Mission

The Englewood Public Library is committed to free and open access to information and materials that are part of a diverse collection which includes an array of perspectives, values, beliefs, and backgrounds. The diversity of the collection reflects the diversity in society, and by building and maintaining an inclusive collection, the Library provides access to educational, informational, and recreational resources for all members of its community. The Library makes every effort to provide an accessible collection of print and non-print materials.

Purpose

The Collection Development Policy provides guidance on the day-to-day acquisition and withdrawal decisions, resource allocation, and long-term planning of collection needs. The policy also supports the City of Englewood’s mission to enhance the quality of life for those we serve by providing superior services to maintain a vibrant and inclusive community, investing in Englewood’s future by making fiscally responsible decisions, and preserving Englewood’s unique identity while welcoming new growth.

This collection development policy:

• Provides background on the community and patrons Englewood Public Library serves.
• Defines the philosophy and scope of the collection.
• Explains the Library’s collection management practices, professional standards, criteria, and methods Library staff use to make collection management decisions.
• Explains the process by which patron input is incorporated into Library collection management decisions.

Description of Community/Patrons Served

Englewood Public Library primarily serves the residents of the City of Englewood, with an approximate population of 35,000, in the Denver metropolitan area with proximity to public transit hubs and other Front Range communities. The City has the third highest concentration of millennials in Colorado. According to 2020 U.S. Census data, adults over the age of 60 constitute 20.7% of the population with children under the age of 18 constituting 16.1% of the population. The remaining adult population constitutes 63.2% of the population.

According to U.S. Census data, 88.1% of households in Englewood speak English only. Therefore, most materials collected will be in English. Households in Englewood that speak Spanish constitute 9.1% of the population, and there are higher concentrations of Spanish speakers in communities that neighbor Englewood, including the City of Denver. The Library will work to collect materials in Spanish that adhere to the Library’s selection criteria. Additionally, the Library will make an effort to collect Spanish language materials and materials in other languages upon request. As the demographics and needs of the Englewood community change, the Library will regularly assess its materials and adjust its collection practices to reflect the needs of the community.

Any Englewood or Colorado resident may obtain a Library card for free. Englewood Public Library is a member of the Marmot Library Network which allows the Library to share and borrow materials with Marmot libraries across Colorado.

Collection Management Philosophy, Accessibility, and Scope of Collection

Englewood Public Library collects materials that fit within the Library’s mission to provide free and open access to information and materials that are part of a diverse collection which includes an array of perspectives, values, beliefs, and backgrounds.

The freedom to read, hear, and view is protected by the first amendment to the United States Constitution, and this first amendment right will not be restricted within the collection of Englewood Public Library. The Englewood Public Library and the Public Library Board supports intellectual freedom and subscribes to the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement.

As a public library that serves a specific urban population within a larger metropolitan area, Englewood Public Library collects materials to inform, entertain, and reflect the interests and needs of patrons. In keeping with the range of media options that patrons demand, the Library collects materials in a variety of popular formats including physical books, DVDs, Blu-rays, games, audiobooks, newspapers, magazines, and electronic versions of materials which can be accessed via the Library’s online catalog and databases.

The primary motivator that drives collection development decisions is the relevance of materials to the needs and interests of the community. The Library’s collection strategies therefore focus on maintaining a collection that reflects these needs and interests while remaining within the confines of the Library’s budget. The Library also collects materials that offer breadth and depth to our collection. Because the Library serves the diverse needs of the Englewood community, the Library’s collection will provide up-to-date and accurate information on a wide variety of topics and subject matter.

Patron requests and demand for items are both factors taken into consideration by Library staff making collection development decisions. Circulation statistics, including number of checkouts and the number of hold requests, provide the Library with useful data on materials that are of interest to patrons and guide collection development decisions.

Several factors limit the Library’s ability to collect certain materials. These include the Library’s position as a standalone, single-structure Library with limited physical space as well as budgetary considerations. The Library’s collection budget is evaluated annually by the Library and Cultural Arts Manager, who determines the amounts the Library will spend on materials in each collection area. Budgets for each collection area (e.g. Adult DVDs, Children’s nonfiction) may fluctuate year to year, and the Library must be strategic about purchases it can make with available funds. While the Library is not able to collect extremely rare, ephemeral, expensive, academic or specialist materials, the Library’s affiliation with both the Marmot and Prospector networks of libraries allows patrons to request such items through our holds request system.

Selection and Deselection Criteria

The selection, evaluation, and removal of materials in the collection are entrusted to designated staff members who are trained in collection management methods. The end responsibility for selection of all Library materials rests with the Library and Cultural Arts Manager who operates within the framework of established policies approved by the Englewood Public Library Board.

Library staff involved in selecting material draw on guidelines recommended by the American Library Association and consult selection aids including book reviews, publisher and bookseller lists, awards lists, industry periodicals, and other recognized resources to help staff with collection development. Collection development staff also engage in professional development activities such as courses and seminars coordinated by reputable professional organizations within the Library industry. Library staff trained in collection development and in consultation with subject area librarians use the following criteria as well as their experience with patrons to make selections of materials to add to the collection:

Materials Not Collected

The following types of materials are not actively collected due to finite resources and physical space:

• Textbooks – The Library does not purchase textbooks, except for when there is little information available otherwise or when they meet the specific selection criteria.
• Genealogy Materials – The Library collects basic titles on genealogy research and provides access to online resources but does not purchase more specialized publications.
• Rare Books - The Library does not have the resources to acquire rare books through purchase but will accept these items as gifts or donations. 

Disposal of Deselected Materials

Based on their physical condition and other criteria, items removed from the collection are disposed of in the following manner:

• Donated to nonprofit agencies such as schools, troops overseas, or institutions in need of books and other items.
• Recycled appropriately when the materials are unable to be donated or are so damaged as to be unusable.
• Sold in used book sales hosted by the Englewood Public Library.

Reconsideration Guidelines

If a patron would like to ask the Library to consider the removal or reclassification of an Englewood Public Library item, they may submit their concerns in writing. The patron must be a resident of the City of Englewood and must include their name and contact information. Fully completed forms should be returned to a Library staff member. The Library and Cultural Arts Manager will review the Request for Reconsideration and respond in writing within 30 days of receipt. Items in question will be assessed using the detailed selection criteria as outlined previously in this policy. Should the patron be unsatisfied with the Library Manager’s response, the patron may request, in writing and within 30 days of the initial decision, that the Public Library Board review the matter. The Public Library Board may assign a committee of Library Board members and Library staff to respond to the Request for Reconsideration. Once a determination is made, the full Public Library Board will vote on the decision and the patron will be notified. The decision of the Public Library Board will be final. The item in question will remain available to the public during the reconsideration process. All completed requests submitted to Englewood Public Library are not considered a library user record under the library's privacy policies and is an open record under the "Colorado Open Records Act" (CORA). Pursuant to CRS 24-90-122 (4) library staff may not be subject to termination, demotion, discipline, or retaliation when they refuse to prematurely remove a resource from the library's catalog, or when they make, in good faith, a display, acquisition, or programming decision they believe is in accordance with this law.

Updated - September 19, 2024 

Approved by Public Library Board – June 13, 2023

We are not actively accepting donations at this time.

Objective

The objective of the Englewood Library Local History Collection shall be to collect, arrange, and preserve books, photographs, maps, manuscripts, narratives, ephemera, newspapers, memorabilia, and other materials related to the history and current day of Englewood, Colorado.

Definition

Englewood is defined as the area within the boundaries of the current city limits. The collection may include materials on areas that were annexed by the city after the material was produced. (Areas such as Cherrelyn, Brookridge, Centennial, etc. and the history of those areas before, during, and after they became part of the City of Englewood will be included.)

Scope

The collection includes the institutions of Englewood, both public and private, and their members, activities, and policies. This includes all aspects of the city government, schools, religious, fraternal, and social organizations, and business for profit or non-profit.

The collection also includes information about current and former residents of Englewood, individuals participating in Englewood’s institutions, or others having influence on the history of Englewood. In collecting materials of a biographical nature, the materials must be illustrative of people, events, and places in Englewood. The only exception to this would be books or unpublished materials (see Books below).

The materials collected must illuminate life in Englewood rather than the interests of a local donor.

Collected Materials

Books to be cataloged as monographs:

• Directories of all kinds: city, business, school, church and club rosters, and telephone books
• Books about the people and history of Englewood
• Books by local authors, particularly if of local or regional interest
• Books that have a local setting.

Newspapers collected on microfilm and/or hard copy

The collection and preservation of local newspapers is essential to a local history collection. These include newspapers from the early settlement of Englewood to the present time. Both major newspapers and grassroots or informal publications such as company newsletters, zines, and magazines, are included in this.

Photographs and Pictures in photographic film

Prints, negatives, slides, film, postcards, and sketches comprise the photographic collection.

Clippings, Ephemera, and Memorabilia - in file of that name (CEM)

Pamphlets published in or about the Englewood area include Chamber of Commerce brochures, advertisements, catalogs of local merchants, schools, or academies. Pamphlets may also be cataloged.

Clippings from local newspapers or articles in outside publications that deal with local events, issues, and people are accepted.

Ephemera consists of materials that are produced to be used once and then thrown away. This includes programs, reports, handbills, announcements, posters, pamphlets, ballots, and advertisements. These should include names, dates, and locations to be of useful historical value.

Manuscripts cover such items as memoirs, diaries, journals, club minutes, business records and collections, church records, and letters. Each item is usually the only one in existence; thus, manuscript items are often the most valuable part of the local history collection for a researcher. Manuscripts should be collected if they fit into the parameters of the collection and meet the collection’s time and space availability requirements.

Memorabilia can cover a broad range of items but are usually small souvenir objects such as menus and programs. Memorabilia can be collected in the CEM collection. Other memorabilia should be considered on an item-by-item basis with use, storage, and historical value taken into account.

Maps and Measured Drawings - stored flat or rolled

Both area and small localized maps are of great importance in the local history collection. Artists’ sketches of buildings, parks, farms, or houses, and architects’ plans, contribute to knowledge of the local area. Proposals for developments and buildings that were never built are also important. Aerial photos are also desirable.

Narratives and Films

Collections of oral history are essential to expand and enhance local history collections. Ideally these will be in digital format, but easily accessible physical formats, such as CD, DVD, and cassettes are also acceptable. Unusual file formats will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Considerations include viability of accessing materials in the future through acquisition of equipment, etc., and the rarity of the materials. Film or videos of special events in the community also fall into this category but should have historical significance.

Collections

Collections of various formats of materials that all deal with a limited subject may be kept together and filed according to a finding aid rather than the CEM or Photo collections.

Scrapbooks

Scrapbooks that pertain to Englewood history are accepted. Scrapbooks consisting entirely of newspaper clippings are not accepted unless they have a narrow focus related to other items in their collection. Standalone clipping books will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Unaccepted Materials:

• Awards, plaques, trophies, ribbons
• National newspapers, or widely available local newspapers (ie Denver Post)
• Large objects or artifacts
• Items with no connection to Englewood’s history or residents
• Items without context
• Moldy or severely damaged items
• Items with stipulations (i.e. unable to transfer copyright or ownership, donor requests to restrict access to materials).
• Items containing sensitive information, such as Social Security Numbers, personally identifiable health information, and financial account information.
• Genealogical materials such as family trees, except where definitive to the history of Englewood.

Loans

All items archived in the Englewood Public Library Historical Archive are the property of the library. Loans will not be accepted. Once gifted and selected for the collection, items cannot be returned to the donor. The only exception is for items the archive will not keep. In this case, the donor may request these materials be returned to them. For more information, see the Deed of Gift PDF. In select cases, a negative may be made from a photograph for inclusion in the Historical Archive while the original is returned to the owner. The library will retain all rights to the materials for permission of publication as well as any remuneration the library receives for that publication.

Deed of Gift

Download the Historic Archive Collection Deed of Gift PDF Here

Researcher Agreement

Download the Researcher Agreement PDF Here

Approved by Public Library Board – June 13, 2023

Purpose

The Englewood Public Library’s Display Policy provides a basis for the display of library materials by library staff, informs the public about the principles and criteria upon which these decisions are made, and promotes the purposes of the library's mission, which is:

The Englewood Public Library promotes curiosity and continuous learning, builds connections, and empowers individuals to explore, learn and achieve their goals.

The policy supports the City of Englewood’s mission to enhance the quality of life for those we serve by providing superior services to maintain a vibrant and inclusive community, investing in Englewood’s future by making fiscally responsible decisions, and preserving Englewood’s unique identity while welcoming new growth.

Principles and Criteria

Library display shelves and display cases are only for Englewood Public Library or City of Englewood displays. The final responsibility for the display of library materials is held by the Library Director, but day-to-day responsibility is shared by all library staff. Library staff use the following criteria when making decisions about display topics, materials, and accompanying resources:

• Community needs and interest
• Availability of display space
• Historical, cultural, and educational significance
• Format and style are suitable for intended audience (i.e., adult materials will not be included in displays in the children’s area)
• Any signage included should clearly state the theme of the display
• Connection to other community or national programs, exhibitions, or events
• Relation to library collections, resources, exhibits, and programs

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 considered controversial. Materials shall not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

Acceptance of a display or exhibit topic does not constitute an endorsement by Englewood Public Library or the City of Englewood of the content of the display or exhibit, or of the views expressed in materials on display. Pursuant to the Fair Campaign Practices Act, the Library shall not display materials that advocate for or against a ballot question or candidate.

Intellectual Freedom and Censorship

Policy

The freedom to read, hear, and view is protected by the first amendment to the United States Constitution, and this first amendment right will not be restricted within the collection of Englewood Public Library. The Englewood Public Library and the Public Library Board support intellectual freedom and subscribes to the American Library Associate’s Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement .

Only parents and legal guardians have the right and responsibility to restrict the access of their children to library resources. The display of materials is not inhibited by the possibility that particular works may inadvertently be seen by or come into the possession of children and young adults.

Displays will be clearly labeled with the theme or topic of the display to assist patrons in making informed choices about the books or media materials they choose to borrow.

Procedures for Questioning a Display

The Library welcomes expressions of opinion from patrons concerning library displays. If a patron questions a library display, they should first address the concern with a library staff member. Patrons who wish to continue their request for review of a library display may submit a Request for Reconsideration Form, which may be obtained at the Library or online at the Library website. A Request for Reconsideration will be considered according to the Reconsideration Guidelines outlined in the Collection Development policy.

Adopted by the Englewood Public Library Board, May 21, 2026

Programming, which is an event sponsored or co-sponsored by the library, has a presentation component, typically lasts 20 minutes or longer, and furthers the mission of the library. A program may be a single event or a series of events, be a scheduled or a pop-up event, or take place inside or outside of a library.

Programming is a fundamental component of library service that:

• introduces attendees to library resources and materials;
• provides learning and entertainment opportunities to meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of those attending the program;
• raises awareness and visibility of the library within the community;
• supports and responds to emerging community interests as well as established interests and demands;
• strengthens the library’s role as a welcoming, inclusive, and flexible hub; and
• extends outreach for underserved populations.

Program Development and Presentation

The Englewood Public Library board delegates development and presentation of programs to the Library Director and designated department staff.

Library staff utilize many criteria when making decisions about program topics, speakers, and accompanying resources. When developing a program, library staff consider:

• community needs and interests,
• the proposed program’s relation to the City of Englewood’s and library’s strategic plan, collections, resources, services, and events,
• connections to other community programs, exhibits, or events,
• a program’s historical or educational significance,
• the treatment of the content of the program for its intended audience,
• a program presenter’s expertise and public performance experience,
• the likely popularity of a program, and
• other issues that may impact a program.

The library may draw upon community resources when developing programs and may actively partner with other City divisions and departments, community agencies, organizations, educational and cultural institutions, or individuals to develop and present co-sponsored public programs.

Unsolicited programming offers from individuals and organizations to present programs may be considered and evaluated in relation to this policy, as well as the mission and vision of Englewood Public Library. Members of the public who wish to suggest a program must complete the Program Interest Form. The selection of a program suggested by a member of the public does not constitute an endorsement of the program’s content nor the views expressed by presenters.

Guidelines

Englewood Public Library’s philosophy of open access to information and ideas extends to programming. Library programs are free and open to the public. Registration may be required for planning purposes or when space is limited.

Library programs must have a special educational, informational or cultural value to the community. Programs of a purely commercial nature or those designed for the solicitation of business will not be offered by the library.

Programs offered by the library do not constitute an endorsement of program contents or views expressed by presenters. Decisions to provide programs will not be made on the basis of any anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the merits of the program in serving the interests of the community.

Programs that support or oppose any political candidate or ballot measure will not be approved or offered by the library. However, educational programs, such as candidate forums that include invitations to all recognized candidates may be offered at the discretion of the library. The library complies with FCPA guidelines.

Programs will not be offered or approved that endorse or oppose a specific religion. Programs are planned to be inclusive of all cultures and of all religions and no religion. Library programs may address religious themes to educate or inform, but not to promote, observe or proselytize a particular religious conviction. Secular holiday programs may be offered for the entertainment of library guests.

The library reserves the right to use video or photographs taken of program participants for internal use, publication, use in Library promotional outlets, and evaluation purposes. Library staff and third parties should receive permission from those depicted in videos prior to recording video in compliance with the administrative order prohibiting video without consent.

Access

In accordance with the guidelines and restrictions of this policy, every attempt will be made to accommodate all who wish to attend a program. However, when safety, cost, or the success of a program requires it, attendance may be limited. Admittance will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis; waitlists or registration may be used to manage program interest and patron communication. The library reserves the right to deny attendance to anyone becoming disruptive to audience members or the program facilitator, and to anyone in violation of the City of Englewood’s Standards of Behavior or Patron Code of Conduct.

The library makes every effort to comply with all applicable laws, including the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and any state or local disability accessibility guidelines. If a program is held in a location not controlled by the Library, the Library will ensure that the space is accessible to ensure equal access for library programs. Should the number of guests attending a program overflow the program designated event areas, the library will protect accessible public spaces (such as ramps, pathways, and emergency exit routes) to ensure access and safety.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for those requiring services at Library-initiated programs when needed or requested by patrons. Any individual requiring accommodation to participate in a Library program should contact the Library Director two weeks prior to the program.

Program Cancellation

Programs may be cancelled for a variety of reasons, such as severe weather, absence of a presenter, or low registration (when registration is required). Cancelled programs are rescheduled at the library’s discretion. When possible, advance notification of program cancellations will be made on the Library’s website and other communication channels.

Programs scheduled for the outdoors may be rescheduled or cancelled at the library's discretion due to temperature extremes or inclement weather at the time of the program.

Program Reconsideration

The Library endeavors to provide programs that reflect the community’s diversity and welcomes feedback about its programs. The Englewood Public Library Board recognizes the right of an individual or group from within the City of Englewood to make their objections known to the Library. Should a library patron have a concern about a program, the guest should first direct their concern(s) to the staff in charge of program. If the guest wishes to pursue the issue, and is a resident of the City of Englewood, they may submit a Request for Reconsideration. Only requests made by City of Englewood residents regarding Englewood Public Library programs will be considered.

The Director, with appropriate staff, will review the program in question and determine if it is in accordance with this policy. The Director will decide regarding the program in question and send a letter to the resident who submitted the Request for Reconsideration, stating the reasons for the decision.

The decision of the Director may be appealed to the Englewood Public Library Board by requesting in a letter to the Director that the request for reconsideration be referred to the Board. The Director will forward the request and the reconsideration form to the President of the Board of Library Trustees who will place the matter on a Library Board meeting agenda as soon as practical. The decision of the Board will be final and will be sent in writing to the person who requested reconsideration of the program.

A program that is the subject of a request for reconsideration will generally not be cancelled during the review and appeal process.

Amendment of Policy

The Englewood Public Library Board reserves the right to review and amend this policy at any time.

Adopted by the Englewood Public Library Board, May 21, 2026

The Englewood Public Library welcomes all patrons and visitors to use Library facilities and services. In order to provide a safer and comfortable environment for everyone, the library reserves the right to enforce reasonable rules and guidelines for patron conduct.

Everyone at Englewood Public Library is subject to the City of Englewood Standards of Behavior, posted throughout the Civic Center and on the City of Englewood Website - Standards of Behavior.

All Library visitors shall also comply with the following Code of Conduct specific to the Library. Failure to comply with the below items may result in a Tier 1 Behavior/Conduct violation as outlined in the City of Englewood Standards of Behavior.

• Unattended Children: A responsible adult must be present in the Library with all children under age 10. Children abiding by the Standards of Behavior are welcome to enjoy the library independently. Children who cannot, must be under the supervision of a caregiver.
• Sleeping: Security Staff or Library Staff may wake patrons up to perform wellness checks every 15-30 minutes. No patron may lie down on furniture or flooring.
• Food and Drink: A considerate consumption of a small snack or a covered beverage is allowed in the library except when using public computers. Everyone is responsible for cleaning up after themselves.
• Misuse of Library Furniture: Library furniture should be used as intended – seats for sitting, tables for working and reading, etc. The library is a shared public space.
• Personal Belongings: Containers, packages, bundles or other personal belongings that singularly or collectively exceed the approximate size of one rolling suitcase are not allowed. Exceptions include strollers/wagons used for transport of young children, assistive devices, or materials intended for use in the meeting room or for special programs.
• Prohibited Equipment: The Library has a limited amount of space, so to ensure access for all patrons, to prevent blockage of walkways, common areas, exits and entrances, and to maintain a clean and tidy space, no bicycles, wagons, or shopping carts are allowed inside the Library, and no skateboards, roller skates, or scooters may be ridden in the Library, except ADA assistive devices or strollers/wagons transporting children.
• Unattended Items:
  • EPL and its employees are not responsible for the security of personal items brought into any Library facility.
  • Patrons are expected to maintain their belongings and keep them within their sight. This includes valuables such as wallets, purses, cell phones, bags, and laptops.
  • Found or unattended property will be held until the end of business day. If not collected, all items will be donated, disposed of, or turned over to Englewood Police Department (EPD).
  • High value items, such as wallets, cell phones, and legal documents, will be retained for 30 days. If contact information is available, then a reasonable attempt at contact (one call or email) will be made to return lost property to the proper owner. If not collected, all items will be turned over to Englewood Police Department (EPD).
  • Items identified as trash, hazardous, or perishable will not be stored and will be disposed of immediately.

Approved by the Englewood Public Library Board January 15, 2026

Please review the guidelines for program proposals. If you feel your program is a good fit for the Library and beneficial to the community, you may fill out the Program Interest form. The library programming staff will review your form and will contact you if selected to proceed. 

Englewood Public Library strives to provide quality programming that meets the educational, informational, and entertainment needs of the community. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Digital literacy
• Adult basic education and language learning
• Cultural demonstrations, workshops, performances, lectures, hands-on crafts
• Financial literacy
• Health literacy
• Science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) workshops
• Small business and workforce development

If you are interested in presenting a program with Englewood Public Library, please review the following information and complete the Program Interest form. We are currently not accepting interest forms for children/teen programs.

Planning for library programs begins 3-5 months before the program will occur. For maximum promotion and to be included in the quarterly activity guide, please use the following submission cycle:

Proposal Process

1. Submit a completed Program Interest form by appropriate deadline.
2. Wait for a response regarding acceptance from Englewood Public Library staff. (Not all potential presenters will be approved to deliver a program.)
3. If your program is selected, a meeting with library programming staff will be scheduled to discuss details and possibly complete a formal Program Proposal.
4. If the Program Proposal is approved, programming staff will confirm program date/time and coordinate details with presenter.
5. Program is presented and evaluated.

Presenter Expectations

• Provide a program that is free and open to the public.
• Provide and unbiased and inclusive environment.
• Program topic must provide a benefit to attendees.

Prohibited Activities

• Unauthorized sales of goods or services nor solicitation of business will be allowed during the program.
• No product or political endorsements.
• No distribution of advertising or referrals.
• No alcoholic beverages.

Program Marketing Materials

• Programs will be marketed in partnership with Englewood Public Library as the program sponsor and must include the Englewood Public Library or City of Englewood logo.
• All marketing materials must adhere to City of Englewood Brand Guidelines.
• Any materials created by the presenter must be approved by library staff.

Public Computer Access and Internet Use

The Englewood Public Library ("EPL") provides free access to library resources and information through materials and technology - including the internet - to meet the informational needs of its patrons. The internet contains various materials and opinions from diverse points of view. Not all sources provide information that is accurate, complete, or current, and some information may be considered offensive or inappropriate for certain individuals. While EPL is sensitive to patrons' concerns about internet content, it is not responsible for the information available on the internet. Because it is the goal of EPL to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone to meet their educational and informational needs, individuals are responsible for their own appropriate use of the internet in a public place.

1. Liability for Breach of Data Policy

EPL makes internet resources available to all patrons. Library staff help patrons navigate, identify, and access internet resources. Staff review and recommend reliable sources of online information and develop special tools available on EPL's website to assist patrons with internet use. EPL assumes no liability for any loss or damage to patrons' devices, data, or media; personal damage; or injury resulting from the use of EPL's internet resources. This includes damage or injury sustained from invasion of a patron's privacy.

2. EPL Responsibility to Erase Computer Data

EPL follows state and federal law regarding privacy of library patrons' records and information. When a computer session is ended, all information about that session is deleted by default. As part of its regular practice, the EPL does not retrieve any information including websites visited, passwords, credit cards numbers, or any other information a patron has entered. At the end of each business day, all computer use and and reservation records are erased. The EPL will release records, including those related to internet usage, only as required by law under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA). Patrons are advised to exercise caution when using public computers to provide personal identification and/or financial information.

3. EPL Internet Filters

EPL complies with state and federal law guiding the use of filtering software in public libraries. Internet-connected computers and wireless access are filtered to screen obscene and sexually explicit websites in accordance with the Federal Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and C.R.S. § 24-90-601: Colorado's Internet Protection Act. Filters may falsely block material that is appropriate in a public library setting, or they may fail to block access to illegal or objectionable material. Patrons may submit requests to EPL staff for websites to be blocked or unblocked; staff will use its discretion to block or unblock the site.

4. Access to Internet Resources by Minors

EPL has adopted and implemented this policy to protect children who use its internet services from access to material that is harmful to their beneficial development as responsible adults and citizens, per C.R.S. § 24-90-601. As with all library material, EPL affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, not library staff, to monitor their minor child's internet use. EPL will enforce its internet use policy with all patrons and urges parents/guardians to actively participate in their child's learning process by helping them make informed choices about selected appropriate materials and websites. 

5. Patron Responsibility & Prohibited Use

EPL patrons are expected to use internet resources in a responsible and legal manner that is consistent with this policy and any other applicable EPL policies. Patrons must abide by established time limits when using EPL's computer devices to allow for the equitable use of the library's resources. Inappropriate or illegal use of computers may result in the loss of computer privileges or the loss of library privileges. 

Without limitation, EPL prohibits the use of its technology and/or network to:

• Display sexually explicit images or images that might reasonably be considered immediately offensive to others;
• Access, display, transmit, or disseminate obscene materials (C.R.S. § 18-7-101) or child pornography (18 U.S.C.2256; C.R.S. § 18-6-403; C.R.S. § 18-7-502);
• Transmit threatening or harassing materials;
• Unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information regarding minors;
• Gain unauthorized access to another person's files or attempt unauthorized entry to networks;
• Use another person's library card to access computers or other devices;
• Attempt to alter or damage computer equipment, software configurations, or files belonging to EPL, other patrons, or external networks;
• Install software on computer devices or running programs that have not been installed by EPL, and
• Violate copyright laws or software license agreements.

It is EPL's policy to always report illegal activities to law enforcement. EPL staff who witness the illegal use of computer devices will immediately report their observations to appropriate law enforcement.

Adopted by the Englewood Public Library Board on July 18, 2024.

Patron Privacy Policy

The Englewood Public Library ("EPL") is committed to protecting patron privacy and confidentiality. EPL adheres to the Colorado Laws C.R.S. § 24-90-119: Privacy of User Records and C.R.S. § 24-73-101: Consumer Data Privacy, which require that all Colorado public libraries safeguard the privacy of customer records and personal identifying information.

In compliance with these Colorado Revised Statutes, EPL will:

• Not disclose the use of library content, materials, equipment, programs, facilities, or staff assistance, unless disclosure is: (1) necessary for the reasonable operations of EPL; (2) consented to in writing by the user; (3) issued to a parent or legal guardian who has access to a minor’s library card/information; or (4) pursuant to a subpoena, court order, or is otherwise required by law;
• Destroy paper and electronic documents containing personal identifying information when such documentation are no longer needed (personal identifying data includes personal identification number, passwords, government issued identification number, and passport number);
• Ensure the confidentiality of each patron's EPL record, account, and library use by securing and limiting access of these records to approved EPL staff; and
• Only collect and store personally identifiable information when needed for EPL operations and services.

1. Information Collected by EPL

EPL will only collect and retain personal identifying information with the express consent of the individual. The following library services require the collection of personal information:

a. Library Card Registration: Registrant will be asked to present a valid state issued photo identification card.

b. Computer Use Card: Registrant will be asked for their first name, last name, and date of birth.

c. Study Room Reservation: Patrons seeking to reserve a meeting or study room will be asked for their first name, last name, phone number, and email address.

2. Patron Responsibility for Reporting Lost or Stolen Cards

It is the patron’s responsibility to notify EPL immediately of lost or stolen cards or if the patron believes that another person is using their card or card number without permission. EPL requires all library card accounts to maintain a unique password and encourages patrons to protect their library card numbers and passwords for their own privacy and security.

3. Parental Access to a Minor's Account Records

Parent or legal guardian library card accounts will be linked to a minor’s account until the child turns 18. Parents or legal guardians of a child under age 18 who want to access the child’s library records, including titles of materials checked out or overdue, must provide the child’s library card or card number.

4. Requests for Library Records

EPL staff will refer all law enforcement and public records requests to the City Attorney or the City Clerk. EPL does not maintain a record of patron borrowing history beyond operational requirements. A request for reconsideration of a library resource – either a request to remove or retain a book or other library material – is not a protected record and may be disclosed by EPL upon request. 

Adopted by Englewood Public Library Board on July 18, 2024.

All use of Englewood Public Library Spaces must adhere to the Englewood Public Library Code of Conduct and the City of Englewood Standards of Behavior.

Englewood Public Library reserves the right to amend approved room reservations to conduct library and City of Englewood business. In the case of a library closure, library staff will cancel all patron reservations. 

Study Rooms

The Englewood Public Library has three Study Rooms available for advance reservation (each accommodates 1-6 people) and one study room available on a first-come, first-served basis (accommodates 1-4 people).

• Reservations may be made up to a week in advance. Same day reservations are also available.
• Reservations may be made in person, by phone, by email, or online.
• The full name of the person making the reservation must be provided along with an email address and/or phone number and an estimated or exact number of how many people will be in the space during the reservation.
• A maximum reservation of 2 hours per day, per patron (whether individually or as part of a group), and users will be notified by staff when the 2 hours have concluded. Patrons can extend study room reservations on a one-hour basis beyond the initial 2-hour reservation as space allows.
• Study Rooms may not be left empty/unattended for more than 20 minutes, including a late arrival. If a patron leaves the room unattended for more than 20 minutes, any remaining personal belongings will be removed and disposed of or turned in to Englewood Police Department.
• Final reservations each day will end 15 minutes before closing time.
• Sleeping in Study Rooms and/or misuse of the furniture is not allowed.

Meeting Rooms

The Englewood Public Library has two meeting rooms available for public rental.

• Meeting Rooms are available for rent for a fee of $10 per hour, due at the time of your event.
• Reservations can be made up to one year in advance.
• Rooms may be rented up to 24 times during a calendar year.
• Maximum room capacity is 42 people for Anderson Room and 37 people for Perrin Room.
• If you need to cancel your reservation, please notify library staff immediately.

When using the Meeting Rooms the following rules are in effect:

• The noise level must be consistent with the atmosphere of the library.
• The room must be left neat and clean with all items from your event removed when you leave.
• Food and drink are allowed in the Meeting Rooms and must be completely cleaned up after the event.
• Final reservations each day will end 15 minutes before closing time.
• Please take set-up and tear-down time into account when making your reservation. Groups must depart at the end of their reservation. Set-up may not begin before the library opens. Groups must depart at the end of their reservation.
• Rooms are not available for special occasions like birthday parties or baby showers.
• Groups may arrange the furniture in the Meeting Rooms to suit their needs.
• Please see library staff for assistance with any directional signage requests.
• The library will not be held responsible for any items left behind.

Any group that fails to abide by these guidelines may be prohibited from future use of the Meeting Rooms.

Englewood Public Library, municipal, county and state government are exempt from meeting room fees.

Use of the library Meeting Rooms does not imply library endorsement or sponsorship of any event. The library will not provide information about a specific group's reservations to the public. Publicity for meetings is the responsibility of the renter and they may not list the library as a sponsor or encourage the public to contact the library for information without explicit approval from the Library Director or appointed library staff.

Technology Lab

The Technology Lab is primarily for classes and general instruction led by library staff and volunteers. Outside of scheduled classes and programs, the public may utilize the Technology Lab in the following manner:

• Reservations for general use may be made for open hours of the library. Library staff may alter availability of the Tech Lab due to staffing levels.
• A current Library Card Account number must be provided to reserve a computer in the Technology Lab (Full, Limited, or Computer Access will be allowed; no guest passes). · Computer usage is limited to 120 minutes per patron per day. Extensions may be provided when computers are available.
• Users understand that walking away from their session for more than 15 minutes will result in the workstation being automatically logged out and the session forfeited.
• Work must be saved on an external device or Cloud Drive, as files cannot be saved to library workstations.
• All public computer sessions will end 15 minutes before closing time.
• Food and drink is not allowed in the Technology Lab.

Approved by the Englewood Public Library Board on January 15, 2026.