Library Policies: Library Security Camera Policy

Effective Date

October 17, 2007

Summary

This document discusses guidelines for a video security system.

Policy

The library strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for its staff and customers. In pursuit of this objective, selected areas of the library premises are equipped with video cameras that are recording at all times. Signage will be posted at the library entrance disclosing this activity. The library’s video security system shall be used only for the protection and safety of customers, employees, assets, property, and assist law enforcement.

Reasonable efforts shall be made to safeguard the privacy of customers and employees. Video cameras shall not be positioned in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of personal privacy such as restrooms; employee break or changing rooms. The video security cameras will be positioned to record only those areas specified by the director, and will complement other measures to maintain a safe and secure environment in compliance with library policies. Camera locations shall not be changed or added without the permission of the director.

Only the director or employees designated by the director are authorized to operate the video security system. Access to video records shall be limited to authorized employees, who shall only access such records during the course of their regular duties. Library employees are to review and comply with this policy. Such persons shall not violate any laws relevant to this policy (including, but not limited to, KSA 21-4001 and Kansas common laws pertaining to privacy rights) in performing their duties and functions related to the video security system.

Images from the library video security system are stored digitally on hardware in the library. It is the intent of the library to retain all recorded images for approximately 14 days. Typically, images will not be routinely monitored in real-time, nor reviewed by library staff, except when specifically authorized by the director or other authorized employee. Any records produced by the video security system shall be kept in a secure manner, and managed appropriately by the library to protect legal obligations and evidentiary values.

Use/Disclosure of Video Records

  • Video records may be used to identify the person or persons responsible for library policy violations, criminal activity, or actions considered disruptive to normal library operations.
  • Video records may be used to assist law enforcement agencies in accordance with applicable state and federal laws upon receipt of a subpoena. The requirement of a subpoena may, however, be waived by the director or authorized employees when appropriate. Video records of incidents can be retained and reviewed as long as considered necessary by the director.
  • Video records may be shared with authorized employees when appropriate or, upon approval by the director, other library staff to identify person(s) suspended from library property and to maintain a safe, secure and policy-compliant environment.
  • Video records may be used, upon authorization by the director, as otherwise allowed by law.
  • Only the director and employees designated as Persons In Charge shall be authorized to release any video record to law enforcement. Only the director shall be authorized to release any video record to any third-party other than law enforcement.
  • Video records shall not be used or disclosed other than as specifically authorized by this policy.
  • Only the director or employees authorized by the director shall operate the video security system.