Objective
The Library employs video security cameras to ensure the physical security of the Library facility, staff and patrons.
Access to Digital Images
Recorded digital video images may contain personally identifiable information about an individual who has used any library service or borrowed any library materials, and will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users by the Library’s Confidentiality Policy.
Only the Director is authorized to access the recorded digital video images in pursuit of incidents of criminal activity or violation of the Library Policies.
General Public Requesting Access to Security Camera Footage
Confidentiality/privacy issues prohibit the general public from viewing security camera footage. If a member of the general public wishes to obtain a copy of video footage they should make the request to the Library Director.
Law Enforcement Requesting Access to Security Camera Footage
Law enforcement requests for security camera footage or still photographs shall be given to the Library Director when a subpoena, warrant, or court order is issued pursuant to law. Before complying with any such requests, legal counsel may be consulted to determine the proper response.
In the event of a search warrant, which is executable immediately, the Library will comply with the search warrant and consult with the Library Board President and/or legal counsel.
Retention of Digital Images
The Library avoids creating unnecessary records, retaining records not needed for the fulfillment of the mission of the Library, as well as practices that could place personally identifiable information on public view.
Recorded digital video images are stored digitally and accessible only with the proper login credentials. Images are kept for a limited period of time and are deleted as new data is recorded.
Security Camera Locations
Reasonable efforts are made to safeguard the privacy of library patrons and employees. The video security cameras are positioned to record only those areas specified by the Director, and will complement other measures to maintain a safe and secure environment in compliance with Library policies. Regarding the placement and use of the digital recording cameras, staff and patron safety is the first priority; protection of library property is of secondary importance.
Cameras may be installed in locations where staff and customers would not have an expectation of privacy. Cameras will not be installed in areas where staff and public have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms; nor are they deliberately positioned to identify a person’s reading, viewing, or listening activities in the library.
Cameras are not installed nor will they be used for the purpose of routine staff performance evaluations.
The recording of audio is restricted under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act and will not be used.
Use/Disclosure of Video Records
Video records and still photographs may be used by authorized individuals to identify those responsible for library policy violations, criminal activity on library property, or actions considered disruptive to normal library operations.
Video records and still records may be shared with authorized library employees or Trustees when appropriate to maintain a safe, secure and policy-compliant environment.
Under certain circumstances, individuals authorized under this policy may use a still photograph or selected portions of recorded data to request law enforcement review for assessing the security risk of a specific individual or for investigating a crime on library property.