Policies

The mission of the Laurens County Public Library System is to provide a full range of library services to individuals of all ages. The library service will not be denied or abridged because of race, religion, age, gender, handicap conditions, national origin, belief, social and/or political views The library strives to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all of our patrons, to provide a pleasant and orderly facility conducive to effective use of library services and materials.

The administration has the responsibility of assuring a pleasant experience for all library users. To meet this responsibility, the library staff will identify behavior that infringes on the rights of patrons or staff and/or threatens the safety of library property. The library staff will then deal with the behavior according to the guidelines of this policy, and may contact law enforcement when deemed appropriate.

An individual excluded from the Library property may appeal in writing to the Library Director. Decisions of the Director may be appealed in writing to the Library Board.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on 4/28/2021

1. Engaging in violent or aggressive behavior, including fighting or any type of physical violence. 
2. Conduct that threatens, harasses, or endangers another patron or staff member is prohibited. Harassment may include, but is not limited to, persistent staring, unwanted conversations, following, or taking unwanted photographs. Making threats, stalking, or sexual harassment toward staff or other patrons will result in immediate expulsion from library and involvement of law enforcement.
3. Theft, destruction or damaging materials, furniture, or other property belonging to the library, staff, or other patrons.
4. Using obscene, abusive language, horseplay, running or engaging in inappropriate action toward staff or patrons.
5. Possessing, consuming, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol.
6. Smoking, other use of tobacco products or use of electronic cigarettes or vaping products in or near buildings.
7. Drinks that are not in closed containers such as covered cups, or plastic bottles
8. Possession of weapons of any type. Concealed weapons are not permitted.
9. Bringing animals or pets into the library except for service animals.
10. Leaving a child under 11 years of age unattended by a responsible person. See Child Safety Policy.
11. Entering the library without footwear and clothes that cover the lower and upper parts of the body. Babies that are being carried are exempt from the shoe requirement.
12. Disruptive use of cell phones or other electronic devices. Users are asked to set cell phones on silent or vibrate and receive or make calls in foyer, study room, or outside of the library.
13. Entering library prior to opening, refusing to leave library at closing time, or entering a non-public area without permission from library staff.
14. Consumption of unauthorized food, babies that are carried are exempt from this requirement.
15. Congregating around the entrance/exits or any other library property in a manner that blocks easy access to the library’s facility for patrons or staff
16. Selling and/or soliciting for services, money, or items.
17. Any other illegal acts or conduct in violation of Federal, State, or local law, ordinance, or regulation.
18. Failure to follow the Library’s Computer Use Policy
19. Leaving vulnerable individuals (i.e. individuals with a mental or physical impairment who are unable to protect themselves from abuse or exploitation or comprehend and comply with library policies)
20. Misusing the restrooms. This includes: drinking, using drugs, sexual activities, and loitering.

Library employees are in charge of facilities and have the authority to enforce these regulations, and to address other situations that may arise.

Failure to comply with the Library’s established rules and regulations may result in exclusion from the Library and notification of law enforcement authorities, pursuant to SC Code of Laws 16-11-625.

SECTION 1. Article 7, Chapter 11, Title 16 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"Section 16-11-625. (A)(1) A person who enters a public library, without legal cause or good excuse, after having been warned not to do so by the library director, the branch manager, or the acting branch manager of the library in consultation with the library director is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than two hundred dollars or be imprisoned not more than thirty days.

(2) A copy of the warning provided for by subsection (A)(1) must be given to the person in writing, in the presence of a law enforcement officer, and must state:

(a) the alleged criminal law violation or the alleged violation of the library's code of conduct promulgated by the library's board of trustees under the authority provided by Section 4-9-37(b);

(b) the duration of the prohibition to return; and

(c) the procedure by which the person may appeal the warning to the library board of trustees. The person receiving notice of trespass wishing to appeal the notice must submit a request for a hearing to the board within five business days of receiving the notice. The board of trustees of the library must then provide a hearing within ten business days of the request for an appeal.

(B) A violation of the provisions of this section is triable in the appropriate municipal or magistrates court with jurisdiction over the offense. Any law enforcement officer of this State or a subdivision of this State may enforce the provisions of this section within their respective jurisdictions.

(C) The provisions of this section must be construed as in addition to, and not as superseding, another statute relating to trespass or unlawful entry on lands of another.

The Laurens County Public Library System values our community input.

Patrons can submit general suggestions and concerns for materials from the Library's website anytime.

Concerns about material purchases must be sent in via the Reconsideration Form (supplied at LCPL branches). Suggestions for future material purchases must be submitted to the SUGGEST AN ITEM form on the library website.

Following the written submission of a suggestion or concern, patrons can schedule time with the Library Director to provide feedback in person.

Every two years, the library will gather feedback on library services from library users and nonusers. The library will use various methods, i.e. (surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one participation).

For questions or to request accommodations, please get in touch with the library director at 864-681-7323. Please allow at least 21 business days advance notice to enable the library to provide appropriate accommodation. 

The staff regularly takes videos and pictures of patrons at our programs, classes, and workshops in our facility. Some of these photos and videos might be included in our marketing materials. Other images might be posted on the website or social media platforms.

Patrons who attend library events constitute consent to be photographed for use in print and electronic publicity for the library.

1. The library can use photos submitted by patrons for contests or events for promotional purposes.
2. For the privacy of children, images will not be identified without written approval from parents or a legal guardian.
3. If a patron doesn’t want the library to use a photo or video of themselves or their child, the patron must inform the library staff.

Photography and videotaping are allowed in the library, but they must not interfere with library operations or involve taking pictures of individuals without their permission.

1. Photographers are responsible for getting the necessary permissions from the person who is being photographed.
2. No patron can take a photo or film a library patron without the consent of the patron, or their parent/legal guardian if it’s a minor.

For media photography to take place in the library, approval must be obtained from the Library Director or Deputy.

If you have any questions about taking photos or videos, please contact Renita Barksdale at 864-681-7323 or email rbarksdale@lcpl.org.

Approved by Board of Trustees on July 24, 2025.

This policy ensures the safety of children using our library. Unlike school officials or administrators, library staff observes no locos parentis (responsibility in place of parent) but will assume limited responsibility for a minor’s ability to use library materials and services.

Laurens County Public Libraries (LCPL) staff are responsible for:

• Welcoming patrons of all ages to use our materials and services.
• Assisting with improving children's literacy skills and encouraging them to develop a love for reading and learning.
• Identifying whether a child’s behavior violates LCPL’s Code of Conduct and respond accordingly.
• Reporting any suspected neglect or abuse to proper authorities.

Parents/Guardians are responsible for:

• Supervising their child/children at all times; children under 11 must remain in their parent’s presence throughout the library visit.
• Ensuring the safety of their child/children at all times; this includes 11 to 17 years of age who visit the library alone.
• Establishing that their child/children, who are 11 to 17 years of age and who visit the library, can follow the library’s Code of Conduct.
• Accidents to their child on the library property result from the child’s action. Parents/Guardians are responsible for any property damages during their child’s visit.

• Arrangements must be made for pickup for any child 11 years old and older at least 30 minutes before library closing.
• If a parent or caregiver cannot be contacted at least 5 minutes before closing, library staff will notify the police, who will take the child into custody.
• An incident report will be filled out with all known information about the child to give to the police and Library Administration.
• Staff are prohibited from providing transportation for any child after closing. Two staff members may remain on the property to wait on the child’s parent after closing if contact has been made, but this is not guaranteed.

Approved by the Board of Trustees April 24, 2024

It is the policy of the Laurens County Public Library to provide library materials that will meet the needs and interests of the people of Laurens County from an educational, informational, cultural and recreational standpoint, regardless of origin, age, background or views. Because of the volume of material available as well as the limitations of budget and space, the library must have a collection development policy with which to meet community needs and interests.

The Laurens County Public Library subscribes to the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Intellectual Freedom Statement, the Freedom to Read Statement and to principles set forth in the South Carolina Intellectual Freedom Handbook of 1992.

Intellectual freedom embodies the right to express personal beliefs and ideas through any medium of communication; it also provides that every citizen has the right of access to all information and ideas in whatever form they have been communicated. Freedom of speech and press as ensured by the First Amendment have always been essential elements of our constitutional republic and are necessary for a free and informed electorate. Libraries are in a unique position to provide access to information and to give substance to the right of freedom to read, Libraries have a special obligation to ensure representative collections and to safeguard community access to library materials.

Description of Current Collection

It is the goal of the Laurens County Library to keep its collection of materials current and useful. With the exception of the South Carolina and Laurens County Historical Collections, it is not the purpose of this library to build scholarly or definitive collections in any subject areas. This library will attempt to add items that are deemed of quality and published by reputable publishers, but it is not the role of the library to discriminate against or pass judgment on the needs, views or interests of individual patrons.

Final approval of materials to be purchased by the library will be made by the Library Director, Assistant Director, Collection Development Librarian, Children's Librarian and/or the Bookmobile Coordinator. Recommendations and requests from individual citizens are encouraged. These requests will be reviewed as to whether the materials should actually be purchased for the library or whether the materials should be obtained for the patron through interlibrary loan.

The collection currently contains approximately 138,000 physical items including books, periodicals, audiobooks, and videos available to all of the residents of Laurens County.

The library makes concerted effort to provide nonfiction titles of current interests as well as popular and high-quality fiction titles for all age groups. We also offer eBooks and eAudiobooks though our Jasmine Digital Library consortium. Additionally, we provide access to the SC Virtual Library of DISCUS eresources and databases as well as to Ancestry.com and HeritageQuest databases. Maps, microforms, pamphlets and some archival collections are available in the SC Room as well. Depending on current objectives of the institution and available funds, the library will not necessarily have all these various types of sources available.

The library adds approximately 9,000 new items per year. Obsolete materials are deaccessioned. Our goal is not to increase number of physical items as much as to update and improve the quality of physical holdings.

Collection priorities include continuing to buy best sellers, popular authors, award winners and titles containing subjects of current interest as well as community-relevant nonfiction subject matter. Adult, children's and young adult fiction title purchases receive a high priority. We also subscribe to a variety of popular magazines and newspapers. Some rental collections may be chosen to assist in shorter-term needs for "high demand" materials. This leasing of materials helps in reducing purchase of duplicate copies of items not planned for the permanent collection. Some materials are available to use only through licensing or subscription, and therefore the Library does not permanently own these materials.

Due to our active senior reading clientele, we purchase a variety of large print titles and a significant number of audiobooks also relevant to our mobile community. We actively contribute to our digital library consortium for our community members who take advantage of eReaders and eformats via various devices. Our local history researchers and genealogists benefit from our subscriptions to Ancestry.com and HeritageQuest. We purchase feature films as well as documentaries in DVD formats regularly.

The library collection is in English with the exception of a collection for speakers of Spanish, which is approaching 2% of the population of Laurens County. The library will continue to gather feedback regarding how to serve this population.

Funding for collections is available from the Laurens County budget, State Aid to South Carolina Libraries, the Friends of the Library, fees and fines associated with library business, and grants received from private or public foundations or agencies.

Who does the selecting:

• Library Director—the ultimate responsibility for the selection of library materials rests with the Library Director who, although she may share this responsibility with other members of the library staff, has the authority to reject or select any item.
• Assistant Director
• Collection Development Librarian
• Children's Librarian
• Bookmobile Coordinator

Selection Decisions:

Decisions to select materials are based on evaluation and guidelines as per below:  

Review of professional journals including Library Journal and Booklist in addition to other standard media sources including best seller lists such as in Publisher's Weekly, Wall Street Journal and New York Times; award book lists such as Newberry, Caldecott and the South Carolina Children's Book Awards as well as the Internet Movie Database.

• Patron requests
• Staff recommendations
• Several standing order plans based on genre or author selections are utilized, too.
•  Availability of materials, price, accessibility of materials elsewhere in the area, suitability of format to library purposes, provision of alternative viewpoints, relationship and importance to collection, local interest, reputation of author, artist, publisher or producer and timelines and/or popularity of subject or title.

The criteria for evaluation of materials include considerations such as authority, scope, reliability, treatment, readability, subject interest, format, and potential use. The selection of materials for the library will take into account the unique needs and interests of the people of Laurens County. To attempt to determine what these are, past circulation, patron requests and inter-library loan records of the library will be examined, the general educational level of the county will be considered and the kinds of clubs, interest groups, business and industry, religious groups, schools, classes and demographics of residents within the county will be weighed.

The Laurens County Public Library recognizes that full, confidential and unrestricted access to information is essential for patrons to exercise their rights as citizens. The Library believes that reading, listening, and viewing are individual, private matters. While anyone is free to select or reject materials for themselves or their own minor children, the freedom of others to read or inquire cannot be restricted.

The library does not stand in loco parentis. Parents and guardians, not the library, have the responsibility of guiding and directing the reading, listening and viewing choices of their own minor children. Selection of adult collection materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that the items may be utilized by minors.

Labeling with "R" ratings stickers will be made for movies and TV series on DVD when so identified.

Laurens County Public Library encourages and welcomes gifts and donations to be used for the benefit of the library.

• The library accepts gifts of books, periodicals, audiobooks and DVDs with the understanding that they become the property of the library upon receipt and that the library reserves the right to decide if the materials will be added to the collection or not. Gift materials are subjected to the same criteria for addition to the collection as purchased materials. Upon request, a form of receipt will be issued for donated items, however, determination of dollar value will be left to the donor. Books and items donated to the library become public property and later cannot be removed from the library by the donor.
• Gift of money for materials: Persons making monetary donations may specify general types of item to purchase and which location to house the item. Requests will be honored as possible. Bookplates will be added for memorial or honorary gifts as requested.
• The library reserves the right to repair and rebind any book when needed or to discard any book when it is worn beyond repair or outdated.
• The library is not responsible for any books donated to the library that are later lost or damaged.

An integral part of the book selection process is collection weeding. A systematic discarding of books and materials is necessary to keep the collection current and attractive. Criteria for weeding books include:

• Obsolete contents, theme or style.
• Worn, shabby beyond repair books and materials.
• Duplicate copies of titles that are no longer in high demand.
• Accepted professional practices as described in the CREW Manual.

After books have been weeded from the Library's collection or for donated books not added to the collection, disposal of such books and items will be done as follows:

If a book is in bad condition, soiled, or is deemed to have no value in a used book sale, it will be discarded/recycled.

If book is deemed to have value in a used book sale it will be donated to the Friends of the Laurens County Library to be placed in either their ongoing sale at the Library or sold online by the bookseller hired by the Friends of the Library. Books may also be donated to other county facilities.

All funds derived from the sale of weeded or gift books will be used to support the programs and services of the Laurens County Library.

No member of the Laurens County Library staff may purchase books being offered for sale until made available to the Friends of the Library sale shelves, giving other purchasers the same opportunity to buy books as staff members. Staff members are expected to pay the same price for such sale items as members of the public.

Laurens County Library will uphold the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights.

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

1. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation.
2. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
3. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
4. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
5. A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background or views.
6. 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 of individuals or groups requesting their use.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; inclusion of ("age" reaffirmed January 23, 1996).

The Laurens County Public Library will follow this procedure if a patron has a complaint about library materials:

1. The concerned patron will be offered the opportunity to discuss his/her concern with the supervising staff person on duty in the public area. If the patron is still dissatisfied, he/she may fill out a "Request for Reconsideration of a Book" form and submit it to the library.
2. The Director will review the complaint and 'Request for Reconsideration of a Book" and will respond in writing.
3. If the issue is still not resolved to the patron's satisfaction, the complaint will be taken to the Library Board along with any supporting documentation from the patron and/or the Library Director.
4. The Board will review the materials and prepare a written response to the patron with the final decision.

Adopted by the Laurens County Public Library Board of Directors 10-26-2022

A patrons’ choice of library materials is an individual matter. While patrons can reject materials for themselves, they may not restrict other library users' access to those materials.

The library recognizes that certain materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some library users. The procedures enumerated below are developed to ensure that the requests of those who disagree with the inclusion of specific items in the collection are handled in an attentive and consistent manner.

If a patron requests that an item to be withdrawn from the collection, the Library’s procedure for reconsideration will be carefully followed. A separate Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form must be filled out for each item.

The procedure for the reconsideration of library materials consists of the following:

1. The patron must complete the Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form. The form is only available at the circulation desks and must be returned to the Library Director. This request may not be submitted anonymously. The requestor should have a Laurens County Public Library Card.
2. The Request for Reconsideration will be referred to a committee consisting of the Director, Deputy Director, and committee members to determine whether retention of the item would violate the Materials Selection Policy.
3. The committee and the Library Board of Trustees will reconsider the items using the general criteria of the Materials Selection Policy and reviews from recognized sources, and then make a written decision.
4. The Director will respond in writing to the patron regarding the committee’s decision. Committee members’ comments will not be attributed, although brief quotes may be used in the Director’s response.
5. This decision may be appealed to the Library Board of Trustees. Such appeal shall not exceed two pages and should include copies of the original Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials Form. In addition, the Library Board may at its discretion, appoint an independent advisory panel to review the submission and make a recommendation. The Board shall then make the final determination of the matter, notifying the patron in writing in a timely manner.
6. Patrons may only have one active reconsideration request open. Items reviewed for consideration will be considered entirely, not upon selected sections or passages.
7. The completed decision to reconsider a specific title shall remain in effect for three years.

During the review process, the library will take appropriate action to ensure the item remains available.

APPROVED JULY 24,2024

The Laurens County Public Library, or LCPL, allows county residents (of any age) to borrow materials in a variety of formats. The patron agrees to comply with the library’s rules and regulations. A copy of this policy is available upon request and on the website.

Date Adopted: October 22, 2025

Any library card issued by LCPL remains the property of the library. If a library patron violates any policies, the patron’s privileges may be revoked.

• Types of Library Cards

  • Resident

    Definition: A patron who lives, works, or owns property in Laurens County, SC.

    • Adult
      • Definition: A patron who is 18 years of age or older.
      • The LCPL issues a free library card to any adult who holds a current Driver’s License, State Identification Card, Military Identification Card, Passport, or Green Card. If the identification card does not provide the applicant’s current address, the applicant must show a piece of personal mail that is postmarked within 30 days before the application date to verify the address.

    • Juvenile

      Definition: A patron who is between the ages of 0 and 17 years.

      • LCPL will issue a library card to a juvenile resident after receiving the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. When a juvenile resident of the county applies for a juvenile library card (or applies for a renewal), a parent or legal guardian must accompany the juvenile to the library. The parent or legal guardian must present a current photo identification card. A legal guardian must provide proof of their legal custody of the juvenile applicant.
      • If the parent or guardian’s account is blocked, the juvenile can only borrow juvenile materials.
        • A parent or guardian may specify that the child can borrow only juvenile library materials.
        • When a parent or guardian signs a juvenile library card application, they assume responsibility for paying any fines or fees owed to the library by the child. The parent or guardian also agrees that the child can use public computers in the library.

  • Non-Resident Card

    Definition: A patron who lives outside of Laurens County.

    • A patron who lives in a county that does not have reciprocal borrower privileges.
    • Patron has access to physical materials and limited access to electronic resources.
    • Patron must have a card and be in good standing with their home county library.
    • The patron has to pay an annual $10.00 fee.
• Appeal
  • An applicant who was denied borrowing privileges or a patron whose borrowing privileges are revoked may appeal the denial of service to the Library Director. The patron has (30) business days to file a written appeal with any supporting documents.
  • The Library Director shall provide written notice of his/her decision within (45) business days after receipt of the appeal. The decision shall be mailed to the address given by the appellant at the time of the appeal.
  • The decision of the Library Director may be appealed to the LCPL Board of Trustees within thirty (30) business days of the director’s decision.
  • The appellant can meet with the Policy Committee for further decision. 
        Then the appellant can be heard at the next regular meeting of the LCPL Board of Trustees, provided that the appellant is in attendance. If the appellant is not present, the appeal shall be dismissed.
     
• Use
  • Borrowing Library Materials
    • All borrowers must follow all the rules, regulations, and policies of the LCPL.
    • All library cardholders are responsible for all borrowed materials. All materials must be returned in the same condition as when those items were borrowed.
    • LCPL cards cannot be transferred to any other person.
    • A parent or legal guardian is responsible for the care and timely return of any items borrowed by a juvenile patron.
    • All LCPL cardholders must present their library card (or other legal identification) when borrowing library materials.
    • All LCPL cardholders can check out a total of 35 items on their library card.
    • If reserved materials are available for a specific patron, the LCPL will lend those items to any person who presents that patron’s library card or printed notice.
    • Interlibrary loan materials are not renewable without prior authorization from personnel in charge.
  • Computers
    • Guest passes are issued for:
      •  Short-term visitors to the community who can provide proof of identification.
      • In emergency issues, we will give a guest pass.
      • Computer access may be blocked for any violations of the Library Computer Use Policy, available upon request.
• Lost Card
  • The patron is responsible for all charges incurred before reporting a lost card.
  • A charge of $1.00 will be assessed for a replacement card.
  • To replace the card, the patron must provide a photo identification.
• Confidentiality of Library Records

  • The LCPL will protect the privacy of all library users pursuant to Article 3 125-19, which is cited below.

    “A library shall not disclose any library record that identifies a person as having requested or obtained specific materials, information, or services, or as otherwise having used the library.”

  • LCPL also adheres to the American Library Association Code of Ethics, which states in Article III:

    “We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired, or transmitted.”

  • Personal information may be released to a law enforcement agency only after presentation of a court-ordered subpoena and/or under the provisions of the USA Patriot Act.
• Disclosure of Confidential Information
  • Only the Library Director is authorized to accept and respond to court orders or other requests for circulation or registration records.
  • If the order requires immediate compliance, any supervisor may respond to the order and notify the Library Director immediately.
  • LCPL will report all violations of any laws, especially violations of any child pornography laws.
• Customer Account Statuses
  • Patrons in Good Standing are those who meet the following criteria
    • Fines and fees are $10 for adults and $5 for children or less.
    • No lost or damaged items on the patron’s account.
  •  Patron with a blocked account
    • An account may be blocked for the following reasons:
      • If a patron has account obligations exceeding $10 for adults and $5 for children, their account will be blocked until the balance falls below this threshold.
      • A patron has lost items.
      • Fines and fees, or charges for lost or damaged library items, may be waived at the discretion of the Library Director, Deputy Director, and Circulation Manager.
      • A patron who violates the rules and regulations of the Laurens County Public Library System

    • A patron with fines and fees.

      Definition: A patron who has not returned borrowed materials by the due date will be notified two times before the items are recorded as lost.

    • Overdue fines will not be assessed for days that the library is closed.
    • Items returned on the due date or overdue materials should be returned inside the library during operating hours.
    • A patron will receive a courtesy email or text requesting the patron to return the borrowed materials.
    • If an account is considered delinquent, it may be referred to a debt collection agency. In such an instance, the patron will be assessed a $10 fee.
    • All printed materials have an overdue fee of $0.10 per day.
    • The passport overdue fee is $1.00 per day.

•  

  • Fees for damaged items

    Definition: A fee charged at the discretion of LCPL for materials that are returned with soiled, torn, or missing pages/pieces, or determined to be unusable.

    • Charges for damaged items may not exceed the original cost of the item.
    • If the patron pays the charges for the damaged item, the library will return the damaged item to the patron. Items are only held for one month.
    • A customer who defaces or destroys library materials will be charged the full replacement cost, and all library privileges will be suspended. Observed actions of vandalism may be reported to the Police Department.
      • Damaged or items missing parts
        • Audiobook case   $3.00
        • DVD case    $1.00
        • Insert for audiobooks and DVDs $3.00
        • Replacement cards  $1.00
        • Replacement Disc (if possible)    $10.00
• Materials
  • Loan Periods
    • The loan period for printed materials and audiobooks is three weeks.
    • The loan period for DVDs is for one week.
    • The loan period for the park pass is for ten days.
    • Reference Adult materials cannot be checked out.
• Loan Limits
  • Patrons are allowed 35 items total per card
  • DVDs have a limit of 5 per card.

• Renewal

  Items may be renewed three times for a three-week renewal period. This will be a total checkout period of nine weeks, with the following exception:

  • No renewal on hold request
  • Patrons may renew their items online from home or in the library.
  • Patrons may call the library to renew their items.
  • No renewals for Interlibrary Loan materials without special permission.
• Printing and Faxing
  • Black and White  20¢ per page 
  • Color  $1.00 per page
  • Fax  $1.00 per page
  • Scan  20¢ per page
•  Rights to modify or amend
  • LCPL reserves the right to modify or amend this policy at any time, subject to the approval of the LCPL Board of Trustees.
     

• A patron who lives in Laurens County but cannot provide their address.
• Patrons that live in Laurens County in temporary housing.

• Patrons must provide a Photo ID.
• If patrons live in temporary housing, they must provide something with the address.
• Card will expire every 90 days.
• There is no cost to the patrons unless they are damaged or late returning in materials.

• Patrons can check out two items at a time.
• They will have access to computers.
• Patrons will be able to use our E-Resources.

Approved by the Laurens County Board of Trustees 10/25/23.

Interlibrary Loan is a library material resource-sharing process. This service enables our library to borrow materials from other libraries and reach beyond the limitations of our own collections and resources.

This service is available to any Laurens County Public Library card holder who is in good standing.

An interlibrary loan request may be made by completing the request form available on our library website under the “Services” tab. One library card may request up to five items at a time, including pending requests.

• Books
• Microfiche

Because of the time, lending fees, and expense required for processing ILL requests, the patron may not cancel a request once it has been submitted. When an item is requested and comes in, and the patron is notified, there is a seven-day window for picking up the item. If the patron fails to come by for the item within that window, the library will charge the patron’s account a fee of $2.00 per request.

The loan period for material borrowed is for three weeks. Interlibrary loan materials are not eligible for renewals.

ILLs must be returned on time. All interlibrary loans must be returned inside the library. Any late interlibrary loans will be assessed at $1.00 per day. If there is any damage to an interlibrary loan item or an interlibrary loan item is lost, the patron will be responsible for the lending library’s replacement cost. ILL privileges will be suspended if the patron damages or loses five items.

The Laurens County Public Library Bookmobile serves members of the community outside of the physical library with emphasis on those who are underserved due to physical, economic, social, geographic or other barriers. The Bookmobile is a branch of the Laurens County Public Library System and operates under library policies as well as those listed below.

House Stop:

• Physical infirmity
• Lack of transportation
• Distance to Library
• Ability/safety of Bookmobile to enter driveway
• Servie may also be best provided by other means such as personal delivery, mail, etc.

Community Stop:

• Need due to economic, social or other barriers
• Safe place to park
• Usage - visitors and ciruclation
• Distance from the library

Facility Stop:

• Need due to economic, social or other barriers
• Safe place to park
• Usage - vistors and cirulation
• Distance from the library

Overdue fines will not be charged for items checked out on the Bookmobile. Lost or damaged items must be paid for, however the Bookmobile does not handle any financial transactions. All fines for lost or damaged items must be paid for at one of the LCPL branches.

Other factors necessitate additional changes. 

The Laurens County Public Library Makerspace is an innovative space where patrons can learn, become empowered, and be entertained. The library provides an enriching opportunity for patrons to learn new skills and collaborate. This space will provide access to various tools, allowing our patrons to make, explore, and have fun.

Makerspace is available for patrons ages nine and up. A guardian must be present for patrons fourteen and under. 

All patrons must sign the makerspace agreement before having access to the room. Patrons seventeen and under must have their parent or legal guardian sign the agreement form before using the room.

1. All patrons must also comply with the Library Code of Conduct and the Computer Use Policy.
2. Patrons are responsible for reading and signing the Makerspace Policy and any addendums or changes made to the existing policy.
3. Some tools and equipment may require safety gear, which must be worn correctly. 
4. Unsafe behavior is not permitted. Users are encouraged to report any unsafe behavior observed to staff or volunteers on duty.
5. No food or drinks are allowed in the space.
6. Users must agree to respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements.
7. Only library laptops can be connected to the machines
8. All equipment must stay in the makerspace room. Theft will result in a permanent ban.
9. The library does not accept responsibility if a project is destroyed, doesn’t work, or any of the patron’s equipment is damaged while using the library’s equipment.
10.  Makerspace items must be returned to the same condition in which they were found.
11.  The staff reserves the right to refuse a patron’s request to visit the Makerspace and to suspend or ban a patron from this area.
12.  Equipment in the Makerspace may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use equipment in the Makerspace to create material that is: 

• Prohibited by local, state or federal law. 
• Harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer.) 
• Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment. 
• In violation of another’s intellectual property rights

13. Patrons using the Makerspace machines will not profit from or run a business out of the Makerspace or by using the machines. Violating this policy will result in suspension or a ban from using the area.
14.  If any tools or equipment break, please alert staff immediately. Failure to do so can cause fines or a ban for the last recorded user.
15.  Users agree to accept financial responsibility for any misuse or damage to Makerspace computers or equipment.

1. 3D printer
2. Glowforge
3. Laptops
4. Sewing Machines
5. Studio Production Set
6. Cubelets
7. Snap Circuits
8. Oil Spill kit
9. STEM Animation Kit
10. Edison Robots
11. Large format printer
12. Edventures Bricklab genetics
13. Heat Press Machine
14. Cricut Machine
15. Start to STEM Simple Machine kit
16. Edison 
17. Virtual Reality Glasses
18. 3D pens

• Patrons are required to check in with staff before entering the Makerspace.
• Reservations are not required but are highly encouraged.
• The library does not guarantee the availability of any equipment in the space.
• Patrons are limited to using the equipment for three hours per day, but this can be extended if no patrons are waiting for that piece of equipment.
• The library reserves the right to extend or reduce session length at its sole discretion.
• The Makerspace closes an hour before the library closes. Projects can’t be left running or suspended while the library is closed.
• The library assumes no responsibility for projects that are not able to be completed within the timeframe.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on April 23, 2025.

This policy illustrates the library’s role in providing internet services to our patrons. This policy will inform our patrons of their responsibilities associated with using the internet in the library.

Internet use in the library means using our network to access the internet through our workstations or wireless connection.

REVISED AND APPROVED BY LAURENS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD - JULY 27, 2022

Internet access is essential in Laurens County Public Library’s mission statement to educate, empower, and entertain our community.

The internet allows patrons to:

• Create content
• Explore different resources and services
• Have an environment to engage with others
• Educate themselves on different subjects Laurens County Public

Library provides access to the internet in accordance with Federal and State Laws and policies of the Laurens County Board of Trustees.

Public access to the internet is available to all library locations through workstations and wireless access points.

The library provides software that filters out proxy sites and sites that might have a security risk to the network.

These filters are used to resist obscene materials. The filtering software may restrict access to legitimate research sites. This software does not guarantee that all sites that pose security risks will be blocked.

The Laurens County Public Library Board of Trustees and staff assume no responsibility for damages of any type arising from patron use of the internet through the library’s network.

The following activities are prohibited when using library computers and wireless access:

• Bypassing, the attempt to bypass, or the instruction to other users on how to bypass the electronic internet filtering system or the time/reservation management system.
• Changing or adding programs or executable files to the library computer.
• Sending or displaying obscene or disruptive messages, files, or images, or use of obscene language.
• Violating copyright laws or software licensing agreements
• Violating state, federal, or local laws or the rules and regulations for conduct in libraries.

Users must agree to the above guidelines when accessing the Internet by reviewing the opening page and clicking “I accept.”

Failure to use the computers appropriately and responsibly, as defined on the opening page agreement, will result in revocation of computer/internet use privileges and library use privileges.

Illegal and unacceptable use may result in criminal prosecution as well.

Library laptops and electronic equipment are available for academic and professional communication use only, such as taking online classes, presentations, or private examinations. All the above regulations also apply to the usage of laptops or smart devices in the library and within the sphere of the provided wireless network.

Patrons understand that the content on the internet is not managed by any entity, and therefore they may encounter materials that are not accurate or might be considered offensive.

Patrons acknowledge that the library cannot protect the privacy of data.

Parent and Guardian Responsibility

Valuable educational and informational resources for children and youth can be found through the Internet and other electronic databases; however, material inappropriate for children is on the Internet, and although all public access computers are filtered, no electronic filter is 100% effective.

Parents are strongly encouraged to supervise their children’s Internet use to prevent access by minors to inappropriate matters on the Internet; to promote the safety and security of minors when using e-mail, social media, and other forms of direct electronic communications; to prevent hacking or other unlawful activities, and unauthorized dissemination of personal information.

To promote safety and parental supervision.

• Children age nine and under cannot use the internet access computers unless their parent or a responsible caretaker is present.
• Children under the age of eighteen must have a library card.
• Guest passes will not be issued for children under the age of 18.

Violations may result in a loss of internet access and appropriate legal action.

Patrons must log in to the computers with their library cards.

Visitors that are not residents of Laurens County may be issued a guest pass by showing a photo ID.

Each computer session is sixty minutes and may be extended by the number of computers available.

Library staff will assist patrons with computers if the manner is consistent with the library services and the availability of staff.

The library provides fax services to the public. A fee will be charged for fax transmissions sent by the library. The library will not allow patrons to fax 30 minutes before the branch closes. At self-service stations, if a patron sends a fax before closing, staff will not wait past closing time to ensure the fax is successfully transmitted. 

This policy establishes the guidelines for borrowing a laptop.

By borrowing a laptop, patrons acknowledge that they have read and understood the
following terms and conditions.

All users borrowing a laptop must agree to the computer use policy and do the following.

• Patron must be 18 or older
• Must have a good-standing library card
• Cannot borrow a laptop for someone else
• Borrow for individual use only
• Laptop can’t leave the facility

Borrowers who violate any of these guidelines will lose access to the laptops.

No personal information can be stored on the laptops. Once the device is returned, all
information will be permanently erased and cannot be recovered.

The checkout period for a laptop is 4 hours. If a patron needs more time, the patron must
return to the device kiosk and check out another laptop. Patrons who abuse the policy by
not returning the laptop before the 4-hour limit more than 3 times within a calendar year
will lose their privileges.

When returning the laptop, patrons must ensure that they plug the laptop into the kiosk
until the power adapter clicks and the light turns on. If this step is not completed, the
laptop will not be considered returned.

Staff will speak with the patron if a laptop is not returned within 4 hours. If a patron
leaves the facility with the device, police will be notified. The patron will be charged
$1000 for the replacement laptop.

If a laptop is damaged and cannot be repaired during checkout, the patron will be charged
$1,000.

● If a laptop is borrowed for over 4 hours in a single checkout
● If a laptop is removed from the facility
● If a laptop is not returned
● If a laptop is damaged beyond repair by sheer negligence

These laptops are configured with the same software available on the public desktops.

For more information or if you have any questions about this policy, please contact Renita
Barksdale at rbarksddale@lcpl.org

Approved by the Board of Trustees on April 23, 2025.

The library offers a range of non-book and non-DVD items available for checkout. Equipment is defined as kits, passes, badminton, or cornhole. Two kits per household can be checked out.

Equipment is used at the risk of the borrower. Borrowers are responsible for reading and following the manufacturer’s recommendations, warnings, and instructions.

Equipment must be returned at the circulation desk only. All equipment must be intact, clean, and in working order. All accessory items, parts, and manuals must be returned with the kits. Equipment returned inoperable, unclean, or with missing parts will incur an assessment fee. If equipment is damaged or lost, borrowers agree to pay the repair or replacement cost for the items.

Approved by the Laurens County Board of Trustees 10/22/25.

The Laurens County Public Library System provides six meeting spaces for the public to use for presentations and the exchange of information.

The rooms are available for use by civic, cultural, educational, governmental, and other nonprofit groups. Groups utilizing the meetings spaces must make their meetings open to the public with the exception of meeting for legal matters such as DSS, Guardians, and/or Guardian Ad Litem meetings, etc. Any community group such as homeowner’s association, youth group, religious, political group, fraternity, or sorority must be open to all members of the public and not targeted to the invitees. The use of library meeting spaces does not constitute an endorsement by the Laurens County Library System.

Library staff members must be permitted access to any meeting or event in the library. The guidelines established by the Board of Trustees and the Library Director provide the authority to approve or deny the use of the meeting spaces.

All meeting space reservations confirmed prior to the date of any revisions to this policy will be honored as scheduled.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on July 28, 2021

All activities in the meeting spaces are subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct. Any violations may result in the denial of meeting space use and/or assessment of fees. Applicants may appeal the denial of meeting space usage in writing to the Library Director within fifteen (15) days of notification of the denial. The Library Director’s decision may be appealed to the Board of Trustees in writing and will be considered at the next regularly scheduled board meeting. The decision of the Library Board of Trustees is final.

Laurens County Library System sponsored events will have precedence in the scheduling of our meeting spaces. The library reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a reservation within thirty (30) days prior if room is needed for a library function.

The library accepts no responsibility for damage or loss of personal items. The library is not responsible for the personal safety of any person inside or outside of the rooms.

All posted occupancy limits are determined by the Fire Marshal. Occupancy information for the meeting spaces is available on the Library’s website.

All meeting spaces are subject to federal, state, county, and municipal laws. If any violations occur, the patron’s privileges will be revoked.

The meeting spaces are available only during the regular operating hours of the library. The spaces may not be used for socializing or for solicitation of funds, sales, business promotion, or any other profit-making activities except on the behalf of the library. No funds may be exchanged on library property, including but not limited to ticket sales, admission fees, dues, or participation fees.

Meeting spaces may not be used for workshops, seminars or programs that are the direct or indirect promotion of a business or solicitation of clients. This restriction includes a free presentation or seminar that is similar to a for-profit business service/activity, a presentation about a product, or service that would be available in the future for a cost.

Restrictions Concerning Use

When rooms are in use, lights must be on unless the projector is being used. All doors will remain unlocked and nothing can be placed on windows to hinder the view.

Certain types of decorations such as confetti, open flames of any kind, and decorations with glitter are not allowed.

No smoking or alcoholic beverages are allowed in the meeting spaces.

Any damages found by those using meeting space must be reported to staff before the use of the room. If damages are not reported, the applicant may be charged for repairs.

Failure to clean up the rooms may result in loss of future use of the room. The applicant must be present in the meeting space during the entire period of use.

Setup

Staff will not provide any assistance with the set-up or take-down of any meeting spaces.

Group has the right to rearrange the meeting room to fit the needs of their meeting. However, the room has to be returned to the original state after the meeting.

If the room is not returned to the original state, the Library Director has the right to deny the applicant’s request for the meeting spaces in the future.

Non-Reserved Use

Library patrons may use available meeting spaces on a walk-in, first-come, first-serve basis by completing a paper application at the circulation desk.

The Study Rooms can be reserved for one hour. If no one else is waiting, the patron may be allowed to extend his/her use for an additional one (1) hour.

There are four different rooms which may be made available to the public. Their possible uses may vary based on their size and amenities. No food is allowed in Board, Collaboration, or Study Rooms except for bottled waters.

Hours Available (Times are subject to change)

• Monday through Thursday: 9:00-6:00
• Friday: 9:00-5:00
• Saturday: 9:00-1:00

Multipurpose Meeting Room

The meeting room is a flexible space that accommodates 80 people. This space has ten (10) tables available and television. This room has a podium and connectors for laptop to connect to the television. This meeting space is the only place where food and beverages are allowed.

Multipurpose Meeting Room permits only bottled water unless the applicant has paid the food/beverage fee.

If staff finds that any food or beverage was consumed in a meeting space without payment, the applicant will be charged the food and beverage fee plus a cleaning fee.

When food and beverage fee has been paid for an event the following rules apply:

• Coffee pots and electric food servers may be used in the Multipurpose Meeting Room. No other electrical appliances are allowed.
• Applicants are responsible for removing all food from the Multipurpose Meeting Room.

Board Room

This room can accommodate up to twenty (20) people. This room is a conference-style meeting room that can be used for tutoring and training.

Collaboration Room 

This room accommodates ten (10) people. This room is great for team work and studying and group projects. The room has a television that can connect to devices with a HDMI port.

Study Room

This room accommodates two (2) people. This room is also great for group study or collaborative work. It is also good for individual work.

Meeting spaces are made through the online reservation system. https://www.lcpl.org/meetingroom-reservation. To request meeting space, patrons must read the newly revised Meeting Room Policy and fill out the application online. Reservations are pending until confirmed by the library through email or telephone.

To reserve a meeting space an applicant must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Be a resident of Laurens County or have special permission to use the room
3. Submit a completed meeting space application
4. Have a library card in good standing

Reservations may be made no more than a year in advance.

Reservations will be accepted a minimum of 36 hours in advance.

Multipurpose Meeting Room may be reserved for the same group a maximum of four (4) times a month.

Cancellations must be made at least five (5) days in advance. If a person doesn’t give adequate cancellation notice three times within a year, he/she will be denied access to the meeting spaces for a full calendar year.

All reservation periods must have sufficient time for set-up and take-down of equipment.

Reserved meeting spaces will be unlocked only for the applicant.

All meetings must end 30 minutes before the Library closes and all clean-up must be completed by the applicant by closing.

All fees are set by the Board of Trustees. All spaces are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each requested date for any room requires a separate application and possible fee(s). The fee must be paid within ten (10) business days prior to the date recorded on the library calendar entry. Unpaid or partially paid reservations will be cancelled on the eleventh (11) day and the responsible persons shall be notified at that time.

Library meeting spaces may be used for governmental activities and educational programs that may lead to a license or certification issued by the government agency. If any government uses the rooms, no fees will be assessed.

• Library Television Rental - $50
• Food and Beverage Permit - $100
• Cleaning Deposit - $150 (This is refundable if room is left clean and in order.)
• Library Laptop Rental - $60
• Technical Assistance - $70

Payment 

All fees can be paid at the Circulation Desk.

Fees can also be paid on our website.

Technical Support

Library Staff may provide general support concerning library equipment. Staff is allowed to help people for fifteen (15) minutes. If the instruction becomes more than general instruction, the applicant will be charged a technical assistance fee.

Cancellations, Late Arrivals, and Refunds

Applicants must notify staff when he/she will be arriving late. The staff has the right to cancel the reservation when the applicant is thirty (30) or more minutes late.

If cancellation is done in accordance with the stated guidelines, applicants can submit for a refund for any fees he/she has paid. Repeat late arrivals, cancellations, or no shows will result in denial of using the meeting spaces.

Groups will not be permitted to post any signs or materials on library property without the approval of the Library Director.

The library will not advertise or promote any meeting without approval of the Library Director.

The name nor the address of the library may be used as the official address of an individual or organization.

Groups shall not use Laurens County Library System’s logo in any publicity.

Unauthorized signs will be removed from the property.

This policy supports a space for Laurens County residents to exchange ideas or share common interests. The library provides the rooms as a community service. The fact that individuals are permitted to use these rooms does not constitute an endorsement of the viewpoints or policies expressed by those using the room. 

1. There are 2 study rooms at the back of the adult area.
2. Each room has a table, chairs, outlets, a smart board, and wireless network access.
3. Each room has a listed room capacity that must be followed.
4. Rooms are available during library hours.
5. Rooms must be returned to the original setting once patrons are finished with the room.
6. Rooms are first-come, first-served.
7. To ensure the rooms' availability for the community, patrons can only use one room at a time.

1. Users must follow the Library’s Code of Conduct. Failure to comply may result in suspension or restriction of your library privileges, including but not limited to the room.
2. The room must be left in good condition. If it is damaged, the responsible party will be charged for replacement or repairs.
3. Furniture may not be brought into or removed from the room.
4. Staff have the right to access any room.
5. Permission to use the room is limited to the inside.
6. The windows in the room cannot be covered or obstructed in any way.
7. Lights must be on at all times.
8. No items can be placed on the walls.
9. The library is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.
10. Nobody should publicize any event for the room without the support of the Library Director or the authorized management team.

1. Library needs and room use are the priority over patrons' reservations.

2. Staff can reassign individuals or groups to another room based on library activities.
   
   Approved by the Board of Trustees April 23, 2025, Updated July 23, 2025

Laurens County Public Library System actively works towards preventing and containing bugs and eggs in all material and on library premises.

Laurens County Public Library System recognizesall patrons and staff have a role in controlling bugs in our collections. All patrons and staff must immediatley report any sighting of live or dead bugs to the library director or managers on duty.

If staff finds evidence of bugs in materials or on library premises, we will contact pest control to determine if or where infestations exists. Any materials or areas on the premises needing treatment will be treated. 

1. Staff will check materials to ensure no bugs are in them.
2. If signs of bugs are found, staff will immediately contain all items returned by the patron in a sealed bag. Several items may be placed in one bag.
3. Items to be discarded (still in the bag) will be withdrawn from the catalog: write "discard/ beg bugs" on the Ziploc bag witha permanent marker, remove them from the inside of the building, and place them in the bookmobile garage.
4. Patrons suspected of returning bug-infested materials will be notified immediately. They will be told the cost of the books.
5. Place a note on the Patron's record regarding the bugs in our materials.
6. Inform the Library Director or manager on duty of the infestation.
7. The director or manager will contact Pest Control about the location of the bugs.

The Laurens County Public Library offers notary services under South Carolina state laws. These services are available at the Laurens Branch on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 PM to 3 PM and at the Clinton Branch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12 PM to 3 PM, by appointment only.  This service is available for individuals and not for businesses. Our notaries only complete these services at the library. The library notary will decline to provide notary services if the situation does not comply with the policy outlined below. The Board of Trustees may modify or amend the policy as necessary.

The notary adheres to South Carolina Section 26. South Carolina requires a person signing a document to appear in person and present a valid, government-issued identification. A legal guardian or parent must accompany people under 18. All documents must be presented in their entirety. Apart from the signature on the document, the document must be filled out for it to be notarized. Any documents requiring a witness must be personally known to the individual whose documents are notarized. Library staff cannot serve as witnesses. Patrons are not allowed to ask our library patrons to serve as witnesses.

Our notary is not a trained attorney. Therefore, they cannot provide legal advice or assist with preparing the legal documents. Our notary can only offer basic notary services.

• Mortgages or real-estate documents, including but not limited to housing refinance or quit-claim deeds.

• Depositions

• Documents that require an electronic signature

• Auto titles without the buyer’s address and name

• Corporate/business documents

• Documents in a foreign language

• Documents for which the signer cannot communicate with the notary

• Marriage or divorce forms

• True copies of birth or death certificates.

• I-9 Forms

• Post or pre-dated documents

The cost for a notarized document is $5.00 per document.

Please call and set an appointment before coming to the library for this service.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on April 23, 2025.

Laurens County Public Library’s mission is to educate, empower, and entertain. Through this free testing, proctoring services are offered to students. Proctoring is by appointment only.

1. Follow the library guidelines when testing at Laurens County Public Library.
2. Students must set an appointment a week in advance.
3. Be the liaison between the school and the proctor.
4. When the test is scheduled, arrange for the test or passwords to be sent to the library.
5. Students must contact the library a day before the test is scheduled.
6. Bring a picture ID, student ID, pens/pencils, and a basic calculator if required.
7. Relinquish use of personal laptops and cellphones if required by the school.
8. Call to cancel at least 24 hours prior if unable to keep the reserved testing time. Failure to do so may result in the loss of this service.

1. Provide a contact number, e-mail address, and library address.
2. The library will provide a testing area
3. Staff will correspond with students via email, phone, or in person.
4. Service will not be allowed an hour before closing.
5. Provide a laptop, if needed, for students to use for testing.
6. Check the student’s photo ID or student ID.
7. Collect all scratch paper.
8. Report any violations during the exam to the school.
9. Forward tests through email or mail at the student's expense.

1. The library can’t guarantee proctoring service a week in advance.
2. The library will not proctor any exams a student brings in for testing.
3. The library can’t guarantee that technical problems will not happen during the exam.
4. The library is not responsible for any delayed tests.
5. If test results are to be returned to the school by mail, the library will send them promptly, but it's not guaranteed that the test will arrive by a specific date.
6. Laurens County Public Library can decline to administer staff-intensive tests.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on April 23, 2025.

The Board of Trustees of Laurens County Public Library has established comprehensive emergency guidelines to ensure the safety of our staff and patrons.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 30, 2024

• If you have a safe and accessible escape route, please evacuate the building immediately.
• If you cannot evacuate safely, seek a secure hiding place.
• Always consider fighting as a last option.
• When law enforcement arrives, stay calm and follow their instructions carefully.
• Once you are in a safe location, please call 911 immediately.
• Notify the operator of the shooter's location.
• Please describe the shooters and the types of weapons they are using.
   

• Leave hazardous substances in place and immediately notify authorities. Your quick action is critical in securing safety.
   

• Evacuate immediately if your safety is compromised or if directed by officials. Before locking the building, conduct thorough checks of all rooms and restrooms.
• Assist patrons with disabilities and children without hesitation.
   

• Describe the missing child.
• Announce a Code Adam to staff.
• Search the library thoroughly.
• Station a staff member at the door to ask patrons about the child.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Return the child to their parent once found.
• If with someone else, delay the adult without putting yourself in danger and gather information.
• If they leave, note descriptions of the individual and their vehicle.
• Write an incident report.
• Inform the Library Director and Deputy Director.
   

• Stay inside and shield yourself from falling objects.
   

• The library may close in emergencies, such as natural disasters or mechanical failures. The decision regarding the closure will be made by the Library Director or Deputy Director, who will consult the Chairman of the Board of Trustees whenever possible. The Library Director and designated staff will inform the public about the closure through social media.
   

• Stay Calm!
• Sound the alarm and direct all patrons to the front of the building.
• Meet at the flagpole at Laurens or in the employee parking area in Clinton. Call 911 to report fires or gas leaks. Use extinguishers on small fires only if it is safe to do so.

• Only re-enter the building once it has been confirmed safe.

   

  • Fire Safety Rules:
    ●    Never let fire obstruct your exit.
    ●    Close doors behind you to contain the fire.
    ●    Avoid breaking windows or opening hot doors.
    ●    Your safety comes first—do not risk personal belongings.
     

• Notify the County Department of Public Works.
• Notify the Clinton City Administrator.
   

• The Library Director will communicate with the County Administrator regarding storm plans.
• All staff will be briefed on emergency procedures.
• Communication will remain open between staff and administration.
• The Board of Trustees will receive timely updates.
• Key information will be shared on social media.
• The Director will secure all buildings and vehicles.
•  Close and lock all windows and doors during operating hours.
• Store phones safely.
• Evacuate to the designated “safe area” when necessary.
   

• Call 911 immediately and notify the Director/ Deputy Director about the situation.
• Contact the Risk Manager and document the incident thoroughly. Include the injured person's name, the names of any witnesses, and the date and time of the incident. Report any employee injuries to Human Resources and the Library Director.
• Conduct a headcount and ensure unattended minors contact their guardians.
   

Medical Emergency Rules:

• Administer first aid only in life-threatening situations. With minor injuries, offer a first aid box and allow the injured to select what they need.
• Remember, do not move injured patrons; keep communication clear and focused. Avoid accepting or acknowledging any responsibility for the accident, as this helps maintain a professional and unbiased response.
• Collect witness statements for accurate documentation. Submitting all staff witnesses' reports is essential to our emergency response process.
   

• If you receive a phone threat, listen carefully and keep the caller talking to gather vital information.
• Check the caller ID for more details, then call 911 immediately.
• Ensure that staff inform 911 while you remain on the call.
• If you encounter a written threat or a suspicious parcel, instruct staff to avoid handling it.
• Complete an incident report with all relevant details.
   

• Close the library immediately.
• Assist patrons in evacuating as needed.=
• Report the outage to the Commission of Public Works and shut down computers effectively.
•  Staff may remain if there is sufficient light; evacuate immediately if the outage persists.
   

●    Proactively inform patrons of severe weather alerts and encourage them to remain until the threat passes.
●    Direct patrons to the designated "safe area" near the break room (Laurens) or bathrooms (Clinton) and take a head count.
●    It's essential that staff bring a weather radio, flashlight, and personal mobile phone to keep communication current and ensure their safety during severe weather.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning:
●    Watch: Stay alert for potential conditions.
●    Warning: Take cover immediately—your safety is paramount.
 

Laurens County Public Library System will use social media to inform the public of library services and provide opportunities to interact with the public. The library’s online presence must always be consistent with our values to promote our programs.

Only employees responsible for the library’s social media accounts can delete, edit, or modify content. They will collect content from staff and edit and post that content. 
Postings on these forums are restricted to information or discussion about library programs, services, and relevant community events. The public is encouraged to participate in these forums, using the Library’s Terms of Use:

• No abusive, threatening and defamatory comments
• No content that violates intellectual property rights
• No personal information published without consent
• No comments or links unrelated to library events or services
• No commercial promotions or solicitations
• No political campaigning or advocacy

The library reserves the right to remove postings on any social media accounts that violate the above restrictions.

All social media posts and public comments are subject to the Freedom of Information Act. Negative posts from the public on social media sites will be removed if they violate the Library's Terms of Use. Content that violates the Terms of Use is subject to removal and retained by saving a screenshot of the comment along with a memo to the file describing why the specific content was deleted.

The Laurens County Public Library assumes no liability regarding any event or interaction involving any participant in any Library-sponsored social networking service. In addition, the library reserves the right to reproduce comments, posts, and messages in other public venues. Identifying information other than the first name will be removed unless the user grants prior approval.

Approved by the Board of Trustees on October 30, 2024

Thank you for your interest in visiting our library! Our goal is to deliver the best possible library experience to our visiting classes and groups; to ensure we can create a field trip experience tailored to your group's specific needs, we ask that you abide by the procedures outlined in this policy.
 

• Which branch are you interested in visiting?
• Name of your school, group, or co-op.
• First, second, and third choice of dates for your visit.
• Total number of students participating in the field trip.
• Grade level or age range of the students on the tour.
• Number of staff or chaperones accompanying the group of students
  • Note: We recommend at least one chaperone per 10 students in your group for safety reasons.
     

• We can accommodate up to 30 students per class visit.
• If you have more than 30 students, you will have to do multiple visits, which can be on the same day (ex, one class at 9 AM, another class at 11 AM, etc.).
   

• Plan your trip at least a month ahead–please reach out sooner if your group requires a special activity (story time, library instruction, etc.) so that our staff can begin preparing.
• Requests made within 21 business days of the desired visit date may not be guaranteed and are at the discretion of staff.
• Field trip accommodations are dependent upon staff availability, program schedules, community event obligations, and library closures.
• If persistent disruptive or concerning behaviors arise during the field trip and are not addressed appropriately by the accompanying staff or chaperones, the whole group may be asked to leave. Please refer to the Laurens County Public Library Code of Conduct.

• Library card applications will be emailed to the field trip organizer. Students who need library cards must complete applications before the tour.
• To be considered for a library card:
  • Applications must have the student’s full legal name and the application must be completed in full.
  • A parent or legal guardian must sign the application and indicate whether the student’s card is to be restricted to juvenile materials.
• Applications should be submitted to Jordan Streett (Laurens) or Ashley Washington (Clinton) at least 18 business days before the class visit.
• Library cards will not be issued on the day of your visit.
• Staff will notify the school once the cards are ready for pickup. The applicant school is responsible for distributing library cards to their students upon receipt.
• Students with existing library accounts may receive new cards if their account is expired, but otherwise in good standing.
  • “Good Standing” refers to accounts with all required information (current) and no outstanding charges.
  • Students with library accounts that are not in good standing will need to have their parents come to the library to resolve any issues with their account before a new card can be issued.
     

E-mail all relevant information to Jordan Streett at jstreett@lcpl.org if visiting the Laurens Branch, or to Ashley Washington at awashington@lcpl.org if visiting the Clinton Branch. Please note that submitting an email does not guarantee a reservation. Our staff will confirm whether your group visit can be accommodated at that time.

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees October 22, 2025.

The Laurens County Public Library will provide a free seed library for residents of Laurens County. The seeds are supplied by the Laurens County Soil & Water Conservation District in partnership with the library. This seed library seeks to educate the community about food diversity, cultural practices, sustainability, and the potential for innovation in gardening and agriculture.
 

• Seeds are available at both libraries during regular hours of operation.
• Seeds are available at no cost for Laurens County Public Library cardholders who are in good standing. This means a patron has fines of less than $10.00.
• Library cardholders can obtain one packet per week.
• Patrons must be physically present to receive a seed packet.
• Seeds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be held for future pick-up.
• Seeds do not need to be returned.
• The library cannot accept returns or donations of seeds saved from plants grown by neighborhood gardeners. However, small donations of packaged, store-bought seeds may be received.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on October 22, 2025.