The Addison Public Library uses security cameras to enhance the safety and security of library users, staff, and property, while protecting individuals’ right to privacy. The primary use of security cameras is to discourage inappropriate and illegal behavior, and when necessary, recorded images from the library’s cameras will be used to provide assistance to law enforcement officials for the purpose of prosecuting criminal activity.
Cameras are installed in selected interior and exterior locations where people would not have an expectation of privacy. Examples include common areas of the library such as entrances, near book and audio-visual collections, public seating, and parking areas. Cameras will not be installed in areas where members of the public and staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms. A sign is posted at the Library entrance informing the public that security cameras are in use.
Selected staff will have access to the real-time monitors, although activity is only randomly monitored. Only the Library Director or their designee will have access to the archival material in pursuit of incidents of criminal activity or violation of the Library’s Behavior Policy. All requests for security camera footage or still photographs by law enforcement will be referred to the Library Director. In the Director’s absence, requests will be directed to the Person in Charge and forwarded to the Director for a response. If the Director will be unavailable for more than 72 hours, the request will be forwarded to the Assistant Director for a response. Requests from the public for access to security camera footage will be handled in accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Library’s FOIA policy.
Images will be stored for up to 30 calendar days, unless required as part of an ongoing investigation. The storage media is kept in a secure area. As new images are recorded, the oldest images will be automatically deleted.