Although the library is a public space, it is considered a “limited public forum” under federal law. Public libraries may establish guidelines tailored to their core functions of quiet reading, research, and information access, while balancing the privacy rights of staff and patrons with the principles of free speech. For the purposes of this policy, “photography” includes still images while “recordings” includes video, audio, and live streaming.
Photography and Recordings by Library PATRONS
- Permission is not required to take photographs or recordings in the public areas of the library for personal, non-commercial use. Under no circumstances may the public photograph or record any patron or staff member without express permission from that individual. Permission from a parent or legal guardian is required for anyone under 18 years of age. Neither minors nor staff can grant permission on behalf of said minor.
- Photographs and recordings are not permitted in non-public or staff areas without prior written consent from the Executive Director.
- Staff reserves the right to stop any photography or recording if it compromises a patron or staff member’s right to privacy, results in disruption of normal library operation, is deemed to be harassing, intimidating, or threatening toward patron or staff, or compromises public safety and security.
- Taking photographs and recordings of the exterior building and grounds does not require permission but the activity may not impede the flow of traffic or with patrons or staff wishing to enter or exit the building.
Photography and Recordings by Library STAFF
- Library patrons consent to the use of their photograph or recording taken at the Library or during Library-sponsored events, unless they specifically inform the staff member in charge of the event of an objection to this action. This policy extends to photographs and recordings by Library staff at any of the Library’s outreach programs in the community. Library staff will announce that photography or recording may occur during the event and any objection can be relayed to the staff members present.
- Library staff may use photos and recordings taken at Library sponsored events for publicity or news stories, in either print or online. These images and recordings may appear in future publications or posted on the Library’s website, in marketing materials, and on social media platforms such as the Library’s Facebook page.
Photography and Recordings by the MEDIA
- Media is asked to seek approval from the Executive Director before taking photographs and recordings to ensure that such activities do not impede the public’s use of the Library, staff’s delivery of services to the public, or an individual’s expectation of privacy.
Library Security Use of Video Recordings
- To secure the safety of Library patrons, staff, and property, the Pataskala Public Library employs the use of video cameras. Video cameras are placed in critical locations inside and outside of the Library building that are under continuous video surveillance and recording. Signs disclosing video surveillance are posted at the Library. By entering the premises, Library patrons and staff consent to being video recorded.
- Digital images recorded will be retained based on server storage capacity and the Library’s record retention policy. The recordings are security records and are not considered to be public records and are explicitly exempt from disclosure under the public records law.
- Recordings will be used to identify the person/persons responsible for Library policy violations, criminal activity, or actions considered disruptive to normal Library operations. They may be used to assist law enforcement agencies in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Recordings of incidents can be retained and reviewed as long as considered necessary by the Executive Director or designee. Images may be shared with other Library staff to identify person(s) banned from Library property and to maintain a safe and secure environment.
Liability and Enforcement
- Members of the public who take photographs or recordings are solely reliable for any injuries to persons or property that result from their activities on Library property. They are responsible for obtaining the necessary releases and permissions required by law and obtaining consent or other permission when taking photographs or recordings of copyrighted material.
- Library staff reserve the right to ask any individual or group who violates this policy to cease taking photographs or recordings on Library property, and to revoke access to the Library to those who refuse to comply with requests of staff consistent with this policy.