Recently Asked Questions

We are planning an emergency preparedness training for library staff to include CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed, and Narcan training. We have heard from librarians that some boards are concerned about the implications of having staff trained. We would like to have some commonly asked questions addressed so that we can answer them if they come up.

1. If staff are trained, do they incur a duty to act? Would they personally or the library as institution become liable should they freeze up and not intervene?

2. If staff are trained but inadvertently cause harm in the process of administering aid, are they covered by any kind of Good Samaritan law?

3. Can a library have a policy of requiring all staff to undergo these types of trainings?

4. Are there any other legal implications or obligations that should be considered that the average person may not think of?

There seems to be a trend for libraries that have Friends groups to hold fundraisers, donations, and membership drives at the library. In some instances, the library collects money for the Friends and pays it to them at a later date. Considering the cash handling procedures libraries have to worry about, is it allowable for libraries to collect Friends membership dues and donations then pay it back to the Friends?

Does a contractor have to comply with FOIL request if they are contracted to a county government?

We have a [person] requesting information about a Security Guard who is a Contract Employee (employed by another government entity). All I know is the Guard's 1st name- which is on no paperwork we have. I have already told the requestor that the Guard is employed by an outside company. We are [REDACTED] County government and contract through [REDACTED Other Public Agency] - What do we have to do legally?

How long should the library retain employee records, payroll records, sales and purchase records, mortgage and loan documents, and other records?

As part of a town bicentennial celebration, the committee wants to create a map of historic properties. There would be a description of the property noting its historic significance, the address, and ideally a photo. Many of the properties are privately owned. Do owners need to give permission for their property to be included? We would publish the address and describe the history of the property, but current owners' names would not be disclosed. We want to share history, but respect privacy. What legalities should we be aware of?