Mission Statement: Why Do We Exist?
To Enrich Lives

Vision Statement: What Do We Do?
We provide free library materials, information, services and programs that enrich lives

Values Statement: How Do We Behave? 
APPROACHABILITY: Being friendly, empathic, and accessible 
POSITIVITY: Displaying an optimistic and passionate attitude
CREATIVITY:  Innovative thinking that solves problems and improves service delivery

Monday - Wednesday     9:00 AM - 8:00 PM    

Thursday - Friday         10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday                       10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday                         CLOSED

Service Standards
The Largo Public Library's goal is that every library patron has a pleasant and memorable experience with each library encounter - whether it's in the building, over the phone, or at an outreach event.

Library History

Security System
The Largo Public Library is equipped with a security system to prevent library materials from being improperly removed.

• An electronic device is used to protect library items.
• Use of the library signifies tacit agreement to investigative inspection if the alarm sounds.
• If a patron attempts to leave the library with material that is not checked out, Largo Public Library staff are authorized to look through a patron's handbag, briefcase, notebook, backpack, etc. for library materials.
• If a patron refuses to allow staff to look over his/her belongings, or if a patron attempts to forcibly leave the building with library materials that are not checked out, the staff will contact the police. 

• Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray: The Security Officer is authorized to carry OC upon completion of a training and certification class held in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines.
  • Re-certification will be required annually.
  • The use of OC spray will be limited to instances in which library patrons exhibit aggressive physical or aggravated physical behavior toward library employees or other patrons.
• MEB (Baton): The Community Service Aide (Security Officer) is authorized to carry a MEB upon completion of a training and certification class held in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines.
  • Re-certification will be required annually.
  • The use of the MEB will be limited to instances in which library patrons exhibit aggressive physical or aggravated physical behavior toward library employees or other patrons.
• Handcuffs: The Community Service Aide (Security Officer) is authorized to carry handcuffs upon completion of a training and certification class held in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines.
  • Re-certification will be required annually.
  • The use of handcuffs will be limited to instances in which library patrons exhibit aggressive physical or aggravated physical behavior toward library employees or other patrons.

There are many volunteering opportunities at Largo Public Library and with the Library's support groups.

• If you are interested in volunteering to shelve library materials, pull requested items, assist with public computers, help with programs, or to repair library materials, please complete the application.
• Note: Per Library policy, we do not accept court ordered community service applicants. 

Other volunteer opportunities:

• If you would like to volunteer to support of the Friends of the Largo Library by working in the book store and helping with bi-annual book sales, please contact the Friends by calling (727)586-7392 or emailing LPLFriends@gmail.com
• If you are interested in helping with Library fundraising for the new bookmobile, please contact the Greater Largo Library Foundation by calling (727)586-7398 or visiting the GLLF website.
• If you are interested in leading genealogy classes, please contact the Pinellas Genealogy Society by visiting the PGS website.
• If you are interested in becoming an English language tutor, please apply by visiting the ELL webpage.
• Teens can apply twice a year through the Teen Volunteer Application. 

The Largo Public Library serves the information needs of the community by providing sources of information and assistance in locating information. In its role as a center for community information, the library provides public bulletin boards and space for the passive distribution of various types of free literature regarding cultural, recreational, educational and human services programs and events.

The library reserves the right to designate specific places, i.e., bulletin boards, tables, kiosks, etc., where public notices and free materials must be placed.

As space is limited, materials will be posted and/or displayed by the following priority:

• Largo Public Library announcements and publications
• Largo Public Library co-sponsored announcements and publications
• City of Largo government announcements and publications
• Pinellas County, State of Florida, federal government announcements and publications
• Civic, recreational, cultural, and educational announcements and publications (if space is limited, priority will be given to events and organizations in the immediate Largo area)

• The appearance and content of the notice must be suitable for the Library's general public service area.
• Posters, brochures, or notices for political parties or candidates or those advocating a position on a public issue are not allowed.
• Space is available for local candidates' brochures during election campaigns. 
• Posters and brochures advertising events or services for which a fee is charged are not allowed.

The Largo Public Library is designated as a limited public forum. As a limited public forum, the Library seeks to promote free speech while maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. Any individual or group wishing to use the area immediately outside of the Library, excluding the sidewalks and walkways as shown in the figure below (Library Grounds), to exercise their right of free speech must do so in accordance with the Library Code of Conduct and under the following conditions:

• Persons using the Library Grounds for free speech activity must stay at least 22.5 feet away from the Library Tower Entrance, and may not block walking paths or stand in the way of people approaching or exiting the Library. No person can use any part of the parking lot or drive aisles for free speech activity.

• Persons using the Library Grounds may not harass any individual on the Library Grounds in any way. ”Harass” is defined as to create an unpleasant or hostile situation, especially by uninvited and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct, including touching or following.

• Persons using the Library Grounds may bring one table up to six feet long and two folding chairs. These items may be placed on the Library Grounds in one of the set-up areas designated in the figure below.

• Persons using the Library Grounds may not set up tents, or umbrellas. Signs and posters cannot be affixed to Library property. Any signs presented by persons using the Library Grounds must be no larger than 11” x 17” in size. Non-personal sound amplification equipment, such as microphones, megaphones, public address systems, and speakers, may not be used on the Library Grounds.

• Any person using the Library Grounds who brings items including but not limited to tables, chairs, equipment, and signage, to the Library Grounds shall remove all such items from the Library Grounds upon their departure.

• Persons using the Library Grounds shall only do so during the hours when the Library is open to the public.

• The City of Largo and the Largo Public Library does not endorse the opinions, activities, or solicitations of any person using the Library Grounds. If any person using the Library Grounds represents that the City or the Library endorses their opinions, activities, or solicitations, such person may be subject to immediate removal from the Library Grounds.

• Failure to comply with the Library Code of Conduct and the terms of this Policy will result in immediate dismissal from the Library Grounds and/or notification of the Largo Police Department.

• In the event a person using the Library Grounds is dismissed from the Library Grounds as a result of their failure to comply with the Library Code of Conduct or this Policy, such person may seek an appeal within 14 calendar days of their dismissal by submitting a written complaint to the City of Largo at 201 Highland Avenue, Largo, Florida 33770. The City shall have 14 calendar days to respond to the complaint.

Largo Public Library is a Safe Place location.

• Safe Place is a nationally recognized program coordinated locally by Family Resources, Inc.  
• Whether a young person has run away from home, is at risk of abuse or neglect, or is in need of respite from out-of-control family relationships, assistance can be requested at any of over 300 Safe Place sites in both Pinellas and Manatee Counties.
• Youth, ages 10-17, presenting themselves at a Safe Place location requesting assistance will be provided a counselor contact and if needed transportation to a shelter.

To ensure that all users of the Largo Public Library may safely and freely use the library, there are expectations that patrons will behave in a manner that does not interfere with the mission of the library, the rights of others, damage the library building or property, or cause injury to others. Library patrons unwilling to modify unacceptable behavior (as outlined below) will be asked to leave the premises. Police will be called when conduct is illegal, when a threat is posed to the library or individuals, or when an individual refuses to follow library policies or refuses to leave the library when requested to do so.

No list is exhaustive; any conduct which disrupts the library is prohibited. Conduct which may lead to denial of library privileges includes, but is not limited, to:

• Viewing pornographic material
• Public intoxication
• Damaging library property
• Open carry of weapons into the library
  
• Any illegal activity
• Abandonment or leaving children under the age of 7 unattended
• Threatening or harassing library patrons or staff members
• Vaping, smoking or the use of other tobacco products
• Running or other boisterous behavior
• Loud talking, singing, whistling, etc.
• Use of offensive or abusive language or behavior
• Playing audio equipment so that others may hear it
• Selling or soliciting
• Bringing animals into the building (with the exception of service animals)
• Use of restrooms as laundries, showers, etc.
• Not wearing shoes or shirts
• Sleeping or loitering
• Skateboarding, roller skating, or other similar activity
• Eating or bringing food into the library (beverages may be brought into the library only in containers with appropriate lids)
• Use of cell phones in quiet reading rooms and library programs
• Having offensive bodily hygiene which disturbs others
• Excessive personal belongings

Largo Public Library puts the concerns of DEI into every aspect of programming, collection development, staffing, displays, technology, marketing, and all other methods of library work. Largo Public Library recognizes the need to work continuously to make sure that every patron we serve is represented at every level of our community. We encourage the community to let us know how we can better serve you and make the library a place for everyone.

The Largo Public Library defines Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion using the definitions set forth by the American Library Association.
They are as follows:

Diversity
Diversity can be defined as the sum of the ways that people are both alike and different. Visible diversity is generally those attributes or characteristics that are external. However, diversity goes beyond the external to internal characteristics that we choose to define as ‘invisible’ diversity. Invisible diversity includes those characteristics and attributes that are not readily seen. When we recognize, value, and embrace diversity, we are recognizing, valuing, and embracing the uniqueness of each individual.

Equity
Equity is not the same as formal equality. Formal equality implies sameness. Equity, on the other hand, assumes difference and takes difference into account to ensure a fair process and, ultimately, a fair (or equitable) outcome. Equity recognizes that some groups were (and are) disadvantaged in accessing educational and employment opportunities and are, therefore, underrepresented or marginalized in many organizations and institutions. The effects of that exclusion often linger systemically within organizational policies, practices, and procedures. Equity, therefore, means increasing diversity by ameliorating conditions of disadvantaged groups.

Inclusion
Inclusion means an environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully; are valued for their distinctive skills, experiences, and perspectives; have equal access to resources and opportunities; and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.

ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services Glossary Terms

• The Legislative Department, City Manager, and Communications and Engagement Director must be notified in advance of all visits by dignitaries from various governmental agencies and jurisdictions so they may be accorded all due rights, privileges, protection, and amenities.
• Notification to the Legislative Department, City Manager, and the Communications and Marketing Manager must be made before any formal invitations are issued.

• Library Users may not bring in excessive personal items that interfere with library operations, create a safety or health hazard, deny space to other customers, block aisles, or block access to or exits from the building.

• Library Users may not use wheeled devices in the library including skateboards, roller skates, bicycles, scooters, hand carts, shopping carts, luggage, walkers, or strollers except for items necessary for medical purposes, transport of library materials or to take care of an accompanying child.

• Library Users may not store personal belongings on Library property or leave personal belongings unattended.

• All personal items must remain with the owner, unattended items will be removed.