PURPOSE

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Security cameras are installed in the Sutton Free Library to protect the safety and security of people, the building, and its contents, while protecting individuals’ right to privacy. Only authorized Library staff may view recordings.

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PLACEMENT OF CAMERAS

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Video recording cameras will be used in public spaces of the Library to discourage criminal activity and violations of the Library’s Disruptive Behavior Policy.

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Cameras may be installed in indoor and outdoor places where individuals lack reasonable expectation of privacy. Examples include public common areas of the library such as the parking lots, entrances, seating areas, service desks, and areas prone to theft or misconduct. Cameras will not be installed in areas of the Library where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as restrooms or private offices.

Signs are posted throughout the library informing the public and staff that security cameras are in use.

Because Security cameras are not constantly monitored, staff and public should take appropriate precautions for their safety and for the security of personal property. Sutton Free Library is not responsible for loss of property or personal injury.

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STORAGE AND ACCESS TO RECORDED DATA

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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 liberty. Authorized Library staff may use a single shot of 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.

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Video data will be made available to law enforcement officials or agencies upon written request, and with approval of authorized Library staff. The Library shall retain a copy of the request.  Recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to the library users by New Hampshire law and the Library’s policies with respect thereto.

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Access is also allowed by law enforcement when pursuant to a subpoena, court order, or when otherwise required by law.

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Patrons who experience a crime such as theft of personal possessions while at the Library must submit a report to law enforcement. Members of the public will not be granted access to recorded data; this access must be requested, in writing, by law enforcement.

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In situations involving banned patrons, stored still images may be shared with staff Library-wide.  Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff areas for the duration of the banning period.  The general public will not have access to this information.

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UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS AND/OR DISCLOSURE

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A breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

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Any Library employee who becomes aware of any unauthorized disclosure of a video recording and/ or potential privacy breach has a responsibility to immediately inform the Library Director of the breach.

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DISCLAIMER OF RESPONSIBILITY

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Questions from the public may be directed to the Library Director.

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The Library disclaims any liability for use of the video data in accordance with the terms of this policy, given that the Library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/ or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.

 

 

Policy Approved by the Sutton Free Library Board of Trustees; Jan 11, 2022.

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