Library Policies
1. Mission & Values
The Lake Geneva Public Library champions lifelong learning and free access to information, resources, and services for all community members.
Our core values:
Service to the Community
Intellectual Freedom
Access to Information
Lifelong Learning
2. Library Use
The Library warmly welcomes everyone—regardless of age, background, or viewpoint—and is committed to maintaining a safe, comfortable, and accessible space for all.
What Every Visitor Enjoys
Friendly, courteous, and confidential assistance from staff
A clean, comfortable space with seating for reading, working, and meeting
Programs for all ages and interests
Free public computers, internet access, and high-speed Wi-Fi
Free scanner for emailing, saving, and digitizing documents and photos
Pay-per-use printing, copying, and faxing
Additional Library Card Benefits
Cardholders enjoy all of the above, plus:
Materials from any SHARE consortium library (Kenosha, Racine, Rock, and Walworth county public libraries)
Special collections unique to Lake Geneva: Wi-Fi hotspots, ukuleles, STEM kits, dolls, toys, GPS devices, metal detectors, Launchpads, and more
Digital resources: Libby/OverDrive (eBooks & audiobooks), LinkedIn Learning, BadgerLink, and searchable Lake Geneva historical newspapers (on-site only)
Interlibrary loan for items not in our collection or the SHARE consortium
Experience passes for checkout that include Wisconsin State Park admission, Milwaukee County Zoo and Milwaukee Art Museum admission, Wisconsin Historical Society site admission, and more
24/7 material returns via the book drop near the main entrance of the library and at Stinebrink’s Lake Geneva Piggly Wiggly during store hours
Visitor Guidelines
To help us keep the Library welcoming for everyone, we ask all visitors to:
Be courteous and respectful of other patrons and staff
Follow directions from Library staff
Supervise children in your care—children under 13 may not be left unattended; children under 16 may not supervise other children
Keep personal belongings secure and report any concerns to staff promptly
Comply with all applicable laws and Library policies
A few additional reminders:
Beverages in covered containers are welcome everywhere except near public computers
Service animals are welcome; pets are not permitted in public areas
Soliciting, canvassing, petitioning, and campaigning are not permitted on Library property
Smoking is not permitted in or around the Library building
Reviewed and adopted: July 2018 | Updated: September 2024
3. Circulation Services
As a member of the Prairie Lakes Library System and the SHARE consortium, the Library provides free access to its full collection for all SHARE library cardholders. We believe in each person’s freedom to choose their own materials; responsibility for personal selection rests with the patron, and parents and caregivers are encouraged to guide their family’s library use in line with their own values. Collection decisions are not limited by the possibility that a child might access material a parent or caregiver considers inappropriate.
Materials Selection
The Library builds an unbiased, diverse collection in a variety of formats that represents a range of viewpoints, cultural backgrounds, and community interests. The Library Director holds final responsibility for collection development, typically delegating day-to-day decisions to credentialed (MLIS) staff librarians.
The Director may bring any acquisition that could be of concern to the Board’s attention. The presence of an item in the collection does not imply endorsement of its content by Library staff or the Board. The Library supports the American Library Association’s statements on intellectual freedom.
Selection considers:
Relevance to community needs and interests
Authority, comprehensiveness, and currency of content
Suitability of format for library use
Artistic merit and creative value
Diversity of opinion and balanced viewpoints in the collection
Reputation of the author or illustrator and professional reviews
Cost and relation to the existing collection
Insight into the human and social condition
Attention from critics, reviewers, and the public
Languages represented in the community
In choosing materials, staff draw on professional review journals, publisher catalogs and advance copies, standard bibliographies, recommendations from patrons and fellow librarians, and their own training and experience.
Donated materials are evaluated using the same criteria as purchased items. Items not added to the permanent collection are given to the Friends of the Library book sale, which directly supports Library programs and initiatives.
Library and school collections. Library materials complement the reference, research, and leisure needs of students of all ages. The Library does not duplicate school collections; its materials supplement, rather than replace, those provided by schools.
Withdrawing materials. Staff periodically withdraw items that are outdated, worn, damaged, or no longer of interest or in demand. This deselection process applies the same thought, criteria, and judgment as selection.
Patrons who wish to share feedback about the collection are encouraged to speak with a librarian or submit a written Statement of Concern (see Section 6).
Loan Periods
Most Library-owned materials: 3 weeks
New books & audiobooks: 2 weeks
Videos, CDs, DVDs, past magazine issues: 2 weeks
Special items (STEM kits, Launchpads, museum passes, etc.): 2 weeks
Experience passes: 3 days
Reference materials & current periodicals: In-library use only
Interlibrary loan items: Set by the lending library
Most items may be renewed unless another patron has placed a hold on them. Patrons can renew via the online SHARE catalog, by phone, email, or in person. If an item is already checked out, patrons with a SHARE card may place a hold to reserve it.
Interlibrary Loan & Online Resources
When an item is not available through the SHARE consortium, patrons with a SHARE card may request it through interlibrary loan. The Library borrows from libraries outside the system and, in turn, lends its own materials to others. Requests placed at Lake Geneva Public Library are delivered to the Lake Geneva Public Library; to pick up materials at another library, place the request there instead.
The lending library sets the loan period for interlibrary loan items. Renewal requests are made through Library staff and are granted or declined at the lending library’s discretion; please check back within three days to see whether a renewal was approved. Occasionally, an item may be unavailable, or outside constraints may prevent us from filling a request.
Online resources may be used to broaden the Library’s reference collection when staff determine they are the best or most readily available source of information.
Overdue Materials & Fees
Lake Geneva Public Library-owned materials are not charged overdue fines when checked out and returned at the Lake Geneva Public Library. Replacement charges for unreturned, lost, or damaged items and reconnection fees for overdue hotspots do apply. Interlibrary loan items from outside the SHARE consortium accrue late fines of $0.25/day.
Items are declared lost after 14, 30, or 60 days overdue, depending on item type, and billed at replacement cost. Accounts with $10 or more in outstanding charges are placed on hold until resolved. Accounts with long-standing balances may be referred to a collection agency; juvenile accounts are exempt from collections. Library collections do not affect credit reports or scores. Materials owned by other SHARE libraries may carry their own overdue fees.
Lost & Damaged Materials
Lost or damaged items are billed at retail replacement cost. Patrons may substitute a brand-new, identical-format copy; a $5.00 processing fee applies. Interlibrary loan replacement costs are set by the owning library; if unknown at settlement, a minimum $50 fee is assessed.
Patron Privacy & Confidential Records
All patron records and transactions are strictly confidential under Wisconsin State Statute 43.30. This covers materials borrowed, database searches, reference questions, and interlibrary loan records. Records are not released to any individual, group, or agency without due legal process; all requests are referred to the Library Director. Patron names may be shared with another library only for the purpose of borrowing materials on that patron’s behalf.
4. Outreach Services
The Lake Geneva Public Library is committed to extending its services, resources, and programs beyond the physical walls of the Library to reach all community members—particularly those who face barriers to visiting in person. Outreach is offered in two forms: Homebound Delivery and Pop-Up Library Services.
General Outreach Requirements
The following requirements apply to all outreach services:
A current, valid LGPL library card—or the proper documentation to obtain one—is required.
Service is limited to residents of the City of Lake Geneva. (A Lake Geneva mailing address does not necessarily indicate residence within City limits.)
Patrons receiving home delivery must complete and submit the Home Delivery Request Form before their first delivery.
The bookmobile may be driven or occupied only by City of Lake Geneva employees; it is used for outreach transport only, may not be used for personal purposes, and may not be entered by patrons.
Library staff will not enter a residence. Walkways must be clear, and pets secured at delivery time.
Wi-Fi hotspots and interlibrary loan items are not eligible for outreach services.
Patrons are responsible for all items checked out on their library cards; standard borrowing rules apply, and the standard fee is charged for any unreturned, lost, or damaged items.
Library staff cannot assist patrons with personal errands or any household tasks.
Failure to comply with outreach policies will result in the termination of services.
Homebound Delivery
Library materials are delivered to patrons who are unable to visit due to age, illness, or disability. Materials are placed outside the home in a bin or backpack provided by the Library. Delivery is limited to addresses within the City of Lake Geneva, and standard borrowing rules and fees apply.
Pop-Up Library Services
Staff bring Library resources, programs, and information to community locations such as schools, parks, stores, and public events. Limited material circulation and Library services are available at pop-up events; Wi-Fi hotspots and interlibrary loan items are not available.
Library card applications are available at pop-up locations, and cards may be issued upon presentation of proper documentation.
Pop-up information and locations are posted on the Library website and other marketing materials.
In the event of inclement weather, changes to a scheduled pop-up are announced on the Library website and other communication channels.
Home Delivery Request Form
Complete this form to have Library materials delivered to your home. This service is available only to residents of the City of Lake Geneva. Submit to the Library Director at ekornak@lglibrary.org, by mail, or in person.
Name:
Date of Birth:
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Emergency Contact
Name:
Relationship:
Phone:
May we discuss your library account with your emergency contact?
Yes ___
No ___
Participant Acknowledgments
(initial to accept)
___ I confirm that I am unable to independently get to the Library.
___ I understand I am responsible for keeping track of Library materials delivered, and for payment for any lost or damaged items.
___ I allow the Library to save my checkout history (to prevent duplicate checkouts). I may opt out of this feature at any time.
Reading preferences (favorite authors and/or genres to help staff select materials):
Preferred formats (check all that apply):
___ Regular print books
___ Large print books
___ DVDs
___ Music CDs
___ Audiobooks – CD
___ Audiobooks – Playaways
___ Magazines
5. Volunteers
The Library welcomes volunteer interest and evaluates each request individually based on current Library needs and available staff supervision. The Library Director and Assistant Director approve all volunteer placements. All volunteers are subject to a background check by the Lake Geneva Police Department.
6. Concerns About Library Resources
Patron feedback about our resources and services is always welcome. Requests for formal reconsideration of specific materials or programs are open to registered LGPL cardholders in good standing.
How to Share a Concern
Informal: Contact a librarian or the Library Director to schedule an appointment. A Statement of Concern form will be provided at that time.
Written request: Complete and submit a Statement of Concern form directly to the Library Director. Blank forms are available at the Library’s front desk for requestors.
Once a written concern is received, the Director and one staff member will review the material and gather published professional reviews. The patron receives the Director’s written decision along with all supporting materials. Appeals may be submitted in writing to the Library Board of Trustees; the Board’s decision is final.
Reviewed and updated: September 2022
Statement of Concern About Library Materials
Requirements. Complete the form below or click here for a PDF version. The requester must hold an active, valid LGPL card in good standing. For books or magazines, the entire work must be read and reviewed by the requester, and all fields must be completed—incomplete, cursory, or copy-and-paste responses will not be considered. Submit a separate form for each item (items may not be combined). Only one form per household may be pending at a time; additional statements may be submitted one at a time after the Library or Library Board acts on the pending statement.
Date:
Name:
Address:
Phone & Email:
I wish to be contacted regarding my expressed concern:
___ Yes
___ No
Who do you represent?
___ Self
___ Organization (name): ______________________________
Resource type (circle one):
book / magazine / newspaper / audio-visual resource / library program / art exhibit / display / other
Title:
Author / Publisher / Artist:
Barcode / Call #:
What brought this resource to your attention?
Have you read/viewed this resource in its entirety?
___ Yes
___ No
What are your concerns about this material?
Please cite the page numbers or location and quote specific passages that demonstrate your concerns:
Are there other resources you suggest to provide additional attention to this topic?
If you are requesting removal, why should this resource not be available to other patrons who may wish to read/view it, and why does this request supersede their freedom to read?
7. Records Retention & Open Records
The Library follows the Records Retention Schedule established by the Wisconsin Public Records Board for public libraries. More information: dpi.wi.gov/libraries/records
The Library complies fully with the State of Wisconsin Open Records Law. More information: Wisconsin DOJ Open Records guide (PDF)
8. Emergency Preparedness
The safety of staff, volunteers, and patrons is our top priority. In any emergency, staff will call 911 or the appropriate emergency contact. Life always takes precedence over property.
Building Evacuation
The building is evacuated for fire, bomb threats, gas leaks, water emergencies, or other safety concerns. The four exits are the Main North Entrance, the Staff Workroom Door, the Smith Meeting Room Door, and the Lakeside South Doors. No one may re-enter without authorization from Fire, Police, or Utilities.
Fire
All-purpose fire extinguishers are located throughout the building. In case of fire, one staff member calls 911 while another directs evacuation. A staff member may use an extinguisher only for a contained fire; if it escalates, evacuate immediately. Remember PASS: stand 8 feet away—Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side.
Tornado
When a tornado warning (not watch) is issued, all staff and patrons proceed to the basement. Patrons unable to use the basement may shelter in the Smith Meeting Room as far away from exterior windows and doors as possible. A sign will be posted at the library entrance during a tornado warning to direct patrons to the basement or Smith Meeting Room.
Medical Emergencies
Call 911 for any serious injury or medical emergency. A first aid kit is available in the staff workroom. Staff may offer bandages to patrons for self-use but should not administer first aid. Do not move an injured person. All injuries must be reported to the Library Director as soon as possible.
Last updated: August 2022
9. Social Media
The Library uses social media to keep the community informed about events, services, and resources. This policy applies to Library staff and to patrons interacting with the Library on any platform.
Appropriate Content
Library event announcements and program information
Library policies, services, and resources
Promotion of the Library and related professional organizations
Photos from Library events (patrons who prefer not to appear should notify staff)
Content That May Be Removed
Library staff monitor all accounts and may remove content that is obscene, threatening, defamatory, a copyright violation, or unrelated to the Library’s mission—including personal, political, religious, or commercial posts.
10. Security Cameras
The Library uses security cameras to help maintain a safe environment and support law enforcement when needed. Cameras record video only—no audio is recorded.
Cameras are installed only in public areas where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy (service desks, entrances, seating areas, and book stacks).
Cameras are never installed in restrooms or private offices.
Footage is stored securely and automatically overwritten after approximately one week, unless retained for a law enforcement matter.
Footage is accessible only to the Library Director.
Footage may be shared with law enforcement per Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 43.30(5) and 2007 Act 34; a court order is generally required to obtain records that could identify library users.
Security cameras are not used for staff performance evaluations.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees: January 2018
11. Exam Proctoring
The Library can proctor exams when staff are able to meet the requirements set by the educational institution.
To Schedule an Exam
Contact the Library at least one week in advance by email to library@lglibrary.org
Bring a valid photo ID for identity verification
Pay the $15 proctoring fee at the Circulation Desk before the exam begins
Provide a prepaid return envelope if the exam must be mailed back
Students are responsible for arranging the delivery of exam materials, reserving a library meeting room (K.C. or Swanson Rooms are reservable at lglibrary.org), and meeting all institutional deadlines. Online exams require the institution’s written permission and the student’s own laptop. The Library reserves the right to decline any proctoring request.
12. Internet & Computer Access
The Library provides free public computer access with internet and productivity software as an educational and recreational resource for all cardholders. Computers are generally available from opening until 15 minutes before closing.
The internet is a global resource not under the Library’s control. Users are encouraged to evaluate online sources critically. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children’s internet use. Complete privacy cannot be guaranteed on shared computers.
Acceptable Use
Use computers for lawful, appropriate purposes
Do not attempt to bypass or disable security or reservation systems
Do not move or alter computers or attached equipment
Respect the privacy and safety of other users
Children’s Internet Protection (CIPA)
In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Library uses internet filtering technology to block visual depictions of obscene material and child pornography. Filters are managed by the Prairie Lakes Library System.
Reviewed and approved by the Board: October 2021
13. Art & Exhibits
The Library partners with the Geneva Lake Art Foundation (GLAF) for temporary art displays. GLAF manages the rotating monthly paintings on the picture rail at the west end of the Library. Requests to use this display space or to purchase displayed art must be coordinated directly with GLAF.
Requests to donate permanent works of art are reviewed by the Library Board of Trustees. Space for permanent displays is limited, and accepted works may be stored for extended periods. Display decisions are made by the Library Director and the Library Board.
14. Library Programs
All Library programs are free and open to the public. The Library is committed to high-quality programming that promotes literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Program Selection & Presenters
Programs are created by Library staff based on community interests, alignment with our mission, and feasibility in terms of staffing, space, budget, and equipment. Public suggestions are always welcome and may be submitted via a Library-provided program proposal form; the Library Director makes final decisions.
Presenters are selected for their subject-matter expertise and public-speaking experience. The Library does not exclude presenters based on background or beliefs, nor does it shy away from complex or controversial topics. Inclusion of a speaker or subject does not imply Library endorsement.
Program Guidelines
All programs are noncommercial; presenters may not solicit business, advertise services, or collect attendee contact information.
Book sales or signings may be permitted at the Director’s discretion, provided no purchase is required to attend.
All participants are expected to follow the Library Use Policy.
Collaborative programs with outside organizations require Library staff involvement and Director approval.
Events by Outside Organizations
Events organized by outside groups using Library meeting rooms are not Library programs and are not promoted by the Library. These events must clearly identify their own sponsoring organization and will not appear on Library calendars or signage.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees: August 14, 2025
15. Reference Services
Our staff is here to help all patrons—regardless of age, background, or need—find the information they seek. Reference services include:
Personalized assistance in locating information across all formats
Help using the online catalog, databases, and research strategies
A reference collection maintained in print, digital, and online formats
Building and sharing resources in the Lake Geneva Local History Collection
Connecting patrons with other libraries or agencies when needs fall outside our collection
Processing interlibrary loan requests for items not available within the SHARE consortium
16. Meeting Rooms
The Library offers comfortable, technology-equipped meeting rooms during Library hours.
Available Spaces
K.C. Meeting Room: Up to 6 occupants, 55″ Vibe smartboard
Swanson Meeting Room: Up to 6 occupants, 55″ Vibe smartboard with webcam & microphone for conferencing
Smith Meeting Room: Up to 74 occupants, two 98″ screens, microphone, audio input, ceiling speakers. HDMI connection or Apple AirPlay available.
Reserving the K.C. and Swanson Rooms
Reserve online at lglibrary.org. Walk-ins are welcome but yield to confirmed reservations.
Maximum 4 hours per day per reservation
Rooms must be vacated 15 minutes before closing
Reservations not claimed within 15 minutes may be released to the next user
Library programs take scheduling priority and may result in the cancellation of existing reservations
Smith Meeting Room
The Smith Meeting Room is primarily reserved for Library programs and events, but may be reserved for nonprofit and public events upon Library approval. To check availability and reserve the room for an event, email the Library Director (ekornak@lglibrary.org). Reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance, and Library programs take precedence over all other meetings and events.
By submitting a reservation request, the applicant agrees to the following:
The applicant will serve as the designated event contact and be present for the duration of the event.
All publicity will clearly state that the event is not hosted, endorsed, or sponsored by the Lake Geneva Public Library.
Upon approval, a non-refundable $100 room usage fee is required, paid by check to the Lake Geneva Public Library, Attn: Emily Kornak, Library Director, 918 W Main Street, Lake Geneva, WI 53147 (memo line: “Smith Meeting Room fee”). The fee is waived for nonprofit organizations and local government entities.
Smith Meeting Room audiovisual equipment may be used with advance permission and planning with Library staff. Library staff will set up all room tables and chairs and connect AV equipment and computers or devices, as well as remove furniture and shut down AV at the conclusion of the program.
Permitted Uses
Rooms are available to the public on an equitable basis, consistent with the Library Bill of Rights. Use of a meeting room does not imply Library endorsement of any viewpoint or group. Permitted uses include community meetings, educational gatherings, study sessions, and remote work or meetings.
No financial transactions may take place on Library premises. Authors and musicians may offer their own self-created works for sale as an ancillary part of a Library program.
Room Guidelines
Access & Conduct
Library staff always have free access to all rooms; doors may not be locked or barred.
The Library may monitor meetings to ensure policy compliance and may photograph or record events for institutional purposes. All events are considered public events in the Smith Meeting Room.
The water fountain and restroom off the Smith Meeting Room are always accessible to the public.
Room Care
Rooms must be left clean and in orderly condition.
Light refreshments are welcome; alcohol is not permitted.
No temporary or permanent wall attachments.
Users are responsible for any damage to rooms or equipment.
Publicity & Identity
All promotional materials must clearly identify the sponsoring group and state that the event is not Library-sponsored.
The Library’s name, address, or phone number may not be used as a group’s official contact or headquarters.
Not Permitted
Financial transactions as part of commercial activity
Charging admission, registration, or participation fees
Personal parties or private family gatherings
Any activity posing a health, safety, or legal risk
Reviewed by the Lake Geneva Public Library Board: April 2026
Smith Meeting Room Reservation Request
Review usage guidelines and submit request form at least 30 days in advance to the Library Director: email ekornak@lglibrary.org; mail to Lake Geneva Public Library, Attn: Smith Meeting Room reservation, 918 W Main Street, Lake Geneva, WI 53147; or drop off during open hours. Library programs take precedence over all other meetings and events.