The Library uses a security system in order to protect its materials. When materials leave the Library without being properly desensitized, an alarm will sound.

In many cases, Library patrons inadvertently pick up library materials along with their own belongings, causing the alarm to sound. All library materials are clearly identified with Clark State ownership stamps, barcodes, or tags. The library apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause patrons; patrons are simply asked to return the materials to the circulation desk.

Infrequently, a member of the library staff will neglect to check an item out properly, causing the security system to sound. The library apologizes to the patron for any embarrassment or inconvenience this may have caused.

There are occasionally instances when the library staff has good reason to suspect that there is an intent to steal library materials. In these cases, the library may turn the case over to the Dean of Student Affairs or the Campus Police to handle if the patron and the library staff are unable to resolve the problem.

Even more rarely, a library patron brings into the library a commercial product from an establishment which uses the same security system as that used by the library, also causing the security system to trip. The library staff asks that the patron cooperate in identifying the item and in desensitizing it. If the patron refuses this accommodation, the library requests that in the future that item not be brought back into the library, or that it be checked at the front desk. Failure to comply with one of these solutions can result in the patron's loss of library privileges.

It has been known to happen that students play "practical jokes" on other students, which cause the security system to "catch" someone. If the joker is identified, the case will be turned over to the Dean of Student Affairs.

Any instance of interference with library security materials or procedures constitutes a violation of campus regulations and will be turned over to the Dean of Student Affairs or to the Campus Police.

The library reserves the right to ask patrons to search their own belongings for library materials, and to search any bags, handbags, briefcases, binders, etc., which continue to trip the alarm system.

Use of the Clark State College Library implies compliance with security procedures.

Mission Statement || Computer Use Policy || Collection Development || Loan Policy || Interlibrary Loan Policy || Library Fines || Copy Policy || Personal Information || Community Patrons || Security System || IDs and Validation

Updated: 01 July 2003