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Policies

Vision Statement

Westminster Public Library will be the heart of the Westminster community. We will excel in creating meaningful relationships; learning and entertainment opportunities; and locally curated collections, programs, and services. The welcoming staff and beautiful spaces will foster an atmosphere that encourages compassion, support, and innovation.

Mission Statement

Westminster Public Library builds community by connecting people to quality collections, programs, services, staff and spaces, rooted in nature, wellness and literacy.

Values

Our values are defined by SPIRIT (Service, Pride, Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Teamwork) and RISE (Respect, Inclusivity, Service and Empowerment).

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Library Card Policies

Book drops are open 24/7. If the book drop is full, please do not leave books outside the book drop. Please do not put money in the book drop.
Please limit your selections to 30 items total per card per day. DVDs and Blu-Rays are limited to 10 of each checked out at one time. Visit the Interlibrary Loan page for ILL borrowing guidelines.
As a courtesy, Westminster Public Library sends an e-mail reminding you when holds are available for pickup and materials are due or overdue. Because of differences in e-mail settings and in service providers, the Library cannot guarantee delivery of electronic reminders. When you check out materials, you receive a printed receipt listing the due date of each item. Your printed receipt is your primary notification of when an item is due.

To talk to a person about fees, overdue items and/or PIN information: Call 303-658-2601 (College Hill) or 303-658-2301 (Irving Street).  To pay fees online, visit our SmartPay site.

  • Damaged Items: The charges for any damaged item will include the replacement cost. Replacement cost is defined as the current retail price at the time the library added the item to the collection. Damaged status is noted by Library Staff. The library will NOT accept replacement items for damaged materials.
  • Lost Items: The charges for any lost item will be the replacement cost. Replacement cost is defined as the current retail price at the time the library added the item to the collection. The library will NOT accept replacement items for lost materials. Lost items which are paid for, found and returned within 60 days of payment are refundable. Refunds are subject to a 10 day waiting period.
  • Collection: Failure to return materials and/or pay fines and miscellaneous fees at or above $10.00 will result in your patron account being sent to a collection agency at an additional fee. The Circulation Staff can provide additional information on this subject.
  • Printing Fees: Patrons using the public library computers can print documents to library printers.  Fees for printing are: $0.10/page for black ink and $0.25/page for color. 

If you forget your library card and would like to check out materials, we will use your photo ID or Driver's License to look up your account. If you have lost your card you can get a free replacement by showing your photo ID.

If you forget your library card and would like to use the library computers, we'll issue you a temporary guest pass. The guest pass will provide filtered internet access for 2 hours.

If you do not have a library card and would like to use the library computers, we’ll issue you a temporary guest pass. The guest pass will provide filtered internet access for 2 hours. 

Online Library Card Sign Up Available

Complete this short form to receive a temporary library card number which can be used to access our online resources and Front Range Downloadable Library collection. The card is good for 120 days. If you would like to convert your temporary card to a permanent card so you can place holds on physical items, please visit the library, or call 303-658-2601. Have your temporary card number ready. We will ask a few questions to update your account and send you a new card in the mail.

Other Types of Library Cards

To receive a Full Use library card, present a state, local or government issued photo ID (including school IDs) with proof of current Colorado address. The name and address on the ID must be for the patron applying for the library card if the applicant is 16 or older. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when applying. If photo ID does not have current Colorado address, patron must also provide proof of current address.

If you have picture ID but no proof of Colorado address, your library card application can be processed two ways:

  1. A Full Use card can be mailed to the address on the application. The card is restricted to a three (3) item checkout limit until received through the mail, usually within 7 days, and presented to library staff on your next visit. If it is returned in the mail, the card will be suspended.
  2. A Computer Use Only card can be issued. Computer Use Only cards provide access to library internet computers and some online services, but no check out of materials. These cards can be updated to Full Use Cards upon presentation of proof of address as detailed below.

Temporary Guest Passes are available for visitors who do not wish to apply for a Full Use or Computer Use Only library card. Guest passes are filtered and have a two hour limit.

Acceptable valid photo IDs and/or proof of address:

  • Colorado driver’s license
  • U.S. passport
  • Student Visa

If photo ID does not have current Colorado address, patron must also of current address. These are acceptable as proof of address:

  • A recently postmarked envelope postmarked to current address
  • Current voter registration card
  • Current car registration
  • Current mortgage or rental property contract
  • Printed current pay stub with address on it
  • Most recent property tax notice for any county in the state of Colorado
  • A valid out-of-state driver’s license with any of the above mentioned documents showing a current Colorado address.

The replacement fee for a card is $3.00. Please report lost or stolen cards immediately.

  • Three week items: All books (excluding items below), audiobooks, DVDs and Blu-rays, music CDs, and kits. E-books and E-audiobooks from Overdrive and Hoopla.
  • Six week items: Book group bags
  • Online Renewals:
    You can renew materials online as long as they are not overdue, requested by someone else, or you already have fines of $7.00 or greater.  To renew an item online do the following:
    1. First, go to the Library Catalog.
    2. Click on My Account
    3. Enter your barcode and PIN (usually the last 4 digits of your phone number) This will take you to theAccount Overview screen
    4. Click on the Items Out. A list of items checked out will display
    5. Click on the box in front of the items you wish to renew
    6. Click Renew. The new due dates should appear.
  • Phone Renewals: Call the 24 hr. automated renewal line (Telemessaging) at 303-658-2658. Have your library card number and PIN available.
  • What is my PIN?
    Unless you have changed it, your PIN is the last 4 digits of the phone number you gave the library when you got your card.
  • For other Inquiries: For other information about a patron record, call either 303-658-2301 (Irving Street) or 303-658-2601 (College Hill) with your library card number. Pursuant to Colorado law, the privacy of a patron's library record is protected. Therefore, we are unable to provide information about a patron record without the library card number.
  • Interlibrary Loans: Interlibrary Loan items cannot be renewed. Visit the Interlibrary Loan page for additional information.

For your convenience, materials (with the exception of Interlibrary Loans) can be returned to any Colorado library. They will be returned to the lending library by courier. Patrons are responsible for items until they are received by lending library. Westminster Public Library is not liable for materials lost by courier service.

Interlibrary Loans
Interlibrary Loans borrowed through Westminster Public Library must be returned to College Hill or Irving Street library.

Failure to return library materials and/or pay fees, respond to library notices, and keep your account in good standing may result in your library account being sent to an independent collection agency.

  • Fees in excess of $10.00 will result in the patron account being sent to an agency for collection and an additional amount being assessed.
  • Once library items checked out to your account become  seven weeks overdue, your account is sent to the collection agency and a non-negotiable fee of $5.00 (for balances between $10-$24.99) or $10.00 (for balances over $25.00) is charged to you in addition to replacement costs and any other fees due. The collection agency makes several attempts to contact you. You will not be credit reported for overdue library fines and fees.

Updated: September 2019

General Library Policies

In accordance with Colorado State law, Westminster Public Library requires that patron records and any other information that identifies a person as having used the library are confidential.>

Concerning privacy of library user records, Colorado law (Colorado Revised Statutes 24-90-119) states:

Privacy of user records:

(1) Except as set forth in subsection (2) of this section, a publicly-supported library or library system shall not disclose any record or other information which identifies a person as having requested or obtained specific materials or service or as otherwise having used the library.

(2) Records may be disclosed in the following instances:
     (a) When necessary for the reasonable operation of the library;
     (b) Upon written consent of the user;

  • Pursuant to subpoena, upon court order, or where otherwise required by law.
  • To a custodial parent or legal guardian who has access to a minor's library card or its authorization number for the purpose of accessing by electronic means library records of the minor.

(3) Any library or library system official, employee, or volunteer who discloses information in violation of this section commits a class 2 petty offense and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars.

Updated: August 2007

All library computers with Internet access are located in public areas. In order to create an environment that is comfortable for all library users, computer users should refrain from visiting websites that display sexually explicit material.

To access the Internet and other electronic resources, library patrons log on using their library card and pin number. Visitors may obtain a visitor’s card for this purpose. To use the Internet, all library patrons, regardless of age, must accept this Acceptable Use Policy at first login. Internet access sessions may be limited in length or number to accommodate the greatest number of users.

Access by Minors

Parents or legal guardians must decide which library resources are appropriate for their children. In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act and Colorado House Bill 04-1004 Internet Protection for Library Users, the libraries have installed software to filter sexually explicit and select social networking websites. The filter operates at all times on the computers in the children’s areas of the libraries and on any library computer where a patron is logged in using a restricted (or under 17) library card.

No filtering software is 100% effective. Westminster Public Library encourages parents and guardians to educate themselves and their children on the safety issues regarding Internet access. We recommend viewingChild Safety on the Information Highway, produced by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and NetWise, a project of the Internet Education Foundation.

If the filter blocks a site a minor wants to see, he or she may access the site with a parent’s implied consent using the parent’s card. Automation Services staff will override the filter only for sites that are obviously blocked in error.

Rules of Conduct

  • Users may not use this resource for any illegal purpose.
  • Users may not use this resource to view obscene material.
  • Users may not engage in any activity that is harassing, defamatory, disruptive, or inappropriate in a public setting.
  • Users may not invade the privacy of others.
  • Users may not modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data belonging to others; nor seek unauthorized access to any computer system or damage or alter software components of any network, host server or database.
  • Users may not distribute unsolicited advertising.
  • Users may not damage computer equipment or software.
  • Users may not use multiple library cards to increase computer usage.
  • Users must abide by requests from Library staff to end their sessions.

Compliance

The Libraries will take appropriate action to insure compliance with this policy. Violation of the rules may result in loss of access. Unlawful activities will be dealt with in an appropriate manner, including notification of police if necessary.


Disclaimer

Downloading from the Internet is done at the user’s own risk. The library is not responsible for damage to any user’s storage device, computer or other electronic device, or any loss of data, damage, or liability that may occur from patron use of in-library or remote (outside the library) resources.

The library does not guarantee compatibility with all storage formats or devices.

Public Users' Security

Users should be aware that the Internet is not a secure medium and that third parties may be able to obtain information regarding users’ activities. Westminster Public Library and Front Range Community College Library will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by members of the public except as required by law or as necessary for the proper operation of the libraries.

Revision

This policy may be revised from time to time.

Last updated: November, 2012

The Westminster Public Library is requesting approval to launch a Facebook page. The purpose of this page is to provide a venue for library staff to market library programs and services in a dynamic and interactive online environment. We would also allow and encourage patrons to interact with one another on our Facebook Wall.

Site features may include:

  • Book reviews and discussions
  • Stories, poems and artwork submitted by Pen and Pencil Club members, ages 6-10
  • Photos of projects our Fiber Friends group members have created
  • Stories, poems, artwork and other creative contented submitted by teens
  • New in the Library lists- bestsellers, new downloadable materials, etc.
  • Program information, including links to our Summer Reading program
  • Staff recommendations on books, movies, music, etc
  • Announcements about art work on display at the library
  • Exhibit case information - those displaying exhibits at College Hill could upload photos with a few short stories behind their collection (examples: Pez dispensers, African- American dolls, decorated eggs, etc.)
  • Surveys/polls
  • Best of Westminster Public Library stories- how the library changes lives
  • From the Backroom- strange bookmarks, unusual titles, quirky comments from patrons
  • Lost and Found- connect people with their left behind items
  • Links to library services
  • Featured databases
  • Service announcements

Site maintenance:

A Library Facebook team will update the site on a regular basis. The site will be overseen by the Application Specialist, Automation Services. Updates will be posted by staff members from various departments who are active Facebook users. As all Facebook team members have unlimited access to Internet computers, we anticipate daily updates and replies to posted comments during business hours 7 days/week. We understand the importance of timely, courteous and accurate replies to comments and this will be a priority. We look forward to the opportunity for discussion with our visitors. Conversely, inappropriate comments will be removed immediately.

Decisions about content created by staff:

Team members will be aware of the image the library desires to project and be guided by the question: Does this posting showcase a library-related event, activity, service or anecdote that is both interesting and timely without violating the privacy of an individual or showing insensitivity to a person, organization or belief? Postings by library staff will be subject to the Content Rules listed below for patrons.

Statement of Policy

Westminster Public Library’s (WPL) social software tools provide a limited (or designated) public forum to facilitate the sharing of ideas, opinions, and information about library-related subjects and issues. WPL has the right to moderate, edit, delete, move or close any comment at any time without warning or explanation.

Content Rules

Comments and posts containing the following content are unacceptable:

  • Intentionally misleading information, libelous or defamatory content
  • Verbal abuse, personal attacks, name-calling or harassment
  • Obscene or profane posts
  • Specific and imminent threats
  • Personally identifying information, such as last name, age, phone number, address
  • Personal information about other individuals
  • Commercial material, advertisements, chain letters, pyramid schemes and solicitations
  • Spam and multiple disruptive or repetitive messages
  • Off-topic or duplicate comments from the same individual
  • Post that reveals crucial plot elements or spoils the ending for others
  • Copyright violations

Comments and postings by library patrons do not necessarily reflect the official position of the City of Westminster, WPL, or its staff.All comments and posts are public record. Patrons are strongly encouraged to protect their privacy when commenting or posting on social software tools.

Privacy:

Facebook team members will obtain Photo Releases before any photos taken at library programs can be posted. Facebook team members will obtain permission/releases before posting content not created by library staff. Stories, conversations and anecdotes will not contain names or other information which may allow for identification of specific individuals not employed by the library.

Approved by PIO: April 2011

Mission Statement

The Westminster Public Library supports its mission of building community by connecting people with programs that are rooted in nature, wellness, and literacy in all its forms.

Purpose

The Library’s Programming Policy, approved by Library Services leadership, aligns with the Library’s philosophy of open access to information and ideas.The Westminster Public Library’s programs, events, and placemaking activities support our strategic initiatives, collection of materials, services, resources, and facilities. They also point to the City of Westminster’s goal of delivering exceptional value and quality of life through Service, Pride, Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation, and Teamwork (SPIRIT).

Scope

Programs will be designed and delivered to meet the following outcomes:

  • Provide a welcoming, enriching, and accessible patron experience
  • Reflect and respond to our diverse community
  • Promote the Library’s collections and resources
  • Provide opportunities for lifelong learning and literacy
  • Ensure that best practices are followed
  • Expand visibility and foster community understanding of the library
  • Provide entertainment

Programs serve the recreational, informational, and social needs of the general public and reflect equitable outreach and engagement within our diverse community.

The presentation of a program by, or on behalf of, the Library does not constitute Library or City of Westminster endorsement of the program’s content or the views expressed by any presenter(s) or participants. The Library upholds the individual choice of its patrons to engage with any and all ideas that are meaningful to them and supports their freedom to attend or not attend library programs and events at their discretion.

Criteria for program selection

The Library will, at its own sole discretion, select program presenters and topics from local, regional, and national talent, and will not exclude presenters from consideration because of their origin, or background. Criteria for program selection and design may include, but is not limited to:

  • Advancing the Library’s mission, vision, and values
  • Alignment with the Library Master Plan, PRL vision plan, and City of Westminster strategic plan
  • The needs and interests of the Westminster community
  • Current community demand for and/or frequency of participation in similar programs or events
  • Accuracy and timeliness of program content
  • Availability of similar programs or events elsewhere
  • Budgetary considerations
  • Impact and capacity of Library staff and/or community partners
  • Safety and security of patrons and staff

Library programs will be continuously evaluated to maintain programming vitality and usefulness to the community. The Library welcomes and encourages patron feedback about its programs, as this information can help identify gaps in offerings. Programs may be cancelled due to weather, low registration, or absence of the presenter. Cancelled programs will not necessarily be rescheduled.

Guiding documents

Professional

Updated 5/17/23

Westminster Public Library (WPL) welcomes every member of the community to use and enjoy the Library’s facilities, collections, programs, and services. This document defines expectations for behaviorfor all patrons regardless of age. These standards ensure that WPL can carry out its mission and ensuresthat no person or group is denied access to Library facilities or a safe and welcoming environment.

Library patrons are expected to:

  • Respect other patrons and library staff
  • Respect library property
  • Obey the law
  • Comply with requests from staff

Behavior becomes unacceptable when it infringes on the rights of others. Such behavior can lead to a patron being asked to leave the library. Refusal to leave upon request may result in revocation of library privileges and/or police involvement.

Examples of unacceptable behavior include:

  • Abuse/vandalism of library facilities, materials, or equipment
  • Child abuse
  • Excessive public displays of affection
  • Exhibitionism/flashing
  • Gambling
  • Harassment: physical, sexual, or verbal abuse of other library patrons or staff
  • Improper attire: patrons must be fully clothed and wearing shoes in the library
  • Intoxication/drugs or noticeable alcohol on breath
  • Littering
  • Loitering (includes refusing to leave at closing)
  • Obscene language
  • Personal grooming (bathing, washing clothes, etc.)
  • Photographing or recording video of other library patrons without permission
  • Screaming or running in library
  • Sleeping
  • Smoking (includes e-cigarettes, personal vaporizers, and electronic nicotine delivery systems)
  • Soliciting/panhandling
  • Strong odors that disturb others (body odor, food, perfume, etc.)
  • Unruly/offensive behavior
  • Use of AV devices or televisions without headphones
  • Voyeurism/peeping
  • Any other behaviors that disrupt library operations

The following may not be brought into the Library:

  • Any deadly weapon except as permitted by WMC 6-2-10
  • Animals except for service dogs or service miniature horses
  • Beverage coolers

Thank you for your courtesy and support of these policies.

Updated: Oct. 10. 2022

Everyone is expected to follow the Library Standards of Acceptable Behavior Policy while using Library Facilities.

  • To ensure a safe and pleasant environment for all patrons at the Westminster Public Library, children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult or otherwise qualified caretaker (as determined by library staff). An adult or responsible group leader must also accompany classes of children attending the library for the purpose of research, tours or programs. The adult/caregiver(s) must remain with the child throughout the visit.

  • Staff is not responsible for the safety or supervision of an unattended child under the age of 12. Reasonable efforts will be made to contact the parent or legal guardian of the child to pick up a child who is left unattended or is asked to leave the library because of unacceptable behavior. The library also reserves the right to notify the Westminster Police, or Social Services if the parent/guardian cannot be reached. At College Hill, Front Range Community College Security may also be notified.

  • If a patron under the age of 18 has been left at the library at closing time, the library staff may try to notify the parents or legal guardian. If no one can be reached, Front Range Community College Security may be notified if the patron is at the College Hill Library. At both the Irving Street Library and College Hill library, the Westminster Police may also be notified. In the event the police are notified, the police may inform a nearby patrol to pick up the patron to transport the patron to a safe location. The Westminster Dispatch number is 303-658-4360.

Library staff may make exceptions to any of the rules listed above, at their discretion.

  • College Hill Library and Irving Street Library hours: Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Saturday-Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Revised and approved by CAO in March 2014. Library hours updated 8/26/2022.

Wireless access at the College Hill Library is provided by Front Range Community College. The primary intention of this network is to provide wireless access for FRCC students, but it may be used by members of the public visiting the library also.

Requirements:

  • The library's wireless network is open to all visitors. No special encryption settings, user names, or passwords are required.
  • You will need a notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device with wireless networking enabled. le to purchase a variety of external notebook/laptop pc cards and USB devices. The manufacturer or supplier of your equipment, or local technology merchants can help you find the right product for your notebook/laptop computer or other device.

Network Settings:

Use the software that came with your wireless card or computer to configure the settings and to verify a connection to the library's wireless network. Library staff members are not able to provide technical assistance or configure your equipment to connect to the service. Patrons are responsible for knowing how to utilize wireless hot spot services.

Network name (SSID) - Search for the wireless network called: "Wolfnet" and connect.

Coverage areas:

  • We have tried to make wireless access as available as possible throughout the building, but you may encounter some "dead" spots where wireless reception may be limited. If you have trouble accessing the Internet or staying online please move to a different location within the library.

Limitations and Disclaimers:

  • The FRCC Student wireless network is unsupported and there are no guarantees of availability or bandwidth.
  • The FRCC Student wireless network is not a secure network and no encryption of transmitted data is provided. Information sent to and from your notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device may be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software. The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of your traffic across the wireless network, for files on your laptop resulting from connection to the wireless network, or for ensuring the security of your laptop/notebook computer or other wireless device. It is your responsibility to ensure adequate and up-to-date virus protection.
  • Printing is not available through the wireless network in the library.
  • No guarantee can be made as to the compatibility of your equipment with the library's wireless network or that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
  • Library staff members are not able to provide technical assistance or configure your equipment to connect to the service. Patrons are responsible for knowing how to utilize wireless hot spot services.
  • By choosing to use this free service, you agree to abide by the Library's Internet Acceptable Use policy. This policy states the limitations of Internet access, your responsibilities for using that access, and provides examples of acceptable and unacceptable uses.

Database Access:

For purposes of accessing our databases, your laptop will be treated as if you are on a workstation outside the library and you will need to login with your library barcode and PIN.

Updated: August 2022

The Library's wireless network is open to all visitors free of charge and without filters. Below are some guidelines to help make your wireless experience at the library successful.

Requirements:

  • The library's wireless network is open to all visitors. No special encryption settings, user names, or passwords are required.
  • You will need a notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device with wireless networking enabled. If you are not sure if your notebook/laptop computer or other device has this functionality, please check with the manufacturer or supplier of your equipment.

Network Settings:

Use the software that came with your wireless card or computer to configure the settings and to verify a connection to the library's wireless network. Patrons are responsible for making modifications to the settings on their own laptop/notebook computers.

Network name (SSID) - Search for the wireless network called: "library" and connect.

Coverage areas:

  • We have tried to make wireless access as available as possible throughout the building, but you may encounter some "dead" spots where wireless reception may be limited. If you have trouble accessing the Internet or staying online please move to a different location within the library.
  • The wireless network is also available on the library patio and may be available in portions of the park near the library.

Limitations and Disclaimers:

  • Library staff members are not able to provide technical assistance or configure your equipment to connect to the service. Patrons are responsible for knowing how to utilize wireless hot spot services.
  • Printing is not available through the wireless network in the library.
  • No guarantee can be made as to the compatibility of your equipment with the library's wireless network or that you will be able to make a wireless connection.
  • The wireless Internet access we offer is unfiltered and unsecured.
  • By choosing to use this free service, you agree to abide by the Library's Internet Acceptable Use policy. This policy states the limitations of Internet access, your responsibilities for using that access, and provides examples of acceptable and unacceptable uses.
  • Information sent to and from your notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device may be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software.
  • The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of your traffic across the wireless network, for files on your laptop resulting from connection to the wireless network, or for ensuring the security of your laptop/notebook computer or other wireless device. It is your responsibility to ensure adequate and up-to-date virus protection.

Database Access:

For purposes of accessing our databases, your laptop will be treated as if you are on a workstation outside the library and you will need to login with your library barcode and PIN.

Updated: October 2008