These By-Laws are supplementary to the statutes of the State of Illinois as they relate to the procedures of the Board of Library Trustees of the Peotone Public Library District, including but not limited to 75 ILCS 16/1-1 et seq (the Public Library District Act).   

ARTICLE I.    NAME/GOVERNANCE

The name of the Library District is PEOTONE PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT (the District). The District’s principal location is 515 N. First Street, Peotone, Illinois 60468.  The District provides public library services to Green Garden, Peotone, Wilton Center and parts of Monee and Will Townships.

ARTICLE II.   MEETINGS

Section 2.01     Regular Meetings

The regular meeting of the District’s Board of Library Trustees (the Board) is on the third Thursday of each month. The meeting shall be at the Library at 6:30 pm. The meetings are open to the public and noticed in advance. At the beginning of each calendar year, the Board shall, by ordinance, set regular meeting dates and times. The Director shall then send the local newspaper the schedule of regular meetings of the Board and post the meeting schedule in the Library. 

Section 2.02    Special Meetings

Special meetings may be called by the President or Secretary or by any four (4) Library Trustees (75 ILCS 16/30-50). Notice of a special meeting, including an agenda, must be given at least 48 hours in advance, except in the case of a bona fide emergency.  Notice will be given to all Library Trustees and to any news medium which filed an annual request for notice under the Open Meetings Act (75 ILCS 16/30-50; 5 ILCS 120/2.02).  No business except that stated in the notice and agenda shall be transacted.  A notice and agenda shall be posted at the library 48 hours in advance except in the case of a bona fide emergency. 

Section 2.03    Quorum

A quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting consists of four (4) Library Trustees (75 ILCS 16/30-50).  

Section 2.04   Remote attendance   (5 ILCS 120/7)

If a trustee is prevented from physically attending a meeting, the trustee may be allowed to attend the meeting by video or audio conference provided all of the following conditions are satisfied:

The trustee is prevented from physically attending because of:

1. Personal illness or disability;         
2. Employment purposes or the business of the public body;
3. A family or other emergency;
4. Unexpected childcare obligations.

If a quorum of the Board is physically present, a majority of the Board may vote to allow a Trustee to attend the meeting remotely.  At least one hour advance notice shall be given by the Trustee to the Secretary or the President of the Board unless such advance notice is impractical; and

1. A quorum of the Board must be physically present at the meeting; and
2. A majority of the Board must vote affirmatively to permit the attendance by audio or video conference.

Trustees participating electronically are afforded all of the same rights and are held to the same laws and standards of conduct as Trustees physically participating. 

Section 2.05   Vacancies

Vacancies in the office of Library Trustee shall be declared when an elected or appointed trustee declines, fails or is unable to serve or becomes a non-resident of the District.  A vacancy also occurs when a Trustee is convicted of a misdemeanor by failing, neglecting or refusing to discharge any duty imposed upon them by the Illinois Public Library District Act of 1991, or has failed to pay the library taxes levied by the district.  Absence without cause from all regular Board meetings for a period of one year shall be a basis for declaring a vacancy (75 ILCS 16/30-25).  

Vacancies shall be filled by appointment by the remaining Trustees until the next regular library election, at which time a Trustee shall be elected for the remainder of the unexpired term.  If, however, the vacancy occurs with less than 28 months remaining in the term, and if the vacancy occurs less than 88 days before the next regularly scheduled election for office, the appointee shall serve the unexpired term and no election shall be held (75 ILCS 16/30-25).

ARTICLE III.   BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES 

Section 3.01   Membership

The Board consists of seven (7) Library Trustees who are residents of the District and are elected for  four (4) year terms. The election shall be staggered, i.e., three (3) Library Trustees to be elected at one election, and four (4) Library Trustees to be elected at the following election. 

Section 3.02    Responsibility

Library Trustees are responsible for the governance of the District. The Board will hire a skilled Library Director who is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Library.   The President of the Board shall preside over all meetings, appoint members of all committees and generally perform the duties of the presiding officer (75 ILCS 16/30- 45(b)). In the absence of the President from a Board meeting, the Vice-President shall preside (75 ILCS 16/30-45 (b)). The Treasurer shall keep records of the District’s finances (75 ILCS 16/30-45 (d)) and shall give bond to the District to faithfully discharge the duty of the office in accordance with 75 ILCS 16.30-45 (e). The Secretary shall keep minutes of all regular and special Board meetings (75 ILCS 16/30-45 (g)). 

Library Trustees shall conduct themselves in accordance with the Illinois Public Library District Act 75 ILCS 16/1, et seq. (the Act).  In the event of a conflict between these By-laws and the Act, the provisions of the Act shall prevail.

The Board shall appoint a Library Director who shall act as administrator of the District’s daily operations (75 ILCS 30-55.35). The Board shall retain legal counsel and other professional consultants as needed (75 ILCS 16/30-55.35). The board shall also have all powers and duties as set forth in 75 ILCS 16/30-55 et seq. 

Section 3.03    Procedures for Meetings

The Library Director will distribute the Agenda and information packet to the Library Trustees five days prior to meetings. Any Library Trustee wishing to have an item placed on the Agenda will notify the Library Director in sufficient time preceding the meeting to have the item placed on the Agenda. Any Library Trustee unable to attend a meeting will notify the Library Director.  Such notification should be made as far in advance as possible to avoid any problems with establishing a quorum at a Board meeting. 

Each Library Trustee shall be entitled to one vote upon each matter submitted to vote at a meeting. All votes shall be ayes, nays and abstains and will be recorded by the Secretary 75 ILCS 16/30-50 (c).

Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised shall govern the parliamentary procedure of the Board, unless otherwise specified in the Bylaws.

 Section 3.04   Compensation

Library Trustees are not exempt from late fees, fines, or other user fees.  Library Trustees shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed from District funds for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties (75 ILCS 16/30-30).

Section 3.05     Education

To be effective, Library Trustees must attend a majority of meetings, read materials presented for review, and attend occasional Library System (or other library-related) workshops, seminars, or meetings.  The Library Director will make the dates of these workshops, seminars or meetings known to the Library Trustees in a timely manner.  Library Trustees using their own vehicle will be reimbursed, at the rate allowed by the Internal Revenue Service, for travel to and from any Library System (or other library-related) workshop, seminar, or meeting. 

Section 3.06     Officers and Elections

The Officers of the Board shall be a President, a Vice-President, a Secretary, and a Treasurer.  Officers shall be elected for one (1) year terms. The President shall not serve more than two consecutive terms unless by Board consent.  In the event of a resignation from an Office, an election to fill the unexpired term of that Office will be conducted at the next regular meeting. (75 ILCS 16/30-45)

Elections

At its first meeting in each month of May, the Board shall hold an annual election of officers from among its membership.  Officers shall serve a term lasting until the first Board meeting in the month of May the following year, or until their successors are duly elected by the Board.  In the event of a resignation of a Trustee who was also an officer of the Board, an election to fill the unexpired term of that office shall be conducted by the Board at the next regular meeting.  

Election of officers may be by roll call vote, ballot vote or nominating committee; the Board will make a motion for which method to apply at the May meeting.  For nominations from the floor, recognition by the chair is not required to make a nomination.  Nominations do not have to be seconded.  A person can nominate himself or herself.  A member can rise and decline the nomination during the nominating process.  After each nomination, the President repeats the name to the assembly.  Once nominations are closed, members of the Board will conduct the election either by ballot or voice vote.  After nominations are closed, the vote is taken on each nominee in the order in which they were nominated.    

An officer-elect takes possession of her office immediately if they are present and have not declined the office.  If the officer-elect is not present and has consented to her candidacy, the officer-elect also takes possession of her office immediately.  If she is absent and has not consented to her candidacy, it takes effect when she is notified of her election, provided she does not decline immediately.  

President

The President shall preside at all Board meetings, appoint all standing and special committees, serve as ex-officio member of all committees, and perform other duties as may be assigned by the Board. The President shall be the only spokesperson for the Board. The President shall sign the ordinances, resolutions, and contracts approved by the Board.  

Vice-President

The Vice-President, in absence of the President, assumes the duties of the President.

Secretary

The Secretary or his/her designee shall keep the minutes of all Board meetings, record attendance and record all roll call votes. The Secretary shall perform such clerical duties as may be assigned by the Board.

The Secretary will attest the President’s signature on official documents.  

Treasurer

The Treasurer is authorized to sign checks and serves on the Finance Committee.

The Treasurer shall keep all financial records of the District. The normal depository of all financial records shall be the Library. The Treasurer has charge of Library funds and income, signs checks on the Board’s authorization, and reports at each Board meeting on the status of the District funds (with the assistance of the District’s bookkeeper). In the absence of the Treasurer, or when the Treasurer is unable to serve, the President or Vice-President may perform the duties of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be bonded in the amount to be approved by the Board and according to statutory requirements (75 ILCS 16/30-45(e)). The Treasurer is authorized to pay salaries and insurance bills as they come due. 

Section 3.07 Signing of Checks

(a)   Authorization

The Treasurer or other authorized Officer of the Board may sign checks.

(b)   Special Authorization for Payroll Checks

The Library Director and the District’s Business Manager are authorized to affix the signature stamp of the Treasurer on paychecks and other bills with the Treasurer’s approval. 

ARTICLE IV   STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Committees shall be appointed as needed by the President and the Board. The President shall appoint a chairperson for each committee. Special committees shall serve until completion of the committee work. Committees shall be comprised of at least two (2) Library Trustees and the Library Director.

ARTICLE V ORDER OF BUSINESS

The following Order of Business shall be followed at regular meetings.

     Call to order

     Pledge of Allegiance

    Roll call, recording both present and absent members

     Consent Agenda

           Approval of minutes

           Committee reports

           Director’s report

     Financial report, approval of bills payable

     Public Forum

     Unfinished business

     New business

     Director’s Comments

     Trustee Comments

     Adjournment

The President may vary the order of business. 

ARTICLE VI   PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE

Robert’s Rules of Order (latest edition) shall govern the parliamentary procedures of the Board, unless       otherwise specified in the By-Laws. 

A Consent Agenda may be presented by the President at the beginning of a meeting. Items may be removed from the Consent Agenda on the request of any Library Trustee. Items not removed may be adopted by general consent without debate. Removed items may be taken up either immediately after the Consent Agenda or placed later on the Agenda at the discretion of the Board.

All authorizations to spend money shall be passed only by a roll call vote duly recorded.

ARTICLE VII   NEW LIBRARY TRUSTEES

The Library Director and a current Library Trustee appointed by the President shall meet with new Library Trustees and will review with new Library Trustees information pertaining to the District’s policies and affairs.   

ARTICLE VIII   DUTIES OF THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR

The Library Director shall administer the policies adopted by the Board.  Among the duties and responsibilities of the Library Director is the hiring of personnel and directing, supervising and disciplining all staff members.  The Library Director will provide monthly and annual reports as required by the Board.  The Library Director will recommend such policies and procedures as will promote the efficiency and service of the Library.

ARTICLE IX   AMENDMENTS

Amendments to these By-Laws or amendments to Library policies or procedures may be proposed at any regular meeting of the Board.  Amendments will become effective upon approval of a majority of Library Trustees present provided a quorum is present.

ARTICLE XI   RECORDS

Section 11.01   General Records

Records of the District shall be kept in the Library with copies off site and are available to the public in accordance with applicable law.

Section 11.02   Personnel Records

Personnel records are confidential and shall be kept in a secure place with copies off site. Only the Library Director or a person authorized by the Library Director or the Board has access to personnel records.

Ratified: April 15, 2014

Adopted by the Board of Trustees 2/18/2025

Amended: 12-19-2017

Amended 12-17-2019

Amended 3-21-2023

Amended February 18, 2025

Amended September 16, 2025

Board By-Laws Amendment, Article III, Section 3.08

Board Code of Conduct

Peotone Public Library District board trustees make a commitment to contribute the time and energy to faithfully carry out his/her duties and responsibilities effectively and observe ethical standards with absolute honor.   

As a library trustee, I shall abide by this code of conduct and serve the community in my trustee role to the best of my ability.  I shall also abide by the library board approved Code of Conduct policy at all times.  

I shall attend board meetings, preview materials before the board meeting, and participate in discussions and decision making for the board.  I assume full responsibility as a board member, and if I am unable to fulfill my duties before my term expires, I will consider resigning.

I shall represent all citizens honestly and equally and not be swayed by partisan interests.  

I shall respect the opinions and contributions of other trustees; I shall refrain from dogmatic or bullying behavior to fellow board members, library staff and patrons at board meetings, in the library and anywhere I represent the library.  

I shall avoid any conflict of interest or any appearance of impropriety which could result from my position nor shall I use my Board membership for personal gain.  

I shall not use my position to gain unwarranted privileges or advantages for myself or others from the library or from those who do business with the library.  

I shall at all times respect the confidentiality of privileged information.  I shall follow the Library Records Confidentiality Act (75 ILCS 70/1) and follow all local, state and federal laws.  I shall be aware of and in compliance with my responsibilities as Library Trustee under Freedom of Information laws and Open Meeting Act.

I shall not interfere with the management responsibilities of the director or supervision of library staff.  

I shall refer staff grievances or problems to the library director, who has full responsibility for managing staff; refer complaints from the public to the library director.  

Amendment Adopted by the Board Jun 17, 2025

By-laws Amendment Section 3.08

• Most library materials have a check out time of two weeks.
• Overdue fines for most library materials are $.10 cents per day.
• DVD and VHS’s have a check out time of one week, with a limit of three per family.
• Overdue fines for DVD and VHS’s are $.50 cents per day.

The Board of Trustees established the Code of Conduct to protect the rights and safety of Library patrons and staff, preserve and protect the Library’s resources and provide an atmosphere that is conductive to appropriate use of the Library and its services. All patrons are required to comply with the Code of Conduct while in the Library and on Library property. Below is an abbreviated version, the complete Code of Conduct is available at the Circulation Desk or by request at information@peotonelibrary.org.

While in the Library, we ask that you:

1. Be respectful of other patrons, Library staff and property.
2. Speak in moderate tones at all times.
3. Walk, don’t run.
4. Gently use books, materials and technology.
5. Use cell phones discreetly.
6. Wear shoes and a shirt at all times.
7. Use the PPLD Internet in a responsible and ethical manner.
8. Only service animals or animals approved for Library programs are allowed in the building.

Activities that result in immediate suspension include, but not limited to:

1. Carrying of weapons of any type, except for authorized law enforcement officials, on Library property.
2. Soliciting, selling or using drugs or alcohol.
3. Destruction of Library property or theft of materials.
4. Engaging in disorderly conduct of any kind, fighting or challenging to fight or using obscene/offensive words.
5. Viewing inappropriate content on computers.

Purpose

The purpose of the Collection Development Policy of the Peotone Public Library District (PPLD) is to establish guiding principles for the curation of the Library’s collection.  The Library aims to build and maintain a well-balanced collection of print and non-print materials.  The collection is designed to meet the informational, cultural, and recreational needs of our patrons; the goal of the Peotone Public Library District is to help the public connect, discover, and grow, and we cultivate a collection of materials to connect patrons to thousands of years of human creativity and knowledge, help the public discover their curiosity, and grow their intellectual aliveness in the ways they seek to develop through lifelong learning, creativity, and community. 

In order to achieve our purpose, the Board of Trustees of the Peotone Public Library District has adopted the American Library Association’s (ALA) Library Bill of Rights and the American Library Association Freedom to Read and Freedom to View Statements.  (See Appendices A, B, and C.)  

Moreover, since the Library is a public institution with limited resources, it is important that materials be selected with intention, guided by this policy, in an inclusive, judicious and fiscally responsible manner. Selectors will take into consideration many factors when for purchase, removal, and maintenance of the collection such as but not limited to anticipated or existing patron demand, reputation and skill of the author, reviews in established review media, existing holdings in the subject area, availability of the materials from other sources, and price.   

While the Library may develop a deep and thorough collection in one or more subjects, overall the collection as a whole must be planned so that all subject areas are adequately covered through sound selection practices. Due to space and funding limitations, materials of a highly technical or professional nature cannot be systematically acquired nor will we retain materials simply as an archival practice as our space is limited, along with our funds, and in general the collection must seek to serve a wide, inclusive and diverse array of our community’s interests. Patron demand will be weighed heavily when considering materials but materials outside the scope of the library’s collection may be obtained through interlibrary loan or other avenues as well.  The public library serves a broad area with a diverse community, and selection of materials cannot benefit one patron or group to the exclusion of others. 

Responsibility of Selection 

Responsibility for collection development rests with the Library director who operates within this framework of policies determined by the Board of Library Trustees. Under the Library director’s direction, members of the professional staff who are qualified by training may participate in selection, ordering, maintenance, and withdrawal of library materials.  

It is the duty of the staff to acquire materials which meet our patrons’ needs even though the materials may present views contrary to personal beliefs of staff members, Library board members, community organizations, or individuals. In accordance with Illinois law, no employee may be disciplined or dismissed for the selection of library materials when the selection is made in good faith and in accordance with this written Collection Development Policy (75 ILCS 5/4-7/2).

Suggestions for materials to be purchased are always welcome from any patrons, including trustees and also staff; patrons are encouraged to make suggestions by filling out a “Materials Request Form” form at the circulation desk or on our website.

Criteria for Selection

1. Materials are selected to fulfill the roles established by the Peotone Public Library District Board of Trustees. The following criteria serve as guidelines: 

• Popular demand, expressed or anticipated
• Patron requests
• Intrinsic value or quality of work, including factual accuracy and authoritativeness of content, comprehensiveness of treatment, style, clarity of expression, and creativity 
• National, state or local awards or nominations
• Reviews of the material from professional and/or popular sources (such as Library Journal, Booklist, Horn Book or popular social media platforms reviewing materials)
• Importance of a work in adding balance or filling gaps in the collection
• Relevance to community interests, needs, and languages spoken 
• Authority of the author in the field 
• Representation of varying points of view 
• Budgetary and space constraints
• Format or production quality
• Availability of the item for purchase
• Availability of the same or similar material at neighboring libraries or through interlibrary loan

1. Selection of materials is made on the basis of the values and interests of all the people in the library district. Since all political, religious and social opinions should be represented in a public library, no group or individual will be allowed to impose partisan emphasis on the collection, and as such the library seeks to support the intellectual freedom of all our patrons.  No material will be excluded because of the race, nationality, religion, or political or social views of the author. The library does not advocate a particular viewpoint, simply because a title was selected for the collection.
2. No titles are excluded from the collection solely because the frankness of presentation might be offensive to some nor because the material might not be suitable for all levels. High interest materials of questionable long-term value are included in the collection and may be withdrawn once they have served their purpose. Literary merit is not a necessary criterion for high interest materials.
3. When available, all materials which contain a significant amount of information about the library district area written by a resident of the district will be acquired.

Censorship

1. The Board of Trustees believes that censorship is an individual matter and declares that, while anyone is free to reject for themselves materials of which they do not approve, they cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrict the freedom of others.
2. The Library selects appropriate material for each age group. Special collections serve the needs and interests of children of preschool, elementary and junior high age.
3. There are no age restrictions on the borrowing of library materials. The responsibility of monitoring library material used by minors rests with the parent or guardian, and library staff cannot serve in loco parentis.
4. The Library Board of Trustees upholds the principle of the Freedom to Read and declares that whenever censorship is involved, no material will be removed from the library except under the orders of a court of competent jurisdiction. The principles on which this policy is based are expressed in the “Library Bill of Rights”, adopted by the American Library Association (ALA), and as amended by the ALA Council, and the following interpretations by the ALA Council: Challenged Materials, Evaluating Library Collections, Exhibit Spaces and Meeting Rooms, Expurgation of Library Materials, Free Access to Libraries for Minors, Restricted Access to Library Materials, and Statement on Labeling, copies of which are incorporated herein or attached.
5. Patrons with complaints concerning specific library materials will be provided with a copy of the Collection Development Policy of the Peotone Public Library District and asked to complete a copy of the “Request for Reconsideration of Materials”. Upon receipt of said request the Director will review the form and make an appointment with the patron for a consultation regarding the material. Should the consultation not rectify the problem, the Director will bring the matter to the attention of the Library Board of Trustees for their consideration. The complainant must be a PPLD patron in good standing.

Donations

1. Gifts of books and other materials will be accepted periodically by the Library with the understanding that these articles are given unconditionally and become the property of the library. The library reserves the right to add the item to the collection, donate it to another institution or dispose of it in any other manner.
2. Gifts of money, real property, and stocks and bonds are encouraged and are most useful to the library in unrestricted form. Any restrictions or conditions attached to such gifts must apply to the mission and roles of the library and be acceptable to the Board of Trustees.
3. Personal property, art objects, memorial or commemorative objects, displays or plaques, portraits, artifacts, antiques, museum objects and similar materials are generally not accepted as gifts by the library. Under certain circumstances the library may accept such a gift if all conditions are approved by the Board of Trustees.
4. The library will not accept any materials which are not outright gifts, nor will the library accept any materials that attach the condition of periodic or permanent display.
5. No valuation or appraisals shall be made by the library staff on any potential or actual gifts to the library. A gift receipt form is available upon request.

Withdrawal of Material

The collection will be periodically examined for the purpose of discarding materials so as to maintain a balanced, timely, and attractive collection.

Materials which no longer meet the stated objectives of the library will be discarded according to accepted professional practices as described in the publication, the CREW Manual. Disposal of all library materials will be at the discretion of the Library Director and designated selectors.

Items may also be discarded if the items become worn, tattered or defaced.

Review of Policy

The Collection Management Policy will be reviewed by the Board of Trustees on a biennial basis.

Ratified: April 15, 2014

Amended: February 19, 2019

Last Amended January 15, 2026

The Library reserves the rights to limit, refuse, and/or ban any patron from using the library equipment and computers. Use is limited to patrons in good standing, i.e., all fines have been paid, all overdue materials have been returned, any lost materials have been paid for, and the patron has a current local library card.

Anyone under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while using library equipment or computers. Library equipment or computers are on a “first come, first served” basis. However, all patrons shall log in at the PC Reservation Computer prior to use. The computer user has a 2-hour time limit on library computers per day. This time can be split up during that day. You might be asked to limit your time on the computer to sixty (60) minutes if the computers are all in use.

Copyright laws forbid duplication of copyrighted software. The Library restricts the use of personal software on library computers. There is a charge of $ 1.00 for each data disk purchased from the Library, and a charge of $.20 per page of printing from a library computer. Please do not download or save information onto library computers.

Parents wishing to control the materials to which their children are exposed are expected to provide sufficient supervision of the children to accomplish this. Restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the Parent or Guardian.

The Peotone Public Library District specifically disclaims any warranty as to the information’s accuracy, authoritativeness, timeliness, usefulness or fitness for a particular purpose. The Peotone Public Library District shall have no liability for any direct, indirect or consequential damages related to the use of the information contained here.

Rules governing use

The computer user has a 2-hour time limit on library computers per day. This time can be split up during that day. You might be asked to limit your time on the computer to sixty (60) minutes if the computers are all in use.

Users may not

1. Make any attempt to damage computer equipment or software.
2. Make any attempt to alter software configuration.
3. Make any attempt to cause degradation of system performance.
4. Use any library computer for any illegal or criminal purpose.
5. Violate copyright laws or software licensing agreements in their use of library computers.
6. Engage in any activity, which is deliberately and maliciously offensive, libelous or slanderous.
7. Install or download any software.

Violations may result in loss of access. A patron found to be sending or receiving unlawful materials will be disconnected from the Internet, and will not be allowed to use it at any future time.

General. The Peotone Public Library is grateful for gifts, and its collection has been enriched by donations of materials as well as contributions. Through donors, the library has been able to acquire materials which could not have been purchased otherwise. The library staff can supply, upon request, a list of needed materials for consideration by the donor.

Donation of Books and Audio Visual Materials. In accepting a gift of materials, the library reserves the privilege of deciding whether items donated should be added to the collection. Out of the many books and other materials which citizens so generously give, a considerable proportion can be used. Some cannot, because any library material, though of value in itself, may be: (1) a duplicate of an item of which the library already has a sufficient number; (2) outdated–interesting but not of sufficient present reference or circulating value to the library; and/or (3) in poor condition–which would not justify the expense of processing it, i.e. cataloging and preparing it for circulation. The material will be judged by the same standards of selection as those applied to the purchase of new materials. The Peotone Public Library accepts gift books with the understanding that books which are useful to the library collection will be retained and other books disposed of in whatever manner the librarian deems best. The Library necessarily reserves the right to interfile gifts with other collections on the same subject, so that all collections are organized and classified according to library standards for the best public service.

Gift Book Program. The Library welcomes monetary contributions specifically for book purchases in memorial to or in honor of named individuals. In order that the Library can properly honor the generosity, a special form to record the information is used and should be completed.

Donation of Art Objects and Other Types of Materials. Although such gifts are usually welcomed and valued, final decision on their acceptance rests with the Library Director and the Board of Library Trustees.

Donations—Others, e.g. Monetary. The Library welcomes cash contributions, gifts of real property, stocks, and bonds. It is our custom to expend cash gifts on materials, equipment, or a project which is acceptable to the donor. Although it is unlikely, there may be an occasion in which the restrictions set by the donor make it impossible for the library to accept the contribution. All donations are subject to the approval of the Library Director with the backing of the Library Board of Library Trustees.

Recognition of Gifts. For memorial books to the library, the library may place within the book the name of the donor, if desired. Accepted gifts will be honored in our gift remembrance book.

In order to fulfill its mission of public service, the Library will make every effort to open to the public as scheduled, consistent with safe access for the public and staff.  It may become necessary to close the library, shorten hours, or cancel programs when emergency conditions pose a safety hazard to the public and staff or prevent basic library functions.

The decision to close will be determined by the Library Director or person-in-charge with the authorization of a member of the Board of Library Trustees and may be based on the following:

• Severe weather and/or road conditions that cause hazardous travel, such as significant snow, ice accumulations, flooding, extreme temperatures, or blizzard conditions.
• Availability of sufficient staff to operate the Library.
• Condition of the Library parking lot and walkways.
• Failure of vital building services, extended power failure or condition of the building or its equipment.  This includes but is not limited to power outage, water outage, plumbing failure, HVAC issues, etc.  
• General health, safety and emergency in the community or area surrounding the Library.

A closure may also be made if, in the best judgment of the Director, it is necessary to do so.  However, the Library staff is mindful of the civic duty of the Library as a public space.  A decision to close for the entire day will be made with the following considerations weighing on the decision:

• Closing of local school districts
• Closing of neighboring libraries (if lots are closed, Director should justify remaining open)
• Condition of our library parking lot, sidewalks and our ability (or inability) to keep them safe for our library patrons and staff.  

Adopted February 19th, 2026

Purpose

The Board of Trustees for the Peotone Public Library District adopted the provisions of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 54.  The purpose of the Fund Balance Policy is to enable realistic long-range planning, assist with effective development of annual budgets, and provide transparency to the public.  

This policy establishes a range within which the end-of-year Operating and Capital Reserves Funds should be maintained.  This policy is established to provide financial stability, cash flow for operations, and maintenance of an adequate fund balance to ensure that the Peotone Public Library District will be able to respond to emergencies with fiscal strength and responsibly manage long range financial planning.

If the Board of Library Trustees (the Board) adopts a budget which does not meet the parameters of this Policy, the Board will adopt a plan, as soon as is reasonably possible,  to revise the budget to  meet the parameters of this Policy.

Fund Balance Classification

• Nonspendable Fund Balance:  assets that are not in the spendable form (pre-paids) or are required to be maintained intact (the principal of a permanent fund).

• Restricted Fund Balance: the portion of a fund that is subject to externally enforceable legal restrictions or restricted through ordinances adopted by the Library Board.  

• Unrestricted Fund Balance: the total of the Committed, Assigned, and Unassigned Fund Balances

• Committed Fund Balance: amounts subject to a self-imposed limitation by formal action of the Board.  Modification or removal of the limitation may only occur through formal action by the Board.

• Assigned Fund Balance: amounts that the Board intends for a specific purpose.  Intent may be determined by the Board or delegated to the Director.

• Unassigned Fund Balance: the portion of a fund that is available for any purpose.  

Funds

Peotone Public Library District maintains two governmental funds. 

1. The General Fund (or Operating Fund) is used to account for general activities not accounted for in another fund. 
2. The Capital Reserve Fund is used to account for resources restricted to capital improvements. The Library adopts an annual budget for each of its governmental funds, as well as adopting an annual appropriation.

Fund Balance Levels

• General Fund – The Library will maintain a year-end General Fund unassigned fund balance no less than three (3) months and no more than twelve (12) months of projected operating expenditures for the following fiscal year. Balances above the maximum are transferred annually to the Capital Reserve Fund through Board resolution. 
  • The purpose of this unassigned balance is to: 
    1. Provide a cash flow buffer to fund library operations prior to receipt of tax collections and when property tax collections are delayed. 
    2. Serve as a funding source for emergencies.  
• Capital Reserve Fund – The Library will maintain a Capital Reserve Fund balance sufficient to meet the projected costs of the repairs and replacements as outlined according to the Library’s Capital Improvement Plan, as allowed by 75 ILCS 5/5-8. Transfers into this account may exceed annual capital expenses, allowing the Library to build a reserve to fully fund future projects without incurring debt. 

Monitoring Targets

The Director in conjunction with the Board Library Treasurer will monitor revenue collections, expenditures, and availability of cash by reviewing monthly financial reports. 

The Director shall advise the Library Board of Trustees whenever revenue projections suggest that revenue will fall short of expectations or unexpected expenditures exceed budget or if for any reason fund target(s) may not be met by the end of the fiscal year. In this event, the Director will take action to reduce future expenditures where appropriate.  

Adopted March 19th, 2026

Purpose and Scope:
The purpose of this Policy is to outline the responsibilities, general objectives, and specific guidelines for management of all public funds of the Peotone Public Library District (Library). Public funds of the Library includes funds of any kind or character belonging to or in the custody of the Library including without limitation, Endowment Funds.

The Board of Trustees of the Peotone Library District (“library”) has a significant interest in maintaining an environment that allows patrons to freely access library information and resources. This significant interest requires the library to maintain policies that protect the privacy of its patrons and staff members and ensures their freedom from harassment, intimidation, and threats to their safety and well-being. In order to provide appropriate safeguards against such behavior and enforce policies and procedures addressing that behavior when it occurs, the library has adopted the following policy regarding the taking of photographs or videos inside the library building.

I. General Policy
Permission is not required for taking photographs or videos in public areas of the library building
for personal, noncommercial use if no tripods, lights, or other specialized equipment is used. However, there may be library locations and/or exhibition areas where the taking of photographs or videos is restricted or prohibited (i.e., restrooms, rooms reserved for nursing, childcare areas, museum artifacts, and archival materials). Taking photographs or videos of, or in, areas reserved for staff use only is also prohibited. If tripods, lights, or other specialized equipment is to be used, requests must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Persons taking photographs and videos shall not (i) compromise a patron or staff member’s right to privacy, (ii) harass, intimidate, or threaten a patron or staff member, or (iii) block library aisles, walkways, stairwells, doors, or exits.

II. Exterior Photography and Videos
Taking photographs and videos outside of the library building and/or of the library grounds does not require permission. However, the activity may not impede the ingress or egress of patrons or staff to or from the library building.

III. Commercial Photography and Videos
The library may permit use of its facilities for the taking of commercial photographs or videos if the project does not interfere with the mission of the library and is in accordance with the rest of this policy. The library will charge a fee to offset costs incurred by the library to provide access to the facility and prior permission must be sought at least one week in advance.

IV. Photography and Videos of Materials and Resources
The library permits the taking of photographs and videos of its publicly available collections. However, patrons are solely responsible for obtaining consent or other permission when taking photographs or videos of copyrighted materials.

V. Library Photography, Videos, and Recording
The library may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the library and during library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. The library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any library web site or social media site). Any individual that does not wish the library to use a photograph or video of them or their child should inform a library staff member prior to or while such photographs or videos are being taken.

VI. Library Board Meetings
Pursuant to Section 120/2.05 of the Illinois Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/1 et seq.), any person may record the proceedings of the Library Board and other meetings required by the Act to be open to the public. The recordings maybe made by tape, film or other means and shall not disrupt the meeting or create a safety hazard.

VII. Liability
Persons involved in taking photographs or videos are solely liable for any injuries to persons or property that result from their activities on library property. They also have sole responsibility for obtaining all necessary releases and permissions required by law from persons who can be identified in any photograph or video or for copyrighted materials. The library undertakes no responsibility for obtaining these releases or permissions.

VIII. Right Subject to Compliance with Policy
The library reserves the right to ask any individual or group violating this policy to cease the taking of photographs or videos.

Adopted: September 21, 2021

Ordinance 2025-04

ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING DATES OF REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE PEOTONE PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT FOR CALENDAR YEAR JANUARY 2026-DECEMBER 2026 AND HOLIDAYS FOR 2026.

Be it ordained that the regular meetings of the Peotone Public Library District Board of Trustees shall be held at 6:30 P.M. at the Peotone Public Library District, 515 N. First Street, Peotone, IL 60468 on the following dates:

THIRD THURSDAY, REGULAR BOARD MEETING DATES

• January 15, 2026
• February 19, 2026
• March 19, 2026
• April 16, 2026
• May 21, 2026
• June 18, 2026
• July 16, 2026
• August 20, 2026
• September 17, 2026
• October 15, 2026
• November 19, 2026
• No December meeting 2026

CLOSING DATES

• Thursday, January 1st, 2026 (New Year’s)
• Monday, February 16th, 2026 (Presidents’ Day)
• Monday, May 25th, 2026 (Memorial Day)
• Saturday, July 4th, 2026 (Fourth of July)
• Monday, September 7th, 2026 (Labor Day)
• Thursday, November 26th, 2026 (Thanksgiving)
• Friday, November 27th, 2026 (Black Friday)
• Thursday, December 24th, 2026 (Christmas Eve)
• Friday, December 25th, 2026 (Christmas)
• Thursday, December 31st, 2026 (New Year’s Eve)

The Peotone Public Library District provides meeting rooms as a limited public forum to support its cultural, educational, informational and recreational mission and roles.

Library meeting room use will not be denied to any person or organization because of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristic that is currently protected by applicable law. The Peotone Public Library District Board of Trustees subscribes to the tenets of the Library Bill of Rights, which states in part: Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations or individuals or groups requesting their use.

Use of the library meeting room does not constitute the library’s endorsement of the viewpoints expressed by the participants in the programs.  First priority use of all meeting rooms is given to library sponsored meetings or programs.  Reservations for the meeting room should be made within two weeks of the date requested.

In addition to library-related programs, the following groups may use the meeting rooms for cultural, civic, and informal education purposes: non-profit organizations, local businesses holding training, local condo and townhome associations or other non-commercial meetings.  The library reserves the right to request a copy of an organization’s non-profit status.

Meeting rooms may not be used for: (1) strictly social functions, which are defined as a function solely for entertainment through companionship with friends or associates including but not limited to weddings, showers, anniversaries, card parties, birthday parties and social club parties, (2) commercial functions, including but not limited to sales presentations of any kind or meetings of or for for-profit entities, or (3) any other activity which in the judgment of the Library Director would materially and substantially interfere with the ordinary functions of the Library and/or which may cause excessive noise, safety hazards, and/or a threat to the public health, safety or property.

All users are responsible for complying with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires that a meeting or materials at a meeting be provided in an accessible format in response to a request.  All meetings must be open to the Library Director or Designee and groups may not charge admission nor solicit or require donations for their meetings.  No goods or services may be solicited or sold, except at library sponsored events. Individuals or groups may only include the library’s name and address in any publicity or promotional materials; the library’s telephone number may not be used for any purpose, nor is the library to be included as a source of further information, registrations, or messages regarding the event.  

Authorization to use the meeting rooms is not transferable to any other individual or organization. Meeting rooms may be reserved only by a person, eighteen years of age or older, with a current Peotone Public Library District card in good standing. It is the responsibility of this contact person to be present at the time of use to ensure compliance with this policy.  This contact person is responsible for the willful or accidental damage of the library building, furniture, grounds and equipment, or materials. In the case of a serious disturbance, the group will be asked to vacate the room immediately, and the police will be called.

The Peotone Public Library District reserves the right to modify this policy and to cancel any reservation of the meeting rooms due to unforeseen circumstances.  The library may also cancel a group’s reservations if the meeting room policy is violated.

Meeting room users agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Peotone Public Library District, its’ Board of Trustees and all library staff for any and all accidents which may occur on library premises.

The Library Administration or his/her designee will have complete administrative authorization and responsibility for the approval of applications and the scheduling of the meeting rooms.

The Peotone Public Library District offers free Notary Public services for the benefit of our residents in accordance with the Illinois Notary Public Act (5 ILCS 312).

Notary service is by appointment only.  Patrons should call to schedule an appointment at least 30 minutes in advance.  Notary services are not guaranteed without an appointment.  

Patrons requesting notary services must provide the following items:

• The completed, unsigned original document to be notarized
• A witness or witnesses, if required by the document
  • Witnesses may not be solicited from staff or patrons using the Library
  • In order to serve as a witness, the witness must personally know the person whose document is being notarized and must be in possession of valid photo identification.
• A valid, government-issues photo identification 

Library staff who serve as a Notary:

• Follow the notary laws of the State of Illinois.
• Will not give professional advice on legal matters pertaining to notarizing documents.
• Reserve the right to refuse notary services at any time, including but not limited to documents from which the notary certification can be detached from the document being notarized.

Notary staff are unable to notarize:

• Blank forms; any blank spaces on a form should be crossed out or have N/A written
• Real estate transactions
• Visa and immigration paperwork
• Documents from foreign governments or in a language other than English
• Vital records, including birth, death, marriage or divorce certificates and citizenship or naturalization certificates
• Military IDs
• Certified copies of identification
• I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification forms
• Documents that do not contain notary language or a notary certificate.  

The Library does not process electronic or remote notary services; all signatories must be present in person.

Notaries cannot pre-date or post-date any action, prepare a legal document, give advice on legal matters, or notarize documents in which they have a personal interest.

All notarial services will be entered in the acting notary’s Notary Public Record Book.  Notary service will not be provided for a requester who declines to sign the record book.  

Notaries will not provide service if the person, the document, or any circumstances of the request for Notary service raise any issue of authenticity, ambiguity, doubt, or uncertainty for the Library.

Illinois law requires that a patron seeking notarization and the notary be able to communicate directly with each other, without the use of a translator.  If this is not the case, the notary will not be authorized to notarize the document(s).  

Notary service is not available in the 15 minutes prior to the time of Library closing.

Approved January 18, 2022

Amended February 19, 2026

The Peotone Public Library District uses security cameras to help document events involving the safety and security of Library users, staff, and property. The security camera installation consists of dedicated cameras, which may provide real-time surveillance through a video management system. The primary use of security cameras is to discourage inappropriate and illegal behavior and to enhance the opportunity to apprehend offenders. Library use is governed by the policy established by the Library Board of Trustees and any applicable rules or regulations adopted by the Library. The Library Director as the executor of the policy for the Board of Trustees has discretion in determining what use is “in the best interest of the Library” and is authorized to act accordingly, including limiting the use of the building and services by individuals whose activities interfere with Library operations, adversely affect public safety, or cause public disturbances. The Board of Trustees may modify, amend or supplement this policy, as it deems necessary and appropriate.

SIGNAGE
The Library shall post and maintain signs giving notice of the use of security cameras for monitoring and recording activity in public areas of the Library property.

CAMERA LOCATION
Cameras are located to view service desks, exits, and areas prone to theft, vandalism or other activity that
violates Library policy or criminal law. In no event shall cameras be located in areas where patrons and/or staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as restrooms or areas designated for breast-feeding.

ACCESS TO DIGITAL IMAGES
Video data is recorded and stored digitally. Recorded data is considered confidential and secure. Access to live feeds of images is available to staff at services desks in order to monitor current activity. Access to recorded video data is limited to the Library Director and IT Department.

RETENTION OF DIGITAL IMAGES
Recordings shall be kept for approximately 30 days with the exception of appropriate still shots or selected portions of the recorded data relating to specific incidents. These shall be retained for one year after the incident. The storage media shall be kept in a secure area.

ACCESS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PATRON PRIVACY
Video surveillance records are not to be used directly or indirectly to identify the activities of individual Library patrons except as viewed in relation to a specific event or suspected criminal activity, suspected violation of Library policy, or incidents where there is reasonable basis to believe a claim may be made against the Library for civil liability. Authorized individuals may use a still shot or selected portions of recorded data to request law
enforcement review for assessing the security risk of a specific individual or for investigating a crime on library property. Video data will be made available to law enforcement officials or agencies upon written request.

Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the Library. The Peotone Public Library staff is committed to help children with activities related to the Library. However, Library staff cannot, nor is it their responsibility to serve as baby-sitters, teachers, or disciplinarians. Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges. Whenever advisable, the Library will notify the parent of incidents involving an unattended child.

Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent or other responsible caregiver. When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, or the parent or responsible caregiver cannot be located, or if the Library is closing, Library staff is authorized to call the police and stay with the child until the police arrive.

From time to time, the Peotone Public Library schedules or provides programs which are designed and suitable for attendance by children without parental supervision. Such program announcements will so indicate, and if no indication is included, then supervision is required. When so indicated, if the parent or caregiver intends to be absent, they must leave word at the circulation desk as to their whereabouts and, if possible, a phone number where they or a responsible adult can be contacted.

Children over the age of 10 may use the Library unattended by an adult, subject to other Library rules and policies concerning behavior, conduct, and demeanor.