Policies

Article I:

Identification

Section 1. The name of this board is the "Board of Trustees of the Princeton Public Library", hereinafter referred to as "the Board". The Princeton Public Library will be hereinafter referred to as "the Library".

Section 2. Geographical boundaries of the Library and taxed library district include the city limits of Princeton and the township of Patoka in Gibson County, Indiana.

Article II:

Authority and Purpose

Section 1. The Board shall govern and set policy for all the affairs the Library, a municipal corporation and Class 1 library organzied under the public library provisions, according to the purposes and authority set forth in IC 36-12, as amended, and such other Indiana and federal laws as affect the operation of the Library.

Section 2. The major tasks of the Library Board are to set library policies, hire and evaluate the director, plan for the future of the library, monitor and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the library, and be an advocate for the library in the community and an advocate for the community as a member of the Board, pursuant to IC 36-12. Acutal day-to-day operation of the library is delegated to the paid professional staff, pursuant to IC 36-12-2-24.

Section 3. Members of the Board shall serve without compensation per IC 36-12-2-21, except the treasurer. A Board member may not serve as a paid employee of the public library, except the treasurer. The treasurer may be either: a member of the library board or an employee of the library, pursuant to IC 36-12-2-22.

Section 4. Necessary travel and/or meal expenses of any Board member incurred in the interest and business of the library may be reimbursed out of library funds, pursuant to IC 36-12-3-14. Such travel on behalf of the Library shall be approved by the Board.

Section 5. The Board may engage legal counsel as needed for legal advice. The President of the Board or the library director may request the legal counsel for any matter which comes within the jurisdiction of the Board, and shall report the opinion to the Board.

Article III:

Personnel

Section 1. The library board shall select a librarian who holds a certificate pursuant to IC 36-12-11-6 and 36-12-11-7 to serve as the director of the library. The selection shall be made solely upon the basis of the candidate's training and proficiency in the science of library administration. The board shall fix the compensation of the director. The director, as the administrative head of the library, is responsible to the board for the operation and management of the library pursuant to IC 36-12-2-24(a).

Section 2. The Library Director shall oversee the daily operation of the library and its staff, including but not limited to the following: implementation of board policy, recommend staff for hiring, prepare the annual budget for approval of the board, manage the finances of the library, oversee the assets of the library, plan the annual operations of the library to fit into the long-range plan of the board, assist the board in the governance of the library by informing the board of the status of the library and recommending policy direction for the board, report to the Board the results of board action, prepare annual reports, and perform other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Trustees and/or Indiana State Law.

Section 3. The Library Director shall attend all library Board meetings, except those at which his/her appointment, salary, or performance is to be discussed or decided.

Article IV:

Code of Ethics and Conflicts of Interest

CODE OF ETHICS STATEMENT:

Introduction: Because of possible misuse of information and/or the exercise of poor judgment when a conflict of interest exists that could impair working relationships and/or lessen public confidence in government entities, the Board of Trustees of the Princeton Public Library has adopted the following code of ethics respecting these matters.

Definitions:

1. Conflict of interest: A conflict of interest exists when a Board member, member of a committee, or employee has a direct relationship, family relationship, or financial interest in the outcome of any decision-making process.
2. Direct relationships: A direct relationship exists when a Board member, committee member, or employee is employed by or is a member of a governing board or agency having business with the library.
3. Family relationship: A family relationship exists when a Board member, committee member, or employee is related as spouse, child, parent, in-law, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, or is domiciled with such person.
4. Financial interest: A financial interest exists when a Board member, committee member, employee, an agency employing that person, or an agency on whose governing board the person serves may experience financial gain or loss as a result of an action of the library.
5. Appearance of conflict: An appearance of conflict exists when a Board member, committee member, or employee had any relationship (family, business, etc.) beyond mere acquaintance with other persons who will be affected by the decision.
6. Privileged information: Information that Board members, committee members, or employees have access to which may not be divulged to the public.

General Standards:

1. Board members, committee members, or employees shall not use, or attempt to use, their position in the library to secure unwarranted privilege or advantage for themselves or others, or for other institutions with which they have a direct relationship.
2. Board members, committee members, or employees shall not, directly or indirectly, accept any gift, favor, reward, service, retainer, discount, compensation, or thing of value or promise thereof, that may reasonably tend to influence them in the present or future discharge of their duties.
3. Board members, committee members, or employees shall not divulge privileged information.
4. Conflicts as defined in this policy shall not include matters that affect a class or general application. Therefore, if a matter affects a class such as the members of the Board or staff whose members would benefit in a general way as opposed to any individual member, then this item or matter shall be considered a matter of class application. Matters of class application shall not be considered a conflict of interest as defined in this policy.

Code fo Conduct:

1. Any individual regardless of affiliation may raise the question of conflict of interest or possible conflict of interest.
2. When a Board member, committee member, or employee recognizes that he/she may be in a conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest situation at a Board or committee meeting, he/she shall:
   1. Declare that there is a potential conflict of interest and specify the reason
   2. Disqualify him/her from the table during that portion of the meeting when the conflict or potential conflict exists
   3. Return to the table when the vote is taken but abstain from votin
3. When Board members, committee members, or employees recognize that a conflict or potential conflict of interest exists, and the person in conflict has not made a declaration as such, it is the obligation of the person recognizing the conflict to call this to the attention of those assembled.
   1. Once the question of conflict of interest is raised, the presiding officer shall make a determination based on the General Standards above;
   2. If the presiding officer determines that a conflict of interest exists, he/she shall advise the person in conflict to follow the procedures outlined in #2 above
4. When an appearance of conflict exists, disclosure shall be made as in the case of a conflict. The person affected may, but is not required to, abstain from the participation.
5. If a question of conflict of interest is raised after the fact, the President of the Board shall investigate the matter and bring the results to the Board for action.
6. If the Board determines that there has been unethical behavior, the Board will decide what further action, if any, is necessary.

Board Member Ethics:

Members of the Library Board will:

1. Listen carefully to other board members
2. Respect the opinion of other board members
3. Respect and support the majority decisions of the Board
4. Recognize that all authority is vested in the Board when it meets in legal session and not with individual board members.
5. Keep well informed of developments that are relevant to issues taht may come before the Board
6. Participate actively in Board meetings and actions
7. Call to the attention of the Board any issues believed to have an adverse effect on the library
8. Attempt to interpret the needs of the community to the library and interpret the action of the library to the community
9. Refer complaints about the library to the proper level on the chain of command
10. Recognize that the Board member's job is to ensure that the library is well managed, not to manage the library.
11. Vote to hire the best possible person to manage the library
12. Represent the whole community to the library and not a particular area or group
13. Do his/her best to ensure that the library is well maintained, financially secure, growing, and always operating in the best interests of the community.
14. Consistently learn more about the Board member's job and how to do it better
15. Declare any conflict of interest between personal life and position on the Board and avoid voting on issues that appear to be a conflict of interest

Article V

Nepotism

Section 1 The library will always hire employees based on their experience, skills, and merit. If a family member of a Board member or current staff member is interested in a position with the Library, that person should apply through standard channels, pursuant to standards laid out in IC 36-1-20.2

Section 2 No immediate family member of a current staff member will be considered for a position wherein one (1) member would have supervisory duties over the other, pursuant to IC 36-1-20.2-10.

Article VI

Amendments

Section 1 These bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting of the Board by majority vote of the members

Section 2 Amendments may be proposed by any member of the Board

Section 3 The amendments for each year shall be sent to the Indiana State Library upon submission of the annual report, pursuant to 590 IAC 6-1-5.

Article VII

Membership

Section 1 The application, appointment, term, and removal of members of the board is in accordance with IC 36-12-2-9. Board appointees must reside in the library taxing district and must have resided in the district for at least two (2) years before being appointed to the board.

The board shall consist of seven (7) members appointed by the following authorities:

• 1 by the Gibson County Council
• 1 by the Gibson County Commissioners
• 3 by the North Gibson School Corporation
• 1 by the Patoka Advisory Council
• 1 by the Princeton City Council

Section 2 Members are appointed for a four-year (4) term and may only serve four (4) consecutive terms. They may be reappointed after sitting out for four (4) years. All term limitations, consecutive term limits, and computations will be followed pursuant to IC 36-12-2.

Article VIII

Officers and their duty

Section 1 The Board of Trustees of the Princeton Public Library shall include the following positions: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, pursuant to IC 36-12-2-22 and 36-12-2-23. All officers except for Treasurer shall not serve for more than two (2) consecutive years in the same position. The Treasurer shall not serve for more than three (3) consecutive years.

Section 2 The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board and perform other duties as usually devolved upon such officer.

Section 3 The Vice-President shall have the powers and perform the duties of the President in his/her absence and such other duties which may be delegated to him/her by the President.

Section 4 The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the Board, keep regular minutes of the proceedings thereof, and enter the same in a book kept for that purpose. He/She shall attend all corresponsdence for and on behalf of the Board, except in cases of legal correspondence in which case the President, alongside the appointed attorney, shall handle such correspondence.

Section 5 The Treasurer is the official custodian of all library funds, is responsible for the proper safeguarding and accounting of all library funds, shall issue warrants approved by the library board in payment of expenses lawfully incurred in behalf of the library and shall make financial reports of library funds and present the reports to the library board at their monthly meeting. The Treasurer shall give a surety bond.

Section 6 Officers of the Board shall be elected annually

Section 7 A library board member may be removed at any time by the appointing authority, after public hearing, for any cause:

a) that interferes with the proper discharge of the member's duties as a member of the board; or

b) that jeopardizes public confidence in the member; or

c) whenever a member is absent from six (6) consecutive regular board meetings for any cause other than illness.

Upon a member being absent from three (3) consecutive regular board meetings or four (4) regular meetings total in a calendar year for any cause other than illness, a letter will be sent to the member's appointing authority requesting that the member's appointment be reviewed in a public hearing pursuant to IC 36-12-2-20 due to concerns regarding the member's ability to properly discharge their duties as the appointing authority's representative. The appointing authority shall be notified by the secretary of the board of a vacancy, pursuant to IC 36-12-2-20.

Article IX

Meetings

Section 1 The Board of Trustees shall determine at its January meeting the date and time of their monthly meetings for the current year.

Section 2 The President of the Library Board may call a special meeting at his/her discretion. It shall be his/her duty to call a meeting when requested, in writing, by two (2) members, pursuant to IC 32-12-2-23.

Section 3 Four (4) library board members, who are present in person, constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, pursuant to IC 32-12-2-23.

Section 4 Due to the critical need for a monthly quorum in order to conduct library business, board members should attend every meeting. When a board member is unable to attend a meeting, he/she must contact the director.

Section 5 All meetings of the board, except necessary executive sessions of the officers, are open to the public, pursuant to IC 32-12-2-23

Article X

Committees

Section 1 The Executive Committee shall consist of the officers of the Board of Trustees. This committee shall operate in any emergency situation which may arise when the full Board is not available.

Section 2 The Finance Committee shall consist of the Treasurer and two (2) other Board members appointed by the President. The duties of the finance committee is to review and recommend the investment policy of the Library and to ensure the Library is in compliance with all local, state, and federal laws regarding the Library's finance.

Section 3 Other committees may be formed from time to time by the President as a need arises.

Section 4 Specially formed committees outside of the Executive and Finance Committees may have citizen members, as deemed appropriate for their purpose by the Board.

Article XI

Indemnification of Board Members

Section 1 Every person who is or was a Trustee of the Library shall be indemnified by the Library against all liability and reasonable expenses incurred by such person in any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative and whether formal or informal, pursuant to IC 23-1-37-3 and IC 23-1-37-4, provided that the board member met the standard of conduct specified in IC 23-1-37-8.

Section 2 Nothing contained in Section 1 shall limit or preclude the exercise of any right provided under Indiana Law, the Library's bylaws, any general or specific action of the Trustees of the Library, or any contract relating to indemnifcation of or the advancement of expenses to any Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Library, or the ability of the Library to otherwise indemnify or advance expenses.

Section 3 The Library will purchase director and officers insurance to cover all Trustees in regards to liability as board members.

Article XII

Policies, Plans, Rules, and Regulations

Section 1 In additions to operating in accordance with these Bylaws and the laws of the State of Indiana, the Board shall adopt policies, plans, rules, and regulations to govern its operations, and may affirm policies, plans, rules, and regulations proposed by the Library Director for the management and administrations of the Library as required by 590 IAC 6-1-5(d), 590 IAC 6-1-5(e) and 590 IAC 6-1-5(h).

Section 2 All of these policies, plans, rules, and regulations shall be compiled and organized in a manual to be known as "The Policies and Procedures Manual of the Princeton Public Library and The Personnel Manual of the Princeton Public Library".

Article XIII

Review of Bylaws

Section 1 The bylaws will be reviewed at the October meeting at least every three (3) years, pursuant to 590 IAC 6-1-5(f)(2). The secretary shall affix the date of review to the bylaws for audit as well as indicating the action in the minutes.

Amended & Adopted January 20, 2026

Amended February 17, 2026

The tools and equipment in our Gamer's Guild are for use by library patrons with a valid Princeton Public Library card, student card holders, subscription card holders, and reciprocal borrowers in good standing, and will understand and agree to the below items when filling out the proper form:

1. All Gamer's Guild items, located downstairs in the Teen Room, may be borrowed for 2 hours at a time and may be renewed once (if no one is waiting to use the console) for a total of 4 hours. Only 1 video game and two controllers may be checked out at any one time.

2. Video games and controllers will be available as a first come, first serve basis for In-House use only.

3. If Borrower allows another patron to use the video games and/or the controller while it is checked out to them, The Borrower is liable for any damages or incurred fines during their check out duration.

4. Video games and controllers MUST by returned at the end of the 2 hour check out and/or 15 minutes before the building closes, whichever occurs first.

5. A Gamer's Guild Waiver MUST by signed in order to check out Gamer's Guild items.

6. Gamer's Guild items are housed downstairs in the Teen Room and are defined as electronic video games, gaming systems, controllers, and charging stations.

7. Parent/guardian will have the authority to restrict their children from checking out various rated items.

8. Fees will be assessed for damaged items to cover the repair or for replacement parts for the console or controllers. Charges cannot exceed the replacement cost of the item.

9. If the item is lost or is damaged beyond repair, the patron will pay for the cost of the item. If the item is later found, the item is theirs. There is no refund.

10. These are the costs to replace lost or damaged items the patron will incur and be expected to pay:

• -PS5 Controller: $60
• -Xbox Controller X Series: $49
• -PS5: $570
• -Xbox X Series: $450
• -Xbox Games: $43
• -PS5 Games: $39

11. Only patrons who reside in our taxing district (Patoka Township), subscription card holders including student cards, or reciprocal borrowers may check out or request Gamer's Guild items.

12. If a patron owes $10.00 or more in fines/fees, or has 15 or more items overdue system wide, his/her borrowing privileges will be suspended.

13. The Board of Trustees may elect to file criminal charges if the item is not returned and/or file with the small claims court to recover the equipment or replacement cost.

14. Parent/Guardian must sign a waiver for each child between the ages of 10-17 to grant permission for the child to check out Gamer's Guild items. Parent/Guardian may choose which items the child is allowed to check out.

15. Reciprocal borrowers MUST be in good standing with their home libraries in order to check out Gamer's Guild items. Princeton Public Library staff will call and verify.

16. Parent/guardian understands that the only games available for in-house use are E and E 10+ Ratings.

In consideration of being permitted to borrow items from the Gamer's Guild, The Borrower does hereby waive any and all claims and causes of action against the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton, and their officers, agents, volunteers and employees, and does hereby release the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton, and all such persons from any such claims and causes of action, whether arising in contractor in tort (including for negligence) or under any statue or other law or administrative regulation, for any injury or loss of any nature that the Borrower may suffer or incur in the use of the items from the Gamer's Guild borrowed from the Princeton Public Library or otherwise in connection with this Agreement, and Borrower does hereby release all such parties from any such claims and causes of action.

In consideration for being permitted to borrow items from the Gamer's Guild, the Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton, and their officers, agents, volunteers and employees from and against any and all liability, loss claims, demands, actions, and causes of action, whether arising in contract or in tort (including negligence) or under any statue or other law or administrative regulation, for the death or injury to any persons and for any property damage or loss suffered or incurred by any persons which arises or may be alleged to arise from or be occasioned in any way by the use of the items from the Gamer's Guild or otherwise arising under this Agreement.

The Gamer's Guild Loan Policy of the Princeton Public Library is attached to and hereby incorporated into this Agreement. The Borrower represents and agrees that they have read and fully understands the Loan Policy and that failure to comply with any of the policies may result in revocation of borrowing privileges.

Parents/Guardians must grant written permission for children between the ages of 10-17 to check out Gamer's Guild items, rated E and E10+ without parent/guardian being present.

The Borrower and/or the Parent/Guardian states and agrees that they have read and signed the Agreement, including the Waiver, Release, and Indemnification relinquishing any and all claims against the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton, and their employees and other personnel and indemnifying them against the claims of others, intending to be bound by all the terms hereof.

Adopted November 18, 2025

The Library provides limited assistance to researchers with their genealogy and local history research as long as it pertains to Gibson County, Indiana. Research inquires must relate to Gibson County, Indiana. The Historian's duty is to assist patrons in researching local and family histories. The following policy governs the Historian's administration of duty:

1. The Historian reserves the right to refuse research requests that the Local History & Genealogy Department is not well-equipped to fulfill.
2. The Historian will perform research services as time permits.
3. Research requests are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority will, however, be given to in-person researchers.
4. In-person assistance with the Historian is limited to one hour per visit. In-depth research should be done by the individual or by obtaining the services of a professional researcher.
5. Depending on a variety of factors, such as the size of the request, the availability of resources, and the Historian's workload, requests may take several weeks to fulfill.
6. Requests should be specific in nature. Researchers should include only pertinent information that will aid the Historian's search.
7. For remote researchers, the Historian will do limited research for $10.00 an hour. The person requesting research to be done will set the maximum amount they will be willing to pay and the Historian will not exceed this amount.
8. The Historian will deliver their findings to you in one of two ways; they will either compile the files into a PDF and email it or, upon request, print the documents and mail them to you, pursuant to the Library's photocopying policies.
9. No payment will be taken in advance of the research. The Historian will send an itemized bill and payment is required before the research is sent.
10. Due to the tedious nature of microfilm and newspaper research, the Historian will spend no more than one (1) hour searching the microfilm or newspaper for the researcher's request.
11. Requests for newspaper or microfilm research need to be specific. Requests must include exact dates, and if possible, locations in the county being researched.
12. The Library is unable to copy or scan the contents of entire publications. The Historian reserves the right to refuse a copying or scanning request if there is a concern it might violate copyright law.
13. The Historian will not travel to complete research on a requester's behalf.
14. Due to privacy laws, the Historian is unable to assist with research pertaining to living persons.

Amended February 17, 2026

Rules

• Patrons wishing to use the Maker Space must have a valid library card
• Partons must be at least 16 years old to use the Maker Space
  • The exception that patrons can be 12+ with supervision to use the button maker
  • No children under 12 years old will be permitted in the Maker Space due to the cost and sensitivity of equipment
  • All patrons will be supervised until staff feels a level of equipment competency is achieved and will be assessed on an individual basis
• All PPL policies apply within the Maker Space and to any library users using the space, equipment, or materials.
• Patrons are expected to use all items properly and safely and to utilize all of the Maker Space in a fashion that does not damage the Library's or other patron's property.
• Only one section of the Maker Space may be in use at a time, unless the exception is made by PPL staff.
• Select tools will require in-house competency training prior to independent use.
• Library staff are available for limited assistance. Staff are not experts, but they will assist as much as ability allows.
  • Individuals who need extra help are encouraged to book an appointment for one-on-one assistance.
  • All projects must be finished or stopped at least 30 minutes prior to the library closing.
  • Supplies are not guaranteed but may be available for a mandatory donation priced at the cost of the material.
• Users are responsible for abiding by copyright and patent law. They may not use the intellectual or artistic work of others without their permission or create objects that are unlawful, defamatory, obscene, or pornographic.
• Limited materials for practice may be available but are not guaranteed.
  • These may be available for a mandatory donation priced at the cost of the material.
• It is the patron's responsibility to delete and/or remove any of their files (digital or print) from the library equipment before the end of their session.
• PPL cannot guarantee product quality, satisfaction, equipment availability, or confidentiality of design.
• Overnight storage of patron materials, projects, equipment, or other personal property in the Maker Space is prohibited
• Any accidents, including damage to PPL property, must be reported to library staff immediately. Patron may incur charges for any damages to equipment, up to equal the replacement cost of the equipment.
• PPL is not responsible for content made on any of the equipment at PPL in the Maker Space
• Users may be asked to leave the Maker Space and/or PPL property if they fail to comply with any of these rules

Indemnification

Patrons agree to the following when signing for and while present in the Princeton Public Library ("PPL") Maker Space and/or while engaging in any activity within the Maker Space:

• Patrons will take all required machine-specific training before reserving its use
• Patrons agree to follow all posted operation instructions, safety instructions, and verbal safety requests from PPL staff at all times while in the Maker Space
• Patrons accept full responsibility for the space, equipment, and furniture used during my use of the Maker Space.
  • The Patron is liable to be charged for any damages equal to the replacement cost of equipment
• Patrons agree to immediately report any accident, malfunction, or breakdown of equipment or facilities to PPL staff
• Partons agree to make full payment for all charges incurred during their use of the Maker Space, at time of thier use

Assumption of Risk: Partrons acknowledge that inherent risks, dangers, and other hazards exist when using power tools commonly used in electronics construction, fabrication, and other technology related activities, and hereby assume all risk associated with their participation in such activities and/or the use of equipment associated with technology design, manufacture and experimentation, which may result in injury or damage to person or personal property, including, without limitation, electrocution, burns, impalement, illness, death and other injuries. I also acknowledge that these risks may be caused by other participants, members or by accieents, acts of nature, or other causes, and hereby assume such risk associated therewith.

Release of Liability: With full knowledge, appreciation, and assumption of the risks associated with engaging in activity in the Maker Space, patrons release and hold harmless PPL, its employees, agents, and board members from action whatsoever arising out of any damage, loss, or injury, to myself or my property while upon PPL premises, while using any equipment of the Library, or while participating in any of the activities in the Maker Space, whether such loss, damage, or injury results from the negligence of PPL, its employees, agents, or board members. Or from any other third party. The signed waiver shall be deemed as a release, waiver, discharge, and covenant not sue, or allow suit to be brought against, Princeton Public Library, its employees, agents, or board members arising out of their engaging activity in the Maker Space and any fact related thereto.

Operations

Open Hours of Operation:

Hours of the Maker Space are subject to change and may vary based on availability/time of year.

MON: 3-6pm; WED 2-5pm; FRI 9am-12pm

Other times & days are only available by scheduled appointment

Equipment:

The Princeton Public Library Maker Space currently offers the following equipment for use

• Button Maker
  • Our button maker model is an American Button Machines Button Maker for size 2.25 inches. We also have a punch cutter for ease of use when cutting out your images.
• Cricut Machine
  • The Cricut craft section has an assortment of equipment for most needs. We have the following
    • Cricut Maker 3
    • Cricut Easy Press 2
    • Cricut Mug Press
    • Cricut Vinyl Cutter
    • 2 heat press mats
    • Assorted cutting mats
    • Various vinyl/mugs as available (for a donation equal to the cost of the material is required)
  • Our library also maintains a Cricut Access Account for patrons to use while using our space.
  • Any content saved to the account is deleted when sessions have concluded.
• Sewing Machine
  • Our sewing section of the Maker Space hosts an adjustable sewing desk along with the following
    • Singer I ProFinish
    • Singer I Tradition
    • Stick rotary cutter
    • Sewing ruler (3 x 18 in.)
    • 18x 12in. cutting mat
    • Iron & ironing board
  • Patrons must bring their own project material.
  • Threads are as available
• Podcasting
  • We have a dedicated podcasting section available for use with the following
    • Adjustable green screen
    • Ring light
    • Selfie Stick Tripod
    • HyperX Quadcast USB Microphone
    • Sony Vlogger Kit
    • Cannon PowerShot SX420IS

Pricing

Prices for the Maker Space and its equipment are subject to change due to changes in cost & availability of materials

Payment for Maker Space items are due at time of service/use

• Premium Vinyl: $5.50/sq. ft.
• Iron-On Vinyl: $1.50/sq. ft.
• Removable Vinyl: $1.50/sq. ft.
• Infusible Ink: $2.50/sq. ft.
• Infusible Ink Large (4.5" x 12"): $5.81
• Cardstock (8.5" x 11"): $0.50 per sheet
• Branded/Themed Cardstock: $1.50 per sheet
• Cricut Mug (12 oz.): $2.50 each
• Cricut Mug (16 oz): $3.00 each
• 2.25" Pinback Button set (not including button image): $0.25 each

Adopted & Amended January 20, 2026

The Princeton Public Library provides meeting/activity rooms for the use of library programming and meetings of the Library Board of Trustees. Library programs always take priority for the use of these spaces. When available, the downstairs meeting/activity rooms can be used by organizations, groups, businesses, and governmental entities who agree to abide by the Library’s rules and whose activities do NOT discriminate based on sex, sexual orientation, color, race, national origin, religion, age, or disability. Granting permission for the use of the meeting rooms does not imply library approval of the organization/group and/or of the ideas presented at the meeting. Publicity promoting the event shall not imply that the library is a sponsor of the event nor give the library’s phone number or email address as a point of contact.

Fees:

1. The rental fee is: $10 per hour per room.
2. If the individual requires the warming kitchen in addition to their room, there will also be an added $20 fee for all organizations.
3. There will be an additional fee of $40 if the room is not left in its original condition; i.e., all trash is picked up and floor and table(s) are clear of any/all debris.
4. All non-profit organizations are exempt from the rental fee, but they are NOT exempt from being charged for warming kitchen use or any damage to the library and will be charged a $40 cleaning fee if the room is not left in its original condition. The organization claiming non-profit status may be asked to provide a copy of their IRS Form 501(c)(3), Articles of Incorporation, or a Tax-Exempt Certificate.
5. The individual responsible for reserving the room must give a 24-hour notice if the room is no longer needed or they will forfeit the rental fee.

Usage and Availability:

1. The individual must be at least 21 years of age to reserve the room.
2. An individual can reserve the room 12 times a calendar year and up to 1 year in advance.
3. A reservation may only be made using the Meeting Room Agreement form. Reservations will only be confirmed once an agreement has been signed and payment, if required, has been received.
4. Library events take precedence over other scheduled events or meetings.
5. The rooms can only be reserved on the days the library is open.
6. The individual reserving the room must arrive when the library is open and cannot set up earlier than the library’s stated hours.
7. If the meeting/event lasts longer than the library’s stated hours, the person reserving the room is responsible for making sure all attendees leave the building, toilets are flushed, all items not belonging to the library are taken or placed in a trash receptacle, and the door they exit from locks behind them.
8. The user shall inspect the premises and facilities and hereby accepts the premises and facilities in their present condition and shall not alter or change the facilities without the written permission of the library.
9. Upon termination of the use, the premises shall be returned in the same condition as received by the user.
10. Users and all members and invitees of the User are guests of the library and their use of the space should be and is subject to the library’s rules.
11. The following are prohibited on library property:
    1. No alcohol, controlled substance, or tobacco use (Including e-cigarettes and vape pens)
    2. No open flame candles, fireworks, or explosive devices
    3. No items can be affixed to the outer walls, windows, or glass panels
12. All food, drink, user equipment, and personal items that were brought into the room must be removed from the library when the meeting/event is over. The library is not responsible for any equipment, material, etc. left in the room.
13. If the user is using the warming kitchen:
    1. Groups must supply their own utensils, dishes, tableware, and all disposable items such as napkins, paper cups, etc.
    2. Users can use the sink to clean utensils, dishes, etc., but they must provide the detergent, dish towels, sponges, etc.
    3. Use the refrigerator and microwave to cool or heat items, but must remove when leaving. Ice will be in limited supply.
    4. Trash and garbage should be left in closed trash bags or removed from the premises.
14. Persons under the age of 21 years old using the room must be supervised by an adult at all times.
15. If children are brought to any adult meeting, the accompanying adult is responsible for the children’s behavior throughout the building. Library staff does NOT provide childcare or babysitting services and cannot be responsible for the safety of children left unattended. If the children create a disturbance in the library, they will be required to stay with the adult in the meeting room or be asked to leave the building.
16. The user is responsible for any costs associated in returning the room to proper condition, including but not limited to cleaning or repair charges for any damaged property.
17. Room cannot be used for rummage or yard sales.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):

The user agrees to comply with all applicable requirements of the ADA in assuring availability of auxiliary aids and services required by participants at any event. The User shall be solely responsible for the cost of any such auxiliary aids and services. The User agrees to indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the library, its Board of Trustees, offices, and employees from and against any claims resulting for the User’s failure to comply with ADA standards for access to its programs and services.

Copyright:

Groups showing copyrighted visual material in the library are solely responsible for obtaining written public performance licensing rights. Borrowing, renting, or purchasing a movie does not carry with it the right to show the movie outside of the home.

Security Cameras:

The user understands the library has a variety of monitoring stations for the safety and security of the building. Users may not do anything that interferes with any security cameras located in and around the building.

Transferability:

This agreement is not transferrable and if the original signer is unable or unwilling to commit to hte agreement, they will need to cancel the agreement and have a new user sign the meeting room agreement. Nothing in this agreement shall imply any sponsorship, joint venture, or any other association between the library and the user. The users shall have sole responsibility for the content and the conduct of its activities on library property.

Indemnity and Damages:

All Users and persons attending User sponsored events using library facilities take the premises “as is” and assume all risks of loss, damage, or injury, including death or property damage, resulting from the use by User(s) of the library facilities and services under this agreement. Library “facilities” and “premises” include not only meeting rooms but the entire building, parking lot, and grounds.

The library assumes no liability whatsoever for any property placed by the User or any person attending a User sponsored event in or about the library building or property. User agrees that all persons on library premises because of User’s event (participants, members, invitees) are under the direct and complete control of the User. As such, the User is liable for all damages resulting from a participant’s use of the library’s facilities and services. User shall reimburse the library for all damages to its facilities or equipment resulting from the use of the same.

The User shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend the Library, its Board of Trustees, officers, and employees from and against any and all liability or financial loss, costs, or expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees and legal costs) resulting from any suit, claim, loss, or action brought against the library, its Board of Trustees, officers, and/or employees, which arises or results directly or indirectly from the use of the library’s facilities or services under this agreement by the user or its sponsors, spectators, participants, members, officers, directors, or agents.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the user is a governmental entity or a public employee acting within the scope of his or her employment, then the provisions of this section will not apply.

Miscellaneous:

1. The user provides their own office equipment, services, and/or supplies. Fax, photocopying, and/or computers are available in regular patron areas in the library and are available during regular library hours. The user is responsible for handling registrations, screening attendees, loading, unloading, and/or carrying of the group’s materials.
2. The library reserves the right to share contact information of any individual/organization that reserves the meeting room, if a request is made by a member of the public.
3. The library reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any use which is disruptive or destructive to the library or when falsified information was given on the meeting room application/agreement.
4. The library reserves the right to allow staff members to enter any meeting to ensure adherence to library policy and to ask groups to vacate the building if they are not adhering to library policy.
5. ALL individuals and groups regardless of status MUST come to the library to sign for the rooms and confirm their requested date with library staff.

1. All Novelty Nook & Toy Box items, located upstairs, may be borrowed for one week and be renewed once for an additional one week if no one is waiting for the item. There is a limit of 100 items per card system-wide of which, only 2 can be Novelty Nook items from each category (2 cake pans, 2 sets of cookie cutters, 2 games, 2 puzzles, 2 toys, and any items yet to be added for the future, per card). Items checked out to outreach patrons check out for one month in total.

2. A Novelty Nook Waiver MUST be signed in order to check out Novelty Nook Items.

3. Novelty Items are housed upstairs in the Novelty Nook and are defined as puzzles, games, cookie cutters, cake pans, toys, and other items to be determined in the future.

4. The Princeton Public Library will not be held responsible for any damage to any electronic device caused by library material.

5. Parent/guardian will have the authority to restrict their children from checking out R rated items.

6. Fines are $.25 per day on all items except equipment. Fines are only assessed for the days the library is open. There will be a one-day grace period. The one-day grace period is factored in to the final fine total. Fines are capped at $10.00 per item or the cost of the item minus $.50 whichever is least.

7. Fees will be assessed for damaged items to cover the repair or for replacement parts. Charges cannot exceed the replacement cost of the item.

8. If the item is lost or is damaged beyond repair, the patron will pay for the cost of the item. If the item is later found, then the item theirs. There is no refund.

9. Only patrons who reside in our taxing district (Patoka Township), subscription card holders, or reciprocal borrowers may check out and request Novelty Nook items. 

10. The library maintains a reserve Novelty Nook list as a service to its patrons. No one will automatically be put on the list for any Novelty Nook item. All patrons must specifically ask to be put on the list for each Novelty Nook item. This may be done in person, over the phone, or by patron through his/her online library account.

11. When a patron's name comes up on the reserve list, they will be contacted by automated telephone call by EVERGREEN INDIANA or by the library.

12. If the item is not picked up, the person will be removed from the list. A total of five days form the time the patron's name comes up on the reserve list and the time the item is picked up is all that may lapse.

13. If a patron owes $10.00 or more in fines/fees or has 15 or more items overdue system-wide, his/her borrowing privileges will be suspended.

14. If the patron has set up an account with us, that has an email address, he/she will be notified by email 3 days in advance of the item(s) due date and on the date they are due.

15. After checking the shelves to ensure materials did not get shelved without being checked in, anyone having overdue library materials will be notified on the following schedule:

• One week overdue ------ phone call or letter
• 14 days (2 weeks) overdue ----- letter
• 28 days (4 weeks) overdue ----- letter
• 45 days ----- Final notice will be sent detailing the cost of the item, fine incurred, and processing fee.

16. The Board of Trustees may elect to file criminal charges if the item is not returned or file with the small claims court to recover the equipment or replacement cost.

17. Cookie cutters and cake pans must be hand washed in warm soapy water. DO NOT use hot water or the dishwasher as they will/can melt and/or damage the items.

18. ALL Novelty Nook items MUST be returned inside the building, NOT in the outside dropbox/ book return. A $5 fee per item will be assessed for Novelty Nook items not returned inside.

19. Parents must sign a waiver for each child under the age of 16 to grant permission for the child to check out Novelty Nook items. Parents may choose which items the child is allowed to check out.

20. Reciprocal borrowers MUST be in good standing with their home libraries in order to check out Novelty Nook items. Princeton Public Library staff will call and verify.

The tools and equipment in our Novelty Nook are for use by library patrons with a valid Princeton Public Library card, subscription card holders, and reciprocal borrowers in good standing, and agree to the following:

1. In consideration of being permitted to borrow items from the Novelty Nook, Borrower does hereby waive and and all claims and causes of action against the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton, and their officers, agents, volunteers and employees, and does herby release the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton and all such persons from any such claims and causes of action, whether arising in contract or in tort (including for negligence) or under any statue or other law or administrative regulation, for any injury or loss of any nature that the Borrower may suffer or incur in the use of the items from the Novelty Nook or Toy Box borrowed from the Princeton Public Library or otherwise in connection with this Agreement, and Borrower does herby release all such parties from any such claims and causes of action.

2. In consideration for being permitted to borrow items from the Novelty Nook, Borrower agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton and their officers, agents, volunteers, and employees from and against any and all liability, loss, claims, demands, actions, and causes of action, whether arising in contract or in tort (including negligence) or under any statute or other law or administrative regulation, for the death or injury to any persons and for any property damage or loss suffered or incurred by any persons which arises or may be alleged to arise from or be occasioned in any way by the use of the items from the Novelty Nook or otherwise arising under this agreement.

3. The Novelty Nook Loan Policy of the Princeton Public Library is attached to and hereby incorporated into this Agreement. Borrower represents and agrees that they have read and fully understands the Loan Policy and that failure to comply with any of the policies may result in revocation of borrowing privileges.

4. Parent/Guardians must grant written permission below for children ages 16 and under to check out Novelty Nook items without parent/guardian being present.

Borrower states and agrees that they have read and signed this Agreement, including the Waiver, release and Indemnification relinquishing any and all claims against the Princeton Public Library, the City of Princeton and their employees and other personnel and indemnifying them against the claims of others, intending to be bound by all the terms hereof. 

No use of tobacco products, vaping, alcoholic beverages, or using obscene language.
Treat all individuals with courtesy and respect
No running, skateboarding, roller skating or bicycling.
No hitting, pushing, or shoving another person
Talking is permitted using your normal voice level, no shouting or screaming
Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times
No soliciting
No sitting, standing or crawling on tables or desks.
Lying on the floor is not permitted unless under the age of 16 and in the Teen or Toddler rooms.
Staff has the right to ask you to leave/ban you from the library if your behavior is not acceptable. You can appeal this decision by writing a letter address to the director and the Board of Trustees.

The Princeton Public Library now has small study/tutor rooms for use in our building upstairs. The rules and policies for those rooms are as follows:

1. There will be no reservations for these rooms
2. The rooms will be locked between users.
3. An individual must be at least 12 years of age or older to use the room and must show a picture ID or a valid Princeton Library Card.
4. The individual can use the room for 4 hours. They can use it longer if no other individual needs a room.
5. The individual will sign up and out of the room at the circulation desk giving name and telephone number.
6. Drinks with lids and snacks are allowed.
7. Nothing can be placed on the walls.
8. The person who signed for the room is held responsible for any damage or mess to the room. If the room or its content is damaged they will forfeit the use of the room until they pay.
9. The rooms are available during regular library hours but the individual(s) must vacate the room one half hour (30 minutes) before the library closes.
10. The library cannot be held responsible for theft, damage, or loss of personal property left in the room.
11. Library staff will not be responsible for child care and the unattended children policy will be enforced if a child is in the building at closing time. 

Responsibility for the safety and behavior of All children using the Library resides with the parent, guardian, or assigned chaperone, not with the Library staff.
If a child is being disruptive, they will be warned that their behavior is unacceptable. If they continue to misbehave, they will be asked to leave. If they came with a parent, the parent will be notified. If they were dropped off, the staff will telephone the parent to come and pick up their child. If the child is being banned for more than 24 hours, the parent will be notified by the staff.
If a child is unattended at the Library and we are closing the staff will try to contact the parent or guardian. If a responsible person is reached, the staff will ask their location and wait with the child the normal driving time to reach the Library. If no responsible individual can be reached and the Library closes, the police will be called.
Under no circumstances will a staff member take a child out of the Library and its grounds, or transport a child in any manner without written parental consent.
Children under the age of 12 will not be left alone outside the Library after closing.