All locations will be closed on Friday, February 7 for Staff Development Day. To contact Vital Statistics for birth and death certificates, please call (214) 670-3248.
Policies (wifi/internet/social)
Child and Youth Safety
The Dallas Public Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment that encourages children to visit the library, use our collections and services, and attend programs.
Please note the following guidelines:
1. All visitors, including children and teens, are expected to comply with the Code of Conduct.
Library staff are available to assist and support children with their use of Library resources.
Children’s areas are designated for children 12 and under and teen areas are designated for ages 13 to 18. Adults may visit teen and children’s areas only when accompanied by children using those areas or retrieving materials for research or checkout.
Parents, guardians, and/or the responsible caregiver—not the library—are responsible for children in their care. Parents should be mindful of the library and pick up toys or return books to book carts that children have pulled/touched.
It is highly recommended that parents or a responsible caregiver accompany children under 12 years old in the library. Staff will determine whether children supervising other children are providing adequate care without adult supervision. If it seems to be out of their control or beyond their capabilities, staff will contact their parent/guardian/caregiver to come be with them at the library or to pick them up. If responsible adults cannot be reached, the police will be contacted.
Children ages 12 and under should not be left unattended while parents/guardians/ caregivers are using library services such as using the computers or attending a class/program.
Parents, guardians, and/or caregivers are responsible for noting library hours and should be aware that a Library building sometimes may have to close unexpectedly due to emergencies or safety issues.
At closing, Library staff members will attempt to contact the parent or guardian of an unattended child. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the child will be placed in the care of the Dallas Police Department.
Library programs are not to be considered childcare. Library staff are only there to provide a service, parents/guardians/the responsible caregiver are expected to stay on-site and supervise and care for their children.
Computer and Internet Use Internet Safety Policy
The Dallas Public Library makes the Internet accessible in accordance with our mission to provide information resources and services to ensure that all residents have free and open access to ideas and information. In this role, the Library provides access to information resources available on the Internet. The Library has no control over the information obtained through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content or accuracy. It may contain materials which some find offensive or inappropriate. Library users access the Internet at their own discretion.
In accordance with the federal Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) (Pub. L. 106-554), all library computers are equipped with filtering software. The software is set to screen out sites which may reasonably be construed as obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code; or child pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code; or harmful to minors as defined in section 1703, Pub. L. 106-544. Users 18 years of age and older may request that a staff member disable the filtering software for research purposes. The software will not be disabled for users 17 and under for any reason.
As with other library resources, restriction of a child's use of the Internet is ultimately the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian, within the confines of the law. The Library assumes no responsibility for damages, direct, or indirect, for the use of the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, damage to personal or office computer equipment caused by virus-laden material downloaded from any Internet site. Users are encouraged to purchase and use a virus detection program on their home and office computers.
Internet users should be aware that it is not a secure medium. It is possible for third parties to obtain information regarding an individual user's search activities. Users should be very cautious about providing personal information over the Internet.
Ethical Use
All users of electronic information resources such as the Internet are expected to use these resources in a responsible manner, consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are provided. In addition, all users are expected to follow the Library's Code of Conduct. It is unacceptable to use the Library's computer system and Internet resources for any of the following:
For any purposes which violate applicable U.S. or state laws. Users must respect all copyright laws and licensing agreements pertaining to software, files and other resources obtained via the Internet.
Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data belonging to the Library.
Disruption or interference of network users or services. Such interference or disruption includes, but is not limited to: distribution of unsolicited advertising, harassment, libeling, or slandering of others; propagation of computer worms or viruses.
Sending, receiving, or displaying text or graphics which may reasonably be construed as either obscene or child pornography by community standards.
Violations of the Internet Safety and Ethical Use Policies
Users violating these guidelines will be advised of the Library's policy for ethical use and asked to comply. Users who repeatedly violate these guidelines after previous warnings will be restricted from using the Library's online services on that occasion and may be asked to leave the Library in accordance with the Code of Conduct. The Library reserves the right to prohibit violators from future access or use of the Library and/or online services. Illegal acts may subject violators to prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities.
USA Patriot Act Warning
Under Section 215 of the federal USA PATRIOT Act (Public Law 107-56), records of books and other materials you borrow from this library may be obtained by federal agents. Federal agents may also track your personal Internet usage on library computers. This federal law prohibits librarians from informing you if federal agents have obtained records about you.
Exhibits & Displays
Purpose:
This policy establishes the guidelines for exhibits & displays at all Dallas Public Library locations.
Policy guidelines:
Display spaces in Library locations, including but not limited to enclosed display cabinets, shelves and wall spaces, outdoor areas (including parking lots) are for the use of the Library. These spaces are intended for displays and exhibits created or selected by Library staff that are consistent with the Library’s mission, goals and objectives and are appropriate for viewing by all ages.
Library displays are planned, organized, and/or implemented by library staff. Library staff use the following criteria in making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources:
Community needs and interest
Availability of display space
Historical or educational significance
Connection to other community or national programs, exhibitions, or events
Relation to library collections, resources, exhibits, and programs
In addition, the Library draws upon other community resources in developing displays and exhibits, and may partner with other community agencies, organizations, educational institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored displays and exhibits.
The Library will strive to include a wide spectrum of opinions and viewpoints in Library-initiated displays and exhibits, as well as offer displays and exhibits that appeal to a range of ages, interests, and information needs. Library-initiated displays and exhibits should not exclude topics, books, media, and other resources solely because they may be controversial. Acceptance of a display or exhibit topic by the Library does not constitute an endorsement by Dallas Public Library of the content of the display or exhibit, or of the views expressed in materials on display.
Food & Drink Guidelines
The Dallas Public is committed to providing a comfortable environment for all visitors. Library users may enjoy an occasional snack while protecting our shared resources and maintaining a clean and welcoming space for all Library users. We ask that you act responsibly when consuming food and drink in the Library, be considerate of others near you, and adhere to the following guidelines:
Non-alcoholic beverages in covered containers are permitted. Lids with straws are ok, but open cans not allowed.
Chips, cookies, candy, small fruits/vegetables, and other such non-messy, non-odorous foods are permitted. Odorous or messy items such as hamburgers, French fries, pizza, hot dogs, etc. may be consumed in the designated area in each building. Please ask staff to direct you to this area.
All areas should be left as clean as they were before use. Trash, recyclables, and uneaten food should be placed in appropriate containers. All spills, crumbs, smears, etc. must be cleaned up by the consumer. Please report accidental spills to the staff as soon as possible.
Due to the nature of library materials and equipment, staff may ask to refrain from eating and drinking while using them.
The Library reserves the right to ask any user to remove his/her food and/or beverage from the library if in the judgment of the staff it constitutes a violation these guidelines. We ask that you act responsibly when consuming food and drink in the Library, be considerate of others near you, and dispose of your trash.
Library card fines and fees
Dallas Public Library discontinued charging late fines for overdue materials. Fees for replacing lost library cards and looking up account numbers were also eliminated.
Under the fine-free rules, when an item is a week overdue, the account will be blocked from further checkouts until the overdue items are returned. The replacement cost of the book plus a processing fee will be charged to the account. These charges will be waived as soon as the book is returned or replaced.
Lost or damaged items: $20 processing fee plus the cost of the material
Materials can be replaced by the same or a comparable item in new condition. This usually costs less than paying the processing fee plus material cost.
Dallas Public Library does not accept cash as of February 1, 2023. All payments must be made online with a credit card or with a check/money order.
Meeting Room Policy
To promote civic interaction and cooperative efforts, the Dallas Public Library (DPL) welcomes the use of its meeting rooms by the public.
All Dallas Public Library locations have meeting room facilities. Priority for booking such areas is granted solely by the Library for providing programs that are free and open to the public. The Dallas Public Library does, however, make available some meeting rooms when the requested day/time does not conflict with the Library’s ability to provide programs and services of its own.
Study room guidelines are available on the Library’s website: www.dallaslibrary.org.
Inquiries should be made to the Manager or designee of a branch library for the use of its facilities, or to the Event Services Team, 2nd Floor Administration office (214-670-7809 or email
libcenmeeting@dallascityhall.com) for the use of facilities in the Central Library. The Event Services Team will notify the prospective user if the application is accepted or denied.
In addition to Library-sponsored activities, the meeting rooms are available at no charge to the Library’s support organizations: Friends of the Dallas Public Library, branch friends' groups and the Municipal Library Board. Furthermore, currently serving City Council members, City of Dallas departments, and neighborhood associations/crime watches registered with the City of Dallas may use the rooms free of charge.
Organizations that contribute financial support to the Library through special programs managed by the Library’s support organizations will be allowed free use of the meeting rooms, based on the terms of the agreement.
The Library reserves the right to have a staff member present at each scheduled meeting or event.
A rental agreement, though confirmed, may be canceled by the Library in the event of a conflict with a request from local, state, or federal election officials for use of the room as a balloting location, or in the case of building maintenance, inclement weather or natural disaster. A full refund will be provided. Furthermore, the Library reserves the right to cancel reservations for cause at the discretion of the Library Director.
Use of the Library’s meeting rooms for non-Library sponsored programs does not constitute endorsement on the part of the Library or the City of Dallas.
Any materials promoting an event or meeting held in a library meeting room (for example, flyers or poster) may list the Library as the location but may not imply Library sponsorship. In the event or meeting publicity which lists the Library name and/or address, this disclaimer must be included: “This event is not sponsored by the Dallas Public Library.” in a minimum of 10pt font. No organization may use the Library’ logo for any purpose, without the prior written consent of the Library Director or their designee. All publicity must be reviewed and approved by the Library’s Community Relations team prior to release.
Reservations for meeting rooms will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. All applicants must adhere to the following:
Applications must be submitted at least 21 days in advance of the meeting date. Applications must be submitted through the online Library Market reservation system, mailed via a postal service, faxed, emailed, or delivered in person to the desired library location.
All paperwork including insurance documentation is due at least 14 days prior to the meeting date. Reservations will be automatically cancelled if this deadline is not met.
Payments are due at least 7 days prior to meeting date. Reservations will be automatically cancelled if payment deadline is not met.
Library meeting rooms are in high demand for library events/programming, their primary purpose. To provide an opportunity for all groups to use the meeting rooms, a group or individual may reserve one meeting room up to 3 times in a rolling 90-day period. Any exceptions must be approved by the Library Director or their designee.
A clear purpose and reason for booking the room must be provided. Failure to provide this or to fully disclose the nature of the request may result in cancellation of the event.
The Library at its discretion may require the group to hire security or implement additional security measures at the renter’s cost based on the nature of the booking.
The Library can furnish a limited number of tables and chairs for the meeting or event. However, the Library cannot provide staff to set up or arrange the furniture. Setting up the room is the sole responsibility of the renter.
Applications will be considered for use only during normal operating hours. Meetings cannot be scheduled at Central or branches before opening without approval from the Meeting Room Manager
For branches with black box theaters, after hours bookings are permitted. Organization utilizing the space must pay for a security guard during the hours the building is occupied. After hours availability is not guaranteed.
Rooms will not be available for the sale of goods or merchandise other than that which is not obtainable to members elsewhere or materials necessary to conduct the event (i.e., supplies for workshops, etc.). Selling goods should be incidental to the purpose of the meeting.
The user shall be responsible for any and all loss, accident, neglect, injury, or damage to a person, life, or property, which may be the result of, or may be caused by, the user’s occupancy of the facility or premises.
The user is liable for the care and protection of Library property and facilities and shall be charged for any damages sustained to the premises, furniture, or equipment during use. User must obtain permission before mounting signage of any sort to Library property, such as walls, glass, or doors.
Signs, decorations, or display materials must be flameproof and must be erected and removed in a manner not destructive to property.
Materials or arrangements, which constitute a hazard, are prohibited.
The facility must be left in the same condition as before the event. Users will be charged a cleanup fee for rooms left in unacceptable condition.
Library parking garage space is limited. Groups may be limited to a specific number of spaces. On street parking is available around the library and library can provide contacts to rent a parking lot if needed.
All users must adhere to the Library’s Code of Conduct. Youth or children’s groups must always be supervised by responsible adults provided by the sponsors of the activity per the Library’s Child and Youth Safety Policy.
A user who fails to abide by these guidelines may be prohibited from future use of any Library facility for one year. Meeting room suspensions must be approved by the Library Director or their designee.
Personal Belongings
The Dallas Public Library is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment to all visitors. In accordance with the Library’s Code of Conduct and to ensure that personal belongings do not create an obstruction or safety hazard, the following guidelines have been implemented:
Customers must be able to carry all bags/personal belongings with them in one trip and items cannot create a safety hazard such as blocking an aisle or taking more than one seating space.
Owner of bags/personal belongings is responsible for monitoring and securing. Owner must always stay with their items.
For purposes of carrying/transporting bags/personal belongings, customers may not use oversized wheeled devices inside building which includes skateboards, scooters, grocery/shopping carts, wagons, dollies, coolers, folding shopping carts, strollers, wheelchairs or other large devices.
Wheelchairs and walkers are allowed for mobility and medical purposes
Strollers and wagons may be used to transport children.
Privacy and Confidentiality Policy
Confidentiality of library records is directly related to the ability of citizens to use library materials and pursue information without fear of intimidation.
Texas Government Code Title 5 Section 552.124, Public Information, prohibits the disclosure of library records that identify a person who requests, obtains, or uses library materials or services unless:
The records are released to the person to whom the information relates, or to that person’s authorized representative, or
Disclosure is reasonably necessary to the operation of the library, and the records are not confidential under other state or federal law, or
A law enforcement agency or prosecutor obtains a court order or subpoena for the records by showing to a district court that the records are necessary to protect the public safety or that they are evidence of an offense or constitute evidence that a particular person committed an offense.
Examples of Information the Library Collects About You
Your name and correct residence address. This information is required before a library card can be issued.
Records of items you have checked out, titles in your saved lists and reading history, and titles you have on hold.
Records of items you have overdue and items you have returned late or damaged. Items returned on time in good condition are removed from your record when they are checked in.
Records of any fines and fees you owe. Delinquent accounts may be shown to collection agencies or law enforcement.
Contact information for people who have signed up for library classes or programs.
Records of people and organizations that use the library meeting room facilities.
How the Library Protects Your Confidentiality
Retains only that personal information necessary to deliver library services and maintain control of library property.
Eliminates confidential information from public access and verifies your identity during telephone transactions.
Purges electronically or manually shreds data in accordance with the state retention schedules.
Releases account information only to the account holder or to that person’s authorized representative.
Does not share, sell, or lease your personal information to any commercial or nonprofit entity that is not affiliated with the library.
Ensures that its third-party contractors and service providers adhere to its confidentiality policies.
Regularly removes Web history, cached files, and other computer and Internet use records.
Does not share with third parties or private or public agencies any information about library users, the materials they check out, the information they seek, or the services they use, unless required to do so under the provisions of the Texas Government Code or the U.S.A. Patriot Act.
Denies all requests from third parties for records containing personal information and refers such questions to the Director of Libraries when necessary.
The Director of Libraries consults with the City Attorney before determining the proper response to any request for records.
What You Can Do to Help Protect Your Privacy
Protect your account number, library card, and PIN (Personal Identification Number).
Use care when allowing others to use your library card. Use care in the use of your child’s card.
Return materials on time.
Notify us immediately if your library card is lost or stolen.
Use care when accessing or inputting any kind of personal information on the library’s computers.
Be sure to log out of any secure sites you have visited.
You are entitled to review your personal information and are responsible for keeping it up to date. Inform the library if your name, address, or contact information changes.
Questions or concerns about your privacy and confidentiality rights may be filed in writing with the Director of Libraries.
The Dallas Public Library supports the principles of intellectual freedom described by the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement.
Program Selection
Purpose:
This policy establishes the objectives for the library's programming and establishes criteria for the creation, selection and presentation of such programming.
Dallas Public Library (“the Library”) offers programs to meet the informational, educational, cultural, and recreational needs of all City of Dallas residents. The Library provides a wide selection of programming inspired by the community, staff, Library initiatives and priorities.
The Library's programming is an integral part of advancing its strategic goals. The transformational power of information, in all its expressions and manifestations, obligates a thoughtful, expansive, and inclusionary approach to programming, aligned with the Library's mission, strategic direction and purpose.
Policy guidelines:
Decisions for programming are guided by the following framework as articulated in the Library's Strategic Direction and City of Dallas values and strategic goals:
The Library is an agent for positive change for our community.
The Library is committed to the truth and to trustworthy information, fighting all forms of disinformation, censorship, and barriers to free inquiry.
The Library is a welcoming, inclusive place for every customer and acts to dismantle exclusionary structures including but not limited to racism, sexism, homophobia and xenophobia.
The Library advances individual and societal goals for equity, inclusion, and social justice to benefit the whole of our community.
Programs are created and selected to meet customers' informational, educational, cultural, and recreational needs to meet these objectives:
Programs meet current demands for general information needs.
Programs reflect the community's diversity of interests and opinions.
Programs are continually reviewed and assessed for currency, relevance, professional quality, and alignment with the strategic framework.
Program evaluations are made based on content and quality according to these factors:
Community needs and interests
Alignment with early literacy education priorities
Appeal of subject and style for the intended audience. This includes representation of an important movement, genre, or trend; cultural relevance; artistic presentation; and experimentation.
Cost and availability
Authority, credentials or demand for previous programs by the author, artist, publisher, or producer or presenter
Feedback and requests from reviewers, media and customers
The Library affirms and supports customers' freedom and responsibility to choose library programs according to their needs, individual tastes, or family values.
Customers apply those values to library programming only for themselves and may not restrict nor interfere in any way with other customers' freedom to view or attend programs.
Children under age 8 must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. The Library does not assume the parental responsibility for children's choices of library programming.
Presentation of programs does not represent the Library's endorsement of any opinion, belief, philosophy, or precept. A program that meets selection criteria will not be altered or canceled solely because it represents a particular opinion, belief, or philosophy.
Customers may request reconsideration of a particular program. These requests may be made in person or by email to any library public service manager and/or Library Director. Requests will be reviewed by the Director of Libraries, Assistant Director of Customer Experience and Program Services Administrators.
The ultimate responsibility for selection and approval of programs rests with the Director of Libraries who may delegate specific authorities and tasks.
Public Notices and Distribution of Non-Library Materials Policy
Purpose:
The Dallas Public Library maintains in its facilities public bulletin boards to promote library, community, or non-profit events and services that are educational, cultural, or informational in nature that may be of interest or benefit to library customers. Due to space limitations on library bulletin boards, priority will be given to the promotion and display of library or City of Dallas programs, services, and events.
Any individual or group wishing to display, post or otherwise distribute nonlibrary materials (brochures, flyers, periodicals, business cards, booklets, posters or similar items not produced or purchased by the library) on library property must adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Dallas Public Library.
Approved posted materials do not imply endorsement, advocacy, or co-sponsorship by the Dallas Public Library of the activity, sponsoring organization, ideas or opinions expressed therein.
The library reserves the right to remove or discard any item at any time and is under no obligation to inform the requestor.
Regulations:
Permission to display, post or otherwise distribute materials inside or outside of the library must be granted by the Library location manager or Librarian in charge. Materials left without this approval will be discarded.
Any individual, group or organization wishing to distribute nonlibrary materials throughout the Dallas Public Library system will need to seek permission from the Director’s office in Library Administration.
Materials to be displayed, posted, or distributed at the library must be printed, legible and not to exceed 11 inches x 17 inches in size due to space limitations.
Materials the Dallas Public Library will not post, display, or otherwise distribute include, but are not limited to:
Materials of a political nature (campaign literature, legislative lobbying, election issues, proclamations, etc.) except for The League of Women Voters “Voter’s Guide”
Religious proselytizing, testimonials, orservices
Materials of a commercial or profit-making nature
Petitions or other materials that solicit signatures
Hand-written or personal notices and communications
Solicitations of funds for any purpose except for the direct benefit of the Dallas Public Library or the Friends of the Library groups
Request for reconsideration of materials in collection
Purpose:
The Dallas Public Library believes that censorship is a purely individual matter and declares that, while any person is free to reject for themselves materials of which they do not approve, they cannot exercise this right of censorship to restrict the freedom of others to read, view, listen, or inquire. The Dallas Public Library subscribes to the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights and has set these regulations in place to assist in fulfilling the Library’s goal to serve all the residents of Dallas.
Procedures:
Any customer who is a resident of the City of Dallas and holds a resident borrower’s card in good standing from the Dallas Public Library is encouraged to speak with Library staff if they have questions on the Library’s collection development policies. A copy of those policies shall be provided to customers upon request. The customer may request that the Assistant Director of Technology & Strategic Direction respond directly to the customer regarding any library materials they may have questions or concerns about.
If a resident’s concern is not satisfied through discussion with Library staff, the resident may complete and submit a formal, written Request for Reconsideration of Materials (LIB-FRM-311). Copies of the form may be obtained from any library service desk or by mail or e-mail from the Library.
For a Request for Reconsideration of Materials to be considered by Library Administration, it must meet the following criteria:
The most recent version of the request form must be completed in full.
The customer must be a resident of the City of Dallas and hold a resident borrower’s card in good standing from the Dallas Public Library.
The form must be submitted to the Assistant Director of Customer Experience by mail or email. The form may also be dropped off in person at any Dallas Public Library location and forwarded to the Assistant Director of Customer Experience.
Upon receipt of a completed Request for Reconsideration, the Assistant Director of Customer Experience shall refer the Request for Reconsideration to the Library’s Acquisitions Manager to appoint an Ad Hoc staff review committee.
The Ad Hoc committee will review the request, undertake a firsthand review of the material subject to the Request, and prepare a report. The Ad Hoc Staff Review Committee shall include collection development librarians familiar with the area of the collection of which the item(s) referred to in the Request are a part. The committee shall consider the following criteria when drafting report:
Consistency with the Library’s Collection Development Policy
Cultural and/or literacy significance and quality
Audience for the material
Circulation history and customer requests for the material
Professional review and awards
The Ad Hoc Staff Review Committee may recommend a number of actions including removal of the material, re-labeling/classification of the material, providing other restrictions on the material, or no action at all. The review process by the Ad Hoc Staff Review Committee will be completed and submitted to the Assistant Director of Customer Experience within thirty (30) days from the date the complete Request for Reconsideration of Materials form is submitted to Library Administration. If additional time is needed, the customer submitting the request will be notified.
The Assistant Director of Customer Experience shall have final discretion as to whether to follow or modify the recommendation of the Ad Hoc Staff Review Committee.
The Assistant Director of Customer Experience shall inform the customer in writing of his or her decision regarding the Request for Reconsideration of Materials no later than ten (10) days after receiving the report from the Ad Hoc Staff Review Committee.
If the customer is unsatisfied with the Assistant Director of Customer Experience’s decision, the customer may appeal the Request for Reconsideration of Materials by asking in writing that it be referred to the Director of Library within fifteen (15) days from the date of the response to the customer.
The customer will be notified of the Director of Library’s decision within ten (10) days of the appeal. The Director may request additional information from Library staff as well as from the customer submitting the appeal request. The Director of Library’s decision will be final.