study rooms are available to high school students, adults, or younger children who are accompanied by an adult. Users must check in at the 2nd… Read More about Study Rooms

Glen Ellyn Public Library welcomes vulnerable adults to use its facilities and services, and strives to provide a environment for vulnerable adults in and around the library. A vulnerable adult is an individual age 18 or over who is unable to reasonably care for themself in an emergency situation, or is mentally or physically challenged… Read More about Vulnerable Adults in the Library

Glen Ellyn Public Library is committed to providing a web presence that is inclusive and available to the largest possible audience. The website (gepl.org) has been designed to be compatible with assistive technologies and widely-used browsers. Future releases of the website will also be tested against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. If you cannot fully access… Read More about Website Accessibility

An up-to-date, attractive, and currently useful collection is maintained through a continual discarding and replacement process. Materials may be discarded when they have outlived their usefulness through one or more of the following factors. Physical deterioration Obsolete information Publication of superior materials on the same subject Lack of use Additional Weeding criteria are defined by… Read More about Weeding

Purpose Use of the Youth 3D Printer is subject to the following criteria. Age Users must be age 8-13. Library Card Users must have their own Glen Ellyn Public Library card or have their own library card with reciprocal borrowing privileges at Glen Ellyn Public Library or use the Glen Ellyn Public Library card of… Read More about Youth 3D Printing