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Hayward Public Library provides diverse programming and resources, supports personal and educational growth, inspires creativity, and contributes to the health and success of a thriving Hayward. The Library provides a welcoming environment and a wide array of resources, services, and community learning spaces. The Code of Conduct protects the safety and rights of library patrons, staff, and…, Threatening, violent, or illegal behavior: Any person who violates one or more of these rules will be asked to leave immediately and will be excluded from all Hayward Public Library premises for a minimum of 6 months. Any illegal activity will be immediately reported to law enforcement., Bringing firearms or other weapons into the Library in violation of, California Penal Code Section 171b, , which prohibits bringing weapons including firearms, knives with blade length in excess of four inches, stun guns/tasers, tear gas, and other metallic projectile instruments into any state or local public buildings, including public libraries. Exemptions from this prohibition are recognized for Law Enforcement. Engaging in physical altercations including fighting, challenging others to fights,…, California Penal Code Section 415, . Engaging in acts of sexual misconduct, including indecent exposure, sexual contact and sexual intercourse, and/or exhibiting lewd or lascivious behavior., California Penal Code section 314, ., California Penal Code Section 647, ., Disruptive or unsafe behavior: Any person who violates one or more of these rules will be asked to leave the library for a minimum of 30 days and may be excluded from all Hayward Public Library premises for an extended period. , Using obscene or threatening language or words otherwise likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction., California Penal Code Section 415, ., California Penal Code Section 422, . Destroying, defacing, damaging, altering or soiling library property, furniture, equipment or materials, or the property of library patrons., California Penal Code Section 594, . Theft of library property or the property of library patrons. To prevent the theft of Library materials, state law authorizes the detention for a reasonable period of any person using these facilities when there is probable cause to believe that the person being detained is unlawfully removing Library materials from the premises. Staff has legal authority to conduct a limited and reasonable…, California Penal Code Section 490.5, . Creating a health and safety hazard through depositing bodily fluids on library collections, equipment, or furnishings or through introducing pests including but not limited to bedbugs, cockroaches, fleas, or other pests in library materials, personal belongings, clothing, or service animals., California Penal Code Section 370, . Use of illegal or recreational drugs including alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis, including smoking, vaping, or use of e-cigarettes., California Government Code Section 7597(a), ., California Health and Safety Code Section 11375, . Entering staff areas without authorization, refusing to leave library premises when asked, or entering or remaining inside library facilities before or after posted hours of operation., California Penal Code Section 602.1, ., Behavior that interferes with library operations: Any person who violates one or more of these rules will be given the chance to correct their behavior. If the behavior is not changed, person will be asked to leave the library and may be excluded from all Hayward Public Library premises for an extended period., Neglecting to provide proper supervision of children and dependent adults. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure their children's safety, welfare, and appropriate behavior while in the Library and on Library grounds. Library staff does not act in loco parentis and is not responsible for the direct supervision, safety or welfare of any child. An adult being in an area…, Approved by the Library Commission 03/25/2026,
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The Library provides a welcoming environment and a wide array of resources, services, and community learning spaces. The Code of Conduct protects the safety and rights of library patrons, staff, and volunteers, while ensuring the preservation of library materials and facilities. Library staff have been authorized to enforce this Code of Conduct in all Hayward Library facilities, parking areas,…, Threatening, Violent, or Illegal Behavior, Bringing firearms or other weapons into the Library in violation of, California Penal Code Section 171b, , which prohibits bringing weapons including firearms, knives with blade length in excess of four inches, stun guns/tasers, tear gas, and other metallic projectile instruments into any state or local public buildings, including public libraries. Exemptions from this prohibition are recognized for Law Enforcement., First Offense:, 6 months or as determined by the law., Second Offense:, 1 year or as determined by the law., Third Offense:, 2 years or as determined by the law. Engaging in physical altercations including fighting, challenging others to fights, or using offensive words which are inherently likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction., California Penal Code Section 415, ., First Offense:, 6 months or as determined by the law, Second Offense:, 1 year or as determined by the law., Third Offense:, 2 years or as determined by the law. Engaging in acts of sexual misconduct, including indecent exposure, sexual contact and sexual intercourse, and/or exhibiting lewd or lascivious behavior., California Penal Code section 314, ., California Penal Code Section 647, ., First Offense:, 6 months or as determined by the law, Second Offense:, 1 year or as determined by the law., Third Offense:, 2 years or as determined by the law., Disruptive or Unsafe Behavior, Using obscene or threatening language or words otherwise likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction., California Penal Code Section 415, ., California Penal Code Section 422, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days Destroying, defacing, damaging, altering or soiling library property, furniture, equipment or materials, or the property of library patrons., California Penal Code Section 594, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days Theft of library property or the property of library patrons. To prevent the theft of Library materials, state law authorizes the detention for a reasonable period of any person using these facilities when there is probable cause to believe that the person being detained is unlawfully removing Library materials from the premises. Staff has legal authority to conduct a limited and…, California Penal Code Section 490.5, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days Creating a health and safety hazard through depositing bodily fluids on library collections, equipment, or furnishings or through introducing pests including but not limited to bedbugs, cockroaches, fleas, or other pests in library materials, personal belongings, clothing, or service animals., California Penal Code Section 370, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days Use of illegal or recreational drugs including alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis, including smoking, vaping, or use of e-cigarettes., California Government Code Section 7597(a), ., California Health and Safety Code Section 11375, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days Entering staff areas without authorization, refusing to leave library premises when asked, or entering or remaining inside library facilities before or after posted hours of operation., California Penal Code Section 602.1, ., First Offense:, 30 days, Second Offense:, 60 days, Third Offense:, 90 days, Behavior that Interferes with Library Operations, Neglecting to provide proper supervision of children and dependent adults. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure their children's safety, welfare, and appropriate behavior while in the Library and on Library grounds. Library staff does not act in loco parentis and is not responsible for the direct supervision, safety or welfare of any child., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days An adult being in an area designated for children or teens if not accompanied by a child or teen or not appropriately using the collection. While everyone is welcome to browse for materials, seating in the Children’s area is reserved for children and families, and seating in the Teen room is limited to teens aged 13-17 and accompanying adults., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Viewing or displaying inappropriate or sexually explicit material that is visible to other patrons or staff, on Library or personal computers or devices. Use of Library computers and Wi-Fi is further subject to the Computer Use Policy., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Bringing bicycles, scooters, or other similar devices into the library, except for wheelchairs or walkers that are actively being used to assist persons with disabilities and strollers that are actively being used to transport children or infants. Motorized mobility devices must not travel faster than typical pedestrian speeds. Skateboards, roller blades, or other similar devices are…, First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Bringing in excessive, over-sized or bulky personal items such as 4-wheeled carts, large suitcases or luggage, large duffle bags or trash bags., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Presenting offensive and pervasive odors, including but not limited to food, scented body products or excessive perfume, smoke, and personal property., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Creating any unreasonable noise which disturbs other patrons or staff. Please use headphones set at a reasonable level when listening to audio on electronic devices., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Failing to follow the reasonable direction of a Library staff member, intentionally monopolizing staff time to the exclusion of others, or engaging in any other behavior or activity that prevents or hinders Library employees in the performance of their duties., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Harassing behavior toward any person in the library, including but not limited to staring, stalking, lurking, or repeated unwanted personal and/or embarrassing questions or attention, or photographing or recording without consent., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Soliciting or asking for money, donations, or signatures, or the distribution or posting of any printed materials except at authorized Library fundraising events or through authorized library procedures subject to the Community Information Board Policy., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Consuming or possessing food or beverages outside of designated areas or not in approved containers., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Using another patron’s library card and/or account number for any purpose, including to access Library computers or services., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Failing to wear adequate clothing, including top, bottom and shoes., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Lying down or sleeping on Library premises., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Storing personal belongings on Library property or leaving personal belongings unattended. Library staff will not monitor unattended property and is not responsible for lost or stolen property., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Bringing animals, other than service animals assisting people with disabilities, inside library facilities or within 10 feet of any door. Service animals recognized under Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and under California laws protecting the use of service dogs are permitted in the library. Emotional support animals and other pets are not permitted., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Using restrooms for bathing, laundering, loitering, or any other unintended use., First Offense: , Asked to leave for the day, Second Offense: , 7 days, Third Offense: , 30 days Any repetition of offences beyond the 3rd time, or of an assortment of more than 3 offences by one individual within a period of 18 months may result in an indefinite or even permanent suspension of Library-use privileges which will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Suspension periods for minors may be adjusted at the discretion of Library staff. Suspensions of privileges may be…, Approved by the Library Commission 03/25/2026
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The Hayward Public Library (Library) makes every effort to protect the confidentiality and privacy of its library users. The Library operates in accordance with applicable including the, California Consumer Privacy Act, and the, California Public Records Act, . For the purposes of this policy, “Confidentiality” refers to a HPL’s refraining from disclosing or sharing any personal or library use records to an unauthorized third party. “Privacy” refers to the protection from intrusion from third parties. Following are Frequently Asked Questions about confidentiality and privacy issues., Are my Library records private or confidential?, Records of your personal information and your use of the library are private and confidential between you and the Library. These records are only used in the operation of the Library and provision of library services such as your borrowing of library materials, use of library computers, registering for programs, etc. The Library does not sell your information or use it in any way except in…, What records of my use does the Library have?, The Library maintains a database of borrower’s registration records with basic identifying and contact information, including names, addresses, birthdate, etc. The Library has a record of all books and library materials checked out on your library card while you have them checked out. When library materials are returned to the Library, borrower’s name only remains attached as the last known…, What about use of the library Internet terminals - can the Library find out what web sites I have visited?, The Library does not track internet use and does not track who has used a computer once they have logged out. Public computers are cleared nightly of any record of the day’s activity. However, if a library user behaves in a manner not in compliance with the Library Computer Use Policy or Library Code of Conduct, Library staff may create an incident report and record necessary information,…, Can copies of my library records ever be given out?, In order to prevent an unreasonable invasion of personal privacy or confidentiality, the contents of registration and circulation records are not made available to anyone except the individual customer whose record is in question or under written order of the City Attorney, such order having been issued pursuant to a proper legal process, court order or subpoena under the law. The Library handles…, Can law enforcement get copies of my library records?, Yes, but only with a signed court order, search warrant or subpoena issued by a judge and approved by the City Attorney. Law enforcement must show probable cause of a crime or relevancy to an on-going criminal investigation or threat to this country., What does the USA PATRIOT Act do to my privacy and the use of the Library?, The, USA PATRIOT Act, was enacted after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It affects libraries by making it easier for Federal law enforcement to get a court order to access a customer’s records. A court order is still required but the court order may be valid anywhere in the United States instead of a particular place. It also allows court orders to be issued using the less demanding standards for surveillance…, USA PATRIOT Act, prevents the Library from informing a customer if records are seized by search warrant or subpoena. The same requirement of securing a court order to obtain customer records remains, however, the, USA PATRIOT Act, makes it easier to get a court order if terrorism is suspected., What can I do if I don’t want anyone to know what I am borrowing or reading?, Anyone may come into the Library and use library materials in the library. If you are concerned about borrowing materials and creating a record, you can choose not to borrow them and simply use them in the Library. If you have an account in good standing with no checked out items, unpaid fines, etc., you may also request that your account and personal information are removed from the Library…, Can I request copies of my minor child’s library records?, All records, including those of minors, are treated as completely confidential and are not released to anyone, including family members or guardians without a signed release or a signed court order, search warrant or subpoena issued by a judge and approved by the City Attorney. Parents and legal guardians of minors are encouraged to discuss options for monitoring their children’s library use…, For additional information, contact the Main Library at (510) 293-8685 or Weekes Branch Library at (510) 782-2155.
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Introduction, The purpose of the Collection Development Policy is to provide the community and library staff documentation which informs and supports the development of the library collection. This document will provide guidance to Hayward Public Library staff and inform the public of the principles upon which the library makes decisions regarding the development and maintenance of the collection. While this…, Library Mission Statement, Hayward Public Library provides diverse programming and resources, supports personal and educational growth, inspires creativity, and contributes to the health and success of a thriving Hayward., Selection of Materials, A. Collection Development Goals, Provide materials that meet the community’s interests and needs in a timely manner. Provide a diverse collection which can support the roles of the library as a reference center, learning center, educational center, and community center. Provide a variety of viewpoints on all of the subjects in its collections. Participate in cooperative collection development programs. Provide materials for all…, B. Selection Guidelines, Library materials are chosen to serve the information, education, cultural, and recreation needs of the community. The Library selects materials on a large variety of subjects and in different formats, responding to the wide range of ages, ethnicities, languages, educational backgrounds, interests, and reading skills of library patrons. Materials are available in a variety of formats, quantities…, C. Patron Requests and Recommendations, he Hayward Public Library welcomes suggestions and feedback from the community for purchases of materials. All suggestions are given deliberate examination and are subject to the same criteria as all other Library materials purchased. Staff and the public are encouraged to recommend materials for consideration., D. Gifts and Memorials, The library accepts gifts of library materials with the understanding that the same selection guidelines are applied to gifts as are applied to materials purchased by the library. The Library reserves the right to make final disposition of all gifts received; most are donated to the Friends of the Library for inclusion in their book sales. Please contact the, Supervising Librarian, to discuss memorial donations. Commemorative bookplates are available for placement in materials., E. Collection Maintenance & Evaluation, Collection maintenance and evaluation is important to ensure the materials in the Library are balanced and responsive to community needs. The Library strives to maintain an up-to-date, useful collection. Statistical tools such as circulation reports help librarians to determine how the collection is being used, and community demographic information will be used to help keep abreast of changing…, THE COLLECTION AND SUBJECT AREAS, A. Children’s Collections:, A robust collection of print and media materials for children, items are provided in multiple formats for a wide range of interests, ages, and reading levels. Although the library strives to provide basic curriculum support, we do not attempt to purchase in sufficient quantity for required reading or other district-wide projects. Special collections in the children’s area include: International…, B. Teen Collections:, A collection of books and magazines is maintained for teens, with awareness of the variety of interests, backgrounds, reading skills, and development levels within this age group. This book collection is overwhelmingly fiction selected for recreational reading. The non-fiction titles in the collection are on subjects that meet the developmental needs of teens as well as titles of contemporary…, C. Adult Collections:, Fiction and non-fiction collections including books, CDs, DVDs, periodicals, and online materials, with an emphasis on popular works, basic reference, and homework support. Special collections include:, Career Development:, Titles for job seekers, students, career changers, employees and business owners, including job search resources and test preparation for standardized tests and the Civil Service tests., Adult New Reader:, Easy-to-understand items for adults with limited reading ability and resources for teachers and other education professionals., International Languages and Language Learning:, Educational and recreational materials in multiple languages, including materials for English language learners., Local History:, Materials related to the history of Hayward and Alameda County, the greater San Francisco Bay area, and California., Urban Agriculture:, Materials relating to gardening, healthy living, and sustainable agriculture., D. Digital Collections:, The Library provides a variety of electronic resources for all age groups that are accessible via the Library’s webpage at times and locations convenient to the users. Digital collections may include:, Ebooks and downloadable audio, Streaming media, Homework assistance and research materials for all grade levels, Test preparation, Full-text versions of magazines, newspapers, and journals, Intellectual Freedom & Access to Library Materials, Hayward Public Library advocates the freedom to read as indicated in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read, and Freedom to View Statements. The public library serves as a center for volunteer inquiry and dissemination of information and ideas. As such, the collection meets the broad and diverse needs of the community and respects both the library’s autonomy…, Request for Reconsideration, The purpose of the Collection Development Plan is to provide the community and library staff with a document that provides justification for the development of library collections. It ensures that the focus of the collections purchased remains the diversity of community interest. Despite this, occasional objections will be made by the community regarding material selection. In response, the…
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Library Community Information Board Policy, Hayward Public Library designates spaces and processes for the display and/or distribution of community information on library property subject to the restrictions specified in this policy as follows:, The Library designates spaces for the display and/or distribution of community information from the following groups, : Hayward Public Library; City of Hayward, including its municipal departments, boards, commissions, and task forces; Friends of Hayward Library; Individuals, organizations or groups working in formal partnership with Hayward Library; Other public agencies; Community-based non-profit organizations., The Library prohibits community information and materials that are, : Illegal, inappropriate or inflammatory; Contrary to library policy; Political in nature; Selling, promoting, advertising, or soliciting for commercial products or services; Personal advertisements or want ads of any kind; • Solicitation to participate in medical, academic, social, commercial or political surveys, contests or research; Petition or pledge form; Oversized, handmade, hazardous,…, The Library prohibits community information and materials that are commercial in nature or pertaining to events or activities that charge fees, with the following exceptions, : Hayward Public Library events and activities; City of Hayward events and activities; Friends of Hayward Library events and activities; Other public agencies’ events and activities; Community organizations working in partnership or collaboration with Hayward Library. All community information and materials must be submitted to Library staff for approval prior to display or distribution. The…, Contact Us, To submit digital files, or for questions please contact hpl.marketing@hayward-ca.gov
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Hayward Public Library offers free and open access to the Internet in accordance with its mission of providing public access to information of all types in a wide range of formats. All Library patrons accessing the internet in the Library are expected to use this resource consistent with the educational, informational, and recreational purposes for which it is provided. Library patrons are also…, For more information, contact the Downtown Library at (510) 293-8685 or Weekes Branch Library at (510) 782-2155.
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Children and Teens at Hayward Public Library We are committed to providing inviting spaces for children and teens. Children and teens have designated areas at our libraries for individual and group activities that meet their unique needs. Children's areas are designed and reserved for the use of those under 18 and their caregivers. Teen areas may only be used by customers 13-17 years old or those…, Unattended Children, It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure their children's safety, welfare, and appropriate behavior while in the Library and on Library grounds. Library staff is not responsible for the direct supervision, safety or welfare of any child., Children under the age of 6, may not be left unattended by an adult in any part of the library, including areas designated for children. A parent, guardian, or responsible caretaker must always remain within visual and touching distance from their child, including remaining in the room during storytime or other programs., Children ages 6-9, must always have a caregiver, over the age of 14, in the building. The caregiver is responsible for the safety, behavior and supervision of the children in their care while at the library., Children ages 10 and up, may visit the library unattended by an adult, but should not be left alone for extended periods of time. Children should have a cellphone or other method to contact a parent or guardian in case of emergency. Caregivers must pick children up at least 5 minutes before the library's posted closing time. If a child is alone at closing time, the staff will attempt to call the parent, legal guardian,…
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Library Director's Foreword, Five years ago, on a beautiful September day, and to the pounding of taiko drums, our 21st Century Library & Community Learning Center opened its doors. The building was not even complete, but we had the essentials - books, computers, water, and restrooms - so what was holding us back? Nothing! Hayward was delighted and, thus, started a 5-year love affair between our community and the…, - Jayanti Addleman, Director of Library Services, Acknowledgements, A special thank you to these individuals who have contributed their valuable insights, energy, and leadership to Hayward Public Library and this strategic plan. Library Strategic Planning Committee Jayanti Addleman, Director of Library Services Lindsey, Deputy Director of Library Services Ricardo Antoni Melissa Burkley Reina Escovedo Clio Hathaway Mike Joyce Kelsey Molina Ari Nussbaum Wenny…, Next: Library Insights ⇒
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Personal interviews were conducted with government leaders, Library Commission members, Friends of the Hayward Public Library leadership, the Library’s leadership team, and other Library partners. Our listening efforts included detailed surveys to capture the priorities of our community, community partners, and Library staff. Focus groups were conducted with community members and Library partners…, In total, nearly 1,000 individuals shared their ideas about the Library and its contribution to the Hayward community. Here are the major themes that emerged:, A thumbs up with three stars above PATRON SATISFACTION Patron satisfaction of the HPL is strong, as confirmed by a high Net Promotor Score®. This high satisfaction was consistent across the Library’s various demographic groups. People identifying as LGTBQ+ or as Black / African American reported the highest satisfaction levels. Those identifying as having limited mobility or as Native Hawaiian /…, Patron safety, , , Unsheltered population, camping, drug use, Lack of physical separation of youth and adult areas, ,, Parking Program availability, ,, Meeting room space., Rejuvenation efforts are underway at Weekes Branch and funding for a replacement building will be considered in a future voter referendum. (strike on the November ‘24 ballot.) A mega phone with a no symbol LOW LIBRARY AWARENESS The primary reasons people don’t visit the Library more frequently are “Visiting the library doesn’t cross my mind” and “I do not have the time.” Many people were…, School districts, ,, Multi-cultural / ELL organizations, ,, Homeless organizations, ,, Parent support groups, ,, Home school groups, ,, Foster care organizations, . People Icon Behind a Ribbon STAFFING Focus group participants confirmed that HPL’s staffing constraints are limiting the Library’s services. On a per capita basis, HPL has near the lowest staffing levels of any library in the Bay Area and is staffed well below high-performing peer libraries from across the U.S. Hands holding a group of people SOCIAL SUPPORT Some Library patrons face challenges…, Next: Strategic Plan Design & Highlights ⇒
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