Security Cameras and Surveillance

Security cameras are used to enhance the safety and security of library users and staff by discouraging violations of the Acceptable Use of the Library Policy, to assist library staff in preventing the occurrence of any violations, and when necessary, to provide law enforcement assistance in prosecuting criminal activity. The recording of audio is restricted under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act and will not be used.

Security Camera Purpose and Placement Guidelines

Cameras are installed in outdoor and indoor places where individuals would not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.  Examples include public common areas of the library such as parking lots, entrances, seating areas, and service desks. Cameras are not installed in areas of the library where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, nor will they be positioned for the purpose of identifying a person’s reading, viewing or listening activities in the library.

Signs will be posted at all entrances informing the public and staff that security cameras are in use. Library cameras may not be continuously monitored; therefore, the public and staff should take appropriate precautions for their safety and for the security of their personal property.  The Otto Bruyns Public Library is not responsible for loss of property or personal injury.

Recorded data is confidential and secured in a controlled area.  Video recordings will typically be stored for no longer than 30 days, unless otherwise required as part of an ongoing investigation or litigation. As new images are recorded, the oldest images will be automatically deleted. Regarding the placement and use of the digital recording cameras, staff and patron safety is the first priority; protection of library property is of secondary importance. Cameras are not installed, nor will they be used for the purpose of routine staff performance evaluations.

Use and Disclosure of Video Records

Requests to view recorded footage will not be granted, except to law enforcement, upon presentation of a subpoena or court order or when otherwise required by law as per the requirements set forth in NJSA 18A:7343.2.[1]  In the event of a search warrant which is executable immediately, or a law enforcement investigation affecting the library in cooperation with the library administration, the Library Director will comply and consult with legal counsel to determine the legal and appropriate course of action.

Employees will have access to real-time images, viewable on desktop monitors placed at the circulation desk. Video records and still photographs may be used by authorized individuals to identify those responsible for library policy violations, criminal activity on library property or actions considered disruptive to normal library operations, as delineated in the Acceptable Use of the Library Policy.

In situations involving banned patrons, stored still images may be shared with staff system wide. Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff files for the duration of the banning period. After the banning period ends, these images will not be retained.

Unauthorized Access or Disclosure

Confidentiality and privacy issues prohibit the general public from viewing security camera footage that contains personally identifying information about library users.  All requests from the general public to inspect security camera footage, will be referred to the Library Director.

A breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including, dismissal.  Any library employee who becomes aware of any unauthorized disclosure of a video recording and/or a potential privacy breach has a responsibility to immediately inform the Director of the breach.

Disclaimer of Responsibility

A copy of this policy may be shared with any patron or staff member upon request.  The policy is also posted on the Otto Bruyns Public Library’s website. Questions from the public may be directed to the Library Director. 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.

[1]18A:7343.2 – Confidentiality of Library Users’ Records

Library records which contain the names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of libraries are confidential and shall not be disclosed except in the following circumstances:

1. The records are necessary for the proper operation of the library;
2. Disclosure is requested by the user; or
3. Disclosure is required pursuant to a subpoena issued by a court or court order. L.1985, c. 172, 2.

Adopted: September 10, 2026