Purpose

Menomonie Public Library is committed to providing access to informational, educational, recreational and cultural resources for all library users. The Library provides access to the Internet through Library computers connected to the Internet, and through unrestricted wireless access during open Library hours.

Responsibilities of Users

A valid library card is necessary to use the Library’s computers.  Guest passes are available for visitors.  Wireless access through a personal device is on an open, unrestricted, and unsecured network.  Users should be aware that they are working in a public environment shared by people of all ages and sensibilities. Users should refrain from the use of Internet sounds and visuals which might disrupt the ability of other Library patrons to use the Library.  Headphones are available at the Information Desk for this purpose.

Library users are responsible for their own use or dissemination of information via the Internet in the Library.  The Library is not responsible for security of personal information shared with non-library sites.   The Library does not monitor or filter for content and has no control over what is available on the Internet, nor does the Library have complete knowledge of what is on the Internet. Information may be reliable and current, or it may be inaccurate, out of date, or unavailable at times.  Some content may be offensive or criminal.  As with other Library materials, restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian.

Supervising Use by Children and Teens

The default on new Library cards is opt in for Internet access.  When a minor child (under 18) is registered for a Library card, a parent or guardian can opt out of Internet access on the Library’s computers for their child.  This is indicated in the child’s Library account.  The parent or guardian can change this setting by visiting the circulation desk with proper identification.  Parents and guardians should be aware that this setting only affects use of Library owned computers for Internet access.  A child’s personal smartphone or computer will have unrestricted access to the Internet via the library’s free WiFi connection.

The Library supports the right for each family to decide what is appropriate Internet use for their children and teens.  Use of the Internet presents an opportunity for each family to discuss sites and content they feel is appropriate or inappropriate.  Parents, guardians, and caregivers are expected to instruct minors to safely share personal information (name, address, password, telephone number, school, credit card number, etc.) on the Internet. This includes but is not limited to email, instant messaging, online purchasing, social media sites, and commercial sites. Before giving out any personal information, minors need to be confident that they are dealing with someone who is known and trusted by them and their parents or guardians.  For more information on children, teens, and the Internet see content on ConnectSafely.org or Safekids.org.

Illegal and Unacceptable Uses

People may only use the Library’s computers and networks for legal purposes.  Examples of unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Accessing the computer with someone else’s library card number.
• Viewing material that is inappropriate to a Library setting.
• Participating in unauthorized access, including hacking.
• Deleting, adding to, or modifying installed hardware or software.
• Making any attempt to damage computer equipment or software
• Engaging in any activity that is harassing or defamatory.
• Violation of software licensing agreements;
• Overuse of system resources such as bandwidth;
• Attempting to crash, degrade performance of or gain unauthorized access to the Library’s or other computer systems and networks;
• Exposing children to harmful materials as outlined in  948.11 of the Wisconsin Statutes

Violations may result in restrictions on Library use. Illegal uses of the Library’s computers or wireless networks may also be subject to prosecution by local, state or federal authorities.

The Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic information systems, or any consequences thereof.

Responsibilities of the Library

The Library strives to maintain Internet access via Library computers, networks, and wireless access at all times the Library is open.  Downtimes do occasionally occur.

Library staff assist users with Library computers, printers, Library software, and general Internet use, and can also verify that the Library’s wireless network is functional. Library staff also may direct users to Library resources, Internet resources, or training classes that can help users explore software or hardware.

Computer use information, as well as Library cardholder information, is confidential as defined through Library Policy. All files are removed and Internet search history is deleted from Library computers at the end of each user’s session.

The Library’s wireless networks are open and unsecured.  Users should use wireless access accordingly.

Copyright

Copyright law of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) protects created works (including email, text, music, videos, web sites, images, programs or data), and describes permissible and prohibited uses of protected works. The U.S. Copyright Office notes that while “use of works may be permissible for criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research…..the distinction between fair use and infringement may be unclear and not easily defined.”  Except as permitted by fair use or other copyright exemptions, Internet users may not reproduce, display, or distribute copyrighted materials. Responsibility for any consequences of copyright infringement lies with the user; Menomonie Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.

For additional information, please visit the U.S. Copyright website and/or see their FAQ sheet.

amended and Approved 8-20-2015

Definition

Social media is defined as any form of electronic communication, such as websites for social networking, including but not limited to Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, blogs, and wikis, used by the Menomonie Public Library to communicate with its community.

Purpose and Scope

The library utilizes social media to promote library programs and services, engage with the community in connection with library programs and services, and further its mission.  This policy will set forth standards for the use of these library-related platforms by library staff and the public.  Any and all social media and other online accounts and profiles created or used by employees on behalf of the library or otherwise for the purpose of promoting or marketing the library, including such accounts and profiles featuring or displaying the library’s name, belong solely to the library.

Audience

The library’s social media audiences are the citizens of Menomonie and Dunn County.

Public Comment Guidelines

The library does not take positions on topics.  Public comments or links shared by followers are the opinion of the person posting.  Everything posted to our social media accounts becomes part of the public record.

By posting comments, links or other material on the library’s social media pages, you give the library permission to reproduce, distribute, publish, display, edit, modify, delete and otherwise use your submission for any library-related purpose in any form on any media.  The library reserves the right to review, screen, edit and delete comments, to ensure that comments are pertinent to the library’s purpose and mission, in accordance with the guidelines below.

Consistent with the library’s narrow purpose and mission, you also agree that you will not:

• Post comments that are substantially off topic or unrelated to the original post.
• Use defaming, demeaning, vulgar, offensive, threatening or harassing language or images.
• Advertise, promote or solicit for any business, commercial transaction or non-government service.
• Impersonate or misrepresent someone else.
• Post the same note more than once, or post obvious spam.
• Promote or oppose current ballot measures or persons seeking office unless directly related to a library program.
• Violate copyright of images, music, and video or published works without source credit or permission of the owner.

Privacy

The library may occasionally refer to public comments made on social media. However, it will not collect, sell or knowingly transfer to any third party any personally identifiable information related to social media engagement with the library. Please be advised that every social media platform has its own privacy policies that should be carefully reviewed.  All contents of the library’s information technology and communications systems are the property of the library.

Compliance with Related Policies and Agreements

All of the library’s other policies that might apply to social media use remain in full force and effect.  Employees should always adhere to them when using social media.  Further, employees should have no expectation of privacy whatsoever in any message, files, data document, facsimile, telephone conversation, social media post, conversation or message, or any other kind of information or communications transmitted to, received or printed from, or stored or recorded on the library’s electronic information and communications systems.

Disclaimer

Opinions expressed on any social media platform do not reflect the views or positions of the library, its officers, or its employees. Social media users should exercise their own judgment about the quality and accuracy of any information presented through social media.

If you identify yourself as a library employee on your personal social media profiles, make it clear that you are speaking on your own behalf.  It is recommended that you include a disclaimer that your personal views do not necessarily represent those of the library.  For example, consider posting such language to your profile as “the views expressed on this site reflect my personal views and do not represent the views of the library.”

Staff Responsibilities

1. Staff administering social media accounts recognize that they are the digital face of the library. Posts on social media should be consistent with the library’s mission and values. Staff will interact with users on social media in a professional, friendly and sincere manner, just as they would in the physical library.
2. Staff members should remain professional at all times and should refrain from expressing their personal views when posting on the library’s behalf.
3. Negative comments on library posts will not be deleted, unless they violate public comment guidelines.

 Social Media Best Practices Guidelines and Strategies

1. Library staff will be responsible for understanding and abiding by the policies of each social media platform they engage with.
2. Staff will maintain accessibility standards for each platform, including alt-text for photos and clear language.
3. If staff is unclear how to respond to a comment, they should ask for assistance from their supervisor.
4. All comments should be responded to in a timely manner. For social media, within hours if possible or at the latest by the end of the next workday.
5. The library uses social media to promote all of its programs and services and engage with the community.  Posts from library accounts relate back to its mission, programs and services.  Posts can recognize community partners and collaborations.   Posts encourage engagement in library programs.
6. Metrics and tests are used to determine the best days of the week and times to post.  Tools are used to schedule posts for the most engagement.

approved 07-15-21

Purpose

In keeping with the Library’s mission to enrich the lives of the citizens of Dunn County and foster a sense of community in a welcoming environment, the Menomonie Public Library meeting room is available for use by community groups for informational, educational or cultural meetings and programs when not needed for library purposes.  Use of the library meeting room does not imply endorsement by the library staff or Trustees of the viewpoints presented.

Policy

The Library Board encourages the widest possible use of the library meeting room by government agencies and nonprofit community groups as long as the use does not interfere with the normal functions of the library.

• All meetings shall be open to the public.
• The room may be used for educational, cultural, informational or civic activities and may include lectures, panel discussions, workshops and other similar functions.
• Room bookings are subject to cancellation if the room is needed for library programming.  As much advance notice as possible will be given to the group(s) affected by the change.
• Programs involving the sale, advertising, promotion of commercial products or services, or programs sponsored by a business firm, regardless of purpose, are prohibited except for performers at Menomonie Public Library programs with pre-approval to sell sound recordings, videos and books related to their performance and the Friends of the Menomonie Public Library book sale fundraisers
• No admission fee, registration fee, donation or monetary solicitation may be sought from meeting attendees unless the Library co-sponsors the program.
• The meeting room will not be used for personal or family purposes.
• Groups may reserve the meeting room up to three months in advance.  Groups may book no more than three consecutive meetings in a three month period.
• Users agree to abide by all regulations of the library relating to the use of the facilities and accept responsibility for all damages caused to the building or equipment beyond normal wear.

Charges

There is no charge for use of the meeting room by government agencies, by nonprofit community groups or by groups presenting programs in which the Library is a sponsor or cooperating agency.

The meeting room seats 80 people comfortably.  Posted room capacity is 120.

General Rules Regarding Meeting Room Use

• An authorized adult representative of the group must request use of the meeting room on our website or at the Information Desk. The applicant agrees that the Menomonie Public Library Meeting Room Policy applies to the requested use of the space and has been read and understood.  Failure to abide by the Policy may disqualify the group from future use of the room.
• Room reservations are not confirmed until processed by the library.
• Library staff should be notified in advance of cancellations.
• The group accepts financial responsibility for any and all damage caused to the building or equipment beyond normal wear.  The group contact person will be responsible for any charges incurred by the group.
• Meeting rooms are scheduled on a first come, first served basis.
• Reservations may be made no more than three months in advance.
• The Library reserves the right to cancel a scheduled meeting if the room is needed for library programming.  The Library will make every effort to avoid a cancellation but does reserve the right.

Conditions of Use

Schedule

• Meetings must be held during regular library hours.
• Meetings must end on time.  All meetings must end 15 minutes before closing.

Open Meetings

• Meetings must be free and open to the general public.

ADA Requirements

• Groups are responsible for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements and for providing requested accommodations for meetings or programs.  A statement regarding the availability of accommodations must be included in all publicity or notices.  Sample statement for publicity:  If you need accommodations to access this meeting or program, please contact (name of person or organization) one week in advance of program or meeting.

Food and Drink

• Groups may serve light refreshments in the meeting room.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
• The group is responsible for leaving the room in the condition in which it was found.  Charges may be assessed for damages or required extra cleanup.

Equipment and Media

• The meeting room is equipped with a wall mounted LCD display, DVD player, and connections for a computer.
• There is no charge for use of the equipment.
• The library does not provide operators for the equipment.

Internet

• The meeting room is internet capable through a non-secure, public wireless connection.

approved 06-20-2001

revised 12-20-2007, 01-21-2010, 08-19-2021

The Policy

The Menomonie Public Library Collection Development Policy provides a framework for the growth and development of collections in support of the Library’s mission to “provide a diverse selection of information, entertainment, and programming resources to enrich the lives of the citizens of Dunn County.”

It is the Library’s goal to provide the community with library materials that reflect a wide range of views, opinions and interests. This may include items that may be unpopular or controversial in nature. The acquisition of these items does not constitute endorsement of their content but rather makes available its expression.

The Library provides free access to materials in a number of formats (print, media and electronic) to all customers. Library users make their own choices as to what they will use based on individual interests. The Library supports the right of each family to decide which items are appropriate for use by their children. Responsibility for a child’s use of library materials lies with his or her parent or guardian. The Library adheres to the principles of intellectual freedom, adopted by the American Library Association, as expressed in the Library Bill of Rights, the Freedom to Read and Freedom to View Statements.

The Library and the Community

Menomonie is a stable community and the county seat of Dunn County government.  It has an industrial base that includes 3M, Ford Motor Company, Wal-Mart Distribution Center, ConAgra Foods – Swiss Miss, Cardinal FG, Andersen Windows, Phillips Plastics Corporation, and several other industrial concerns.  A Mayo Health System Medical Center is also located here.

Menomonie values education and is home to The University of Wisconsin-Stout.  UW-Stout has an international reputation for degree programs in business, industry, technology, education, human development, and art and design.

The Menomonie Public Library has a service population of 38,000.  It serves the city of Menomonie and Dunn County.  The Library also operates a branch in the village of Elk Mound.  The Library is a member of the Inspiring and Facilitating Library Success (IFLS) . The Library has a collection of approximately 55,000 items.

Collection

Menomonie Public Library’s collection of approximately 55,000 books and media provides a range of literary, cultural, educational, informational and recreational materials for people of all ages.

• Print: books, documents, magazines, newspapers, and pamphlets
• Electronic Media: films on DVD, audiobooks on CD, music on CD, and eBooks
• Other: multimedia kits, microfilm, educational toys, eBook readers, and selected audiovisual equipment

Criteria for Selection

General criteria for selecting library materials are listed below. An item need not meet all of the criteria in order to be acceptable.

• public demand, interest or need
• contemporary significance, popular interest or permanent value
• attention of critics and reviewers
• prominence, authority and/or competence of author, creator or publisher
• timeliness of material
• relation to existing collections
• statement of challenging, original, or alternative point of view
• authenticity of historical, regional or social setting
• accessibility for users of electronic formats

Every attempt is made to acquire titles by local authors that are published by mainstream publishers.  Self-published works (via print-on-demand, digitized-on-demand, vanity presses) are not added to the collection unless the book is reviewed positively in established review sources, has significant local content or has high local interest.  Purchase of self-published titles is at the discretion of the selectors.

Website

The Library’s website provides access to the MORE online catalog, Badgerlink databases, Wisconsin’s Digital Library, and other selected online resources.   In linking to other websites the Library follows the selection criteria cited above. Beyond this, the Library has not participated in the development of these other sites and does not exert any editorial or other control over these sites. Any link from the Library’s website to another website is not an endorsement from the Library.

Responsibility for Selection

Responsibility for selection of library resources rests with the Library’s professional staff, based on the criteria cited above. Designated staff are responsible for specific areas of the collection. The responsibility for selection ultimately rests with the Library Director operating within the framework of policies set by the Board of the Menomonie Public Library.

Suggestions for Purchase

Patron suggestions are always considered for addition to the collection. Patrons can request that items be purchased by contacting the Information Desk.

Collection Maintenance

Library staff regularly review items in the collection to ensure that they continue to meet patrons’ needs. Materials that are worn, obsolete, unused, old editions or unnecessarily duplicated are removed. It is the responsibility of staff to assess the need for replacing materials that are damaged, destroyed or lost. Items are not automatically replaced. Decisions are based on need, demand, space and budget.

Gifts

The Library accepts gifts of new or gently-used books, DVDs, and music or audiobooks on CD. Decisions on whether and how donated items will be added to the collections are based on the same criteria that are applied to purchased materials.  The Library does not return items that are given to us. Items that are not added to the collections are given to the Friends of the Library.

Request for Reconsideration

The Library fully endorses the principles documented in the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement of the American library Association.  The library selects a wide variety of library materials that satisfy the diversity of our community. The library upholds the right of the individual to secure these resources, even though they may be controversial, unorthodox, or unacceptable to some. The library’s varied collection is available to all; however, it is not expected that all of the collection will appeal to everyone.

Anyone who wishes to request a specific item be reconsidered for inclusion in the library’s collection must sign and complete the Request for Reconsideration Form, which can be picked up at the library.

The library material in question will not be removed from the collection, nor will its use be restricted in any way, before final action is taken by the reconsideration committee.  The Reconsideration Committee will be an ad hoc committee, consisting of:  the library Director, library staff with collection development responsibilities, a library Board of Trustees representative, a representative from the School District of the Menomonie Area (if the item in question is geared for children of school-attending age) and one or two members of the community at large, to reach a total of 5 committee members, as selected by and presented to the library board. 

Within 30 days following the receipt of the form, the item in question will be reviewed, in its entirety, and a decision on retention, relocation or removal of the material will be made. Once made the person making the request will be sent a letter explaining the decision.

If the person making the request is dissatisfied with the resolution they may appeal to the Library Board.  The Board will review the decision based on whether or not the particular title conforms to the Board-approved policy as outlined in the Criteria for Selection.

amended and approved 7-16-15, amended and approved 02-17-2022

The Library Board seeks to balance the Constitutional rights of citizens in public places with the right of library customers to seek information in a pleasant atmosphere. This policy outlines procedures to be followed by individuals and groups that wish to canvass (including the taking of surveys and the circulation of petitions) or sell (including the seeking of donations) at the Menomonie Public Library. The library will serve as a collection place for library-related surveys only.

1. Solicitation and canvassing by the public or members of the Library staff is not permitted on Menomonie Public Library property or property under the control of the Library Board of Trustees or the City of Menomonie, except as set forth at paragraphs 4 and 5.
2. Solicitation is defined as the sale or distribution of merchandise, sales materials, tickets, insurance, coupons, magazine subscriptions, or anything unrelated to the work of the Library.
3. Canvassing is defined as circulation of petitions, taking of surveys or distribution of written materials for political, charitable or religious purposes.
4. Library property is considered to include the library building, parking lot, grounds and entrance. Canvassing and solicitation is allowed on the public sidewalk immediately adjacent to and parallel with Wolske Bay Road.  Canvassing is permitted in the library meeting room.  Blocking of egress to the library is not allowed.
5. The following are exceptions to the above:
   1. The Library staff may take surveys related to library business in any part of the library. This includes periodic surveys of customers for the Indianhead Federated Library System and various surveys related to the American Library Association’s “Output Measures.”
   2. The Friends of the Menomonie Public Library and the Menomonie Public Library Foundation may solicit memberships and donations. Library staff may receive money to be passed on to the Friends or Library Foundation.
   3. Limited selling activity by library staff members to other library staff members is allowed in the staff lounge of the library. Such activities must be conducted during off-duty hours only.
   4. Library book sales may be held in the library as long as the proceeds directly benefit the Library.
   5. Materials by a library-sponsored performer or author may be sold in conjunction with the event.

approved 07-21-2011

Purpose

The primary mission of the library is to provide resources and facilities to enrich lives and foster a sense of community in a welcoming environment. To meet this mission, these rules are set forth to ensure safety and equitable access for all.

Overview

No individual may engage in inappropriate conduct on the premises of the Library, when using Library facilities, or when participating in Library programs. Patrons shall be engaged in normal activities associated with the use of a public library while in the building. Patrons not engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library may be asked to leave the building.

Inappropriate conduct includes any individual or group activity which is unreasonably disturbing to other individuals lawfully using Library facilities, otherwise inconsistent with activities normally associated with a public library. When possible, staff will first educate individuals about the applicable policies before taking stronger measures to enforce those policies.

Inappropriate Behavior includes, but is not limited to, the following conduct or behaviors:

• Committing or attempting to commit any activity that would constitute a crime.
• Possessing, selling, distributing, displaying or using any dangerous weapon as that term is defined in Wis. Stats. sec. 939.22(10) and 943.13(2)(bm)1 upon library premises or using or threatening the use of any other object in such a manner that it may be considered a weapon.
• Engaging in any physically intimidating or assaultive behavior. Making any threats of violence or unlawful activities. The Library has a policy of zero tolerance for threats and acts of violence. Any person engaging in such behaviors will be immediately ejected from the Library.
• Possessing, selling, distributing, consuming or being under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or controlled substance.
• Refusing to follow the reasonable directions of library staff to include, failing to take shelter in an emergency as directed by staff.
• Engaging in any behavior that a reasonable person would find to be disruptive, harassing, or threatening in nature to library users or staff including stalking, prolonged staring at or following another with the intent to annoy or intentionally behaving in a manner that could reasonably be expected to annoy or disturb other patrons.
• Leaving children under the age of 9 unattended on Library premises. (See Behavior and Supervision of Minors).
• Engaging in any sexual contact, activities or conduct.
• Smoking or other use of tobacco products.
• Eating while using library computers or in other areas designated free from food is prohibited.
• Sleeping in or on library premises.
• Engaging in excessive or disruptive conversations, talking loudly, using personal electronic equipment at such a volume or making ongoing noise that is unreasonably disturbing to other library users.
• Not wearing shoes or shirt within the library.
• Entering or remaining upon library premises with a bodily hygiene so offensive that it constitutes a nuisance to others.
• Using library materials, furniture, equipment or facilities in any manner inconsistent with the customary use thereof or the theft or intentional damaging of library materials, furniture, equipment or facilities.
• Bringing any animal into the library except service animals.
• Entering non-public areas of the library without permission.
• Improperly using library restrooms or facilities for purposes such as bathing, shaving or changing clothes.
• Violating the rules for acceptable use of the Internet and library public computers (see Internet Use Policy). A user accepts these rules before accessing the Internet through a library computer. 

amended & approved 02-16-17

Behavior and Supervision of Minors

Menomonie Public Library welcomes children. Parents or caregivers are responsible for their child’s safety and behavior while in the Library whether the parent or caregiver is present or not. Library employees do not function as caregivers or babysitters. The Library is not equipped, nor is it the Library’s role, to provide childcare. The Library assumes neither responsibility nor liability for the actions, care, supervision or safety of minors.

A responsible adult or an older responsible individual must accompany children under age nine when they are using the Library. This responsible individual must supervise, guide and control the behavior of their charge or charges at all times.

When a child is unattended and their behavior is disruptive or inappropriate, or they appear to be a danger to themselves or others, or appear to be ill or upset, or the child has not been met by a parent or caregiver at closing, Library staff will attempt to contact the parent or guardian of the child. In the event that the parent or guardian cannot be located, staff will contact the Menomonie Police Department. In the event of an emergency, staff will call 911.

Inappropriate Use of Children’s and Youth Services Spaces: Adults are permitted in children’s areas when accompanied by a child or if the adult is actively reading, studying and using library materials from the children’s area collections. Any adult not in compliance with this provision may be asked to use other areas of the library. If the individual does not comply with staff direction or repeatedly violates this policy, the individual may be banned from the Library.

Any violation of the above rules shall be handled in the following manner:

1. A staff member will request that the behavior cease and that the person follow the library’s rules. Persons who continue to violate any rule after being warned will be asked to leave the library and will be banned for the day.  The Library Director will retain a record of violations resulting in expulsion.
2. Any conduct that threatens the life or safety of any person or that is damaging to library property, equipment or facilities may result in immediate expulsion from the library premises without warning. Library staff are authorized to contact the Menomonie Police Department to respond to such situations.
3. If federal, state or local laws or ordinances are involved in a violation or if the violation involves abandonment of children at the library or if the disruption is such that staff requires assistance to restore the peace and quiet of the library, the Menomonie Police Department will be contacted.
4. A person who has been banned for violating the rules then returns to the library and engages in behavior prohibited by these rules will be asked to leave and may be banned from a week to a year depending upon the severity of the violation and at the discretion of the Library Director.
5. Persons being banned for more than a day will receive a letter from the library stating the reasons for and length of the ban.
6. The Director will review and may reconsider the decision to ban an individual upon written request of the individual and may shorten or terminate the banning period if information submitted by the individual warrants such modification. Director may consult with the City Attorney’s Office before issuing the response to the banned individual. Until such time as a banning letter has been reviewed and/or modified by the Director, the individual may not use the library.

Banning Letter:

TO:

On ____________ at approximately ____________ you were observed at the ____________________ Library. At that time you were:

_____ INTOXICATED

_____ LOUD AND DISTURBING

_____ IN THE LIBRARY DESPITE BEING PREVIOUSLY BANNED UNTIL

_____ OTHER CONDUCT (As set forth below)

COMMENTS:

Because of the behavior listed above, and/or other history of inappropriate conduct at the Menomonie Public Library, you are banned from the Library until this date:_______

amended & approved 10-15-15

 approved 04-21-2016

amended 08-18-2016, 01-20-2022