Video Surveillance Policy

(En Español: Política de videovigilancia)

Purpose

This policy establishes the intent, purpose, and use of video surveillance cameras and recorded video surveillance.

Policy

1. The Library reserves the right to place surveillance cameras where necessary and appropriate to improve safety and security for all persons on Library property, to deter crime, and to assist law enforcement agencies in their mission. Surveillance cameras are located only in areas where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.
2. Information obtained through video surveillance is used by the Library exclusively for authorized investigations, safety, security, and law enforcement purposes.
3. The Library may post signage giving notice of a surveillance camera in order to enhance crime prevention and the deterrence effect of the video surveillance system.
4. There is no active monitoring of video surveillance.
5. To the maximum extent possible, the Library installs and uses the video surveillance system operated by the Anne Arundel County Police Department.
6. Branch managers are responsible for controlling access to recorded video surveillance at branches equipped with local video storage.
7. Recorded video surveillance is stored for no more than 30 days, after which it is destroyed. Excerpts retained for investigative purposes are destroyed per the Records Retention policy.
8. Monitoring of staff via video feeds may only be done in consultation with HR, within specific and approved parameters.

Approved by the Board of Library Trustees December 16, 2021