Library Services

Sitka Public Library staff select, acquire, and organize library materials and assist in providing free and equal access to informational, educational, cultural, and recreational resources to meet the informational needs of its patrons.

As cooperation promotes effective and efficient library service, Sitka Public Library staff actively promote cooperation with other libraries to improve services in Sitka and throughout the nation. 

The Library participates in interlibrary loan services to supplement and enhance its collection and those of other library. Materials that are not included in the Library's collection may be obtained through interlibrary loan. Books are received via mail service from other libraries, and serial citations are generally received via fax. Most reference and many audiovisual materials cannot be obtained through interlibrary loan.  

Programs

The Library offers a variety of programming for children and adults to increase use of the library, to promote good public relations, and to increase understanding of the Library's services and objectives.  

Friends of Sitka Public Library

The Friends of the Library is an association of community members who plan and execute programs and events to benefit the library. In particular, the Friends group is involved in raising funds to support Sitka Public Library. 

Privacy & Confidentiality

Library records are confidential under Alaska Statute 40.25.140. Names, addresses, or other personal identifying information of people who have used the library shall be kept confidential, except upon court order. Library staff are dedicated to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of library users.  

Bulletin Boards

The bulletin boards at the Sitka Public Library may be used to publicize upcoming public events, performances, and meetings. Library programs take precedence over all other requests. Public service announcements from city, state, and federal agencies are also prioritized. Educational and non-profit organizations may submit notices which will be considered on a space-available basis. Authorization of a submission does not indicate library endorsement.

Limited space allows for short-term posting only. All notices must be submitted to library staff. Authorized notices will be dated and posted by staff. Items or materials placed without authorization are subject to removal. Removed or expired notices will not be returned.

Educational or non-profit public events or activities that include a registration or participation fee may be posted. Soliticitation of monetary donations or sales of merchandise will not be posted. Buy, sell, or trade notices will not be posted. Noticed for individual or commercial financial benefit will not be posted.

The library director will have the final determination of any bulletin board posting. Appeals or exemptions to any of these policy terms should be submitted in writing to the director for consideration and decision. Approved April 2020 

Solicitation

Solicitation of the public or the staff is not permitted in the Sitka Public Library building. Solicitation refers to the sale or distribution of merchandise, sales materials, tickets, insurance, coupons, magazine subscriptions, private services, political campaign materials, petition or letter signatures, requests for money, or other activities not connected to the work of the library. Approved April 2020 

Emergency Closing

Emergencies or catastrophes including, but not limited to, extreme weather, utility failure, bomb threat, fire, explosion, or terrorism may require closing the library. The primary consideration in any emergency or catastrophe is the safety of all persons in the building and on the property. Sitka Public Library cooperates fully with public safety departments and emergency safety providers. The Library Director or, in their absence, the Acting Director, will determine when to close the Library during an emergency or catastrophe.