The Brazil Public Library strives to be a welcoming environment for all. Security cameras are used to ensure the safety and security of Library staff, customers and facilities. This policy adheres to Indiana state laws, including the Indiana Access to Public Records Act (IC 5-14-3) and privacy statutes, as well as federal laws where applicable. The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the placement and use of the cameras, as well as the access and retrieval of recorded images.

Security Camera Purpose and Placement Guidelines

1. Security cameras will be used in public places to document events involving the safety and security of patrons, staff, and Library property.
2. Cameras will be placed in indoor and outdoor areas, but they will not be installed in areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, private offices, or staff rooms. 
3. Footage capturing patron activities (e.g., reading materials, computer use) will not be used to identify or monitor individual behavior unless directly related to a reported incident of criminal activity or a violation of the Brazil Public Library’s policies.
4. No audio will be recorded.
5. Notices are posted at the Library entrance and patio to inform the public and staff that cameras are in use.
6. Live viewing of data is used to assist with customer service in unstaffed public areas of the Library or in cases of suspected criminal activity. Live camera footage will not be available to the public for viewing at any time. 
7. Cameras are not installed for the purpose of monitoring staff performance and will not be used for the purpose of routine staff performance evaluations.
8. Cameras are not continuously monitored and therefore the public and staff should take appropriate precautions for their safety and for the security of their personal property. The Brazil Public Library is not responsible for loss of property or personal injury.

Use and Disclosure of Video Records

The Brazil Public Library is subject to open record laws in Indiana.  If a request for video footage is made, the requested materials will be reviewed to assess whether the video includes footage that is exempt from disclosure and may need to be redacted or withheld. The library complies with Indiana privacy laws and the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics, prioritizing the confidentiality of patron information.

1. Video records and photos obtained through the video monitoring system will be released as necessary and in accordance with applicable laws, when pursuant to a subpoena, court order, or when otherwise required by law.
2. Digital records may be used to identify the person or persons responsible for Library policy violations, criminal activity, damage or destruction of Library property or actions disruptive to normal Library operations.
3. If footage incidentally captures identifiable patron activity unrelated to an incident, it will not be disclosed or used unless legally compelled.
4. Video images are stored digitally and retained for approximately 30 days. In the event of a suspected crime or incident, still shots or selected portions of the recorded data will be maintained until the incident is resolved.
5. Recordings shall not be used or disclosed other than as specifically authorized by this policy.  Any misuse of footage or breaches policy must be reported to the Library Director immediately for investigation and corrective action.
6. Library staff may review recorded data in order to identify those responsible for suspected Library policy violations or criminal activity on Library property with the permission of the Library Director.
7. Images may be shared with Library staff to identify person(s) suspended from Library property. In situations involving banned patrons, stored still images may be shared with staff. Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff areas for the duration of the banning period.

Disclaimer of Responsibility

Questions from the public about the Brazil Public Library’s security cameras may be directed to the Library Director. The Library disclaims any liability for the use of video data in accordance with the terms of this policy given that the Library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.