Ames Public Library is joining hundreds of public libraries across the country that no longer charge overdue fines for items that are returned late. This is one step in the Library’s commitment to providing equitable access to Library materials and services.
Library Director Sheila Schofer explains “Equity and access are core values for libraries and play a big role in our new Strategic Plan. Overdue fines disproportionately penalize people with lower incomes and can even keep them from using…
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Ames Public Library is committed to the City of Ames values shared by Mayor Haila in support of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. (www.cityofames.org/Home/Components/News/News/6079/2106).
Ames Public Library staff and Trustees grieve for the recent acts of violence in our nation, and our hearts go out to the victims' families and communities. To our friends in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, please know that we stand with you. We pledge to continue our work…
by Sheila Schofer
It was about this time last year—after gathering data, surveying our staff and public, and holding several community engagements sessions—that the Ames Public Library unveiled its new Strategic Plan. Now one year in, I thought it would be great to take stock of what we have done to move our goals forward, despite a tumultuous last 12 months. When we created our plan we did so with broad staff and community involvement, and our goal for…
Social Media Policy
Section: Library Resources
Approved: 9/16/2010
Reviewed:
Revised: 5/16/2013, 9/17/2015, 3/28/2019, 3/17/2022
Ames Public Library uses online social networking sites to further its mission to connect library users and community residents to the world of ideas.
The Library participates in social media to facilitate sharing of news and information about Library services, programs, and resources to…
Board
The Board of Trustees governs the operation of Ames Public Library. Trustees are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. For more information, see the Bylaws, Board of Trustees.
Meetings
The Board of Trustees meets the third Thursday of each month at 7pm in the Board Room unless otherwise noted.
Upcoming Board Meetings…
We're Now Fine Free
Ames Public Library is joining hundreds of public libraries across the country that no longer charge overdue fines for items that are returned late!
This is one step in our commitment to providing equitable access to Library materials and services.
What’s the Same:
Items you check…
by Tracy Briseño
I challenge you. I challenge you to read for fun this summer. Just for you. Whatever you want. I encourage you to do it visibly where your kids or neighborhood kids can see you. It sets a powerful example. But mostly, I encourage you to read for your own enjoyment or interest. Just to be clear – I embrace a WIDE view of reading. Read the newspaper, read an e-book, listen to an audiobook, crack open your favorite magazine, read a picture book for fun (no kids required!) or…
Internet Use Policy
Section: Library Resources
Approved: 6/19/1996
Reviewed: 11/21/2002, 7/21/2005, 6/17/2021
Revised: 2/17/2000, 11/16/2006, 9/20/2007, 1/21/2010, 719//2012, 9/17/2015, 8/20/2018, 7/20/23
Ames Public Library provides free, unsecured access to the Internet to connect the public to the world of ideas and information, and to provide equal access to that information for all individuals in the community.…
Programs Policy
Section: Library Resources
Approved: 6/23/2004
Reviewed: 1/19/2017
Revised: 10/10/2005, 10/19/2006, 9/18/2008, 8/16/2012, 12/17/2015, 2/20/2020, 06/16/2022
Ames Public Library offers programs to further its mission, “Ames Public Library; We connect you to the world of ideas.”
Library programs are planned public activities that are initiated or presented in partnership by the Library and take place at…