Fuller Public Library
Security Camera Policy
Purpose
Security cameras were installed in the Fuller Public Library to protect the safety and security of people, the Building, and its contents, while protecting individual’s right to privacy. Only authorized Library staff may view recordings.
Placement of Cameras
Video recording cameras will be used in the public spaces of the Library to discourage criminal activity and violations of the Library’s Code of Conduct policy.
Cameras may be installed in outdoor and indoor places where individuals lack a reasonable expectation of privacy. For example: library common areas such as entrances, seating areas, service desks, and areas prone to theft or misconduct. Cameras will not be installed in private areas such as the restrooms or private offices.
Signs are posted in the library informing the public and staff that security cameras are in use.
The security cameras are not constantly monitored, staff and the public should take precautions for their safety and security of their personal property. Fuller Public Library is not responsible for the loss of property or personal injury.
Storage and Access to Recorded Data
Recorded data is stored in a confidential and secured area. Video recordings will typically be stored for a short amount of time. As new images are recorded, the oldest images are deleted.
Video surveillance records will not be used to identify the activities of individual Library patrons except as viewed in relation to a specific event or suspected criminal activity, suspected violation of Library policy, or incidents where there is reasonable basis to believe a claim may be made against the Library in a civil liability.
Authorized Library staff may use a still shot 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.
Video data may be made available to law enforcement officials upon written request with approval of authorized Library staff. The Library will retain a copy of the request. Recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users and the Library’s policies with respect thereto.
Patrons who experience a crime such as theft of personal possessions while at the Library must submit a report to law enforcement. Members of the public will not be granted access to recorded data in this case; this access must be requested, in writing, by law enforcement.
In situations involving banned patrons, stored images may be shared with staff Library-wide. Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff areas for the duration of the banning period. The general public will not have access to this information.
Unauthorized Access and/or Disclosure
A breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Any library employee who becomes aware of any unauthorized disclosure of a video recording and/or potential privacy breach has a responsibility to immediately inform the Director.
Disclaimer of Responsibility
Questions from the public may be directed to the Library Director
The Library disclaims any liability for use of the video data in accordance with the terms of this policy, given that the library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.
Approved 7/11/2022