Library Policies

• Print
• Email

The Syosset Public Library provides a variety of educational, cultural and public engagement services to the community. Library patrons should be able to use the library and its services without fear that their identity, location, or reading choices will be published.

Photography, filming, and use of other recording devices, as described below, is allowed to the extent that it does not interfere with the delivery library services, has the permission of the director or her/his designee and is consistent with the library’s mission statement and code of conduct. Library staff may terminate any photographing, video recording, or recording sessions that have not been preapproved, may compromise public safety or security, or interfere with the library’s operations.

Individual Photography and Video Recording

Persons wishing to photograph, record, and film on library premises with the approval of the director or her/his designee must obtain the necessary releases and permissions from persons who are to be photographed, filmed, or recorded. Taking photographs or videos of a minor requires the permission of the minor’s parent or guardian. The library takes no responsibility for obtaining these releases.

Casual, amateur photography by visitors wanting to remember their visit is permitted in the library so long as additional equipment such as tripods and/or lighting is not used and filming only captures the image of the person filming or of people who have provided express permission to be filmed/recorded.

Community Groups and Organizations

Community groups and organizations using the library’s meeting room spaces may arrange for photographers and news media during their events. Photography and filming of such events is restricted to the space reserved by the group and may not take place in other areas of the library unless permission has been provided by the library director or her/his designee in advance. 

Commercial Photography and Video Recording

The library does not permit commercial photography or filming. Any exception requires permission from the director. If permission is granted, the organization is responsible for any necessary releases and permissions.

Library Staff Photography and Video Recording

Library staff often take pictures or record videos at library events and programs for use in library publicity materials, social media sites, and on the library’s website. The library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the library. Library employees may take photographs, record videos, or use other recording devices within the library and at library related events and activities. These photographs and videos may be copied, displayed, published in print or online, and telecast by the library for such purposes as promotion, publicity, and news to inform the public regarding the library and its services. All such photography and video recording will be done in accordance with library policies and procedures. Individuals that do not want the library to use a picture or video of themselves or their child(ren), should inform a library staff member prior to the event. This policy extends to photographing and filming by library staff at Friends of the Library events and at library programs at public events in the community.

Adopted: October 12, 2023

Date: September 12, 2023                                                                      Date: October 12, 2023