Procedure for Handling Requests for    

                             reconsideration of library materials

 

The following procedure is established to handle citizen requests for reconsideration of a materials selection decision. A form for initiating a citizen request in writing is appended. Guidelines for handling a request for reconsideration are applicable laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and policies determined by the Board of Directors of the Newburyport Public Library.

Within 1 week after receiving a written complaint, the Head Librarian shall review the criteria and decision on the item (s) in question and shall schedule a meeting with the requesting party.

If a satisfactory disposition is not forthcoming from this process, the Head Librarian shall schedule a meeting between the party requesting reconsideration and the Board of Directors. This meeting should be scheduled within 30 calendar days.

If a satisfactory disposition is not forthcoming from this process, and the question of violation of state or federal law seems germane, legal disposition of the question shall be sought.