Appointment Policy (PDF)

Library Mission

The mission of the Union County Library is to inspire our residents to explore, create, and learn.

Library Vision

Union County Library will be at the heart of our community's educational and cultural interests by enriching the lives of all people through diverse services and innovative programming.

Purpose

The Appointment Policy, approved by the Library Board of Trustees, outlines the Union County Library’s policy regarding requesting and booking appointments across the Library’s service areas.

General Appointment Guidelines

All appointment services are available to Library cardholders in good standing unless otherwise specified.

All appointments must be logged into the online booking system for confirmation of appointment.

Appointments are 60 minutes unless otherwise specified. Extensions may be available based on staff availability.

Failure to cancel or show up for scheduled appointments will result in temporary suspension of booking privileges. Patrons arriving 15 minutes or more late to their designated appointment time will forfeit the appointment and have the opportunity to reschedule. Late arrivals do not receive extensions to appointment time blocks.

Availability of appointments is based on staff and room availability. The Library reserves the right to limit appointments and group visits during peak seasons.

Advance notice is required for those in need of special accommodation.

Exam Proctoring Appointments

Patrons must submit their request at least five business days in advance of the test. The Library reserves the right to refuse to proctor for any student who does not comply with the terms established by the educational institution and with the policy of the Library. Exam proctoring appointments are offered as a complimentary service to Library cardholders in good standing, but some transactional fees may apply. Appointments can be requested through the Library’s online booking system, by phone, or in person at a Library location.

Job Assist Appointments

Library staff are available to provide 30-minute appointments based on schedule/staff availability. Dependent upon the scope of the appointment request, Library staff may minute appointment. Library cardholders in good standing may book up to three Job Appointments in the course of one month through the Library’s online booking systebook a 60-Assist m, by phone, or in person at a Library location.

STEAM Tool Orientation Appointments

STEAM appointments are primarily available for patrons ages 13 and up. Children ages 12 and under may have an appointment, but the parent or guardian must make the appointment and be present to supervise their child for the full duration of the appointment.

Appointment requests must be submitted at least two weeks in advance of the preferred date to ensure that tools and technologies are fully operational.

Each STEAM appointment is limited to one tool or technology and corresponding project curated by Library staff. Appointments in the STEAM Lab are intended primarily for exploration, learning, and skill development—not for mass production.

Orientation appointments are required for the use of certain STEAM Lab makerspace tools and technologies.

One appointment can be requested per month.  Appointments can be requested up to 30 days in advance through the Library’s online booking system, by phone, or in person at a Library location.

Technology Appointments

Technology appointments are for patrons ages 18 and up who need help learning a specific device, website, or program. Limited to assistance with basic use and fundamentals of various tools, software, and applications, Technology Appointments are intended primarily for instruction which follows cyber security protocols. Any device that needs to be used during the appointment should be fully charged and chargers need to be brought to the appointment. Patrons must also bring all account information (username and passwords, etc.) needed to achieve the goal of the appointment.

One appointment can be requested per month. Appointments can be requested up to 30 days in advance through the Library’s online booking system, by phone, or in person at a Library location.

A library card in good standing is required to borrow physical items and digital content. The Circulation Policy describes: who is eligible to receive a card, acceptable forms of identification in applying for a card, different account types, and loan periods/limits.

The Collection Development Policy, approved by the Library Board of Trustees, outlines the Union County Library’s policy regarding the selection, acquisition, and retention of all Library resources.

Computer Use Policy

Computers are provided to enable library users to meet their information needs, to produce quality products using production software, and to connect to online services. Computers are provided for free to Union County Public Library account holders in good standing, otherwise an access fee will be charged.

Acceptable Use of the Internet

Access to the Internet is a public service of the Library. However, access is not guaranteed. The Library is not responsible for content on the Internet or for the conduct of its Internet users.

All computer users must sign in. All computer users are expected to use their

own library card to access the Internet. Using another patron’s card to reserve a computer, with the exception of children accompanied by a parent or guardian, is not permitted.

Signing in to use a computer constitutes the user’s agreement to comply with Library policy and the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) which prohibit:

• Disclosure of personal identification information about any person under age 17, including oneself.
• Displaying or sending nude, obscene or pornographic messages, images or files.
• Unauthorized access, hacking, or other unlawful online activities.
• Any attempt to circumvent the Library’s content filter.

All Internet enabled computers are filtered for compliance with CIPA and the Library’s Acceptable Use standards. Websites are blocked on all computers if they are categorized as pornography, mature content, violence/hate/racism, condoning illegal activities, or hacking/proxy avoidance systems. Filters on children’s computers also block sites which may be considered harmful to or inappropriate for minors, email, and chat/instant messaging. Should a user encounter a site that should be blocked by the Library’s filter, he or she is asked to report the URL to Library staff.

An adult (18 or over) who wants access to a blocked site that he or she believes does not violate the Library’s Acceptable Use Policy may request a temporary override of the filter by submitting the Internet Filter Removal Request Form. If the requested site does not violate the Library’s acceptable use standards, staff is permitted to temporarily disable the filter for that user.

While using public computers, a user’s privacy is not guaranteed.

Conditions for Use of Computers

•  All computers are available on a first come, first served basis.
• A session is one hour long. If other computers are available, a patron may extend his/her session.
• The computers will automatically shut down at closing. Users must conclude their work and leave the computer by that time.
• Library patrons who wish to save their work must use a portable external storage medium or email a copy to themselves. Flash drives are available for purchase at staff desks.
• All printouts must be paid for, including pages printed accidentally or incorrectly unless instigated by equipment malfunction or staff intervention.
• As a courtesy to other users, no more than two persons may actively use a computer at the same time.
• Food or drinks without lids are not permitted at computer workstations.
• Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws.
• No hardware or software may be permanently installed on or deleted from the Library’s computers. Flash drives, headphones, and personal handheld devices may be attached, so long as the device does not require external electrical power.
• No system settings may be changed.

 Repeated violation of any rule may result in permanent loss of use of Library computers. The following violations will result in loss of privileges:

• Failure to relinquish the computer when one’s time is up or at closing
• Failure to stop viewing an inappropriate site, when asked by staff to do so
• Failure to pay for printouts 
• Changing settings on any computer or tampering with any equipment
• Any unlawful act

Wireless Access to the Library’s Network

The Union County Public Library provides wireless access as a public service. The Library may restrict access to its network through the use of a password which users may obtain from a staff member. There are no age limits or other requirements for use of the wireless access.

Wireless access is provided to the public as a service free of charge on an "as is" basis with no guarantee and no warranty. The following conditions apply: '

• In using this free Internet access, the user agrees and hereby releases, indemnifies, and hold harmless, the Union County Public Library and its employees from any damage to his own equipment that may result from the use of this wireless access.
• Library staff members are not able to provide technical assistance with personal computers, and assume no responsibility for laptop configurations, security, or changes to data files resulting from connection to the Library's network.
• The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of privately owned equipment.
• Wireless access is provided during regular operating hours. 
• Information passing through the Library's wireless access is not secured and could be monitored, captured, or altered by others.
• It is the user's sole responsibility to protect his/her information from all risks associated with using the Internet, including any damage, loss, or theft that may occur as a result of the use of the Library’s wireless access.
• The Library filters all Internet access. This filter blocks those sites that violate the Federal Children’s Internet Protection Act and/or the Union County Public Library’s Acceptable Internet Use Policy. Filter Removal Requests will not be honored on privately owned computers.
• Wireless users must comply with the same acceptable use standards as users of library computers. Violation of the policy will result in loss of access to the library’s network and/or being banned from the library.

Children

Until age 13, children are expected to use designated children’s computers where no library account is required. Children may sign up for a 30 minute computer session. If no other users are waiting, up to four sessions per day are allowed.

Children under the age of 13 may use the adult computers provided they are monitored by a parent or guardian who remains with them during the entire time the computer is in use, and that the library account used to reserve the computer is in the parent’s or guardian’s name.

Teens

Teens (age 13 through 17) are expected to use the adult computers. Teens must have a library account in good standing. If no library card is presented, a driver’s license or State Issued Photo ID must be presented, and a fee may be charged for Internet access. If the teen has no library account or ID, then the teen can use a computer without internet access.

Costs and Fees Associated with Computer Use

Computers with internet access are provided free of charge to Union County Public Library account holders. The following services and equipment are provided at an additional cost.

Should any computer equipment or component become damaged as the result of a preventable accident or malicious act, the Library will charge the person responsible a replacement fee according the following scale:

Union County Facility Use Policy

Section 1. Application.

This Policy shall govern the use by any person or entity other than Union County Government or its officers, employees, or agents of facilities owned, operated, or leased by Union County. Where this Policy conflicts with or clarifies provisions in other facility use policies, this Policy shall supersede those provisions in any previously adopted facility use policies unless otherwise expressly stated herein. Prior Union County Facility Use Policies are repealed.

For purposes of this Policy, the term “facility” shall refer to grounds, buildings, rooms, or other spaces within buildings, structures, or real property. This Policy does not apply to facilities the use or operation of which is controlled by another governmental entity, elected official, or statutorily constituted board; Union County facilities leased to another party pursuant to a lease agreement; use of Union County facilities immediately adjacent to or surrounding leased premises when used by the lessee of such leased premises, upon written notice and consent prior to such use; or facilities which Union County is required by law to provide for use by another entity, such as adult and juvenile probation.

Section 2. Union County Human Services Building.

Under this Policy, rooms at the Union County Human Services Building may be reserved and used only in the manner and for the purposes listed in this Section 2 and with the express permission of the County Manager or his designee:

A. Events involving the participation of the County through:

i. The County’s participation as host of the event, or
ii. The County’s participation in a committee or group by a duly authorized employee acting as a representative of the County in their official capacity;

B. Events hosted by County business partners, including organizations with which the County has a contract or Memorandum of Understanding, organizations with which the County has a working relationship, organizations receiving County funding through the annual budget, and boards and committees in which the County is a participant or which the County has formed alone or in partnership with other organizations; and

C. Events hosted by other governmental entities.

The availability of the uses for purposes listed in this section, however, is not intended to convey a right to use any Union County facility. All facility use under this section may be modified or terminated at any time in the discretion of the County and may not include Prohibited Conduct.

Section 3. Union County Historic Courthouse.

A. Under this Policy, rooms at the Union County Historic Courthouse may be reserved and used only in the manner and for the purposes listed in this Section 3 and with the express permission of the County Manager or his designee:

i. Events involving the participation of the County through:

a. The County’s participation as the host of the event, or
b. The County’s participation in a committee or group by a duly authorized employee acting as a representative of the County in their official capacity; and

ii. Events hosted by other governmental entities.

The availability of the uses for purposes listed in this section, however, is not intended to convey a right to use any Union County facility. All facility use under this section may be modified or terminated at any time in the discretion of the County and may not include Prohibited Conduct.

B. All meetings or events held at the Union County Historic Courthouse must comply with the following rules, which may be supplemented but not contradicted by additional requirements adopted by the County Manager.

i. Request for reservations must be submitted to the Union County Facilities Department at least 30 days but not more than 90 days prior to the event (this requirement is not applicable to Union County).
ii. All reservations will occur during Union County’s regular business hours, and all events must be complete, including all clean up, by close of business on the date of the reservation.
iii. Pre-prepared food and beverages are permitted but must be confined to spaces outside the Courtroom. Absolutely no food or beverages are permitted in the Courtroom. All food trash must be secured in closed plastic bags. If a group is serving food or beverages and spillage occurs, the group may be charged a cleaning fee.

C. If a group which reserves space at the Union County Historic Courthouse causes damage to the facility, Union County reserves the right to charge the group a fee for damages.

Section 4. Union County Library.

A. Under this Policy, meeting rooms located at any Union County Library location may be reserved for the purposes listed in this Section 4 and with the express permission of the County Manager or his designee:

i. Events hosted by nonprofit organizations with a legal residence or that are headquartered in Union County, which shall include local Union County-based chapters of national nonprofit organizations;
ii. Group events hosted by current resident Union County Public Library card holders in good standing or community groups located in Union County but not formally incorporated as nonprofit organizations;
iii. Events involving the participation of the County through:

i. The County's participation as host of the event, or
ii. The County's participation in a committee or group by a duly authorized employee acting as a representative of the County in their official capacity;

iv. Events hosted by County business partners, including organizations with which the County has a contract or Memorandum of Understanding, organizations with which the County has a regular working relationship, organizations receiving County funding through the annual budget, and boards and committees in which the County is a participant or which the County has formed alone or in partnership with other organizations; and
v. Events hosted by other governmental entities.

The availability of these uses, however, is not intended to convey a right to use any Library facility. All facility use under this section may be modified or terminated at any time in the discretion of the County and may not include Prohibited Conduct.

B. All meetings or events held at any Library facility must comply with the following rules, which may be supplemented but not contradicted by additional requirements of a particular library facility.

i. The event must be open to the public and appropriate for all ages – meetings may not be used for private or exclusive meetings or events. By way of example and not limitation, a group may host a committee meeting at a Library facility in which only the members of the committee may speak or take action on business items, but members of the general public must be permitted to attend and observe up to the capacity limits of the room.
ii. Attendance at the event may not be conditioned upon payment of an admission fee or donation.
iii. Requests for reservations must be submitted to the Library at least 30 days but not more than 90 days prior to the event (this requirement is not applicable to Union County or other governmental entities).
iv. No group or organization making use of Library meeting space may make more than one reservation at a time. Groups or organizations wishing to make additional reservations may only do so after their most recent reservation is complete.
v. Reservations for use of meeting rooms at any Library location are intended for use by groups. If an individual attempts to reserve a meeting room for use by one individual or pair of individuals, Library staff has the right to deny the reservation. This section does not apply to use of study rooms at the Library, which are generally available on a first come, first served basis and are governed by separate policy.
vi. All reservations are limited to a maximum of four hours.
vii. All reservations will occur during the Library’s regular business hours, and all events must be complete, including all clean up, by close of business on the date of the reservation.
viii. At the time the reservation is requested, a duly authorized representative of the organization hosting the event must execute one or more documents which may include but are not limited to a liability waiver, damage responsibility form, and acknowledgement of the rules and conditions for use of the Library facility. All reservations must be made by a representative of the organization, who is at least 18 years of age, and the person making the reservation must be present at all times during the reservation.
ix. Pre-prepared food and beverages are permitted but must be confined to the meeting room. If available, kitchen facilities may be used for beverage preparation or reheating prepared food. All kitchen space, utensils, and appliances must be left clean and orderly. All food trash must be secured in closed plastic bags. If a group is serving food or beverages and spillage occurs, the group may be charged a cleaning fee.

C. County events or events of other governmental entities may receive priority in facility use, and the County therefore reserves the right to supersede reservations by a group or organization within 7 days of the reservation being confirmed or 30 days prior to the date of the event, whichever is nearer to the event reservation date. Reservations are not a guarantee of availability or use: the County also reserves the right to cancel a reservation at any time, for any reason.

D. The County Manager or designee may set meeting room capacity limits for each available meeting room. Such capacity limits shall be based on a number of factors, including but not limited to the furniture configuration for the event (if any), the presence of other library events or activities, age and physical ability of attendees, and Library staff capacity to manage events. The person requesting the reservation must inform the County with reasonable certainty of the expected specific number of attendees for the event in order to allow the County to determine whether the requested meeting space is appropriately sized for the event planned on a particular day.

E. If a group which reserves space at a Library facility causes damage to the facility, Union County reserves the right to charge the group a fee for damages.

F. For all events hosted by an organization, unless the County is hosting the event, the host organization must ensure that its advertising and materials related to the event make it clear that use of the facility does not convey an endorsement of the group, its mission, or its event by the County. The County may also place signage to this effect outside the event. This requirement can be waived only by the County Manager. In addition, no organization other than Union County may post promotional materials or signs at the Library prior to the event.

G. Nothing in this Section 4 or elsewhere in this Policy is intended to conflict with or supersede any interlocal agreement between Union County and another governmental entity regarding the use of Library facilities.

Section 5. Union County Parks and Union County Agricultural and Event Complex.

This Policy is not intended to modify or supersede any previously adopted policies and procedures for the use of facilities at the Union County Parks and the Union County Agricultural and Event Complex.

Section 6. Prohibited Conduct.

In order to ensure Union County facilities are used in a manner consistent with the varied uses and purposes for which the facilities were designed and to ensure the safe operation of Union County facilities and their surrounding areas, the following restrictions apply to applications for use of a Union County facility. No events shall be permitted which would:

A. Exceed the occupancy of the facility or the ability to conduct other contemporaneous use of the facility;
B. Cause obstructions in the facility, upon its grounds, or points of ingress/egress;
C. Cause obstructions or traffic problems on streets and sidewalks, especially during business hours;
D. Involve noxious odors;
E. Produce harmful or distracting lights (e.g., laser or strobe lights);
F. Be unreasonably loud or disturbing;
G. Involve uses or activities that pose a danger to or are not age-appropriate for those in or around the facility;
H. Be reasonably likely to disturb regular County business;
I. Involve illegal activity, including the display of material or actions that violate Article 26 of Chapter 14 of the North Carolina General Statutes;
J. Involve the display, exhibition, or presentation of content which falls into the category of unprotected speech as established by State or Federal law, including obscene content or activity prohibited by N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.1;
K. Involve programming or materials not suitable for young children and minors who may be in or around the meeting space, such as alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, nudity, sexualized conduct or attire, or profanity; or
L. Involve conducting commercial, retail, or profitmaking activities.

Section 7. Non-Endorsement of Third-Party Activities.

Union County makes no endorsement of any events that occur at one of the County’s facilities unless such events are expressly stated to be supported or endorsed by Union County.

Section 8. Violations.

If an individual or group violates or is reasonably determined to be likely to violate this Policy or applicable Federal, State, or local laws, or if an individual or group materially misrepresents the type of event or meeting to be held at a Union County facility, Union County may take immediate action to remedy the violation, up to and including referral for criminal prosecution, cancellation of the reservation, and removal of the individual or group from the facility on a temporary or, in appropriate cases, permanent basis. Law enforcement may be requested to assist with remedying Policy violations, trespassing, or any other violation of applicable policies or laws.

Section 9. Effective Date.

Family Wellness Space Policy

Union County Library’s Family Wellness Spaces are equipped with a range of furniture for nursing parents as well as toys, gadgets and more to meet people’s unique sensory needs and provide a calming space. Family wellness spaces exist to provide a safe, non-threatening environment for nursing parents or those in need of a lactation space. Additionally, the space has been designed for neurodivergent individuals who need a calming space to self-regulate during their time at the library. The Wellness Space requires at least one adult facilitator to support the experience for the child or vulnerable adult. This adult facilitator must be a parent/guardian, caregiver, or direct support professional. Library wellness spaces are available for community use at the Main Library in Monroe, the Southwest Regional Library in Waxhaw, and the Union West Regional Library in Indian Trail.

Family Wellness Space Capacity and Family Wellness Space Description

Guidelines for Community Use of Family Wellness Spaces

Family wellness spaces are available on a first come/first serve basis. Users may sign up for a 30-minute period. Individuals of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate within the space, but it is not meant to be a general play area. Staff reserves the right to ask a patron to give up the room or space if they have reached their 30 minutes of use and someone who has not yet had a turn is requesting access. All wellness space users are expected to conclude their use of the space by library closing, even if their allotted time has not been reached. Abuse of the Family Wellness Space Policy may result in loss of room usage privileges.

• Children 12 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver and must not be left unattended in the room.
• Shoes may be removed inside wellness spaces, but socks must be worn at all times.
• No food or drinks are allowed in wellness spaces, except for dietary or medical needs.
• Wellness spaces may not be used as professional therapy spaces without prior approval of the library.
• If an item in a wellness space is broken or not working properly, please notify a staff member.
• Individuals may stay in wellness spaces for up to 30 minutes to re-regulate before re-entering the library’s active areas. Please be considerate if others are waiting.
• There is a maximum of four 30-minute uses per day, per location. These uses may not occur consecutively.
• Individuals may change how much light is in the wellness space by utilizing any lamps and calming lights in the space.
• Unless using the room as a lactation space or nursing room, the curtain must remain open at all times.
• Everything located inside wellness spaces must remain in the space at all times. Users are encouraged to explore and utilize the amenities available in the space.
• If an individual needs help waiting, they may ask staff for a timer to help them be patient and wait for their time in the wellness space.
• To help prepare the room for its next user, patrons are encouraged to clean items off with a cleansing cloth before leaving the wellness space.
• For assistance on how to use wellness space items, individuals may refer to the calming space guide located in each wellness space. Wellness space guides are a comprehensive resource on how to enjoy the amenities available to them.

Fees

The use of the library’s wellness spaces is free. Family wellness spaces must be left in good condition after use. If damage occurs, individuals accept responsibility for costs for additional cleaning and/or repairs. The library reserves the right to deny use of the wellness spaces to any individuals that repeatedly damage the facility or use the wellness spaces in any way that is inconsistent with this or other Union County Library policies.

A PDF version of this policy is available by clicking here.

Proctoring Policy (PDF)

Union County Library provides limited test proctoring service to Union County Library account holders in good standing. The availability of staff certified to proctor will determine when and how many appointments can be scheduled. The service is offered by appointment at the Main Library and Union West Library only.

The Library’s Responsibility:

• To provide the student with reasonable accommodations to take the exam.

• To verify the student’s identification and eligibility to receive proctoring service.

• To confirm that the proctoring requirements of the educational institution can be met. Requirements more stringent than the Library can reasonably assure will be cause for declining a request for proctoring services.

• To receive and safeguard the exam or login information until the appointed test time.

• To provide minimal monitoring of the student during the exam.

• To impose the time limit required by the educational institution.

• To verify completed exams when the student has complied with all requirements.

• To submit the completed exam as specified by the educational institution.

The Student’s Responsibility:

• To request an available appointment at least 5 business days in advance of the test.

• To arrange for the educational institution to provide the exam or login to the Library.

• To arrive on time as scheduled.

• To comply with all requirements of the educational institution for the exam being administered.

• To pay any fees associated with copying, faxing, or mailing the exam.

The Library reserves the right to refuse to proctor for any student who does not comply with the terms established by the educational institution and with the policy of the Library.

Safe Environment Guidelines

The Union County Library (the “Library”) welcomes all and wishes those who visit the Library, both physically and virtually, to feel safe and comfortable. Library visitors have the responsibility to use the Library in a manner that does not threaten the safe and comfortable environment of the Library, as set out further in these guidelines below. If you experience or witness something that you feel is in violation of the library's Safe Environment Policy, please inform a staff member immediately or email Library Administration at ucpladministration@unioncountync.gov.

Illegal Activities

Any activity that violates any local, state, or federal law, rule, or regulation, or any other applicable law, is prohibited.

Conduct and Behavior

While using the Library, visitors must refrain from:

• Sleeping
• Littering or leaving an area in an unhygienic or disarrayed state
• Possessing or consuming alcoholic products or being intoxicated or under the influence of alcoholor drugs
• Carrying a concealed handgun
• Smoking within the confines of the Library
• Soliciting for any purpose
• Proselytizing
• Being disruptive, including actions such as excessive running, jumping, or creating unreasonable noise of any kind
• Refusing to follow the directions of staff
• Obstructing exits/entrances/pathways
• Abandoning or failing to supervise a child under the age of 8
• Leaving personal belongings unattended. Unattended belongings may be placed in the lost and found by Library staff.
• Infringing on others’ privacy through actions that include prolonged staring, taking photos of others without permission, asking inappropriate personal questions, or any other form of unwanted attention.
• Harassing anyone physically, verbally, or sexually. Harassing behavior may include, without limitation, offensive, vulgar or abusive language or gestures or threats of violence.
• Bathing, shaving, washing clothes or using restrooms in any other unintended way
• Using furniture or fixtures in an unintended manner

Food/Drinks

Drinks with lids are allowed, except where otherwise posted. Snack foods are allowed. Meals are not allowed unless prior permission has been given by Library staff.

Children/Vulnerable Individuals in the Library

Children under the age of 8 and/or vulnerable individuals must be accompanied by a parent or appointed caregiver aged 13 or older at all times when at the Library. Such persons must behave in accordance with these guidelines.

Parents and responsible caregivers are expected to provide supervision for their children whenever their children are on Library property. Staff members do not operate in loco parentis and the Library does not assume any responsibility for children on Library property.

Animals

Only service animals, or animals approved for a Library event, are allowed in the Library. A visitor bringing any animal, including a service animal, in the Library will be responsible for any property damage and/or injuries caused by any such animal on Library property.

Library Policies

Abiding by these guidelines and all other Library policies and guidelines is required.

Clothing/Attire

Visitors are expected to be appropriately dressed at all times.

Virtual and Online Spaces

The Union County Library values everyone’s attendance and engagement across all of our digital platforms and at our virtual events. We strive to provide a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment where community members may learn, network, and share information with others in an atmosphere of mutual respect. To that end, we ask that community members engaging on one of the library's digital platforms or at a virtual event abide by the rules outlined in Safe Environment Policy as they apply to a virtual space.

Consequences

A visitor’s failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the visitor being asked to leave the Library for the day or longer, losing certain privileges, and/or the local authorities being called.

Appeal Opportunity

Any person excluded from the Library, and/or losing privileges, for a period of one month or longer will be notified in writing (when and where feasible) of this decision by a Library manager, administrator, or security officer. In such cases, the person has the opportunity to appeal the decision by submitting a written request to the Assistant County Manager clearly stating why he/she believes that his/her privileges should be restored. The appeal must be initiated within fifteen (15 days) following the initial date of exclusion or loss of privileges. The Assistant County Manager will respond within ten (10) working days of the date that the appeal is received. You will be notified by U. S. Mail of any appeal decision.

STEAM Lab Policy (PDF)

Library Mission

The mission of the Union County Library is to inspire our residents to explore, create, and learn.

Library Vision

Union County Library will be at the heart of our community's educational and cultural interests by enriching the lives of all people through diverse services and innovative programming.

Purpose

The STEAM Lab Policy outlines the Union County Library’s selection, access, and use of makerspace tools, technology, and resources to foster creativity, learning, and innovation within our community.

Accessibility

The Union County Library STEAM Lab and supplemental services are available to all ages. If a patron needs additional considerations to make the STEAM Lab accessible, they should contact the STEAM Services Department.

The STEAM Lab is a self-directed area, with the expectation users will complete designs and projects mostly on their own, following initial guidance and information from Library staff on the capabilities, safety, and basic operation of makerspace tools and technology. Staff may not be experts on the use or operation of everything available in the STEAM Lab. One-on-one orientation appointments can be made with Library staff to learn more in-depth use of tools, technology, and materials. The Library does not guarantee the availability of any tool, technology, or material in the STEAM Lab.

The STEAM Lab opens one hour after opening and closes one hour before the Library closes. Projects, print jobs, etc. cannot be left running or suspended while the Library is closed. The Library assumes no responsibility for projects unable to be completed within this time frame.

General Rules of Use

Independent use of the STEAM Lab during available hours is open to patrons ages 13 and up.Patrons under age 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

The tools within the STEAM Lab are to assist with creating high-quality products, but the Library cannot guarantee the ability to produce every project or that the project will meet the desired level of quality due to the nature of the makerspace environment and the variability in individual production processes. Library staff are not liable for success or failure of projects.

The computers located in the STEAM Lab are intended for patrons utilizing specialized makerspace software programs or equipment. The Library reserves the right to reassign patrons to other computers in the Library if they are not utilizing STEAM Lab computers for their intended purpose.

No food of any kind is permitted in the STEAM Lab although drinks with a lid are allowed.

The STEAM Lab does not have any short or long-term storage. Patrons must take projects and materials with them when they leave. Materials or projects abandoned may be disposed of as Library staff deems appropriate.

Library patrons are responsible for cleaning their workspace after use and properly powering down tools and technology along with promptly reporting malfunctioning or broken items.

Tool and Technology Use

To use certain tools and technology, you must have a Union County Library card in good standing. These items must be checked out for in-Lab use, unless otherwise noted. Certain tools and technology may only be available for use during a STEAM appointment with staff assistance.

First-time users must complete a basic first-time user orientation appointment for certain tools and technology. Reservations for independent use of tools and technology can be requested after completion of the first-time user appointment. Library staff retain the right to require Library patrons to have further training on tools and technology before independent use is permitted.

Reservations of any STEAM Lab tool or technology are limited to three hours per day. The Library reserves the right to extend or reduce session length and frequency during peak seasons to have quality programs and equitable access for all interested organizations. Patrons are required to check-in with Library staff prior to checking out and using designated tools and technology in the STEAM Lab.

STEAM tools and technology may only be used within the Lab by patrons and should not leave the space outside of organized Library events and activities.

The Library performs and maintains a regular maintenance schedule for makerspace tools and technology. Some tools and technology may not be available during maintenance periods.

If any makerspace tool, technology, or material malfunctions or breaks, please alert Library staff immediately. Patrons may be responsible for replacement costs for damage incurred to equipment or the physical space due to negligent usage or intentional misuse.

Limitations On Use

The STEAM Lab is designed primarily as a space for exploration, learning, and skill development, not as a mass production space. While the Library encourages creativity and project completion, users requiring high-volume or commercial-scale production should seek appropriate commercial facilities or services. Resources are intended to foster innovation and education within reasonable usage limits.

STEAM Lab tools and technology, including, but not limited to, 3D printers, craft and cutting machines, lasers, etc. may be used for lawful purposes only. Patrons are not permitted to use the Makerspace equipment for projects or to produce materials that:

1. Violate local, state, or federal laws or regulations;
2. Look like, function as, or appear to function as weapons, knives, or parts thereof;
3. Appear unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or that otherwise pose a threat to the health or safety of others;
4. May be construed as obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment; or
5. Potentially violate the intellectual property rights of another.

Library patrons who use the Library’s STEAM Lab agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and licensing agreements. The Library is not responsible for determining copyright status of designs and projects.

The Library reserves the right to refuse or limit the use of any makerspace tool, technology,material, or service, and may decline to produce projects that violate this or any other applicable library policy, or that could expose the Library or its staff to legal liability.

3D Printing

Library staff have the sole discretion to determine the order in which 3D models are printed following Library procedures. Patrons are limited to one 3D print at a time and must pick up their completed print before submission of further prints. If a 3D model consists of multiple separate parts, each part will constitute a single item. Because of limited staff and hardware resources, Library staff cannot guarantee completion times. Library staff will contact patrons when printing is complete, and patrons must pick up completed models within two weeks of completion. Library staff may dispose of 3D models not picked up within two weeks of completion in any manner it deems appropriate.

The cost for 3D printing is based on the time spent printing the design, which is determined after printing is complete. All 3D models must be paid for in full before being released to patrons. The cost of 3D models not paid for and collected within two weeks following completion of the print may be charged as a fee against the patron’s library card.

Because of inherent limitations with tools, the Library does not guarantee that any 3D model will print successfully. If a print fails due to Library staff error or hardware failure, the Library will attempt to reprint the object, and the patron will not be charged for the failed attempt. The Library may refuse to reprint the object after two unsuccessful attempts.

The Library may refuse to print 3D models that clearly contain errors or that are, as determined by Library staff, beyond the capabilities of the Library’s tools. Library staff have sole discretion to make slight alterations such as adding supports to patrons’ designs in an attempt to make them printable, but the Library does not guarantee that they will print successfully.

The Library provides 3D printing to the community with PLA filament only.
Materials and Supplies Materials for Library events and activities are supplied for attendees. Library patrons are required to provide any materials needed for their individual usage of makerspace tools and technology. Patrons can purchase pre-approved materials on their own or purchase materials from the Library.

The Library maintains a limited inventory of materials for use in the STEAM Lab and cannot guarantee the availability of materials at any time. These materials are provided for patrons to purchase for a fee. Library patrons are responsible for paying for materials even if the project attempted fails or does not complete. Material fees shall be posted and available from any Library staff member.

The Library reserves the right to limit materials used with tools and technology as needed to ensure the safety of both staff and community members. A list of materials deemed unsuitable for use in the STEAM Lab can be found on the Library’s website. The Library reserves the right to charge a fee for any materials or tools modified, damaged, or otherwise rendered inoperable.

Fee Schedule

3D Printing – PLA Filament $1.00/hour
Sublimation Printer Paper, 8.5” x 11” sheet $1.00/sheet
Sublimation Printer Paper, 11” x 17” sheet $1.75/sheet
Card Stock, Plain, 8.5" x 11" or 12” x 12” sheet $0.50/sheet
Card Stock, Patterned, 8.5" x 11" or 12” x 12” sheet $0.75/sheet
Standard Adhesive (Sticker) Paper, 8.5” x 11” sheet $1.00/sheet
Vinyl Adhesive (Sticker) Paper, 8.5” x 11” sheet $1.25/sheet
Holographic Adhesive (Sticker) Paper, 8.5” x 11” sheet $1.50/sheet
Vinyl, standard adhesive, per 12” x 12” sheet $2.00/sheet
Vinyl, specialty or premium, per 12” x 12’ sheet $3.00/sheet
Vinyl, heat transfer, per 12” x 12” sheet $2.50/sheet
Vinyl, Outdoor adhesive, per 12” x 12” sheet $3.00/foot
Birch Wood/Acrylic 12” x 12” sheet $3.00/sheet
Birch Wood/Acrylic 12” x 20” sheet $6.00/sheet

Additional maker materials may be available for purchase at cost while supplies last.

Costs of materials may change depending on market rates.

Sublimation and laser engraving blanks costs may vary based upon materials available for sale at any given time.

Users may provide their own materials approved by the Library in lieu of purchasing materials from the Library.

Selection & De-Selection of Tools, Technology, and Materials

The Library uses a variety of professional journals, vendor catalogs, and digital resources offering reviews and recommendations to select tools, technology, and materials for the STEAM Lab. Some of the sources used for the selection process include Maker Ed, Harvard Business Review, MIT Technology Review, and Library Makers. The Library chooses the most appropriate vendor(s) based on criteria such as discount, availability, vendor services, reliability, and speed
of delivery.

The Library uses the following criteria to select makerspace tools, technology, and materials:

• Availability of similar resources in the community
• Demonstrated or anticipated community interest
• Cost-effectiveness, user-friendliness, and appropriate format
• Positive professional reviews or industry recognition
• Suitability within existing space and infrastructure
• Durability, sustainability, and production quality
• Relevance and currency of the technology

De-selection entails the same care and thought as materials selection. Tools, technology, and materials withdrawn from the makerspace remain property of Union County. Items are typically withdrawn from a collection for the following reasons:

• Obsolescence or lack of manufacturer support
• Frequent malfunction or irreparable condition
• Consistently low or no usage
• Redundancy or space constraints
• Safety concerns or failure to meet current standards
• High maintenance costs with limited benefit
• Misalignment with current strategic initiatives, programming, or user needs
• Availability of improved alternatives
• Lack of sustainability for long-term use

Items identified through regular evaluation may be retired, repurposed, or replaced at staff discretion.

Donations

The Library STEAM Lab welcomes donations of tools and materials. Items donated are subject to the same criteria for selection and removal as other items. In order to be eligible for acceptance, the donation must meet the general selection criteria for other tools and materials and be established by the donor directly. A librarian must approve all tool donations in advance of their delivery to the Library. The Library does not accept technology subscription or software donations. The Library does not provide special shelving or separate location for donation items. Donation items are subject to the same de-selection criteria as purchased items and are not retained indefinitely.

Safety

Library patrons must follow all posted STEAM Lab safety guidelines and Library staff instructions. Tools and technology should be used in accordance with their intended purpose and only if patrons have received proper training or guidance. Patrons should not modify or tamper with the equipment or technology without Library staff’s approval. If patrons are unsure about how to operate a particular tool or technology, they should seek assistance from a knowledgeable Library staff member.

Some of the equipment located in the STEAM Lab may contain aspects, parts, or components that may cause injury to the user if all rules, policies, and procedures are not followed. Applicable safety supplies will be available in the STEAM Lab to be used as directed. Any accident or injury that occurs in the STEAM Lab must be reported to a staff member.

Policy Violations

A patron’s failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the patron being asked to leave the STEAM Lab for the day or longer and/or losing makerspace privileges.