Major Policy Categories

Areas covered by policies should include these topics: 

Library Operations

  • fines/fees
  • hours of operation
  • how people can use the library and its resources
  • library patron confidentiality
  • public access to resources 

Collection Development

  • why the library selects, accepts, or withdraws the materials it does for its collection 

Code of Conduct

  • ensuring a safe and welcoming environment in the library for everyone 

Personnel

  • in compliance with all applicable employment laws, these policies should cover everything that is entailed in a person’s employment and performance evaluation at the library. 

Legal Requirements and Standards

  • open meetings law
  • patron privacy
  • public library standards
  • public participation and public comment
  • public records requests

Does your policy manual or list include all or some of these topics?

What other policies might your library need to develop?