Security Cameras Policy

UINTAH COUNTY LIBRARY SECURITY CAMERAS POLICY

Created: 11/6/2020

Approved: 11/20/2020

I. PURPOSE

This policy establishes the framework within which the Uintah County Library (hereinafter referred to as “Library”) shall regulate the installation, maintenance, and use of security cameras located in the Library building and outdoor areas controlled by the Library, and regulate the collection, storage, disposal, access, and use of surveillance data from the security camera systems. The Library shall use security cameras to enhance the safety and security of library users, staff, and property, while protecting an individual’s right to privacy. The primary use of security cameras is to discourage inappropriate and illegal behavior, as determined by the State of Utah and local code and Library Policy, and to enhance the opportunity to apprehend offenders.

II. DEFINITIONS

    a. Criminal Activity is conduct which is punishable under the criminal laws of the State of Utah. 
    b. Library Property includes the main library building, the Heritage Museum, and the grassy area.
    c. Law Enforcement Officials includes Vernal City Police Department Officers, Uintah Sheriff’s County Deputies, and Utah Highway Patrol Troopers.
    d. Personally Identifying Information as defined in Utah Code Annotated § 76-6-1102.
    e. Authorized Staff shall include the Library Director, IT Department, and supervisors and staff, as assigned.

III. SIGNAGE

The Library shall post and maintain signs giving notice of the use of security cameras for monitoring and recording activity in public areas of the Library property.

IV. CAMERA LOCATION

Cameras are located to view grounds, service desks, exits, and areas prone to theft, vandalism or other activity that violates Library policy or criminal law. In no event shall cameras be located in areas where patrons and/or staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as private offices, restrooms, or areas designated for breast feeding.

V. ACCESS TO DIGITAL IMAGES (GRAMA)

    a. Video data is recorded and stored digitally on a dedicated server. The recorded data and Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) are considered confidential and secure. Both the recorders and recorded data are housed in a limited-access, controlled area.
    b. Authorized staff shall have access to local DVRs and remotely via the Library’s network to live feeds in order to monitor activity at the Library when security and safety is a concern. Access to recorded video data is limited to the Library Director, IT Department, and supervisors and staff as assigned.
    c. In situations involving patrons who have been trespassed from the library, stored still images may be shared with staff system-wide. Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff areas for the duration of the banning period. After the banning period ends, these images will be archived for five (5) years.
    d. A log will be maintained with the name, date, time, and reason for all viewing access, including proper maintenance of the system, investigation of an incident, pursuant to a subpoena, and pursuant to a records request made under the Government Records Access and Management Act, Title 63G, Chapter 2, et seq. of the Utah Code Annotated 1953, as amended (hereinafter referred to as “GRAMA”).

VI. RETENTION OF DIGITAL IMAGES

Recordings shall be kept for approximately seven (7) days, with the exception of appropriate still shots or selected portions of the recorded data relating to specific incidents. These shall be retained for one (1) year after the incident, unless a preservation letter has been submitted by the requesting law enforcement agency. The storage media shall be kept in a secure area.

VII. ACCESS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

    a. Video surveillance records are not to be used directly or indirectly to identify the activities of individual Library patrons or staff except as viewed in relation to a specific event or suspected criminal activity, suspected violation of Library policy, or incidents where there is a reasonable basis to believe a claim may be made against the Library for civil liability.
    b. Authorized individuals may use a still shot or selected portions of recorded data to request law enforcement review for assessing the security risk of a specified individual or for investigation a crime on Library property.
    c. Video data will be made available to law enforcement officials or agencies upon written request. The Library shall retain a copy of the request.

VIII. PATRON PRIVACY

Recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users by Utah State law and the Library’s policies with respect thereto, including but not limited to the policy concerning confidentiality of personally identifying information about library users.

IX. PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST

    a. In the event that video footage is requested as part of a public records request pursuant to GRAMA, the request will be handled in accordance with GRAMA.
    b. Efforts will be made to blur the faces of any non-record requesting Library patrons captured on a video clip or in a still shot that is the subject of a public records request pursuant to GRAMA.

X. DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

    a. Any patron or staff member shall be given a copy of this policy regarding use of security cameras upon request.
    b. The Library disclaims any liability for use of the video data in accordance with the terms of this policy, given that the Library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.
    c. Because cameras are not continuously monitored, the public and staff should take appropriate precautions for their safety and for the security of their personal property. The Library is not responsible for the loss of property or personal injury. Questions from the public may be directed to the Library Director.

XI. DAMAGES AND LIABILITY

Any individual using the Library shall be held responsible for willful or accidental damage to the Library building and collections caused by the individual in accordance with the Library’s Standards of Conduct.