| Circulation | CIRCULATION PERIODS To renew items online, select My Account. Log in using your card number and PIN. If you enter your card number and PIN when you first logon to CobbCat, you do not have to keep entering it for each transaction. Select My Account and then Renew My Materials. Just put a check in the box next to each item you want to renew. If you want to renew everything, there is a box at the top for that. You can also renew from Review My Account by selecting “Click here to Renew titles.” FINES LIBRARY PRIVILEGES A library account is Blocked (privileges suspended) if $10.00 or more is owed on the account. Possible charges include fines for materials returned late, replacement fees for lost or damaged materials, Interlibrary Loan charges, or estimated fines for overdue materials. September 27, 2010 Link to PDF Printable Circulation Policy »  |
| Art and Exhibit | The Cobb County Public Library System provides display space for public art and exhibit as part of its mission to provide cultural enrichment for all people. In order to enrich patrons’ library experience, exhibits of paintings, photographs, sculpture, and other artworks, as well as displays of crafts, are encouraged for civic, cultural, educational, and recreational purposes. Application and Approval
Scheduling
Installation and Removal
Insurance
Publicity
Sale of Items
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Bulletin Board Postings and Giveaways | It is the policy of the Cobb County Public Library System to post and distribute only those materials that are produced by the library, the Library Foundation, or the Friends of the Library, by a government agency (local, state or federal) or a department of such an agency. Such materials include, but are not limited to pamphlets, flyers, and posters. Materials may be displayed for thirty days. The Director may grant an extension at his or her discretion. The approved entities, as designated above, are responsible for distributing their materials to each Cobb County Public Library facility. The enforcement of this policy may be appealed to the Cobb County Library System Board of Trustees. The decision of the Board will be binding Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Camera Monitoring Equipment Policy | The Cobb County Public Library System is committed to maintaining an environment that is safe and secure for library patrons and employees as well as maintaining the security of its facilities and property. The use of cameras to observe activities in Library facilities will enhance security and aid in protecting the safety of library patrons and library property. Signage disclosing this activity will be posted at the library’s entrance. The camera monitoring equipment may be installed on Library property as a tool to address specific security related problems. Authorized library staff will review the placement of monitoring equipment on an annual basis. Additional equipment will be installed when needed and as funds allow. The camera monitoring equipment will not be positioned in areas that would compromise personal privacy. The camera monitoring equipment will not record activity. Camera monitoring equipment will be utilized under the following conditions:
This policy is designed to make the library environment a safe place to visit and to keep the library facility, collection and equipment in good condition for all to use.
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Cell Phone and Other Electronic Devices | All electronic devices should be operated in a way that does not disturb others in the library. The following acceptable use of electronic devices is expected:
Library staff may intervene if a patron’s use of an electronic device is deemed as disruptive or loud. Staff may request that the patron lower the volume of device or voice, move to a designated area, end call, or turn off the device. This policy is to ensure that all patrons have a pleasant and comfortable visit to the library. Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Computer and Internet Use | The Internet is a vast resource that offers access to a wealth of information that can be personally, professionally, and culturally enriching to users of all ages. Because it is unregulated, it is possible to find some sites that can be considered inaccurate or offensive to some users or inappropriate for viewing by minors. The Library cannot be responsible for the content or accuracy of the information on the Internet or the statements, views, and opinions expressed there. Because this library receives federal funding for public Internet access, federal law requires the library to install blocking software on the library’s Internet computers. Adults 17 and over have the option of choosing unfiltered access at the time they sign on for an Internet session. An adult choosing unfiltered access to the Internet must declare that it is for lawful purposes. Computers in the Children’s Departments of the libraries will remain filtered regardless of the access level of the user. Computers in other areas of the libraries may remain filtered as well. No filter is totally effective and should not be relied on for complete protection, as it may not entirely prevent access to sites that parents may consider inappropriate for their children. Parents are therefore strongly encouraged to supervise their children’s use of the Internet. MINORS UNDER 17 MUST HAVE PARENTAL PERMISSION TO USE THE INTERNET. Before allowing a child to use the Internet, parents should learn as much as possible about it. A good resource, produced by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, is their website at www.missingkids.org. Users of the Internet are expected to obey all local, state and federal laws and the Computer Access and Internet Safety Policy of the Cobb County Public Library. Display of objectionable material or failure to abide by these laws and policies may result in loss of Internet privileges and/or expulsion from the Library and notification of law enforcement agencies. It is illegal under any circumstance to access any sites that violate the laws of the State of Georgia. There is a compelling State interest in restricting access to sites that promote obscenity or child pornography as defined in O.C.G.A 16-12-80 and O.C.G.A 16-12-100.2 or which are harmful to minors as defined in O.C.G.A 16-12-100.1. Public access computers are provided primarily for reference and research use. They are not intended to serve in the place of a personal computer. Time limits are necessary in order to allocate computer time fairly. POLICY ON USE OF LIBRARY COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET 1. Users must abide by all local, state and federal laws, including, but not limited to, those pertaining to obscenity (O.C.G.A. 16-12-80) and child pornography (O.C.G.A. 16-12-100.2) and information harmful to minors (O.C.G.A. 16-12-100.1). 2. Other prohibited uses include, but are not limited to:
Violation of these prohibited uses may result in loss of Internet privileges and/or expulsion from the Library and notification of law enforcement agencies 3. All computers in the libraries are filtered for inappropriately sexual or violent content. Those in the Children’s Departments and some in other areas will remain filtered regardless of level of access allowed on a user’s card. Any computer will be automatically filtered when accessed by a child under 17. 4. Adults 17 and over may choose unfiltered access when signing on to use an Internet computer and must declare that the use is for lawful purposes. 5. Minors under 17 must have parental permission to use the Internet, including email and chat rooms. 6. “CobbCat Only” and “Licensed Database Only” computers do not require parental permission as they are restricted to only those sites and do not have full access to the Internet. Young children should always be supervised by a parent or other responsible adult when using any library computer. 7. A Cobb County Public Library borrower’s card and PIN are required for signing up for and use of the Internet. Courtesy access is available for one 30-minute period per day for adults 17 and over that live outside the County. Name identification is required. Courtesy accounts are not permanent and are deleted after 30 days. Any money remaining on the account will be forfeited. Courtesy accounts can be renewed for an additional 30 days. 8. Library card holders may use computers for 30-minute or one-hour sessions depending on the demand at each library. Additional concurrent sessions may be allowed if no one is waiting, up to a total of two hours daily. Otherwise, the user must get on the waiting list for an available computer. Persons taking online tests, completing applications, or make use of computers for other special tasks that may require extended time should make their needs known to staff before they log on. Accommodations may be made for one day only, depending on demand at the time. 9. Some computers may be designated as “CobbCat Only” or restricted to GALILEO and other licensed reference databases and may not be used for other access to the Internet. “CobbCat Only” computers do not require signup. 10. Information may be printed at a cost of 15¢ per page, with the exception of “CobbCat Only” computers, which have free printing. 11. All printing must be pre-paid. 13. No more than two people may use an individual workstation at any one time.
WIRELESS NETWORK ACCESS
PUBLIC ACCESS SOFTWARE
ASSISTIVE SERVICES Computers with specialized software and scanners may be available at various locations. This software helps patrons with certain disabilities to use the Internet and other Library Resources. A scanner is provided so that patrons can make full use of the assistive software. The scanner can also be used for routine scanning jobs. Priorities for use of this specialized computer:
Other patrons may use this computer, subject to normal library policy, until it is needed by someone in the priority group. This computer can be booked in advance for use of the assistive software or to take an exam. Approved by Library Board of Trustees, June 24, 2002 |
| Exam Proctoring | As part of our mission to provide services in support of research, knowledge and cultural enrichment, the Cobb County Public Library proctors exams under the following guidelines: Approved: Library Board of Trustees Please complete the Proctoring Agreement Form, print and sign. |
| Interlibrary Loan Guidelines | Cobb County Public Library System (CCPLS) offers Interlibrary Loan (ILL) as a service to all library patrons with valid CCPLS library cards in good standing. All requests for loans must be in accordance with the National Interlibrary Loan Code. Purpose of Interlibrary Loan To obtain library materials not owned by CCPLS for CCPLS patrons. What items may be requested?
What items are not available?
Are there any charges?
How soon will the item arrive?
What is the loan period?
What are the late fees?
FULFILLING INTERLIBARY LOAN REQUESTS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS
What items may not be requested?
What is the loan period?
I understand that as a borrower, I am responsible for:
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Multipurpose Room Use | The Cobb County Public Library System provides multipurpose room space for library sponsored or co-sponsored programs as well as a service to the community for use by non-profit organizations and government or public education agencies. Priority for use will be given to library-related and county government programs and those co-sponsored by the Library. The libraries may set aside certain times for library-related programs. Permission to use the multipurpose rooms does not constitute an endorsement of an individual’s or group’s policies or viewpoints. Approval does not constitute a “co-sponsoring” relationship and should not be represented to the public as such. Eligible Organizations: Eligible community groups will be granted permission for use on a first-come, first-served and space available basis. Space may be reserved for such events as workshops, conferences, institutes, book discussions, training, touring exhibits, and programs. Examples of organizations and permitted uses are as follows: 1. Friends of the Library Reservations and Approvals: 1. An official of the requesting organization must complete an “Application for the Use of Multipurpose Rooms.” The room is not reserved until the application is completed and signed by the library manager and approved by the Program Coordinator. An application should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the meeting date. There is no “same day” approval. Telephone reservations will be held for 24 hours until a signed application is submitted.
3. To ensure that all groups have equal opportunity to reserve the room, on the first day of registration for the quarter, an organization may book only one meeting per week and no more than two meetings per month. Groups may not use a room more than 2 times in a week or 8 times in the month. Library’s Right to Cancel or Deny Use: The Library reserves the right to cancel or deny use of multipurpose room to an eligible group due to the following: Responsibility: 1. Smoking and open flames are not permitted in any library facility. Equipment: Use of library equipment must be requested when reserving a multipurpose room. Library staff is not available to work the equipment. 1. The following library equipment is provided at no charge at select facilities (call in advance):
The following equipment and supplies are not provided:
2. The library will assess fees if library equipment or property is damaged or if special cleaning is necessary after the meeting. This link will open the Cobb County Public Library System Meeting Room Application. » Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Multipurpose Room Fee | The Central, Mountain View Regional, South Cobb Regional, West Cobb Regional, and East Cobb libraries’ meeting rooms are available from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. The fee of $100.00 is applied to any meeting going one hour or any portion of the hour beyond the library’s normal closing hour for that day. The fee must be paid at the time of reservation. An additional fee of $100.00 will be charged for any portion of the hour a meeting goes beyond the prearranged one-hour after closing extension. A full refund will be given, if the reservation is canceled one week (7 business days) before the day of meeting or if cancelled by the library. If the Library is unable to permit the use of the room as reserved for operational or other reasons, every effort will be made to provide alternate reservations acceptable to the group. If the alternate is not acceptable, a full refund will be given. Meetings and events that are sponsored by the library or organizations that support the mission and goals of the library or are sponsored by the County, Federal or State agencies are exempt from meeting room fees. Guidelines for After Hour Meetings:
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Obtaining Your Library Card | A Cobb County Public Library (CCPLS) card may be obtained by visiting any of our library locations. Cobb County Public Library cards are free to all Cobb County residents as well as people who own property or businesses within Cobb County. CCPLS also issues library cards to schools (principals) and businesses (owners) in Cobb County, and current Cobb County employees. Only one card will be issued to the school or business. The person applying for the library card is responsible for all items checked out on the card. A Cobb County library card allows patrons to borrow library materials, use the library’s public access computers, request materials through Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service, and other Cobb County Public Library System services. A valid library card must be used to borrow library materials. If the patron has forgotten the card, photo identification or acceptable identification must be presented. Minor’s Cards Temporary Cards A parent or legal guardian may register a child for a temporary card. The parent or guardian’s library card must be in good standing without any outstanding fines or fees above $10.00. The parent or guardian is responsible for all fines and fees and lost or damaged materials charged on the card. The parent or legal guardian must authorize access to the Internet for any child under 17 years of age. Federal law requires this authorization; it must be given in person with the child’s registration being signed by the parent or legal guardian. ADA/Homebound Cards School Cards Business Cards Cobb County Employees Acceptable Forms of Identification Current Georgia driver’s license, permit, or identification card • Current utility bill At the time of application, patrons will be asked to provide a personal identification number (PIN) to assign to their library card for access to their library account. Patrons completing a library card application will also be provided the opportunity to register to vote. Library card applications are available at the public service desk in the library. However, a library card application may be downloaded from www.cobbcat.org and completed prior to visiting one of the CCPLS libraries. The completed application and an acceptable form of identification must be presented at the public service desk in order to complete the application process and to receive a library card and PIN (personal identification number). Renewal of Library Card Non-County Residents Lost or Stolen Library Cards Replacement Library Cards Change of Contact Information Please contact us at 770-528-2320 if you have any further questions about obtaining or renewing your library card. Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Rules for Patrons | The Cobb County Public Library exists for all who wish to read and study in peaceful, safe, and attractive surroundings. To ensure the maintenance of such a pleasant environment, and to protect the resources of the Library, the Library Board of Trustees has established the following rules defining appropriate behavior of those who use the library. In any facility of the Cobb County Public Library the following behaviors are not allowed:
The following behaviors in the Library are in violation of the Georgia Code:
Anyone violating Library Rules will be asked to stop the inappropriate behavior and/or asked to leave the Library premises. Violators who refuse to leave the Library may be arrested and prosecuted for criminal trespass (Official Code of GA 16-7-21). Anyone violating the Georgia Code, or any local laws or ordinances will be reported to the police without prior notice. Approved by the Library Board of Trustees -
February 23, 1998 |
| Selection | MISSION The Cobb County Public Library System is a place… • Where we welcome and encourage all people in their enjoyment of reading and their pursuit for lifelong learning. GOALS
PURPOSE OF POLICY Apply the Library's Goals to Collection Development Due to space and budget limitations, hard decisions must be made daily on what materials to put into and retain in the collection. Staff working closely with the process need guidance to assist them in developing a collection that meets the goals of the Library Board and the community. Guide the Expenditure of Resources There are many worthy materials competing for library resources, far more than the library can afford to add. This policy will assist staff in making decisions to make the best use of the resources to meet the Library's goals. Delegate Responsibility for Selection and Maintenance Collection development is one of the most important responsibilities of the library staff. This policy divides that responsibility among the appropriate positions. DESCRIPTION OF THE COMMUNITY The population of Cobb County is relatively affluent and well-educated. Among the largest employers are school districts, the aerospace industry, entertainment/tourist and retail business. The population is estimated to be 714,692 (2009 U.S. Census estimation), more than double the 1980 population. 7.8% are under 5 years of age, 7.4% 5-9 years, 26.3 under 18 years of age, and 9.2 over 65. The racial breakdown is 69.7% White, 23.8% African-American, and 4.2% Asian. Nearly 12% of the population is Hispanic. There are significant populations from Eastern Europe, Africa and Haiti as well as Latin America and Asia LIBRARY HISTORY/DESCRIPTION Public library service for Cobb County began at the end of the nineteenth century and was provided by various community libraries. The Cobb County Library was established in 1948 by the Cobb County Board of Education. The Library was later given an independent governing board and, in 1969, became a department of Cobb County government. All of the former community libraries, with the exception of the Smyrna Library, became part of the Cobb County Library System. Additional branches have been opened through the years and continue to be established in an attempt to bring convenient library service to all parts of the county. The Library system consists of a central library, three regional branches and thirteen additional branches. SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS Selection Philosophy The Cobb County Public Library follows a policy of selectivity based on the goals of the library system, the roles of the individual libraries, the scopes of their collections, and knowledge of community needs and interests as demonstrated in library use. The Library cannot acquire, accept, or retain unlimited book and non-book materials. The importance of wise selection has grown in proportion to the increase in the volume of available materials and the cost of acquiring, cataloging, housing and maintaining them. The Library's funding level necessitates a basic test for selection: is the material of proven or potential interest to the people served. Emphasis is placed on those items likely to be utilized by the greatest number of people, rather than on very specialized items or those made redundant by other resources. Books have always been, and will continue to be, essential to library services. But as even greater amounts of information are made available in other formats, the Library must also allocate funds to integrate these into its services. We strive to balance selection based on material quality and customer demand in order to provide a collection that is diverse and responsive to the needs of our whole community. Emphasis is placed on bestsellers and popular reading, as influenced by popular culture, and requests from library users are given high priority. The Library strives to collect the best of current literature recommended by professional sources for public library collections. The Library recognizes and adheres to the principle of Intellectual Freedom as embodied in the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. The collection of materials is designed to fulfill the ideal of a marketplace of ideas. Although librarians need not endorse every idea or presentation contained in the materials they make available, they have responsibility for selecting materials to ensure that a wide variety of viewpoints are represented and that materials are not added or removed from the collection for partisan or doctrinal reasons. Items are not excluded from the Library because of the race, nationality or social, political or religious views, or personal affiliations of the author. Items are not excluded because they contain language, illustrations, or ideas offensive to some persons. The Library does not affix prejudicial labels to items or segregate materials some people might find objectionable. Institutional self-censorship diminishes the credibility of the library in the community, and restricts access for all library users. The selection and development of library resources should not be diluted because of minors having access to all library resources. The responsibility for choosing materials lies with the individual adult or the parent or guardian of minors. Librarians may offer guidance to minors in selecting materials; nevertheless, it is the sole responsibility of parents or legal guardians to monitor children's use of all library resources. The sole exception is that according to the Federal Children's Internet Protection Act, minors under 17 have only filtered access to the Internet. The Library subscribes to the Library Bill of Rights (Appendix IV) and the Freedom to Read statements (Appendix V.) Public feedback regarding collections and suggestions for new materials are welcome, as these help staff to gauge the effectiveness of their selections and to identify community interests. The staff considers all requests for purchase, evaluating them according to selection criteria, usefulness to the collection and the community, and budget considerations. Floating Collection Materials ‘float’ freely among system libraries rather than being ‘owned’ by a specific location. When a patron returns a circulating item, it is shelved at the location where it was returned instead of being sent back to the location from which it was checked out. Upon check-in, the location is automatically updated in the library catalog to show where it now resides. Only materials patrons actually want to use pass through delivery. To libraries, floating has many benefits. They will be able to respond faster to public demand, provide more equitable access to materials, stretch the materials budget, reduce ergonomic strain on staff, and dramatically cut the volume of delivery among libraries. Responsibility for Selection The Board of Trustees of the Cobb County Library System determines the Collection Development Policy for the Library system. The responsibility for administering this policy rests with the Director of the Library and the Associate Director Technical Operations and Collection Development Services. Under the Associate Director, the Collection Development Librarian coordinates Selection Teams of adult and youth services librarians who specialize in particular subject or genre areas of the collection. The Selection Teams are responsible for coordinating selection activities within their Dewey/Genre Ranges and promoting consistency in the development and maintenance of all collections. Using information such as popular trends, input from public service librarians and circulation statistics, the Selection Teams evaluate use of collections and identify areas needing development. They review selection recommendations from the staff and the public, monitor demand for materials in order to provide for timely acquisition, and make recommendations regarding retention and replacement of materials. The authority and responsibilities of the Head of Technical Operations/Collection Development Librarian/Head of Youth and Media Services consists of the following:
Selection is a discerning and interpretive process, involving a general knowledge of the subject and its important literature, a familiarity with the materials in the collection, an awareness of the bibliographies of the subject, and recognition of the needs of the community. Librarians apply their judgment and experience in selecting materials according to specific criteria. Not all criteria apply to each item:
Selectors should choose materials that will build a well-rounded collection which includes all viewpoints and opinions and which will meet patrons' needs. Minors Cobb County Public Library System recognizes the role of the parent or legal guardian in supervising the borrowing choices made by a minor child. The selection and development of library resources should not be restricted by the possibility of minors having access to all library resources. The responsibility for choosing materials lies with the individual adult or the parent or guardian of minors. Librarians may offer guidance to minors in selecting materials; nevertheless, it is the sole responsibility of parents or legal guardians to monitor their children’s use of all library resources. The sole exception is that according to the Federal Children’s Internet Protection Act, minors under 17 have only filtered access to the Internet. Materials one chooses for reading, listening or viewing is a private matter and the Official Code of Georgia Annotated 24-9-46 protects the confidentiality of all circulation records. Selection Tools Selection tools are objective sources of information that provide an assessment of the material in question regarding quality, authority, timeliness, format, reading level and other criteria that determine suitability for public library collections. These tools include but are not limited to library professional review sources, including Library Journal, School Library Journal, Booklist, Choice, Voya, Horn Book and Publisher’s Weekly. Frequently, nationally recognized newspapers, periodicals, and other recognized media sources are consulted. Some vendors have a reputation of providing quality lists of titles suitable for public libraries. Recommended reading lists from professional or educational organizations may be consulted. Catalogs of publishers recognized for producing high quality materials in specialty areas may also be utilized. More specialized review sources may be mentioned in their respective collection development profiles. Scope The scope of the Cobb County Public Library collection refers to the formats offered, the treatment, and the level of difficulty. Materials selected for the Library collection are intended to meet the cultural, informational, educational, and recreational needs of the residents of Cobb County. The collection is intended to provide only supplemental materials for individuals pursuing educational programs and to provide a beginning point for those involved in independent study or research. Materials are primarily evaluated for their interest and value to the community as a whole, and only secondarily for their usefulness in meeting demand from area students. The Library does not attempt to acquire materials that duplicate holdings in school media centers or college, technical school or special libraries in the community. Textbooks are included when they are the best source available on a subject, when useful to those doing independent study, or when they give a valuable overview of a subject, but they are not added in support of a specific curriculum. The collection is intended to offer a choice of format, treatment, and level of difficulty so that most individual library needs can be met and service given to individuals of all ages, within current budget parameters and constraints. Materials intended for professionals in a field may be bought when general introductory and intermediate level materials already exist in the collection and when demand warrants, providing continuity in development of a popular subject. Highly specialized materials are not generally purchased. The collection is not archival, and is reviewed and revised on an on-going basis to meet contemporary needs. Except for the Georgia Room, the Library does not maintain items for historical purposes. As a rule, rare books are not purchased or accepted, and little effort is made to obtain out-of-print titles. Self-published works are not collected, except in rare cases of local or genealogical interest. Newsletters, school yearbooks, and minutes or scrapbooks of civic or cultural groups cannot be accommodated. Documents legally required to be available for public viewing are accepted. The Library does not purchase abridgements, adaptations, or condensations, except in the case of certain quality abridgements prepared by the authors of the original works, adaptations that have a high literary reputation and those condensations prepared by writers of scholarly or literary note. Exceptions are also made in the case of recorded books. Teachers’ editions and students’ editions of works are not collected. Formats Materials are purchased in the most appropriate format for Library use. Books are generally purchased in hardcover editions because of their durability. Paperbacks may be purchased as added copies of popular titles to meet patron demand or if it is the only available edition of a high demand title. Library editions are purchased for heavily used titles in the Youth Services Department because of their durability. The Library recognizes the value of non-print formats in the collection as legitimate educational and recreational resources for the community it serves. Print, electronic, and audiovisual materials are collected. The Library monitors the development of new formats, and within budgetary and technical limitations, adds these to the collection. All new formats, electronic or otherwise, will be evaluated based on: appropriateness to the Library’s goals and appropriateness for a library collection. This includes but is not limited to:
DESCRIPTION OF COLLECTIONS Adult Fiction This collection consists of classics of literature, popular best sellers, critically acclaimed first time authors’ works and general fiction, including genres (mysteries, romances, westerns, etc.) The primary purpose of the Adult Fiction is to meet the heavy demand of adult recreational readers for popular, new titles. The materials selected for this collection are intended for individuals at the seventh grade level and above. Current bestsellers will be purchased in multiple copies to meet demand as funds allow. Selected fiction is added to meet the needs of those patrons with scholarly interest. Classic and popular authors from other countries are included in English translation when demand dictates. In addition to recreational reading, the needs of the student population in area public, private, and adult educational institutions influence selection. Adult Nonfiction The library acquires materials of both permanent and current interest in a wide variety of subjects, based upon the merits of a work in relation to the needs, interests, and demands of the community. Each item is evaluated in its entirety and not on the basis of a particular section. The Adult Nonfiction consists of materials meant to meet the needs of the community’s diverse informational, educational, and recreational pursuits. This collection is designed for grades 6 through adult. Works in nonfiction are selected in a variety of formats as funds allow. Textbooks in general are not selected unless they provide the best overall introduction to a subject or are the only available print source on a subject. An effort is made to meet as much of the demand of local school curriculum as possible. The library is not able and does not attempt to purchase copies of all titles from students’ reading lists. Adult Reference Reference materials, whether in print or computer-based formats, are those designed by the arrangement and treatment of their subject matter to be consulted for definite items of information rather than to be read consecutively. General works or works that broadly cover a subject area are collected. Books in the reference area are designed to be used in the library. Materials suitable for use by upper elementary students through undergraduate college level are purchased for the general subject areas such as history, language, science, sociology, psychology and literature. Some titles found in the reference collection are duplicated in the circulating collection where demand warrants and funds allow. The reference collection may also serve as a depository of government or public documents when so requested by a government agency. Ephemeral notices for public meetings or actions and their supporting documentation will be maintained at the Central Library until the meeting has occurred or the comment period for the action has passed. Periodicals Periodicals are publications issued and received on a regular basis in print, microfilm, or electronic format. The periodical collection is a well-balanced collection of magazines, newspapers, and newsletters covering a broad range of subjects to serve the informational, educational, and recreational needs of the community. Foreign language and culture-based periodicals are included to serve the Library’s diverse population. The retention of periodicals is determined by demand, availability of indexing, physical durability of the magazine or newspaper, space, and the continuing usefulness of the content. Availability of a full-text in a subscription database will influence retention decisions. Juvenile and Young Adult Collections The Juvenile Collection includes materials appropriate for children birth through sixth grade and their adult caregivers. The Young Adult Collection consists of fiction materials for seventh grade through twelfth grade. Non-fiction materials are included in the adult collection. Both collections also serve teachers and students studying education and literature. Because of the varying backgrounds and abilities of children and young adults, a wide range of sophistication and reading levels must be covered. In hopes of encouraging the young person's critical ability through reading, and in support of the child's exploration of the world of ideas and information, a wide variation in themes, perspective, viewpoints, and formats is offered. Items in these collections will attempt to achieve a reasonable balance between current popular fiction, classics and award winning critically acclaimed material. Titles in the collections will be selected based on their probable appeal to young people, on their literary merit as indicated in reviews, and on appropriateness of their content for this age group. Generally only titles receiving favorable reviews are considered, however, books may be added because of popular demand. While the public library collection is not designed to support the school curriculum, care is taken to add materials that are in high demand. However, not all titles on reading lists can be supplied. A limited number of duplicate copies of titles that are often required reading for students can be purchased. Final responsibility for a young person's selection of library materials shall rest with the parent or guardian, as the Library cannot serve in loco parentis. Professional Collection The Professional Collection of the Cobb county Library System was established many years ago to assist library staff to keep abreast of developments in their fields. Materials for the collection are chosen in a variety of formats in the subject areas of Library and Information Science and related areas. Cobb County Public Library System facilitates access to information which enables CCPLS employees to enhance their knowledge and skills to deliver quality library services. Media Collections The Cobb County Public Library system collects materials in multiple media formats for patrons of all ages. The same breakdown in levels used for print materials (Adult, Young Adult, and Juvenile) is also used for media. Selection of media follows the same criteria for print, with an emphasis on the recreational needs of Cobb County. The Library System actively collects the following media formats:
Discontinued or low interest media formats will be maintained by the Library System as long as it is deemed appropriate. New media formats will be considered within current budget parameters and constraints. Electronic Resources The availability of online electronic resources greatly enhances the Cobb County Public Library System’s ability to meet the needs of the residents of Cobb County. Staff evaluation will be a primary part of the selection process for electronic resources. Availability of access for patrons is also important with a preference for unlimited remote access. When cost effective, electronic resources will be used to replace existing print reference collections. Downloadable audiobooks and ebooks will be purchased to mainly meet the recreational needs of Cobb County residents. Downloadable materials will be purchased in industry standard formats such as WMA and MP3 for audiobooks and ePub and PDF for ebooks. New formats will be considered within current budget constraints. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS GEORGIA ROOM Responsibility for Selection Under the Central Library Manager, the Georgia Room Head Librarian is responsible for selecting materials for the Georgia Room collection. Scope The Georgia Room, located at the Central Library, is a genealogical and historical collection. The purpose of the Georgia Room is to develop and maintain an in depth collection of materials having lasting historical and genealogical value to support the informational, educational and research needs of its users which consist of students, historians, genealogists and Cobb citizens as well as visitors. Material concerning Cobb County and Georgia will be of primary importance, with an emphasis on genealogical and historical materials relating to the southeastern United States. Geographic and subject coverage of these materials reflect and support the migration patterns of movement to and from Georgia. The collection also includes national genealogical and historical resources including selected Northern sources. Historical materials selected reflect diverse points of view. These materials include church histories, state and county histories, personal narratives, diaries and letters or any other accounts of events which have affected the history of the United States including records documenting United States military involvement since the Revolutionary War with a concentration on the Civil War. Formats Most of the materials in the Georgia Room collection are in book form. Other formats include maps, photographs, microforms, clippings, unbound papers and documents. The collection does not include realia (three-dimensional, real life objects such as textiles, specimens, badges, emblems, insignia, etc.) FOREIGN LANGUAGE The Central Library currently maintains collections languages such as Spanish, Chinese, and Russian. Small collections of other languages have been purchased with the intent of continuing to build them according to demand. The collections include juvenile and adult materials. Other languages will be added as interest, budget, and space warrant and when acquisition and cataloging support are available. LITERACY The Library recognizes its role in promoting literacy in the community. Frequently, in partnership with community literacy agencies, the Library targets services to people learning English through outreach programming in an attempt to connect people with resources and develop familiarity with library use. ESOL and literacy collections are maintained at the Central Library. Other branches may house small collections based on the needs of the community they serve.
Donations of Materials The Library welcomes all gifts and donations with the understanding that they will be considered for addition to the collection in accordance with the Materials Selection Policy. All gifts and donations become the property of Cobb County Public Library and will not be returned to the donor. The Library reserves the right to sell or otherwise dispose of gift materials not added to the collection. The Library also reserves the right to withdraw donated materials from the collection when they are no longer appropriate under the collection policy. Donations are used as additional copies when demand warrants the cost of processing and housing them. Rarely is a single copy of any title added to the collection. The Library cannot give appraisals of gifts and donations for tax purposes. Monetary Donations Monetary donations to the library are greatly appreciated. The Library will use monetary gifts for the purpose for which they were given in accordance with the Materials Selection Policy. The Collection Development Librarian will select appropriate materials when no specific purpose is stated. If a donation is made by an individual, group, foundation or business, the library will keep account of that donation and make every effort to expend the money as indicated by the donor. Cash donations to the library can be made at any library branch. SELF PUBLISHED BOOKS The Library wishes to recognize the literary efforts of local Cobb County authors by including one donated copy of their work in our New Cobb Authors collection when possible. Self-published books are too varied in nature and so prolific in number that CCPLS does not have the resources to review all those submitted to us. Therefore, due to limitations on staff time, we cannot discuss individual titles with authors. Other than local Cobb County authors, self-published or subsidized books are not added to the collection. Authors must submit requests to add their works to our collection in writing (Appendix II). These materials will go through standard selection procedures. This applies to self-published or subsidized materials as well as those published through mainstream publishers. The Library bears no responsibility for the marketing of the author's work. The Library will not act on the author's behalf as a literary agent, reviewer, proofreader, publisher, editor, publicist or bookseller. Book signings by authors whose works are in the Cobb County Library collection are conducted at the invitation of the Friends of the Library. Authors may contact the Friends for more information. Any material submitted for consideration becomes the property of Cobb County Public Library System whether or not it is added to the collection and will not be returned to the donor. Cobb County Public Library reserves the right to sell or otherwise dispose of such materials not added to the collection. The Library reserves the right to withdraw donated materials from the collection when they are no longer appropriate under the collection policy. WEEDING POLICY Weeding (also known as deselection) is an essential element of collection development that ensures the library’s materials are useful and accessible. Every library’s collection is limited by the space available to house it, and collections should change over time to reflect changes in the community, society-at-large, and the library’s goals. Weeding is a periodic or continual evaluation of resources intended to remove items that are no longer useful from the collection. It is the policy of the Cobb County Public Library System that weeding is done on a continuous basis throughout the year. INTERLIBRARY LOAN Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is not a substitute for collection development, but is meant to expand the range of materials available to library users without needlessly duplicating the resources of other libraries. ILL may not be used for any title that is on order. ILL requests for titles that have been requested at least three times in a year are considered for purchase. Extra consideration is given to requests for titles published within the last six months, because CCPLS ILL policy prohibits requests for materials published within 12 months of the request. Titles requested by patrons and considered for purchase but which do not fit the scope of the collection, are too old, out-of-date, or out-of-print are sent back to the patron with a recommendation to try ILL. MULTIPLE COPIES CCPLS will buy multiple copies of titles that have high patron demand. In subject areas where patron demand is extremely high, the Library will also buy additional copies. Number of copies purchased is based on patron demand, anticipated demand, and circulation of similar titles already in the system. STANDING ORDERS Titles on standing order can include reference books, travel books, college guides, test review books, large print, and other annual series. Keeping the latest edition of materials on standing order in the collection is essential. Selected juvenile series and adult bestsellers are also on standing order. The standing order and automatic continuation titles will be evaluated annually by the Associate Director of Branch Services, Head of Reference, and Collection Development Librarian. Titles may be cancelled, new titles added, or the number of copies adjusted to accommodate patron interest and demand. RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS The Library recognizes and adheres to the principle of Intellectual Freedom as embodied in the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. The collection of materials is designed to fulfill the ideal of a marketplace of ideas. Although librarians need not endorse every idea or presentation contained in the materials they make available, they have responsibility for selecting materials to ensure that a wide variety of viewpoints are represented and that materials are not added or removed from the collection for partisan or doctrinal reasons. Items are not excluded from the Library because of the race, nationality or social, political or religious views, or personal affiliations of the author. Items are not excluded because they contain language, illustrations, or ideas offensive to some persons. The Library does not affix prejudicial labels to items or segregate materials some people might find objectionable, nor are materials sequestered except to protect them from theft. Institutional self-censorship diminishes the credibility of the library in the community, and restricts access for all library users. Public feedback regarding collections and suggestions for new materials are welcome, as these help staff to gauge the effectiveness of their selections and to identify community interests. The Library welcomes patron feedback on specific materials but will be governed by this Materials Selection Policy in making additions to or deleting materials from the collection. Please complete and sign the Request to Reconsider Library Materials (Appendix I). If you are dissatisfied with this decision, you may appeal for a hearing before the Board of Trustees by making a written request to the President of the Board. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to limit the length of presentation and number of speakers at the hearing. The Board will determine whether the request for reconsideration has been handled in accordance with stated policies and procedures of the Cobb County Public Library. On the basis of this determination, the Board may vote to uphold or override the decision of the Director.
Cobb County Public Library Request initiated by (your name): ___________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________ City: ______________________________ State: _______ Zip: ___________ Phone: ____________________________ Title: ___________________________________________________________ Author: _________________________ Publisher: _______________________ This is a: ____book ___magazine ___recording ___video ___other: ________ Do you represent: 1. To what in the work do you object (please be specific; cite page numbers): 2. Did you read/view/listen to the entire work? ____yes ____no 4. For what age group would you recommend this work? 7. What would you like the Library to do about this work? 8. What work would you recommend in place of this material? Signature _________________________________ Date _____________ Branch: _____________________________Staff:___________________ Please return to nearest Cobb County Public Library branch. Appendix II Submitting Your Book to Cobb County Public Library’s Cobb County Public Library offers a small display area at the Central Library for local authors who want their work sampled by library users. This collection is designed to give new and emerging writers, especially those whose books are not yet widely reviewed or stocked by libraries and bookstores, an opportunity to be read by their friends and neighbors. Please note the following guidelines for the New Cobb County Authors Collection: Due to the volume of self-published and print-on-demand titles available, the library does not purchase these books. However, copies donated by the author or publisher are considered for the New Cobb County Authors collection at the Library’s discretion. Books for this collection are chosen by the Library’s Selection Committee. Space limitations may prevent all titles from being approved for display. Authors must be current Cobb County residents, or the book must take place in Cobb County, or otherwise demonstrate a strong local interest. Books chosen will be cataloged and shelved for one year. At the end of this time, they may be rotated out of the collection to make room for newer selections. All books submitted for this collection become the property of Cobb County Public Library. Library staff is unable to offer advice or criticism to authors, and cannot review or edit works. To submit your book for consideration, please complete the following: Book Title: ________________________________________________________ Author’s name: ____________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ Local contact number: ________________E-mail: ________________________ Attach reviews, publicity materials, or other supplementary information if available. Please send one copy of your book, along with a completed copy of this form to: ATTN: Collection Development Librarian Thank you for your interest in making your book available through the Library. Appendix III O.C.G.A. § 24-9-46 *** Current Through the 2010 Regular Session *** TITLE 24. EVIDENCE O.C.G.A. § 24-9-46 (2011) § 24-9-46. Confidential nature of certain library records (a) Circulation and similar records of a library which identify the user of library materials shall not be public records but shall be confidential and may not be disclosed except: (1) To members of the library staff in the ordinary course of business; (2) Upon written consent of the user of the library materials or the user's parents or guardian if the user is a minor or ward; or (3) Upon appropriate court order or subpoena. Adopted June 19, 1939. APPENDIX V The freedom to read is essential to our democracy. It is continuously under attack. Private groups and public authorities in various parts of the country are working to remove or limit access to reading materials, to censor content in schools, to label "controversial" views, to distribute lists of "objectionable" books or authors, and to purge libraries. These actions apparently rise from a view that our national tradition of free expression is no longer valid; that censorship and suppression are needed to avoid the subversion of politics and the corruption of morals. We, as citizens devoted to reading and as librarians and publishers responsible for disseminating ideas, wish to assert the public interest in the preservation of the freedom to read. Creative thought is by definition new, and what is new is different. The bearer of every new thought is a rebel until that idea is refined and tested. Totalitarian systems attempt to maintain themselves in power by the ruthless suppression of any concept that challenges the established orthodoxy. The power of a democratic system to adapt to change is vastly strengthened by the freedom of its citizens to choose widely from among conflicting opinions offered freely to them. To stifle every nonconformist idea at birth would mark the end of the democratic process. Furthermore, only through the constant activity of weighing and selecting can the democratic mind attain the strength demanded by times like these. We need to know not only what we believe but why we believe it. Publishers and librarians serve the educational process by helping to make available knowledge and ideas required for the growth of the mind and the increase of learning. They do not foster education by imposing as mentors the patterns of their own thought. The people should have the freedom to read and consider a broader range of ideas than those that may be held by any single librarian or publisher or government or church. It is wrong that what one can read should be confined to what another thinks proper. No art or literature can flourish if it is to be measured by the political views or private lives of its creators. No society of free people can flourish that draws up lists of writers to whom it will not listen, whatever they may have to say. To some, much of modern expression is shocking. But is not much of life itself shocking? We cut off literature at the source if we prevent writers from dealing with the stuff of life. Parents and teachers have a responsibility to prepare the young to meet the diversity of experiences in life to which they will be exposed, as they have a responsibility to help them learn to think critically for themselves. These are affirmative responsibilities, not to be discharged simply by preventing them from reading works for which they are not yet prepared. In these matters values differ, and values cannot be legislated; nor can machinery be devised that will suit the demands of one group without limiting the freedom of others. The ideal of labeling presupposes the existence of individuals or groups with wisdom to determine by authority what is good or bad for the citizen. It presupposes that individuals must be directed in making up their minds about the ideas they examine. But Americans do not need others to do their thinking for them. It is inevitable in the give and take of the democratic process that the political, the moral, or the aesthetic concepts of an individual or group will occasionally collide with those of another individual or group. In a free society individuals are free to determine for themselves what they wish to read and each group is free to determine what it will recommend to its freely associated members. But no group has the right to take the law into its own hands, and to impose its own concept of politics or morality upon other members of a democratic society. Freedom is no freedom if it is accorded only to the accepted and the inoffensive. The freedom to read is of little consequence when the reader cannot obtain matter fit for that reader's purpose. What is needed is not only the absence of restraint, but the positive provision of opportunity for the people to read the best that has been thought and said. Books are the major channel by which the intellectual inheritance is handed down, and the principal means of its testing and growth. The defense of the freedom to read requires of all publishers and librarians the utmost of their faculties, and deserves of all citizens the fullest of their support. We state these propositions neither lightly nor as easy generalizations. We here stake out a lofty claim for the value of the written word. We do so because we believe that it is possessed of enormous variety and usefulness, worthy of cherishing and keeping free. We realize that the application of these propositions may mean the dissemination of ideas and manners of expression that are repugnant to many persons. We do not state these propositions in the comfortable belief that what people read is unimportant. We believe rather that what people read is deeply important; that ideas can be dangerous; but that the suppression of ideas is fatal to a democratic society. Freedom itself is a dangerous way of life, but it is ours. This statement was originally issued in May of 1953 by the Westchester Conference of the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers Council, which in 1970 consolidated with the American Educational Publishers Institute to become the Association of American Publishers. Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Self-Published Books | The Library receives numerous requests from local authors to add their books which they have self-published, or published at their own expense through companies such as PublishAmerica. Although this type of publishing is experiencing rapid growth, these books often do not meet the requirements outlined in the Materials Selection Manual to be candidates for the permanent collection. They typically have not received reviews in standard published sources, and may not meet the criteria that the Library normally sets for inclusion in its collections. The Library wishes to support local authors while maintaining the standards needed in its permanent collections. RECOMMENDATION: The Library will establish a Local Authors shelf in one or more branches. Guidelines for placement on the shelf are as follows:
Approved: Library Board of Trustees Link to PDF Printable New Cobb County Authors Submission Form » |
| Social Media Use Policy | Social media includes web-based and mobile based technologies which are used to turn communication into interactive dialogue among organizations, communities, and individuals. Social media has been defined as "a group of Internet-based applications that build on the ideological and technological foundations of Web 2.0, and that allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content."[1] Examples of social media include Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. The intended purpose of all social media sites is to serve as a mechanism for communication between the Cobb County Public Library System and members of the public. To address the fast-changing landscape of the Internet and the way residents communicate and obtain information online, the Cobb County Public Library System (CCPLS) is using social media tools to reach a broader audience. The CCPLS encourages the use of social media tools to further the goals of the system, where appropriate. Policy All Cobb County Public Library System social media sites will be subject to approval by the Director. The Cobb County Public Library System website (www.cobbcat.org) will remain the primary and predominant Internet presence.
Designated library system staff will be responsible for the content and upkeep of any social media sites created. CCPLS social media sites shall comply with all appropriate Cobb County policies and standards, including but not limited to: CCPLS social media sites are subject to State of Georgia public records laws. Any content maintained in a social media format that is related to county business is public record. By posting any comments or other material on Cobb County Public Library System social media networks or hosted domains, users give the Cobb County Public Library System the irrevocable right to reproduce, distribute, publish, display, edit, modify, and otherwise use your submission for any purpose in any form and on any media. Users agree that they will not:
CCPLS social media site articles and comments containing any of the following forms of content shall not be allowed:
The Cobb County Public Library System reserves the right (but is not obligated) to do any or all of the following:
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Study Room Use | The Cobb County Public Library System provides space at the Central, Regional and East Cobb Libraries for individual or small groups engaged in quiet study, work or group projects. The study rooms are available during regular library hours.
Approved: Library Board of Trustees |
| Unattended Children | The Cobb County Public Library System welcomes and encourages children to visit the Library, use Library resources and services, and attend Library programs in a safe environment.
Approved by the Library Board of Trustees -
September 26, 2011 |