A goal of the Kansas City Public Library is to select, assemble and aid in the development of the most competent personnel to perform and support the service program of the Library. The Library shall attempt to recruit and hire the most qualified applicants for any vacant position. Whenever possible, serious effort will be made to fill vacant positions from within the existing staff. This effort will be supported through the Library's staff development program, aimed at upgrading employee skills and knowledge for future career growth.

Board Policy 301 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-89)

301.01 Diversity/Equal Employment Opportunity
301.012 Americans with Disabilities Act Statement
301.02 Recruitment and Posting of Vacancies
301.03 Interviewing and Selection Process
301.04 Appointment
301.05 Employment Policy Disclaimer
301.06 Employment Qualifications

301.01 Diversity/Equal Employment Opportunity

The Kansas City Public Library is committed through its practices, programs, collections, and services creating and fostering an environment of equity, non-discrimination, and pluralism, grounded in respect and appreciation. All individuals are welcome regardless of race, color, age, national origin, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender status or identity, marital status, or political affiliation. By fostering an atmosphere of diversity and inclusion, we will continue to be leaders in public discourse, address current and future community needs, and inspire a community of readers.

The Kansas City Public Library provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants for employment and all employees in accordance with the law.

1. The Library strictly prohibits any unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees because of their race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender status or identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, or Vietnam-era or disabled veteran status.
2. Employment decisions are made on the basis of bona fide occupational qualifications such as, experience, education, demonstrated performance and competency.
3. The Library's Human Resources Director serves as the EEO Coordinator and is responsible for monitoring and revising Library diversity efforts.
4. The Library also strictly prohibits in accordance with the law any harassment on the basis of sex. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, other oral and written communication or physical contact of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment; (2) submission to, or rejection of, such conduct by an employee is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.
5. If an employee believes that he or she has been subject to treatment in violation of this Equal Employment Opportunity Policy, or if an employee has information relating to the treatment of a fellow employee and possible violation of this policy, the employee should immediately report it to any supervisor, manager, officer or, if the employee prefers, the Human Resources Director. A dedicated voice mail box 816.701.3533 in the Human Resources Department is available for employees to use to report harassment. There will be no retaliation against an employee for reporting unlawful discrimination or harassment. When possible and at the employee's request, the matter will remain confidential. Should a supervisor witness or suspect that a violation of the EEO policy has occurred whether in their immediate work area or not, it must be reported and investigated.
6. All employees, including the complainant and the respondent, are required to cooperate with an investigation of harassment. Persons who are asked to provide testimony are expected to cooperate fully and truthfully and to maintain the confidentiality of the investigation. Employees who fail to cooperate or who provide false testimony may be subject to disciplinary action ranging from a written warning to termination.
7. All employees are required to accept responsibility for maintaining the Library free of unlawful discrimination or harassment. The Library will not tolerate unlawful discrimination or harassment against employees or applicants for employment.

Administrative Procedure 301.01 (Adopted 4-89 / Rev. 12-02, 7-16)

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301.012 Americans with Disabilities Act Statement

The Kansas City Public Library is committed to complying with all applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA"). It is the Library's policy not to discriminate against any qualified employee or applicant with regard to any terms or conditions of employment because of such individual's disability or perceived disability so long as the employee can perform the essential functions of the job. Consistent with this policy of nondiscrimination, the Library will provide reasonable accommodations to a qualified individual with a disability, as defined by the ADA, who has made the Library aware of his/her/their disability, provided that such accommodation does not constitute an undue hardship on the Library.

Employees with a disability who believe they need a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job should contact the Human Relations and Employee Experience Department. The Kansas City Public Library encourages individuals with disabilities to come forward and request reasonable accommodation.

On receipt of an accommodation request, the Human Relations and Employee Experience Department and the employee’s manager will meet with the employee to discuss and identify the precise limitations resulting from the disability and the potential accommodation that The Kansas City Public Library might make to help overcome those limitations.

The Kansas City Public Library will determine the feasibility of the requested accommodation considering various factors, including, but not limited to the nature and cost of the accommodation, The Kansas City Public Library’s overall financial resources, and the impact on operations, including its impact on the ability of other employees to perform their duties, and on The Kansas City Public Library’s ability to conduct business. The Library will inform the employee of its decision on the accommodation request or on how to make the accommodation. If the accommodation request is denied, employees will be advised of their right to appeal the decision by submitting a written statement explaining the reasons for the request to the Library Director. If the request on appeal is denied, that decision is final.

An employee or job applicant who has questions regarding this policy or believes that he/she/they have been discriminated against based on a disability should notify the Human Relations and Employee Experience Department. All such inquiries or complaints will be treated as confidential to the extent permissible by law.

Administrative Procedure 301.012 (Adopted 5-18 / Rev. 8-23)

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301.02 Recruitment and Posting of Vacancies

This procedure is currently under revision.

301.03 Interviewing and Selection Process

For clerical, para-professional and specific part-time positions, final applicants will be interviewed by the immediate supervisor. For professional level positions and others as may be deemed necessary, applicants will be interviewed by a selection committee and, in appropriate situations, the Library Director. Applicants will receive a verbal summary of the job; be advised of the hiring salary range and benefits; receive information on the Library's performance evaluation system; and be advised of Library policies related to collecting references, pre-employment data, and background checks when required.

All appointments are subject to the approval of the Library Director.

Administrative Procedure 301.03 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 12-01)

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301.04 Appointment

The general process for making a hiring decision requires the approval of the hiring supervisor or manager, Human Resources and the appropriate Deputy Director and Director.

1. Completed tax forms, I-9 forms, EEO/Veteran information and related information found in new hire packets are to be forwarded to Human Resources with a completed Personnel/Payroll Data Base Change Notice form.
2. An interview form and copies of all applications considered are to be returned to Human Resources. Human Resources will forward the hiring information to the Director for final approval.
3. All applicants will be notified by either Human Resources or the selecting supervisor of the outcome. Following the appointee's acceptance of the position and the notification of all unsuccessful applicants, the hiring supervisor will announce the appointment via email or in the staff newsletter.
4. All appointees shall receive a written confirmation of the employment agreement including effective date of employment, position classification, beginning salary rate (hourly or semi-monthly), fringe benefits information if applicable, and a job description.
5. New employees may start at any time convenient for the Library and the employee. Employee changes in classification and salary which accompany an employee transfer, promotion, or upgrade will normally become effective at the beginning of a pay period and when the staff member actually assumes full responsibility for the new position.
6. All new employees should complete the necessary withholding and insurance forms and receive initial orientation as a library employee on their first day of work. Attendance at Library New Employee Orientation should occur the first month of employment. Detailed orientation and training of all new employees are the responsibility of the appropriate department head or supervisor.

Administrative Procedure 301.04 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 12-02)

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301.05 Employment Policy Disclaimer

Nothing contained in this manual creates any form of employment contract, and the Library reserves the right to interpret, amend, modify, cancel or withdraw any or all sections or provisions of this manual at any time. Any such modification or cancellation shall become effective on the date announced by written notice, Intranet posting, or upon reissue of the manual or sections thereof.

Administrative Procedure 301.05 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-99)

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301.06 Employment Qualifications

The terms "equivalent" or "equivalent combination of education and experience" will be determined by the hiring supervisor, Deputy Director and Human Resources with each opening. Decisions will be based on the needs and specifics of the job at the time of the opening and will be determined prior to the interviewing process.

Administrative Procedure 301.06 (Adopted 9-96)

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It is in the best interest of the Library that members of the immediate family of current Board members, the Library Director, or any Deputy Director not be considered for employment with the library. Immediate family members of any other employee may be considered and hired, providing the two would not be employed in the same department and subject to the review and approval of the Human Resources Coordinator and Library Director.

Board Policy 302 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-89)

302.01 Definition of Immediate Family
302.02 Nepotism and Staff Relationships

302.01 Definition of Immediate Family

Immediate family is defined and used throughout library policies as an employee's father, mother, spouse, domestic partner, sister, brother, child or anyone of like relationship by marriage.

Administrative Procedure 301.02 (Adopted 7-95)

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302.02 Nepotism and Staff Relationships

It is in the best interest of the Library that members of the immediate family of current employees in certain situations may not be considered for employment with the Library. Because of the sensitivity of certain positions, the Library shall not consider members of the immediate family of employees in these departments or of these positions: Human Resources, Accounting/Finance, Information Technology Services, and the Security Supervisor.

Administrative Procedure 302.02 (Adopted 7-95 / Rev. 7-99)

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The Library Director, or his/her designee, shall be authorized to employ, in the name of the Board of Trustees, all staff and employees of the Library and to discharge same, subject to the right of any staff member or employee to request and receive a hearing pertaining to said discharge.

Board Policy 303 (Ref.: By Laws VII. 3. / Adopted 11-88 / Rev. 4-03)

303.01 Full-Time Employees
303.011 Part-Time Employees
303.012 Temporary Employees
303.02 Substitutes
303.03 Volunteers

303.01 Full-Time Employees

Full-time library employees are those staff members who work 40 hours per week. Full-time employees who work in departments which operate more than 45 hours per week may have work schedules that include evenings and/or weekend assignments as a part of their regularly scheduled 40 hour work week. Responsibility for scheduling shall rest with the department head or his/her designee.

All regular full-time employees are obligated by state law to participate in the retirement plan. Full-time employees are also eligible for a fringe benefit package designed for them and provided by the Library system.

Administrative Procedure 303.01 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-99, 1-15)

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303.011 Part-Time Employees

Part-time library employees are those staff members who work a regular schedule of less than 30 hours of work per week. Part-time employees are prohibited from having a regular weekly schedule over 25 hours or more than five days per week.

Part-time employees are ineligible to participate in the retirement plan unless otherwise governed by the retirement plan. They are paid hourly. Part-time employees are also eligible for fringe benefits specifically designed for part-time staff and provided by the library system.

Administrative Procedure 303.011 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 12-01, 1-15, 7-23)

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303.012 Temporary Employees

On occasion, the Library requires the services of temporary staff, both full-time and part-time:

1. Temporary positions are designed to meet the Library's needs for project-related assistance. Selection and appointment to these positions usually follows and adheres to standard Library procedures, employment provisions or guidelines as established by current state and federal legislation.
2. On occasion, in consultation with the HR director and with approval by the Library Director, a temporary position may be filled using alternative methods when deemed in the best interest of the Library.
3. Employees filling temporary positions may be offered the opportunity to renew their employment based on the status of individual projects, the availability of funding and their supervisor's evaluation of the work being performed.
4. Temporary employees are paid in accordance with prescribed Library practices. Full-time temporary employees are eligible for participation in all benefits available for regular status full-time employees except the School District Retirement Program. In the event that a temporary employee is hired for a regular full-time position with the Library, participation in the retirement program is mandatory. Part-time temporary employees are eligible for all library benefits available for part-time staff. In addition, full-time temporary employees are paid for all holidays when the Library is closed.
5. Temporary employees are subject to the conditions of a "Temporary Position Work Agreement" prior to beginning employment in any temporary position.
6. Temporary employees are eligible for hire or rehire to other temporary or regular positions, contingent upon their supervisor's evaluation of their work performance, of which they are subject to the same performance standards as regular employees.

Administrative Procedure 303.012 (Adopted 8-91 / Rev. 12-02)

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303.02 Substitutes

Substitutes are paid staff who are assigned on an on-call basis to either replace other paid staff who are absent or to perform special temporary assignments that are authorized by the Library Director or his/her designee.

• All substitutes are paid at the currently budgeted hourly rate for the Library Assistant classification. Regular part-time employees who work extra hours in their home location are not considered library substitutes and will be paid at their regular rate of pay, they may not work over the 29-hour weekly total.
• Substitutes will receive at least eight to twelve hours of paid in-service training for the type of assignments they are expected to perform. Substitutes provide a welcoming environment to our patrons and other staff members. Substitutes need to demonstrate basic library functions. These include but are not limited to assigning and modifying library accounts, correct shelving of material, help patrons with digital content needs, guide patrons though Bibliocommons. Some departments, such as our Missouri Valley Room, need specialized training. If you reply to accept shifts from any of our departments that specialize, you may be asked to come in early to train. If you are new to a location or have not worked a shift recently, you may be asked to come in early for training.
• Substitutes may be asked to cover shifts at any location. They will be expected to perform s basic library functions as described above and assigned by the person in charge of the department or branch to which they report or the direction of location employees. They may be used for temporary short-term projects or rush periods of predictable duration but are not to be used as regular part-time employees. Under normal circumstances they will be assigned no more than twenty-nine hours per week.
• The need for substitutes is unpredictable. Substitutes will be scheduled as far in advance as possible but may be requested to report immediately in cases of illness or emergencies. It is understood that substitutes, by the nature of their position, may refuse an assignment. They may also have long periods when no requests for services are made.
• With at least 12-hour notice a substitute’s scheduled time can be canceled or shift reduced if a supervisor determines the hours are no longer needed and the substitute will not be paid due to advance notice. A substitute will paid for a minimum of four hours should their shift be canceled at or after the beginning of the substitute’s shift.
• An active substitute list will be maintained by the substitute supervisor. Substitutes may be removed from the active substitute list and payroll if they do not work at least 2 shifts within each quarter, do not respond to communication from their supervisor, do not keep a phone number active, do not regularly respond to offers of assignments, or are absent from or tardy for any assignment twice in any three-month period of time. Exceptions can be made for any ongoing medical needs or extenuating circumstances.
• Each location supervisor will use Outlook calendar invites for subs shifts and include the individual sub and Librarysubs@kclibrary.org on the invitation. The master schedule will be used as a tool for the Library Substitute supervisor.
• Unless specifically told of a location preference, library subs will email the branch manager, the location supervisor, and the library substitute supervisor when they need to call out for illness or a last-minute emergency with as much advance notice as possible.

Administrative Procedure 303.02 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 1-15, 7-16, 6-22)

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303.03 Volunteers

This policy is under revision.

A classification plan covering all Library positions will be maintained by the Library’s Library Director and Chief People Officer. The purpose of this plan is to group into classes of positions those jobs which are similar enough in nature, difficulty, and responsibility as to warrant the same rate or range of pay; to provide guidelines for minimum qualifications for a position; and to compensate employees for continued superior service and increased skills and knowledge.

The plan consists of: (1) a complete job description for each library position, (2) a position classification schedule stipulating the basic requirements for each classification’s placement on the salary schedule and (3) a salary schedule showing annually established pay ranges and the classifications which are to be compensated within each pay range.

Board Policy 304 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-89, 7-23)

304.01 Responsibility for Updating Job Descriptions
304.02 Application of the Classification Plan
304.021 Reclassification of Position
304.022 Promotion/Demotion
304.023 Lateral Transfers
304.024 Top of Range
304.025 Requests for Management Review
304.03 Salary Schedule
304.04 Merit Pay Program
304.06 Performance Evaluation
304.07 Continuous Service Awards

304.01 Responsibility for Updating Job Descriptions

Job description information shall be compatible with information contained in the Table of Organization and the Personnel Classification Plan. Essential data shall include: job title; personnel classification; supervision exercised, if any; qualifications (education, experience, skills, personal characteristics) and general responsibilities and duties.

Human Resources is responsible for maintaining up-to-date master file copies. Supervisors are responsible for keeping all job descriptions under their jurisdiction up-to-date and for alerting Human Resources of needed changes.

Administrative Procedure 304.01 (Adopted 7-95)

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304.02 Application of the Classification Plan

Human Resources shall establish practices and guide supervisory staff in applying salaries to comply with the classification plan. Normally, the beginning rate of a new employee will be the minimum rate for the classification and job for which the employee is qualified and hired. However, the Library Director, upon request of the hiring supervisor, may authorize initial appointments above the minimum rate to compensate for an employee's prior experience or advanced training.

Administrative Procedure 304.02 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 12-02)

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304.021 Reclassification of Position

Positions may be reclassified to a higher or lower salary grade based on a change in the requirements, responsibility level or new levels of experience required. When a position is reclassified, priority in filling the position will be given to the incumbent, if there is one, provided the incumbent meets the new qualifications for the position and was successful in his/her existing position.

Administrative Procedure 304.021 (Adopted 8-90)

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304.022 Promotion/Demotion

Promotion. When an employee is promoted to an open position, one which exists as a result of reclassification, or a position created through reorganization; the employee will normally move to the beginning of the new salary grade or receive a minimum of a five percent salary increase. The new salary will be determined by the Deputy Director, Human Resources and Library Director. An employee's merit date will also be adjusted to coincide with the new effective date.

Demotion, Involuntary. Employees demoted due to performance will be assigned a lower salary effective the beginning of the next pay period which will be based on tenure, qualifications and experience. The new salary will be assigned within the appropriate classification and grade of that classification and will normally reflect a minimum of a five percent reduction in salary.

Employees demoted by management for reasons other than performance will experience a salary reduction depending on their present salary and where their salary falls in the new classification and appropriate salary grade in accordance with policy 306.03. The merit date will be adjusted .

Demotion, Voluntary. In the event of a voluntary demotion, an employee will be paid in the new classification and salary grade according to experience and qualifications. In most cases, the employee's salary will be decreased at least five percent depending on the level of the new position.

Administrative Procedure 304.022 (Adopted 8-90 / Rev. 12-02, 1-08)

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304.023 Lateral Transfers

Employees who increase hours, or move from one position to another but remain in the same classification normally experience no salary adjustment. The merit date will remain the same.

Administrative Procedure 304.023 (Adopted 7-98 / Rev. 12-02, 1-08)

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304.024 Top of Range

Employees who reach the top of their salary grade (as a result of their merit increase or any other reason) will not be eligible for remuneration past the top of the range unless approved by the Library Director.

Administrative Procedure 304.024 (Adopted 8-90 / Rev. 8-91)

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304.025 Requests for Management Review

The Classification Plan will be reviewed periodically by Management Group and amended as necessary.

Any department manager or above may request that the classification of any or all subordinates in his/her work area be reviewed.

At any time, an employee may directly request a review of his/her position's classification by Human Resources provided the request has first been made through the department manager.

Administrative Procedure 304.025 (Adopted 7-98)

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304.03 Salary Schedule

A salary schedule showing established pay ranges and the classifications which are to be compensated within each pay range will be recommended annually to the Library Board for approval. Compensation for each classification will be set to maintain internal consistency and external comparability with similar positions in the local and regional job market. The salary schedule adopted by the Board will include any salary adjustments approved for the year and will generally take effect at the beginning of the fiscal year. All employees are required to be paid within the range for their classification unless otherwise determined by the Library Director.

Administrative Procedure 304.03 (Adopted 7-89 / Rev. 7-98)

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304.04 Merit Pay Program

This policy is currently under revision

304.06 Performance Evaluation

This policy is currently under revision

304.07 Continuous Service Awards

Service pins and other types of awards are given to regular full-time and part-time employees for every five (5) years of continuous service. Continuous service is interrupted only by termination. Service awards are given out annually at Staff Conference Day.

Administrative Procedure 304.07 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-00)

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Reduction in force occurs when it is impossible or infeasible to continue personnel strength at its existing level. The library administration shall develop appropriate procedures to maintain as high a level of library service as possible and to be fair to all members of the staff whenever a reduction in force becomes necessary.

Board Policy 306 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-89)

306.01 Staff Reduction/Reorganization
306.02 Procedures to Implement Reduction in Force Policy
306.03 Reduction in Classification

306.01 Staff Reduction/Reorganization

Reorganization of library operations will be the basis for determining which staff members will be retained, displaced or released in each unit of the organization such as branch services or departments. If a job is eliminated, the displaced employee must be transferred or released.

An employee to be displaced may:

1. Be assigned to a position in the same classification provided she/he meets both the qualifications and seniority requirements.
2. Be assigned to a position in a lower classification provided she/he meets both the qualifications and seniority requirements.
3. Be assigned to a part-time position for which he or she meets both the qualifications and seniority requirements.
4. Qualify for, but refuse to accept, an assignment. If this action is taken, it will be construed as a resignation.
5. Be released because of lower seniority than incumbents in any remaining positions.
6. Retain their higher salary for six months after moving to a lower paying position. After six months, if the salary was above the new range and level, it will be adjusted, not to exceed the top of the classification and assigned step, as determined by the Library Director, Deputy Director or Human Resources.

Administrative Procedure 306.01

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306.02 Procedures to Implement Reduction in Force Policy

Should a reduction in force be necessary, supervisors will give as much notice as possible (usually 60 calendar days or more) to individual staff members, and supervisors and Human Resources will provide staff with personnel policies and procedures regarding the reduction.

If staff reduction is required, the Library Administration will determine whether displaced employees meet the qualifications of the job description for specific remaining positions. The Administration will also select the positions for which displaced employees are thought to be best qualified. Determination of qualifications will be based on training, experience and demonstrated ability.

The displaced employee may accept a new assignment or refuse by resigning. If the employee resigns, he or she may become eligible for unemployment benefits. Eligibility will be determined by the appropriate office of the Division of Employment Security.

Employees to be released because of their failure to meet the qualifications and seniority requirements for any position in the system, will be given 60 calendar days' notice or the equivalent in notice pay. Job counseling assistance will be offered whenever practical to help displaced workers seek other employment. Local employment resources will be notified, when appropriate, of upcoming reductions.

Administrative Procedure 306.02 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 12-02)

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306.03 Reduction in Classification

As circumstances change, it may become necessary to increase or decrease the number of employees assigned to any given unit of the Library. These circumstances may involve a shift in the workload or demand for service.

If the duties of a position are significantly reduced, either in quantity or level of responsibility, the position may be reduced to a lower classification.

If a position is reduced, the incumbent will continue to be paid at the same rate as previously for a period of six months. After that, the employee's salary will be adjusted not to exceed the top of the classification as determined by the Library Director, Deputy Director and Human Resources.

If the incumbent of a reduced position is transferred to another position, he or she will be evaluated at the end of the six months on the new job to see if the new duties are being satisfactorily performed. If they are not, every effort will be made to place the staff member appropriately before resorting to termination of employment.

Special consideration may be given to staff who have been employed by the Kansas City Public Library for twenty-five or more years, so that they will not suffer undue loss. Every effort will be made to continue their salaries at no more than a 15% reduction, whatever their new assignment.

Administrative Procedure 306.03 (Adopted 8-85/Rev. 7-98 / Rev 1-08)

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The Kansas City Public Library shall provide affordable health insurance, retirement and other programs for its employees and, to the extent possible within budgetary constraints, share in the cost of these programs for the benefit of the employee.

Board Policy 307 (Adopted 7-89)

307.01 Health Insurance
307.02 Dental Insurance
307.021 Retiree Health and Dental Insurance
307.03 Bus Pass Benefit Program - Suspended
307.04 Life Insurance and Long Term Disability
307.05 Unemployment Insurance
307.06 Retirement Plan
307.07 Social Security
307.08 Workers’ Compensation
307.09 Health Care Continuation Benefits (also referred to as COBRA and HIPAA)
307.10 Deferred Compensation Plan/Tax Sheltered Annuity Plans
307.12 Employee Assistance Program

307.01 Health Insurance

Full-time Employees. The Library offers health insurance to all regular full-time employees on a shared cost basis. Dependent coverage is also available on a shared cost basis when requested within thirty (30) days of employment or during an open enrollment period.

Employee payments are made on a pre-tax basis unless other arrangements are specifically requested in writing by the employee.

Details on open enrollment periods and changes in one’s coverage of health or other insurance are available through Human Resources. For terminating employees, library-funded coverage ends the last day of the month in which the termination occurs. Under some circumstances terminated employees may elect to purchase temporary continued coverage at group rates under the Omnibus Budget Act. See Section 307.09 for information regarding health care continuation benefits.

Part-time Employees. Part-time employees may receive health insurance stipends in which the employee contracts directly with the insurance carrier or has insurance otherwise. The amount of the subsidy/stipend is determined by the employee’s FTE designation and is provided on a reimbursable basis.

Administrative Procedure 307.01 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-00, 8-23)

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307.02 Dental Insurance

The Library offers dental insurance available to all regular full-time employees on a shared cost basis. Dependent coverage is also available on a shared cost basis when requested within thirty (30) days of employment or during open enrollment.

Employee payments are made on a pre-tax basis unless other arrangements are specifically requested in writing by the employee.

Details on open enrollment periods and changes in one’s coverage on dental or other insurances are available through Human Resources. For terminated employees, library-funded coverage ends the last day of the month in which the termination occurs. Under some circumstances terminated employees may elect to purchase temporary continued coverage at group rates under the Omnibus Budget Act. See Section 307.09 for information regarding dental care continuation benefits.

Part-time Employees. Part-time employees may receive dental insurance stipends in which the employee contracts directly with a dental insurance carrier or otherwise has insurance covering them. The amount of the subsidy/stipend is the same for all part-time employees.

Administrative Procedure 307.02 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-00, 8-23)

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307.021 Retiree Health and Dental Insurance

Qualified retirees, as defined by the Public School Retirement System, and their dependents may continue health and dental insurance paying the full rate of the plan. Retiree coverage ends on the date in which the employee becomes eligible for Medicare. Because the Library does not provide a supplemental plan to Medicare, a retiree should contact a variety of sources for information on coverage at least 60 days in advance of eligibility.

Administrative Procedure 307.021 (Adopted 8-91 / Rev. 7-00, 7-13)

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307.03 Bus Pass Benefit Program - Suspended

The Library offers monthly bus (transit) passes to all employees at a subsidized rate. Employees who do not need a bus pass forgo this benefit option. Employees paying for “qualified transportation fringe benefits” through regular payroll deduction may opt to have the deduction on a pre-tax basis (in accordance with IRS Code, Section 132). The payroll amount deducted from employees is not subject to Federal, state or local taxes.

Administrative Procedure 307.03 (Adopted 3-99 / Rev. 12-02, 8-21)

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307.04 Life Insurance and Long Term Disability

Full-time employees are provided long term disability coverage by the Library. This coverage provides a benefit of 60% of monthly earnings to a maximum of $5,000 per month in case of total disability after 90 days of disability. The Library also provides a $20,000 life insurance policy for each full-time employee. Portable long-term disability, universal life and long-term care insurance are available through payroll deduction for both full and eligible part-time employees at a group rate.

Administrative Procedure 307.04 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-04)

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307.05 Unemployment Insurance

Library employees who become unemployed or laid off through no fault of their own, may be eligible to draw unemployment compensation. Under these circumstances, an exiting employee should contact the state unemployment office or job service division in the state in which she/he resides.

Administrative Procedure 307.05 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-95)

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307.06 Retirement Plan

Eligible Full Time Employees, .63 FTE and above, of The Kansas City Public Library participate in the Kansas City Public School Retirement System’s pension plan. Pension is a defined benefit which means, once retired, the KCPSRS lifetime monthly benefit is predictable and stable because it is calculated using a formula established by Missouri law. Years of service and salary are factors in determining the amount of the retirement benefit. KCPSRS benefits are designed to supplement Social Security benefits and personal savings in retirement. KCPL participating full time employees are eligible to retire when the following condition(s) are met:

Regular Retirement Benefit

Regular retirement (lifetime monthly) benefit, employees must meet the following qualification based on the appropriate plan.

Plan B (Members retiring on or after June 30, 1999 and hired prior to January 1, 2014)

1. Must be vested (contributed to KCPSRS for at least five (5) years).
2. Must be 60 years old; or must have at least 75 credits, with each year of creditable service (prorated for fractional years) equal to one credit, and each year of age (prorated for fractional years) equal to one credit.
3. Must have terminated employment with any KCPSRS participating employer.

Plan C (Members hired after January 1, 2014)

1. Must be vested (contributed to KCPSRS for at least five (5) years).
2. Must be 62 years old; or you must have at least 80 credits, with each year of creditable service (prorated for fractional years) equal to one credit, and each year of age (prorated for fractional years) equal to one credit.
3. Must have terminated employment with any KCPSRS participating employer.

Early Retirement Benefit

Employees can choose to receive an early retirement (reduced amount) once employee has become vested and attained the age of 55. The monthly benefit will be reduced based on the number of months the employee lacks meeting the full retirement requirement of being at least age 60 under Plan B and age 62 under Plan C.

Disability Benefit

Employees may be eligible to receive a disability retirement benefit if the following requirements are met:

1. Employee is vested.
2. Unable to perform your employment duties.
3. This incapacity is likely to be permanent.
4. The disability is certified by the Retirement System’s Medical Board and approved by the Board of Trustees.
5. Retiree may be subject to periodic re-evaluation of disability.
6. Retiree may be subject to annual income restrictions.
7. The disability commenced while employed with a covered employer.

Retirement Medical Program

The purpose of the Retirement Medical Program (RMP) is to provide a means for eligible employees of the Kansas City Public Library to pay for medical insurance and eligible expenses with non-taxed dollars from their Leave Accrual Payout.

Eligibility: Employees retiring on or after June 30, 1999 and hired prior to January 1, 2014 must be 60 years old; or must have at least 75 credits; or employees hired after January 1, 2014 must be 62 years old; or have at least 80 credits.

Benefits: Use pre-tax dollars for allowable expenses. RMP funds can pay for allowable expenses for yourself, your spouse, and/or your dependents who qualify as a dependent for federal tax purposes. Any funds remaining in your account upon your passing will go to your surviving spouse or designated beneficiary to be used for allowable expenses.

You may opt out of the plan only if you can provide written proof another employer is providing medical insurance and it is 100% employer paid, or are enrolled in a zero cost Medicare plan, at the time you retire/resign, or if covered under Military Insurance.

Retirement Medical Program Severance Pay Formula

(Minimum Severance Balance $11,000)

First $10,000 paid to Employee / Next $10,001-$15,000 Paid to RMP / Over $15,000 paid to Employee

Administrative Procedure 307.06 (Adopted 3-83 / Rev. 10-04, 7-19)

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307.07 Social Security

Under Section 218 the Board by resolution authorized the Chief Executive to prepare, execute and submit to the Missouri Office of Administration, Division of Accounting a Plan and Agreement for extending the benefits of the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance System, established by Title II of the Social Security Act, as amended, to the eligible employees and officials of the Kansas City Public Library. This agreement was retroactively effective as of November 29, 1988 and may not be terminated.

Under present social security legislation, a percentage of an employee’s pay is deducted with a comparable amount credited to the employee’s account through payment by the Library.

Administrative Procedure 307.07 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 4-19)

307.08 Workers’ Compensation

The Library carries Workers' Compensation Insurance in compliance with state law. This insurance provides compensation for a percentage of lost time; medical expenses; surgical expenses; and loss of life or dismemberment from injury arising out of, or in the course of, an employee's job assignment with the Library. To protect his/her interests in case of an injury or illness that she/he considers work-connected, an employee should be guided by the following:

1. The employee must report his/her injury or illness as soon as possible to the supervisor or Human Resources.
2. The employee must also complete an incident/injury report within 24 hours.
3. If complications arise in connection with a injury or illness while an employee is away from the Library, she/he should report to the supervisor and Human Resources by telephone.

All employee medical expenses will be paid for all eligible injuries. The employee may also collect compensation for time lost because of the injury but may not collect both Worker's Compensation and sick leave pay but may choose to supplement lost pay with other accrued time. Coverage for injuries to employees on the job is excluded from the employee health insurance policy coverage.

Questions pertaining to Workers' Compensation should be directed to Human Resources.

Administrative Procedure 307.08 (Adopted 7-95 / Rev. 7/99)

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307.09 Health Care Continuation Benefits (also referred to as COBRA and HIPAA)

In accordance with federal law (PL99-272, Title X), the Library offers full-time employees and their covered dependents the opportunity for a temporary extension of health coverage at group rates in certain instances where coverage under one of the Library's health plans would otherwise end. Employees and/or their covered dependents will be notified when appropriate so that they may exercise their right to this continued coverage. Instances where this is applicable include, but are not limited to, the reduction in scheduled hours of employment from full-time to part-time status and the termination of employment for reasons other than gross misconduct. This continuation coverage is strictly at the individual's expense.

In addition, in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act each exiting employee will also be notified of prior coverage provisions.

Administrative Procedure 307.09 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-98)

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307.10 Deferred Compensation Plan/Tax Sheltered Annuity Plans

As a non-profit organization, the Library is able to offer employees special deferred compensation and tax sheltered annuity plans. Through these plans, before-tax dollars may be used to purchase an annuity. The dollars earn interest (also tax-deferred) for an employee's account until he/she retires or withdraws the money from the account.

Any regular status employee may participate in the Deferred Compensation Program. A salary reduction agreement must be signed before the first of the month when participation is to begin. An employee's contribution to either program will be payroll deducted. The salary reduction agreement continues as long as an employee remains with the Library or until he or she terminates it. Information regarding the Deferred Compensation/Tax Sheltered Annuity programs is available through the Library's Human Resources Department.

Administrative Procedure 307.10 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 9-96)

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307.12 Employee Assistance Program

The Kansas City Public Library recognizes that personal and work problems can often be dealt with successfully when identified early and referred to appropriate care. Therefore, the Library provides employee assistance services to full and part-time employees and to members of their immediate family. The Library's EAP (Employee Assistance Program) provides an opportunity for all employees to obtain confidential assistance in resolving personal and work problems as the need arises. Further, while there is no intent to intrude upon employee's personal lives, it is appropriate when there are indications of declining work performance, attendance or behavioral problems that employees be offered professional and confidential assistance to resolve their problems. The EAP deals with the broad range of human problems including: emotional/behavioral, family and marital, alcohol and/or drug, financial, legal, work and other personal problems. The EAP provides problem assessment, short-term counseling and referral. Costs for these services are covered by the Library. Costs incurred for other services not covered by insurance or other benefits are the responsibility of the employee.

1. The policy applies to all full and part-time employees of the Library no matter what their job title or responsibilities.
2. The program is available to employees or members of their immediate family on a self-referral basis since problems at home can affect the job. If employees or immediate family members have personal or work problems that may benefit from assistance, they are encouraged to use the program.
3. Participation in the program will not jeopardize an employee's job security, promotional opportunities or reputation.
4. All records and discussions of personal or work problems will be handled in a confidential manner. These records will be kept by the EAP and will not become a part of the employee's personnel file
5. Employees will be encouraged to seek assistance to determine if personal or work problems are causing unsatisfactory job performance. Participation in the program is the personal choice of the individual.
6. All levels of management are responsible for using this program when appropriate to assist in resolving job performance problems related to personal problems.
7. Sick leave may be granted for treatment or rehabilitation on the same basis as for other health problems. Time off without pay will also be given when needed or when the employee has no sick leave accrual, such as with part-time employees.
8. This policy is not intended to supplant the normal disciplinary process or any way block access to the grievance procedures. Employees have the choice of accepting or rejecting a management referral to the EAP. If the employee accepts the EAP's assistance, it is the employee's option whether or not to give written consent for the EAP to provide the referring supervisor or manager with the following information: whether the employee has contacted the EAP and whether or not the employee is following recommendations. No information regarding the nature of the employee's problem will be given to the Library or the employee's supervisor.

Employees participating in the EAP are expected to meet existing work performance standards.

Administrative Procedure 307.12 (Adopted 11-95 / Rev. 9-96)

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308.01 Holidays
308.02 Vacation Entitlement
308.03 Sick/Medical and Funeral Leave
308.04 Leave of Absence — Conditions
308.05 Family Medical and Personal Illness Leave
308.051 Personal Leave
308.06 Military Leave
308.07 Educational Leave
308.08 Jury or Court Service
308.09 Emergency Leave of Absence
308.10 Voting Time 308.11 Part-Time Leave

308.12 Victim's Leave

308.01 Holidays

The Kansas City Public Library recognizes the following paid holidays for all regular full-time employees:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• President’s Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day

Full-time Staff. If a paid holiday falls on a scheduled day off, a full-time employee may claim that as a floating holiday.

A floating holiday must be claimed within 6-months following the recognized holiday (i.e. July 4 must be used by January 4)

Part-time Staff. Employees whose normal schedule includes a day of the week when the Library will be closed for a holiday can be allowed to make up the missed time at the convenience of the Library, or employees can elect to use Part-Time Leave to be paid for the holiday.

Rate. The rate of pay for the 8-hour holiday will be based solely on the employee’s regular straight rate of pay at the time of the holiday.

All regular full-time employees earn 2 hours of personal leave per full pay period. This type of leave accrues to a maximum of 52 hours at any time.

Personal leave accrual time is prorated when an employee fails to be paid for a complete pay period. Use of personal leave should be authorized by supervisors in advance except in emergencies. Employees who separate from the Library with personal leave hours credited to their account will be compensated for those hours at their current hourly rate.

Administrative Procedure 308.01 (Adopted 3-83 / Rev. 7-00, 1-08, 7-22)

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308.02 Vacation Entitlement

Accrual rates. Regular full-time employees earn vacation time beginning the first pay period worked. Vacation time for all regular full-time employees is based on the employee’s status with the library and/or length of service and will be earned as follows:

Employees in non-professional positions (those classed as Library Associate or below) with less than five (5) full years of employment: 4.615 hours vacation leave per full pay period or fifteen working days each year.

Employees in skilled or professional positions (those classed as Technical/ Maintenance/ Skilled or above) or any regular full-time employee having completed five (5) full years of regular employment as part-time or full-time: 6.15 hours vacation leave per full pay period or twenty working days each year.

Vacation time shall not exceed 320 hours on June 30 of each year. Any vacation time in excess of the 320 hours will be converted to hours in the individual’s sick leave bank. In some situations, employees shall have “legacy” vacation maximums which were established on June 30, 1995. Excess hours will be handled the same.

Pay out. Unused accrued vacation time up to 320 hours will be paid upon termination of employment at the employee’s current rate of pay. Accrued vacation hours in excess of 320 will be rolled over into the individual’s sick leave bank. Full-time employees moving to part-time status and those resigning to join the substitute pool will also have vacation time paid out after all full times hours are paid.

Vacation shall be scheduled upon the prior approval of supervisors, preferably with at least one month’s notice, and must be taken at the convenience of the Library.

If a paid holiday falls during a scheduled vacation, the vacation may be extended with prior supervisory approval by one (1) day or the employee may retain the additional vacation day for future use.

Vacation pay will be based solely on the employee’s regular straight rate of pay at the time the vacation is taken. Employees will not be paid in lieu of using vacation time except upon retirement or termination from the Library.

Once a year, upon approval of the Library Director, an optional payout of future vacation leave accruals for up to 40 hours may be offered to eligible employees. To be eligible to opt-in for the optional payout, an employee must have at least 2 weeks or 80 hours of combined vacation/personal holiday time remaining after the vacation payout occurs. The Human Resources Director will communicate the process and guidelines for the payout.

Advancing vacation. Only in exceptional and unusual circumstances and with the prior approval of the Human Resources Director may employees take vacation in excess of unused vacation benefits earned. Vacation benefits do not accrue while an employee is on unpaid time.

Part-time. See Part-Time Leave, Administrative Procedure 308.11

Administrative Procedure 308.02 (Adopted 3-83 / Rev. 12-02, 1-08, 7-12, 5-15, 7-16, 10-18, 8-21)

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308.03 Sick/Medical and Funeral Leave

Earning Sick Leave. Regular full-time employees shall earn and accrue paid sick leave. Paid sick leave is earned at the rate of 3.69 hours per full pay period (twelve [12] days per year).

In addition to regular sick leave accrual, an employee’s sick leave bank may grow due to the transfer of vacation hours which were accrued over eligible maximums.

Unused accrued sick leave will be paid upon termination of employment at the employee’s current pay rate according to the following formula, provided the same is permitted by applicable law:

— Hours of earned unused sick leave, up to a maximum of 900 hours, multiplied by years of service multiplied by three percent up to a maximum of 75 percent. Employees who had over 900 sick leave hours accrued as of July 1, 2012 shall have a “legacy” maximum of sick leave eligible for pay out. If the sick leave balance of a legacy qualified employee falls below the previously established legacy maximum on June 30, the legacy maximum for payout purposes will be reduced to reflect the balance in effect on June 30.

Use of Sick Leave. When an employee is ill, the appropriate supervisor or a member of the Library Office staff should be notified before the employee’s scheduled starting time. Please see Section 311.vii of the Policy and Procedure Manual for more information on reporting absences.

Sick leave is primarily intended for use in cases of an employee’s illness, temporary disability or for health appointments (medical/dental/mental health). It may also be used by either parent in conjunction with an approved leave of absence due to the arrival of a newborn child, newly adopted or foster child. This time off must be scheduled in advance with the employee’s supervisor.

Extended Illness Provisions. After three days of absence for personal illness, an employee is normally required to submit a physician’s verification stating the nature of the illness before sick leave is granted or before an employee is allowed to return to work. When it reasonably appears that an employee will return to work within five working days and with the prior approval of the supervisor and Human Resources Director, an employee may take paid sick leave in excess of the amount accrued.

Employees on sick leave are to return to work as soon as medically feasible. Employees returning to work after extended leave (3 or more days) may be required to supply the Library with a doctor’s statement certifying they are able to return to their normal duties depending on circumstances. If employees are unable to return to normal duties, the Library will determine if it can accommodate the restrictions prescribed by the doctor or other licensed care provider.

If an employee with illness or temporary disability wishes to work until some future date when medical assistance or surgery is available or timely, the Library reserves the right to request periodic statements from the employee’s doctor (or to have such an evaluation made by a doctor selected and paid by the Library) to certify that continued work will not adversely affect the employee’s health. Employees who continue to work during illness or disability will be required to discontinue working if so advised by a physician.

Sick leave may be used for an employee’s own illness, injury, or medical needs as well as when an employee is required to take off work to care for his/her child, parent, spouse, domestic partner, or any other individual related by blood or affinity whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship who has any of the conditions or needs for diagnosis, care, or preventive care. After three days of absence for the illness of a family member, an employee may be required to submit a certificate signed by a physician stating the extent and nature of the illness before the additional sick leave is allowed. Employees needing extended time off to provide family care may then utilize Section #308.v, of the Policy and Procedure Manual.

Sick Time Use for Bereavement Leave. Employees may use sick time to prepare for a funeral or attend the funeral or grieve the death of a member of the employee’s immediate family (employee’s father, mother, spouse, domestic partner, sister, brother, child, or anyone of like relationship by marriage or domestic partnership). Such use of sick time is limited to 5 workdays (3 of which should be consecutive related to funeral services, the other 2 to grieve as needed).

Pay Out. Prorated sick leave, up to a maximum of 900 hours is paid out to full-time employees when terminating employment, moving to part-time or moving to substitute status.

Medical Leave. Employees needing extended time away from work due to illness, surgery, or other medically defined reasons may use accrued sick leave and should apply for a leave of absence when it appears the absence will be of a defined or lengthy duration.

Administrative Procedure 308.03 (Adopted 3-83 / Rev. 12-02, 1-08, 7-12, 8-21)

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308.04 Leave of Absence — Conditions

A leave of absence is any period of time away from work other than a planned vacation that could include, but is not limited to, the following conditions:

1. The absence will be of a defined duration.
2. The absence may be planned or unplanned and results in being away from work for some duration.
3. The absence may include paid and unpaid time.

General Provisions

1. An employee may request a leave of absence at any time. Depending on the type of leave a valid request will normally be honored if the employee has worked at least 12 months or 1,250 hours during the preceding 12 months.
2. In some cases, employees may be placed on a leave of absence by the Library.
3. Requests for leaves of absence are considered on a case by case basis. when possible, a leave should be requested in advance and must be approved by the Library Director. All terms and conditions relating to the leave of absence will be specified in the Library's authorization for the leave.
4. Except at the discretion of the Library Director, leaves of absence may not be used as part of the notice period when an employee tenders his/her resignation from the Library.
5. An employee's seniority with the Library shall not be affected by time spent on an unpaid leave of absence.
6. Leave of absence status shall not alter the month in which an employee's salary may be adjusted for a recommended merit increase (except when otherwise specified).
7. The length of a leave depends on the type of leave. No leaves, except education leaves, will normally extend beyond 12 weeks.
8. Employees granted leaves of absence will generally be allowed to return to the position formerly held, with the same personnel classification and rate of pay. Details relating to the specific placement of an employee will be negotiated in advance of a leave being granted and will be outlined authorizing a specific leave of absence.
9. Leaves due to Workers Compensation reasons follow the policies and provisions of the Family Leave Act, 1993.

Benefit Provisions

1. A full-time employee may continue health and dental coverage during the leave. The cost is dependent upon the type of leave and the employee's pay status. Upon return to work from a FMLA leave or military leave, if the employee has discontinued medical or dental benefits, he/she may have coverage restored as if the leave had not been taken. All other leaves require compliance with benefit enrollment guidelines.
2. Part-time employees may continue to receive supplement reimbursements for health and dental coverage if on a Family Medical Leave or military leave. Employees on such leaves must have proof that premiums for the coverage were paid during the leave.
3. Full-time employees may use eligible accrued paid leave benefits during any approved leave of absence.
4. When members are on leave of absence without pay, they must make monthly contributions to the retirement fund if they wish to continue building their service record for retirement eligibility. When a full-time employee takes a leave of absence without pay, the Kansas City School District Retirement Office will notify him or her of the steps necessary to protect his/her retirement eligibility.
5. Library sponsored Life and disability insurance premiums for full-time employees on approved unpaid leaves are suspended during the leave period.
6. Leaves due to Workers Compensation reasons are restricted under the general provisions of the Family Leave Act, 1993.

Administrative Procedure 308.04 (Adopted 12-87/Rev. 12-02)

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308.05 Family Medical and Personal Illness Leave

The Library provides family and medical leaves in accordance with applicable law, including the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and subject to 308.04 above.

An “eligible full-time employee” is one who has been employed for at least twelve (12) months and must have provided 1,250 hours of service during that period.

The FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as if the employee had not taken leave. Eligible employees are entitled to:

• Twelve workweeks of leave in a 12-month period for:
• the birth of a child and to care for the newborn child within one year of birth;
• the placement with the employee of a child for adoption or foster care and to care for the newly placed child within one year of placement;
• to care for the employee’s spouse, domestic partner, child, stepchild, or parent who has a serious health condition;
• a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the essential functions of his or her job;
• any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent is a covered military member on “covered active duty;” or
• Twenty-six workweeks of leave during a single 12-month period to care for a covered service member with a serious injury or illness if the eligible employee is the service member’s spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin (military caregiver leave).

Leave does not necessarily have to be taken all at once. Leave may be taken on an intermittent basis (i.e., one week per month) or on a reduced schedule basis (four or five hours per day). Intermittent or reduced schedule leave taken for a serious health condition — either of the employee or of an immediate family member — may be taken "if medically necessary." The employee’s manager and the Human Resources Department must approve intermittent or reduced-schedule leave taken for the birth or adoption of a child.

If an employee's request for intermittent leave is foreseeable based on planned medical treatment, the employee may be required to transfer temporarily to an alternative position (with equivalent pay and benefits) in order to better accommodate repeated periods of absence.

Employees are to give thirty (30) days’ notice for leave taken for the birth or adoption of a child, assuming the employee is able to give such notice; if not, the employee must give such notice as is practicable. For leave taken on the basis of planned medical treatment, employees should seek to schedule the treatment so as to avoid unduly disrupting the operations of the Library.

The Library will require the employee to first use his or her VACATION AND SICK LEAVE time for any part of the twelve (12) week period. If such paid leave is not available, the Library provides unpaid leave to total twelve (12) weeks.

With leave taken on the basis of a serious health condition, the Library may require the employee to provide certification of the condition and the fact that the employee is unable to perform his or her job functions, or certification of the fact that the employee is needed to care for a family member. In the case of intermittent leave, this certification must also provide the dates and duration of the treatments to be given. The Library has the right to seek a second opinion at its expense. Such information will be obtained and such exams will be conducted in accordance with the ADA. All medical information will be maintained in confidence in accordance with the ADA.

Upon return to work, the employee will be restored to the position he or she held when the leave commenced, or to an equivalent position with equivalent employment benefits, pay, and other terms or conditions of employment.

In addition, leave does not result in the loss of any employment benefit accrued prior to the date the leave began (except insofar as the employee is required to exhaust accrued paid leave). The employee is not entitled to any right, benefit or position of employment other than that to which he or she would have been entitled if no leave had taken place.

If the employee is an employee within the highest-paid 10 percent of the Library workforce, obligations and options will be discussed at the time the benefit is requested.

During the period of leave, if the employee is enrolled in the group health plan, it will be offered to the employee for the duration of the leave at the level and under the conditions that the coverage would have been offered if no leave had taken place. If the employee fails to return to work at the end of the leave, the Library has the option and may recoup the premiums paid for maintaining health coverage. Health coverage costs are not recouped when the employee fails to return to work due to a continuation or recurrence of a serious health condition.

Administrative Procedure 308.05 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-00, 5-18)

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308.051 Personal Leave

Leaves of absence may be granted for other personal reasons unrelated to those stated in 308.05. These personal-reason leaves shall not exceed six weeks, and require a full time employee to pay COBRA rates for health and dental coverage if on unpaid time. In addition, part time employees are not eligible to receive the health and dental stipends while on a personal leave. Such leave is not covered by Federal Family and Medical Leave Act provisions. When applicable, life and disability insurance coverage are suspended during this time if the leave is taken without pay.

Administrative Procedure 308.05 (Adopted 12-87/Rev. 7-00)

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308.06 Military Leave

Military leave will be granted for an employee for the purpose of allowing him/her to perform the annual tour of duty for training within the armed forces to fulfill reserve obligations, and/or for active duty. An employee may take military leave through use of annual leave or approved leave without pay.

Administrative Procedure 308.06 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 12-91)

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308.07 Educational Leave

Educational leave shall be applied according to the following guidelines:

1. Library employees enrolled in library or highly job related degree programs shall be eligible for up to one year's leave upon the prior approval of the Library Director.
2. Any personal education (attendance on Library time neither required nor approved by the Library) will be on the employee's own time.
3. The Library may assist employees with some expenses associated with tuition/registration fees or highly related conference/workshop costs if the content of the training will benefit the employee and the library (see section below).
4. Availability of educational leave and associated support is based on availability of financial resources and scheduling at Library outlets.
5. When an employee is on an educational leave, her/his merit review and class advancement dates will be extended by the period of the leave, whether the leave is paid or not. The new date becomes the annual merit and classification advancement date.
6. Health and dental insurances will be available at COBRA rates if the employee is on unpaid leave. Life and disability insurance coverage is suspended during unpaid educational leave.

Administrative Procedure 308.07 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 9-96)

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308.08 Jury or Court Service

Library employees are expected to fulfill their obligation when called to serve on a jury or when subpoenaed to appear as a witness before a court or administrative tribunal. When such service would interfere with the employee’s normal work schedule, the Library will insure that no loss of benefits or pay results. However, any pay except mileage that an employee receives for jury service must be turned in over to the Library’s Finance Department for the employee to be compensated for “worked” hours by the Library.

When released from jury or witness duties, employees must immediately return to their job and complete the scheduled workday. Full-time and regularly scheduled part-time employees may take approved time off with benefit time after properly notifying their supervisor. Part-time employees may take approved time off, but must notify the supervisor if continued work time was available. Employees shall not work in excess of an eight-hour day as a result of combined jury/court service and regularly scheduled work hours.

Specific arrangements for any court or jury service should be reported to the employee’s supervisor.

Administrative Procedure 308.08 (Adopted 12-7 / Rev. 7-99, 7-23)

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308.09 Emergency Leave of Absence

Library supervisors are authorized to grant any employee under his/her supervision an emergency leave of absence without pay for legitimate medical or personal reasons. Such an emergency leave of absence must be of three days or less in duration and assumes that the employee does not have other paid leave appropriate to the situation. If more than three days of unpaid emergency leave is required, the absence must be approved by the Library Director.

Administrative Procedure 308.09 (Adopted 12-87)

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308.10 Voting Time

By state law, employees shall be entitled for voting purposes to absent themselves without loss of pay from any service or employment for a period of up to three hours between the time the polls open and close. Permission must be obtained in advance from the employer and it must be shown that there are not three hours that the polls are open, when the employee is not in the service of the Library.

Administrative Procedure 308.10 (Adopted 12-87)

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308.11 Part-Time Leave

Part-Time Leave accruals. Regular part-time employees will be awarded 4-weeks of Part-Time Leave on July 1. The 4-weeks will be based on the employee’s current full-time equivalency (e.g. 50%FTE will receive 80-hours of Part-Time Leave) This leave will expire June 30.

Part-Time staff hired after July 1 will receive a pro-rated accrual.

Employees must successfully complete their orientation period (3-months) prior to using Part-Time Leave for periods exceeding 3-days without a physician’s notice. As with the Extended Illness Provisions from the Sick Leave Policy (308.v) a physician’s release will be required before an employee may return to work following 3-days of illness.

Following the successful completion of the orientation period, Part-Time Leave shall be scheduled upon the prior approval of supervisors, preferably with at least one-months’ notice, and must be taken at the convenience of the Library unless used for health (medical, dental, mental health) related reasons.

Part-Time Leave pay will be based solely on the employee’s regular straight rate of pay at the time the leave is taken. Employees will not be paid in lieu of using Part-Time Leave.

Part-Time Leave is intended to help ensure consistency in pay. Leave must be used to bring the workweek (Sunday-Saturday) hours up to the scheduled FTE (full-time equivalency); leave may not be used to bring the workweek hours above the scheduled FTE.

Staff should plan to use Part-Time Leave to cover scheduled holiday. Should an employee have extraordinary needs or an abundance of holidays within their schedule they should discuss taking unpaid leave with their supervisor. Unpaid leave taken without express supervisor's permission or in accordance with other policies (e.g. 308.09 Emergency Leave of Absence) will be subject to policy 311.07 Attendance and may be considered excessive.

Pay out. Part-Time Leave is not eligible for payout upon termination.

Substitutes, and other part-time staff without regular schedules are not eligible for Part-Time Leave.

Administrative Procedure 308.11 (Adopted 07-21 / Rev. 7-23)

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308.12 Victim's Leave

The Library provides leave for employees are victims of domestic violence or have family or household members who are victims of such violence in accordance with the Victims Economic Safety and Security Act (VESSA).

VESSA allows all employees up to 2-weeks of unpaid leave to seek medical attention, victim services, psychological or other counseling, safety planning, or legal assistance for themselves, a family or household member, if they are victims of domestic or sexual violence.

Employees will be expected to use any paid time-off balances available to ensure consistency of pay. Employees must also provide 48-hours notice to their supervisor or the Human Relations & Employee Experience department whenever possible. A police report, court record, or sworn statement may be required for certification.

Leave may be taken on an intermittent basis (i.e., one day per week) or on a reduced schedule basis (4 or 5 hours per day) to complete the tasks to help ensure the safety and security of the victim.

Upon return to work, the employee will be restored to the position they held when the leave commenced, or to an equivalent position with equivalent employment benefits, pay, and other terms or conditions of employment.

In addition, leave does not result in the loss of any employment benefit accrued prior ot the date the leave began (except insofar as the employee is required to exhaust any accrued or awarded paid leave). The employee is not entitled to any right, benefit, or position of employment other than that to which they would have been entitled if no leave had taken place.

If the employee is an employee within the highest-paid 10 percent of the Library workforce, obligations and options will be discussed at the time the benefit is requested.

During the period of leave, if the employee is enrolled in the group health plan, it will be offered to the employee for the duration of the leave at the level and under the conditions that the coverage would have been offered if no leave had taken place. If the employee fails to return to work at the end of the leave, the Library has the option and may recoup the premiums paid for maintaining health coverage. Health coverage costs are not recouped when the employee fails to return to work due to a continuation or recurrence of a serious health condition.

Administrative Procedure 308.12 (Adopted 10-21)

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309.01 Paychecks
309.02 Payroll Deductions
309.03 Time Sheets
309.04 Compensatory and Overtime
309.06 Make-Up Time
309.07 Pay for Inclement Weather and Unusual Conditions
309.08 Use of Personal Automobiles

309.01 Paychecks

Regular paydays for all Library employees occur biweekly. . If the normal payday falls on a weekend or holiday, paychecks for the payday shall be distributed the preceding working day. Paychecks for all staff compensate the employee for the pay period immediately prior to the one during which the paychecks are issued. The Library is unable under any circumstances to pay employees in advance.

Each paycheck or direct deposit stub will have an attached statement listing gross pay, itemizing deductions, and noting accrued leave.

Paychecks are void after 90 days.

Final checks are available on the regular payday schedule. Full-time employees' accrued vacation, personal/holiday and pro-rated sick time pay out are a separate check on the subsequent available pay day.

Replacement checks for those lost or misplaced will normally be issued after two full business days. Notification that a check was not received must be submitted in written form to the Finance Office (Fax and e-mail are acceptable).

Direct Deposit is available to all employees and is recommended to insure a prompt deposit into an employee's bank account. In lieu of a check, the employee receives a statement outlining the deposited amount and all deductions.

Administrative Procedures 309.01 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02, Rev 1-08)

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309.02 Payroll Deductions

Compulsory deductions such as retirement, income tax, Social Security and Medicare are made from each paycheck. Voluntary deductions such as United Way donations, additional health insurance, deferred compensation, etc. may be authorized by the employee.

Administrative Procedure 309.02 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-91, 8-21)

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309.03 Time Sheets

All hourly Library employees shall record hours worked using the method provided for this purpose. Hourly employees shall record actual times worked plus the total number of hours worked and any paid leave time taken. Salaried employees shall record any paid leave time taken. Supervisors shall be responsible for verifying the hours reported by their staff. Supervisors should monitor payroll information records frequently

Administrative Procedure 309.03 (Adopted 7-99 / Rev 1-08)

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309.04 Compensatory and Overtime

Non-exempt employees who work more than 40 hours in a given week may be reimbursed with compensatory time. Compensatory time must be authorized in advance by an immediate supervisor and it's recommended that it's taken within a week after it is earned. All compensatory time should be taken only at the convenience of the Library, but requests to take accrued compensatory time will be granted within a reasonable period after the request is made, whenever possible. Supervisors are responsible for maintaining an accurate account of compensatory time earned and taken by subordinates.

In accordance with the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, the library's non-exempt employees (those paid hourly, plus all clerical, technical and paraprofessional staff) shall be reimbursed for overtime with compensatory time in the amount of 1 1/2 times the number of hours worked in excess of 40.

As a benefit, exempt employees (professional and supervisory staff) may receive "portable flextime" for whole hours worked in excess of 40. Portable flextime cannot exceed 24 hours and must also be authorized in advance by an immediate supervisor. Portable flextime may be used in lieu of accrued time.

Only under unusual circumstances and with the prior approval of a Deputy Director and the Library Director will the Library pay overtime.

Administrative Procedure 309.04 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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309.06 Make-Up Time

The Library does not encourage time off to be made up at a later date. If this becomes necessary, the time must be made up as soon as possible, preferably within a week, at a time which serves the Library's needs. Time to be made up should be in units of at least half an hour. Working through lunch or rest periods is not an acceptable make-up procedure. Supervisors are responsible for recording hours missed and made-up by their subordinates.

Administrative Procedure 309.06 (Adopted 8-86)

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309.07 Pay for Inclement Weather and Unusual Conditions

Inclement weather or unusual conditions that prevent employees from meeting assigned schedules at their normal workplace are circumstances over which the Library has no control. Therefore,

1. In fairness to all, only those who report to work when the library is open during inclement weather or unusual conditions will be paid. Those employees who do not report to work will not be paid, and full-time employees will be required to use accrued leave time, if any, for credit toward the work week. Part-time staff are not required to use accrued leave time but may if they have available balance.
2. If an individual employee is allowed to go home early during inclement or unusual conditions when the library remains open, the employee will be credited with only those hours worked and will be required to use accrued leave time, if any, for credit toward the work week.
3. As a result of inclement weather or unusual conditions, employees may be assigned to another work location or sent home if no alternative work location and/or assignment is available.
4. If the Library or an individual branch, or a department closes during business hours, employees scheduled to work that day, including substitutes, will be paid for all hours they were scheduled to work.
5. If the Library, or an individual branch or department is closed the entire day or opens late because of inclement weather or unusual conditions and advance notice is not possible, all employees and substitutes will be paid for the hours they were scheduled to work.
6. Employees not scheduled to work on days when the Library is closed because of inclement weather or unusual conditions will not be compensated. Under unusual circumstances, Administrative Pay may be used at the discretion of the Library Director or designee to keep employees in paid status. When appropriate, time off accruals may be suspended in exigent circumstances.

See section 313.01 regarding practices followed in determining when the library system shall be closed for inclement conditions.

Administrative Procedure 309.07 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-95, 2-19, 10-20, 7-22)

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309.08 Use of Personal Automobiles

Library cars are available for conducting library business by coordinating their use through the Library Office. Personal cars may also be used for library business, including attendance at library system meetings. Employees shall be reimbursed for authorized use of their personal automobile for the benefit of the Library at the per mile rate established by the Administration. Reimbursement shall be paid by check when a claim is submitted on a mileage/expense form. Claims should be accumulated to a minimum of $10.00 before being submitted for reimbursement.

In addition, library cars are encouraged for in-state or regional events, especially when two (2) or more employees will be in attendance. Other than these approved events, library cars are restricted from being outside of the Library district after library hours.

Administrative Procedure 309.08 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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Staff development and continuing education programs supply the foundation from which employees build and maintain the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve quality library service and their own sense of job satisfaction. In recognition of this, the library shall undertake to support learning opportunities for employees through the establishment of an in-service staff development program to upgrade employees' job skills and improve library services.

Board Policy 310 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-89, 5-07)

310.01 Staff Development
310.03 Professional Association Involvment, Meeting Attendance, and Conferences
310.04 Claiming Reimbursement for Travel or Conference Expense
310.05 Educational Assistance Programs
310.06 Academic Credit Course Work Assistance
310.07 Non-Academic Credit Work Assistance
310.08 Conditions of Reimbursement and Verification
310.09 Educational Leave of Absence
310.10 Income Tax and Educational Assistance

310.01 Staff Development

Responsibility. The staff development program includes but is not limited to orientation of new staff, staff meetings, written and audiovisual training materials, sponsored training events at the library, and attendance at seminars, institutes, professional meetings, conferences, and meetings of local, civic and educational organizations. The responsibility for staff development falls with the supervisor and employee as a cooperative effort between one another. Human Resources serves as a resource as well as other professionals on the Library's staff.

1. Supervisors are expected to provide training on: assigned duties of the employee's position, what constitutes effective performance; and plans, policies and goals of the department. In addition, the supervisor's role is to have the employee assume responsibility for their work, find means for self development and make use of the employee's special interests, knowledge and abilities. Departmental training is the responsibility of the supervisor and may be in conjunction with on-the-job training from other staff members, use of structured training, or may be informal but with specific goals in mind. The goal is to teach specific skills, techniques and procedures; to further the employee's understanding of library objectives and to enhance the knowledge needed for effective job performance.
2. The employee is responsible for taking advantage of learning opportunities, finding learning activities which contribute to her/his success in their position, and implementation of learned skills in their job.
3. Human Resources provides information on learning opportunities, works with supervisors in designing individual and/or group staff development activities, and assists staff in finding financial assistance to participate in these activities when possible.

Work-time Learning Activities. These may include but are not limited to: in-house courses, on-site training, attendance at professional meetings, conferences, pre-conferences, off-site workshops and training, user group meetings, etc. Attendance at these activities is usually through either support by one earning their regular rate of pay, payment of fees for attendance by the library, allocation of money specified as a "sponsorship," or a combination of these.

Work-time. Pay, while attending staff development activities, is usually limited to eight hours per day or may be on a workweek basis. Attendance must be requested and approved by the Library. Compensatory time may be awarded if the training program requires attendance at a formal instructional session as in the evening or if the employee is required to return to the Library for scheduled work time, and the Library finds it necessary to require a staff member to attend a specific session on library time. If the employee is not normally scheduled to work the hours of the learning activity, the employee may be allowed compensatory time at the discretion of the department head and the Library Executive Director.

Enhancement of Job Knowledge. Keeping up on current developments in one's field is another component of staff development. All professional staff are expected to keep abreast of current library literature and developments as part of their basic job responsibilities. As appropriate, supervisors also have the responsibility for sharing particular articles, books or other relevant information with their staff, which can be read on work or personal time.

Employee's Own Time. Non work-time activities can be another important aspect of the Library's staff development. Courses and activities taken on one's own time and at one's own expense help round out an employee's learning experiences.

Administrative Procedure 310.01 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-99, 1-08)

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310.03 Professional Association Involvment, Meeting Attendance, and Conferences

All staff members are encouraged to participate and assume a leadership role in professional associations at all levels: local, regional, state, national and international. The Library believes participation provides experience, offers opportunities for professional growth and is beneficial to the Library. Prior to committing to involvement, the employee must have the approval of his/her immediate supervisor, Deputy Director or the Library Executive Director.

Qualifying Activities. Professional associations shall be defined as local, regional, state, national and international organizations that are 1) library-related (e.g. concerned with the acquisition, organization, preservation and sharing of information) or 2) related to a subject specialty with direct bearing on the employee's position with the Library. Meeting shall be defined as related to general conferences, special assemblies, workshops, institutes and committees.

Membership Fees. Membership fees are usually the responsibility of the employee. The Library also pays for institutional memberships in the Library's name, which benefit employees by allowing staff to have individual membership benefits.

Funding and Financial Support. Employees may attend activities in a variety of ways:

1. Sponsorship allows the employee to attend on Library time and with the Library paying the fee (does not allow use of Continuing Education money). Sponsorship may include a meeting, conference, pre-conference or other activity.
2. Continuing Education money can be used to attend professional association activities at the discretion of the Library Executive Director.
3. A combination of, sponsorship, time off and/or employee paid support may also be negotiated for attendance at professional association activities.

Determining Approval. In determining who shall be granted permission to attend professional association meetings, first priority shall be given to full-time staff members who hold office, have committee responsibilities or who are appearing on the program at such events. Beyond these considerations, attendance will be rotated among staff whose jobs are directly related to the program content. Each attendee will be responsible for giving a brief written or verbal account of the proceedings to their immediate supervisor. A request to attend a meeting or conference should be submitted to the employee's immediate supervisor well in advance of travel plans. Requests require the approval of the supervisor, Deputy Director and Library Executive Director.

Time. Nonexempt staff may include documented travel time and time attending a professional association activity as work time. To avoid compensatory time at 1 1/2 times, employees and supervisors should adjust schedules accordingly. Exempt staff will normally not be paid for travel to or attendance at professional association activities if it is outside normal working hours.

Under the FLSA, travel time is considered work time for non-exempt employees in the following scenarios:

1. Travel time during the work day is work-related and considered hours worked.
2. Travel time for overnight, out of town assignments is compensable if the travel occurs during normal working hours – including those hours on regularly scheduled days off. Example, if an employee works 9 – 5:30 MWF but travels on Sunday to an out-of-town trip leaving at 8 AM and arriving at 12 noon – the employee would have 3 hours treated as hours worked (9 – 12).
3. Travel time outside of normal working hours spent as a passenger in a car (includes the driver), train, airplane, bus or boat is not compensable under the FLSA unless work is performed during that time.
4. If the employees decide to carpool, and they travel from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., then the time for everyone in the car is not compensable.

Administrative Procedure 310.03 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-99, 1-08, 7-16)

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310.04 Claiming Reimbursement for Travel or Conference Expense

Travel for Library business is either "local" or "out-of-area." Local travel is defined as being within the state of Missouri or in an adjoining state within 180 miles of the Library. Local travel does not typically include the need for overnight accommodations. Out-of-area travel generally involves commercial transportation and one or more nights of accommodation. All out-of-area travel at Library expense must be approved in advance by the Board of Trustees. Local travel must be approved in advance administratively.

Local Travel. To be reimbursed for local travel, an employee must have received prior supervisory and administrative approval. Upon completion of the travel, the employee should submit a "Mileage/Expense Reimbursement Claim" for mileage reimbursement for the use of their personal vehicle and reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses. Receipts or other documentation substantiating the claim must be attached to the form.

Out-of-Area Travel. Out-of-area travel must be approved in advance both administratively and by the Board of Trustees. Reimbursement is usually based on a stipend or daily stipend rate. Claiming reimbursement requires completion of the "Travel Expense Reimbursement Claim" form within 10 working days after return from the trip. The Library will reimburse reasonable and prudent expenses up to the maximum amount allowed. Eligible expenses may include mileage from home to commercial carrier, commercial travel, airport fees for parking, lodging expenses, meals (at no more than the Federal reimbursement) and miscellaneous expenses (up to a maximum of $25 per day) for tips, gratuities and local transportation. All expenses must be itemized on the reimbursement claim form with the original receipts attached when possible and practical. Receipts or other documentation for hotel and commercial transportation expense must be attached for reimbursement.

Approved travel stipends may include prepaid commercial transportation and/or registration provided the employee allows the Library to make the commercial travel arrangements and registration information is provided to the Library within prescribed time lines. Employees bear the responsibility of charges made for changes in travel arrangements should the cost of the change and new ticket price exceed the original amount arranged. When the Library prepays the commercial travel and/or registration, these amounts come from the stipend amount when reimbursement is requested.

Administrative Procedure 310.04 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-99)

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310.05 Educational Assistance Programs

General Assistance. The Library has an educational assistance program that provides tuition, fee and/or registration fee payments to staff members within the guidelines of 310.06 and 310.07. In addition, education assistance can be used for job-related non-academic courses. Assistance is provided on a prepaid basis when requests are made according to deadlines established by the Human Relations & Employee Experience Department (HREE). Eligible employees must be in good standing with the Library (i.e. not on disciplinary probation) and have successfully completed their initial Introductory Period.

Loan Program. In addition to the Library's educational assistance program, HREE coordinates an educational loan program. Approved loans are available for items not covered by (or in excess of) the educational assistance program or out of area travel costs, or in lieu of library funding for educational purposes. Eligible expenses may include books, course materials, fees, tuition; and costs related to other library or job-related continuing education activities, such as expenses related to conference attendance. All loans are arranged without interest or fees. Repayment is arranged through convenient payroll deduction. Details are available in HREE and on the Library’s SharePoint site.

Administrative Procedure 310.05 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-00, 08-21, 5-23)

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310.06 Academic Credit Course Work Assistance

Definition. Regular status part-time and full-time Library employees are eligible for partial or full tuition and registration fee reimbursement. Courses must be library related, job related, part of a general degree program (AA, BA or BS), or towards a graduate degree that is highly job related. Courses taken must be from accredited higher education institutions. Courses or the degree sought should enable an employee to advance within the Library's structure. Such reimbursement is limited to a specified amount determined each fiscal year per credit hour, cannot exceed 6 hours in any calendar year, and is limited to funding availability.

Requirements. The employee must:

1. meet the qualifications in 310.05; and
2. apply and be approved in advance of taking the course (see Append.: 310.06); and
3. request educational assistance only for tuition and fees which have not been paid through any other grant or scholarship; and
4. attain a grade of "C" for undergraduate or "B" for graduate courses, or better to avoid having to reimburse the assistance amount to the Library.

Administrative Procedure 310.06 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 1-98, 5-23)

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310.07 Non-Academic Credit Work Assistance

The Library’s education assistance can be used for non-academic courses that are job or library related. These Non-Academic Courses should follow a similar protocol as graduate programs, being highly job related or be part of a certificate program such as supervision, business communication, or DEI or project management certifications which support employee development within the Library's structure.

All regularly scheduled employees are eligible for continuing education funds, up to a maximum amount, as determined each fiscal year for workshops, audited courses, certificates, or other non-academic courses that are job or library related after completing the introductory period.

Administrative Procedure 310.07 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-99, 5-23)

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310.08 Conditions of Reimbursement and Verification

Use of Funds. Continuing education money for academic work and/or non-academic course work, conference attendance, or other eligible learning activities allows an employee to receive continuing education units (if requested and approved) as long as the attendance is on the employee's own time and the activity was approved in advance.

Verification. E-mail or other written verification of satisfactory continuing education activity completion must be submitted to the employee's supervisor(s) and forwarded to Human Relations & Employee Engagement (HREE) within 30 days of the last day of the learning activity or the Library has the right to begin payroll deducting the money.

Conditions of Receipt. Payment of continuing education money to any employee implies the employee agrees to remain in the Library's employment for six months after completion of the class and workshop. Failure to continue employment for six months will normally result in the employee being required to pay back the education assistance received by deducting the assistance paid from the employee's last check. Any employee who resigns or is discharged prior to satisfactory completion of the course for which they received payment shall have the full amount of money received deducted from their last pay or severance check.

Re-Payment Courtesy. Funds from stipends and sponsorships do not have a repayment provision, although the Library encourages staff to not attend professional meetings, conferences, etc. if the employee has reason to believe they cannot or will not remain in the Library's employment for six months after the event.

Administrative Procedure 310.071 (Adopted 10-90 / Rev. 12-02, 5-23)

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310.09 Educational Leave of Absence

Employees who are enrolled in library or highly job related degree programs will be eligible, upon the approval of the Library Director, for up to one year of unpaid educational leave-of-absence during the pursuit of the degree. For additional information regarding educational leaves, see section 308.07 above.

Administrative Procedure 310.08 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 7-95)

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310.10 Income Tax and Educational Assistance

The taxing status of educational benefits will be in accordance with current Internal Revenue Service codes. Employees are encouraged to contact the Library's payroll staff prior to applying for educational assistance for current status.

Administrative Procedure 310.10 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 9-96)

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The purpose of this section of the manual is to communicate basic information regarding the Library's expectations as an employer. Information contained in the manual should not be regarded as a substitute for discussion between an employee and his/her supervisor in matters of job-related questions or concerns. Employees are encouraged to consult their supervisors for further guidance in all such areas. In establishing guidelines, it is not the intention of the Library to restrict employees' rights, but rather to protect the rights and increase the safety and happiness of all employees.

Administrative Procedure 311 (Adopted 8-86)

311.01 "Coffee" and Dinner Breaks
311.02 Introductory Period
311.03 Promotion During Introductory Period
311.04 Outside Employment
311.05 Retirement Age
311.06 Exit Interview
311.07 Attendance
311.08 Work Rules/Rules of Conduct
311.09 Employee Discipline
311.10 General Principles and Processing of Disciplinary Actions
311.11 Pre-Discipline/Disciplinary Practices
311.12 Dismissal

311.01 "Coffee" and Dinner Breaks

Staff members may request one fifteen-minute coffee break for each continuous 4 hours worked. Break time is considered work time, and the employee is considered "on call" during that time.

Breaks should never be taken at the expense of service to the public. When staff shortages occur, it may become necessary to reschedule or cancel break periods. Break time cannot be saved, added to lunch or dinner time or added to any kind of leave. Also, breaks cannot be used to leave work early or to cover for late arrivals.

One half-hour of an employee's own time is allowed for lunch. At the discretion of their supervisors, full-time employees who work an eight-hour shift may take one hour of their own time for their meal period.

Administrative Procedure 311.01 (Adopted 9-86 / Rev. 7-99)

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311.02 Introductory Period

Each new employee appointed to a library position must serve up to a six-month introductory period. The Introductory Period or Orientation Period will be 3-months for non-exempt positions and 6-months for exempt positions.

1. Purpose of the Introductory Period. The introductory period allows employees the opportunity to decide if they enjoy working at the Library in their new position and want to continue with it. It gives the Library the opportunity to initially evaluate the employee’s interest in the job and ability to carry out its requirements effectively. During this period the employee’s supervisor will periodically counsel the employee, performing formal evaluation at the end of the third month in a position for non-exempt employees and again just prior to at the end of the six-month for exempt employee introductory period. In no case should completion of the introductory period be interpreted to mean that the library’s ability to terminate employees in its sole discretion is in any way restricted after that period. Training and evaluation are on-going processes. The six-month introductory period should not be considered as an employment contract of for those three or six months.
2. Procedures For Failing to Successfully Complete. Employees dismissed during the introductory period shall be notified on the same date in which the termination becomes effective. The employee will however be paid through that day except as outlined in SECTION 311.08(3).
3. Promoted or Transferred Employees. A Library employee who has been promoted to a new position at a higher classification must similarly serve a six month new introductory period. He/she/They will be counseled and evaluated as outlined above for new employees. A promoted employee who fails to meet required performance standards may be returned to his/her/their previous position if still available, or an equivalent position, at his/her/their previous classification and salary without prejudice.
4. Inter-department transfers from one Library position to another, where no change in classification would result, do not require a formal introductory period with formal performance reviews at specified times. However, an informal trial period may be set to insure that both the employee and his/her/their supervisor are satisfied with the transfer.
5. Extended Introductory Periods. In special situations, such as absence during the introductory period because of extended sickness or accident by either the supervisor or employee, the introductory period may be extended if an extension is deemed to be in the best interest of both the employee and the Library. The length of any such extension shall be based on the recommendation of the employee’s supervisor with the approval of the Human Relations & Employee Relations and Experience designee and the Deputy Director.
6. Adjustments. Employees in the Introductory Period are treated as any other employees regarding cost of living adjustments and benefits.

Administrative Procedure 311.02 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-95, 7-23)

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311.03 Promotion During Introductory Period

It is recommended that employees complete their introductory period before applying for promotion or lateral transfer. However, introductory status shall not automatically prohibit an employee from making such an application. Any promotion or transfer awarded an employee during his/her/their introductory period will require the establishment of a new introductory period of up to six months consistent with FLSA classification effective with the date of the appointment to the new position.

Administrative Procedure 311.03 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-23)

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311.04 Outside Employment

The Library has no objection to employees accepting second jobs unless such jobs have negative effects on the employees’ abilities to satisfy the job-related requirements of their positions at the Library or involve the use of confidential information learned directly or indirectly through employment at the Library. Because of scheduling considerations, employees who hold or plan to hold a second job should advise their immediate supervisor. Should outside employment appear to interfere with or prevent an employee from fully discharging the responsibilities of his/her/their position with the Library, the situation will be called to the attention of the employee with the expectation that adjustments necessary to permit satisfactory service to the Library will be made.

Administrative Procedure 311.04 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 9-96, 7-23)

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311.05 Retirement Age

For those participating in the Kansas City Public School Retirement System, the retirement age for members retiring on or after June 30, 1999 and hired prior to January 1, 2014 is 60 years old or must have at least 75 credits. For members hired after January 1, 2014 the age is 62 years old or must have at least 80 credits. See 307.06 for Retirement Plan.

For Social Security, full retirement age is the age at which a person may first become entitled to full or unreduced retirement benefits. No matter what one’s full retirement age (also called "normal retirement age") is, one may start receiving benefits as early as age 62 or as late as age 70.

Social Security allows anyone to retire at any time between age 62 and full retirement age. However, if a person starts benefits early, benefits are reduced a fraction of a percent for each month before full retirement age.

Administrative Procedure 311.05 (Adopted 7-23 / Rev. 8-23)

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311.06 Exit Interview

It is recommended that exiting employees complete an Exit Interview form (found on the Staff Hub) close to their last day of employment and send that to the Director of Employee Success. Resigning, retiring, or dismissed employees may also elect to participate in an exit interview conducted by a member of the Library's Human Relations and Employee Experience Department sometime during the last week of employment. The exit interview is an opportunity for the employee to convey their thoughts regarding work experience at the Library and to offer any suggestions for improved operations.

The employee may elect to have the content of the exit interview remain confidential or be shared with appropriate other parties.

Administrative Procedure 311.06 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7/00, 9/23)

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311.07 Attendance

All Library staff members are expected to be punctual and to keep absences and tardiness to a minimum. Employees should be at their workstation on time and ready to begin work at the beginning of each shift. When this is not possible, employees should follow specific guidelines for notification provided by their supervisor or department manager.

Tardiness. Tardiness is defined as any occasion when an employee is expected to have started his/her shift a given time ready to work and is not. . When an employee expects to be late because of illness or an emergency, the employee should notify his/her supervisor before the start of work and give a projected arrival time.

An employee is required to notify the supervisory if the tardiness converts into a day of absence. If the supervisor is not available, contact the next level of supervision so that accommodations can be made to cover the work-station.

Absenteeism. Absenteeism is defined as any absence from an assigned shift(s) which was not requested and approved in advance by the employee's supervisor. Normally, "advance" means on or before the previous day. Excessive absenteeism is defined as two or more occasions per calendar month after an employee’s introductory period.

When an unexpected absence arises because of illness or an emergency, the employee must notify his/her supervisor before the start of work, or if that person is not available, the next level of supervision, so that schedule changes and coverage can be arranged.

Unreported absence is subject to a written warning after one day and will be considered as a resignation (job abandonment) after three consecutive days.

General Provisions. The supervisor is responsible for keeping records of absences and tardiness. Records, however, must be available for review by the employee, the Deputy Directors and Human Resources. Employees who are either tardy or absent during the introductory period will be evaluated on an individual basis. Depending on the circumstances, an employee may be separated during the introductory periods due to absences and/or, tardiness.

Employees who become ill or who must attend to an emergency situation while at work should advise their supervisor before leaving work. If the supervisor is unavailable, the employee should contact the acting supervisor for approval before leaving.

After proper warnings, an employee may be terminated for excessive absenteeism or tardiness even if proper notice of absences and tardiness has been given by telephone or other notification.

Administrative Procedure 311.07 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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311.08 Work Rules/Rules of Conduct

The Library expects employees to exhibit regular and prompt attendance and cooperative attitudes and actions. Certain rules of conduct are essentially for fairness, equity and productivity of all personnel.

In addition to pertinent guidelines covered throughout the 300 series, misconduct that will subject employees to discipline up to and including dismissal includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Stealing or attempting to steal the property of the Library, Library users, or Library employees; or intentionally destroying Library property.
2. Accessing, releasing, discussing or misusing privileged or confidential information without prior authorization.
3. Violating the Library's equal employment opportunity guidelines and/or policies on sexual, racial or other harassment or abuse of a fellow worker.
4. Misrepresenting recorded hours worked or intentionally accepting pay for hours not worked.
5. Insubordination: failing to carry out any reasonable order of a superior or verbally abusing a superior.
6. Offensive conduct or language toward the public or fellow employees, including the disregarding of good customer relations.
7. Appearing on library grounds with an unauthorized firearm or weapon.
8. Excessive absenteeism or tardiness. Abuse of sick leave or approved leave-of-absence.
9. Misuse of Library supplies or equipment.
10. Violating substance use policies.

It is recognized that other behavior not specifically covered in the preceding material may warrant discipline up to and including dismissal. Activities not expressly covered in these rules will be handled on a case-by-case basis. All employees are expected to act with good common sense and in a totally professional manner.

Administrative Procedure 311.08 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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311.09 Employee Discipline

It is impossible to outline procedures that should be uniformly followed in all instances requiring employee discipline. Further, it is recognized that appropriate disciplinary action always rests within the sound discretion of Library supervisors. Guidelines have been established in the interests of providing supervisors with a basic outline for effective counseling and discipline.

Administrative Procedure 311.09 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-91)

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311.10 General Principles and Processing of Disciplinary Actions

1. Library employees have a personal responsibility to meet reasonable standards of performance and behavior.
2. Discipline for sub-standard performance or inappropriate behavior should be corrective rather than punitive. The goal of any disciplinary action is to influence an employee to choose on-the-job behavior that assures effective job performance.
3. Any type of disciplinary action, including immediate suspension or dismissal, may be invoked for serious misconduct.
4. Disciplinary actions may take the form of counseling, written warnings, a decision-making leave, probation and/or dismissal.
5. Because this is a progressive system of discipline, failure to correct or improve after a disciplinary step will cause subsequent discipline to proceed to the next step.
6. In determining the appropriateness of any disciplinary action, legitimate mitigating factors should be taken into account. Common mitigating considerations include, but shall not be limited to, length of service, previous work record, awareness of rules violated, impact of conduct on operations and/or the library's handling of the offense.
7. In a disciplinary session, the supervisor should:
   1. Determine and note what occurred, define inappropriate behavior, clearly state facts regarding the misconduct or failure to meet job requirements.
   2. Meet with employee in private with goal of gaining employee's agreement to solve problem.
   3. Point out specific work rule violations, sub-standard area(s) of performance or other behavior warranting counseling.
   4. Hear employee's explanations.
   5. Outline the desired behavior required, when it is required and why.
   6. Advise the employee of the next step if performance or desired behavior does not occur.

Administrative Procedure 311.10 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-91)

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311.11 Pre-Discipline/Disciplinary Practices

1. Counseling. Informal verbal counseling is recommended as a step to be taken prior to formal written discipline. Such counseling and related documentation should establish a baseline for acceptable and desired performance. A written summary of the counseling session should be drawn up and a copy given to the employee. Unless followed up by subsequent disciplinary action, a record of the counseling will not become a part of the employee's official personnel records as discipline.
2. Initial Written Warning. When informal counseling has failed to produce sustained satisfactory performance or when informal counseling is determined to be an inappropriate first step in dealing with sub-standard performance or inappropriate behavior, the next step is to hold a formal discussion with the employee and issue a formal initial warning, in written form using either a memo or Discipline Action Form. Given individual circumstances, not all situations requiring employee discipline will follow the same progression. However, in most instances a written initial warning should be preceded by counseling. The warning will document the discussion with a statement including the supervisor's account of circumstances, the employee's version, agreed-upon plan for improvement, signatures of both parties and a statement advising the employee of what action will be taken if he/she fails to improve. Also, the supervisor should give the employee a copy of the written statement and advise him/her that this is the first formal step of discipline and a copy will be placed in the personnel file.
3. Advanced Written Warning. An employee receives an advanced written warning, usually after an initial written warning has been given. In some cases, the severity of an infraction may merit an advanced written warning even when other steps have not been taken in the disciplinary process. At the time of the advanced written warning, an employee may be placed in a probationary period when it appears to management that the guidelines or description of the employee's expected standards of performance are unclear. Probationary periods will not exceed 60 days in length and may be divided in 2 week increments in which specific goals must be met.
4. Decision-Making Leave. If the date set for reviewing performance has arrived and the employee is found to be incapable or unwilling to perform satisfactorily, he or she may be placed on a paid, one-day decision-making leave, upon the advice of Human Resources. In some cases, a decision-making leave may be the first step of discipline. In other circumstances a decision-making leave may not be considered appropriate. In administering a decision-making leave, the supervisor should:
   1. Inform the employee of the Decision-Making Leave and explain that continued employment with the Library subsequent to the leave is conditional upon the employee's decision to solve the problem and make a total commitment to acceptable performance on the job.
   2. Instruct the employee to return after the decision-making leave and report directly to the supervisor with his/her decision to either change and stay with the Library or quit and find more satisfying work elsewhere. Any decision other than the decision to stay with the Library and make all necessary changes will result in immediate dismissal.
   3. Document the discussion in writing, including agreed-upon action plan and provide signatures of both parties.
   4. Give copy to employee and forward copy through appropriate supervisory channels to Human Resources to file in employee's personnel records.
5. To Grieve Discipline. If at any stage in disciplinary proceedings an employee feels his/her supervisor is unjustly attempting to apply discipline, he/she may call for a hearing. To obtain a hearing, an employee should follow procedures set out in Section 322.01 (Grievance and/or Complaint Resolution Procedure) of this manual.

Administrative Procedure 311.11 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-99)

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311.12 Dismissal

It may be necessary to dismiss an employee who does not adapt to the policies of the Kansas City Public Library or meet performance standards. In most instances such action shall be taken only after the employee has been warned in writing about his/her performance or conduct. The "Discipline/Counseling Statement" form may be used to facilitate this process. It will normally be signed by the supervisor and acknowledged or signed by the employee, then added to the staff member's personnel file. The employee will receive a copy.

Severance Pay. Staff members who have been employed by the Library for at least one year will be given two week's pay, dismissal effective immediately (unless terminated for gross misconduct). Terminated employees are to leave the Library immediately.

Gross Misconduct. In some extreme circumstances, an employee may be dismissed without warning and with no severance pay, for example: in cases of violation of the law, willful destruction of property, falsification of application, or similar serious infractions.

Hearing Process. To protect individual rights, the employee may ask for a hearing with the Library Director. Such request should be in writing to the Director within five calendar days after dismissal notice is given. The Library Director's decision shall be administratively binding.

Administrative Procedure 311.12 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 7-99)

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312.01 Public Relations
312.02 Telephone Courtesy
312.03 Closing Procedures
312.04 Reporting Accidents
312.05 Dress Code
312.06 Eating
312.07 Smoking
312.08 Drug, Marijuana, and Alcohol use
312.09 Personal Use of Library Equipment
312.10 Use of Staff Time

312.01 Public Relations

All staff who have person-to-person or other contact with the public are required to deal with customers in a pleasant, courteous and business-like manner. Reliable guidelines for good public relations include, but are not limited to, responding promptly, cordially greeting visitors, addressing customers by name when possible, giving one's own first or last name when requested and in general making an effort to make the customer's contact with the Library a pleasant one.

Administrative Procedure 312.01 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-99)

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312.02 Telephone Courtesy

The Library considers telephone service to be as important a public service as any other business conducted. Guidelines include a prompt response, distinct diction, pleasant voice, identification of one's department, provision of one's first or last name if requested and minimizing the amount of time a caller is on hold. All are considered necessary elements in meeting Library expectations.

Administrative Procedure 312.02 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-95)

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312.03 Closing Procedures

Staff at the Main Library and all branches should be scheduled as late as their services are likely to be required. Staff may begin turning lights out at closing time in areas where there are no customers. A few minutes before closing, staff should go through the Library and help customers finish finding materials. No customer should be turned away from the Library until closing time.

Staff should be responsive to customers who are just coming into the Library and need something special. Staff should help customers who are in the Library past closing time in a courteous fashion. For security reasons, employees should include safety and security procedures in their individual department or location closing procedures.

Administrative Procedure 312.03 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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312.04 Reporting Accidents

Any employee or customer accident occurring on Library property (or in the line of duty by an employee who may be off Library property) must be reported within 24 hours to the appropriate Deputy Director, the Director and the Finance Office (and Human Resources Director for employee accidents) giving the person's name, place and time of accident, how it occurred and names of witnesses. Good judgment should be exercised in calling for appropriate outside emergency assistance (9ll). Accidents resulting in severe injury to an employee or customer must be verbally reported immediately with a written report within 24 hours. An Incident Form is required for all accidents.

Administrative Procedure 312.04 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-98)

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312.05 Dress Code

Because of the Library’s varied work assignments and working conditions, it is not practical to establish specific and absolute criteria as to what is or is not appropriate dress. Each staff member’s dress and grooming should be appropriate for the Library’s public services environment and in keeping with their work assignment. Health and safety standards must also be considered in dressing for work. Supervisors will discuss inappropriate dress with individual staff members and are available to clarify expectations.

Clothing and accessories must be neat and clean. Staff members working with the public or in office settings open to the public, must dress appropriately for a casual business environment. Staff who primarily shelve materials, work outdoors, or whose work is confined to the back-office areas may dress more casually, but standards still apply.

• Closed toe shoes should be worn especially for staff who must transport items or move book carts. Steel toe/safety shoes are recommended for facility employees. No Flip Flops.
• Shorts may be worn only when performing courier, landscape maintenance, or outdoor programming/events duties.
• Clothing should appropriately cover and conceal underwear.
• Business Casual attire means jeans or pants, dresses, skirts, sweaters or blouses.
• All Clothing should be well maintained, free of excessive tears, fading or fraying.
• T-shirts or shirts with Library related logos and/or activities are appropriate.
• Unacceptable attire includes tank top, shirt or blouse which is torn or transparent.
• Name badges will be worn during work hours in all public services areas.
• Clothing and grooming styles dictated by religion or ethnicity are consistent with the Library’s public services image.

Administrative Procedure 312.05 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-98, 9-15, 11-21)

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312.06 Eating

Eating in public areas is restricted during work time and generally discouraged. Because the presence of food can cause damage and be detrimental to the building and its collections by encouraging vermin, eating is usually confined to designated eating areas such as employee lounges or kitchens. Special permission may be granted by the employee's supervisor for special occasions. Proper cleaning up is required in all cases.

Administrative Procedure 312.06 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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312.07 Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in the Library, in Library vehicles, and in Library entranceways and areas.

Administrative Procedure 312.07 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-99)

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312.08 Drug, Marijuana, and Alcohol use

Employee Expectations. Employees are expected and required to report to work on time and in appropriate mental and physical condition for work. It is our intent and obligation to provide a drug-free, healthful, safe, and secure work environment.

Reporting. Employees must, as a condition of employment, report any conviction under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring on or off Library premises while conducting library business. A report of a conviction must be made within five (5) days after the conviction. (This requirement is mandated by the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988).

PProhibitions. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance on library premises or while conducting library business off library premises is absolutely prohibited. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, and may have legal consequences.

Testing.

1. When in the Library's judgment, there is reasonable suspicion that an employee has reported to work or is working impaired as a result of the use of drugs, controlled substances, marijuana or alcohol, the employee may be required to submit to screening.
2. Employees involved in a management referral to the Employee Assistance Program in which substance use is involved as a primary or secondary issue, may be required to submit to screening periodically as a condition of continued employment.
3. Refusal to submit to substance screening will be considered an act of insubordination and may result in termination.

Screening Results. The screening of all urine and blood samples submitted in accordance with this policy will be performed by qualified and certified testing laboratories. The test results will be reviewed to determine if there is evidence of the use of drugs, controlled substances, marijuana, or alcohol. The test results will be treated in strict confidence. The laboratory will advise the Library only whether the test results were positive (indicative of the presence of drugs, controlled substances, marijuana or alcohol) or negative. No test results will be released to any other party without the written authorization of the employee who was screened.

Employees who have positive test results will be required to be assessed by a substance abuse professional approved or provided by the Library and shall complete any recommended treatment. Refusal to undergo an assessment, to comply with treatment recommendations, or to follow through with treatment will result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

Employee Assistance Program. The Library recognizes that drug and alcohol dependency is a treatable health problem. Employees needing assistance in dealing with such a problem are encouraged to consult with their manager and/or Human Resources to obtain information on the availability of resources, treatment clinics and programs.

Employees who seek assistance through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will not be disciplined for doing so. However, it is the employee's responsibility to seek assistance before they have become subject to discipline for a violation of the drug, marijuana, and alcohol abuse policy.

An employee who has a valid medical marijuana patient ID card for (1) the off-site use of medical marijuana during non-working hours or (2) testing positive for marijuana is protected from discrimination and adverse action with the exception if the employee uses, possesses, or is under the influence of medical marijuana at work or during the hours of employment

Administrative Procedure 312.08 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 9-96, 7-23)

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312.09 Personal Use of Library Equipment

Library telephones, copiers, fax machines, personal computers and other office equipment and communication media are intended for Library business. Use of this equipment for personal communication (including telefacsimile and e-mail) should be extremely limited and employees are responsible for any associated fees, costs or charges. Such personal use should never occur from a public service desk.

Administrative Procedure 312.09 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-95)

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312.10 Use of Staff Time

Library employees are expected to devote time on the job entirely to their assigned responsibilities. Personal conversations, personal e-mail use, telephone conversations, performance of duties related to other organizations or interests should be conducted during breaks or lunch and dinner periods only. Inappropriate use of staff time may result in disciplinary action.

Administrative Procedure 312.10 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 7-00)

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313.01 Library System Closings for Inclement Conditions
313.02 Committee/Task Force Participation
313.03 Staff Association
313.05 First Aid
313.06 Retirement and Related Parties
313.07 Agents and Salespersons 313.08 Temporary Remote Work Procedure

313.01 Library System Closings for Inclement Conditions

Generally, the Library will not close for inclement weather conditions. Information concerning any closing of the Library will be given via Library Website, Library email, Library weather hotline 816.701.3599; and over social media. In addition, supervisors are responsible for keeping an accurate contact list of employees to be used in case of a library closing. If employees are unable to obtain the information, they should call their supervisor for the latest information. Determination of whether to close the Library will be made by the Library Director, or designee. If no notice is given, it is assumed that the Library will be open as usual.

Administrative Procedure 313.01 (Adopted 8-6 / Rev. 7-00, 02-19)

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313.02 Committee/Task Force Participation

The Library encourages staff interaction and development through involvement in committees, work/user groups and task forces. Frequently, participation in such group activities may be a function of the staff member's position, while participation in other activities may be voluntary.

Employees must obtain the approval of their immediate supervisor before committing to any in-house group activities and must have the additional approval of their Deputy Director for activities, committees, etc., outside of the Library.

Participation is open to the entire staff, but employees interested in voluntary activities should check with their supervisors before making a commitment to ensure that supervisors can provide the necessary flexibility in scheduling.

The intended purpose of the committee/task force structure is to:

1. improve overall communication and increase interdepartmental interaction;
2. increase the number of opportunities for staff from all levels of the Library to participate in skill development and continuing education;
3. enable staff to develop group interaction and leadership skills; and to
4. provide an opportunity for greater staff participation in decision making.

Administrative Procedure 313.02 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 9-96)

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313.03 Staff Association

This procedure is under revision.

Administrative Procedure 313.03 (Adopted 8-86)

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313.05 First Aid

First aid kits are available at all Library locations. Aid for more serious injuries falls under Workers Compensation provisions and immediate attention should be obtained in accordance with those guidelines. Should an employee become severely ill at work, first aid should be limited to making the employee comfortable until such time that he or she is able to leave the premises with or without assistance.

Administrative Procedure 313.05 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-02)

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313.06 Retirement and Related Parties

"Sponsored" parties are defined as those in which funding is available from the Library's Activity Fund. Staff contributions, proceeds from vending machines and other donations finance the Activity Fund.

Regular full or part-time status employees are eligible to be honored with a Library sponsored retirement party if he or she meets certain criteria. Criteria includes the employee meeting or exceeding the "rule of 75," (meaning age and years of service combined equal 75) AND the recipient has been employed with the Library for at least 10 years.

For employees who do not meet the above criteria, the individual's department or branch may choose to honor the person with its own gift and/or party for such things as resignations, birthdays, etc. Lunch and break times may be utilized for this purpose.

Holiday celebratory parties "sponsored" by the Library shall also fall within financial guidelines set annually by the Library Director and the Finance Director.

Administrative Procedure 313.06 (Adopted 12-87 / Rev. 9-99)

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313.07 Agents and Salespersons

Agents and salespersons on other than Library business are not allowed to transact business with staff members during work time.

Administrative Procedure 313.07 (Adopted 8-86 / Rev. 12-91)

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313.08 Temporary Remote Work Procedure

This procedure is under revision.

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The Library shall establish and maintain a personnel file for each paid full-time and part-time employee including temporary staff. Personnel files shall contain an employee's original application for employment, basic identifying information, employment references, resume, job description, appointment letter, applicable employment test results, salary and salary change information, performance evaluations, records related to education and training, awards and honors, letters of commendation, disciplinary records, pertinent medical records and any other records deemed necessary to the effective administration, development and employment of the Library's human resources. Objective and adequate documentation for personnel administration purposes shall be the standard for determining each employee's personnel file contents.

Board Policy 315 (Adopted 7-89)

315.01 Personnel File Maintenance
315.02 Retention of Records
315.03 Internal Access to Records
315.04 External Access to Records
315.05 Employee Access to Personnel Files
315.06 Other Records

315.01 Personnel File Maintenance

Personnel files shall be consistently maintained according to sound personnel practice and current legal requirements to assure that they are accurate, relevant and safe from improper disclosure. File maintenance shall be the responsibility of Human Resources. Library supervisors shall be responsible for supplying file copies of pertinent records originating with them.

It is essential that staff members report any changes affecting their personnel records without delay. Employees should notify Human Resources, as well as their immediate supervisors, of any changes in home address, telephone number, name, marital status, number of dependents or other relevant personal data. Incorrect information may cause problems concerning taxes, benefits or other important matters. Human Resources reserves the right to ask for documentation for certain changes.

Administrative Procedure 315.01 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 12-02)

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315.02 Retention of Records

The Library shall permanently retain all personnel and medical records for current and former Library employees with the following exceptions:

Outside Requests for Information—Prior 2 years

Formal Employment References—Duration of employment

Diplomas and Transcripts—Duration of employment/Discard

Garnishments and Child Support Orders—Prior 2 years

The employment applications of external candidates who have not been hired shall be retained for 12 months/1 year after the initial date of application.

Administrative Procedure 315.02 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 12-02)

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315.03 Internal Access to Records

All paper personnel files shall be kept in a secure area in Human Resources and shall be locked when unattended. Direct access to personnel records shall be limited to authorized individuals within the Human Resources Department. Electronic records shall be maintained by staff in Human Resources with direct access limited to authorized personnel.

Managers and supervisors considering current employees for position openings, will have access to specific records on a need-to-know basis upon request to Human Resources.

No changes may be made to information contained in personnel files without authorization from the Library Director or Human Resources. Employees will be made aware of any changes not self-initiated with the exception of confidential management documents as described in Section 315.05.

All materials contained in paper personnel files must be dated and signed by appropriate parties, especially salary changes and performance reviews.

Personnel files are not normally allowed out of the Human Resources Department unless required for legal proceedings; whenever possible copies will be made for this purpose.

Administrative Procedure 315.03 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 7-99)

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315.04 External Access to Records

Any contact from external sources requesting information contained in a current or former employee's personnel file must receive written clearance from the employee or former employee before any information will be released by the Library.

The only exceptions are:

1. Requests to verify the employment of active employees.
2. A positive response to verify salary to legitimate credit source inquiries. (In complying with these two types of requests, "directory information" may be included if asked for. "Directory information" is limited to dates of employment and job title.)
3. Requests from law enforcement officials concerning an employee's dates of attendance and home address.
4. Compliance with subpoenas.
5. In the exercise of the Library's responsibilities as an employer, employment information including earnings and other compensation may be disclosed to governmental agencies or others to assure compliance with laws and rules and to verify employment information relating to valid requests for that information from governmental agencies.

Normally, requests for additional information regarding former employees such as a summary of job duties, reason for termination or eligibility for rehire will not be answered. Unique requests should be directed to the Director of Human Resources.

Administrative Procedure 315.04 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 12-02)

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315.05 Employee Access to Personnel Files

Employees and former employees (with a written request) have the right to inspect and copy most information contained in their personnel files. Individuals will be given access to their files only in the presence of authorized staff and at a mutually convenient time and place. Copies of documents or complete files will be provided on a fee basis when requested in writing and with adequate timing. Requests may be made by non-active employees or proper representatives of employees and former employees. The Director of Human Resources and the Library's Executive Director reserve the right to remove certain sensitive information including items related to ongoing security or criminal investigations, supporting documentation regarding legal proceedings and other confidential management documents before granting access to the file.

Individuals who question the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in their files should bring such matters to the attention of management in writing. The Human Resources Director, in consultation with the employee's supervisor, when appropriate, will consider the employee's objections and correct or remove erroneous or improper information. If management makes the decision to retain the disputed information in the file, the employee is entitled to place a brief statement in the record identifying the alleged errors or inaccuracies.

Administrative Procedure 315.05 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 7-99)

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315.06 Other Records

The Library maintains records in addition to those described in previous sections of the 315 series that are not maintained in open employee personnel files. Following is a list of those records, location and appropriate retention period.

Exit interviews—Human Resources Department—One year after termination date

Payroll records—Finance Department—Indefinite/Indefinite

Attendance/time records—Finance Department—Indefinite/Indefinite

INS I-9 forms—Human Resources Department—Duration of employment/with employment file.

Interview records—Human Resources Department&—12 months from date of application

Health insurance forms—Human Resources Department—Duration of employment/discard

Medical records—Human Resources Department—Indefinite/Indefinite

Administrative Procedure 315.06 (Adopted 12-88 / Rev. 12-02)

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Resignation is a voluntary termination of employment from the Library with notice on the part of the employee. Any Library employee who desires to resign their position shall submit, in writing, a letter of resignation which indicates the date which the employee intends as their last day at work. The Board of Trustees recognizes that an orderly resignation process including advance notice is necessary to minimize the impact on Library service. The Library Director shall establish and maintain administrative procedures consistent with this policy.

Library Board Policy 320 (Adopted 8-85 / Rev. 11-21)

320.01 Resignation Procedure

Notice of resignation will be submitted in writing to the supervisor. Resignations should be considered as “accepted” with no further written correspondence from the Library. Employees are encouraged to give a minimum of two weeks’ notice. Managers and Directors are encouraged to give four weeks’ notice. Employees who are eligible to retire and planning to do so will provide a minimum of thirty-day notice.

Employees are expected to maintain a high degree of productivity during their notice period. The resignation notice period should be used to complete open projects or to prepare one’s successor to continue with one’s work without severe interruption. In addition, this time should be used to document in writing all practices and procedures and to develop training guides used in one’s position or job.

Except at the discretions of the Library Director or designee, vacation or other recognized leave will not be considered as part of the notice period.

Administrative Procedure 320.01 (Adopted 12-02 / Rev. 1-22)

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The Library Director shall establish administrative procedures to deal effectively and equitably with any employee grievance or complaint. Such procedures shall be reviewed and approved by the Board of Trustees. Ideally grievance or complaint issues should be resolved to the mutual satisfaction of all parties at the lowest level of supervision. When this is not possible, the established grievance or complaint procedure shall be followed. Nothing in the grievance or complaint resolution procedure shall preclude the individual from seeking other legal remedies, including appeal to the policy making authority of the Library Board.

Library Board Policy 322 (Adopted 9-89)

322.01 Grievance and/or Complaint Resolution Procedure

If an employee has good cause to believe that he or she has been treated or disciplined unfairly or in a manner inconsistent with Library policy, the following procedure should be utilized to achieve fair and equitable resolution of the matter at the lowest possible supervisory or administrative level.

Step 1: The employee should discuss the situation with her/his immediate supervisor who will attempt to resolve the matter within the framework of established policy, and administrative procedure.

Step 2: If the employee's supervisor is unable to resolve the problem, the employee has the right to have her/his problem informally reviewed by the next level of supervision.

Step 3: If the matter is still unresolved to the satisfaction of the employee, she/he may file a formal grievance or complaint. The grievance must be filed in writing within thirty (30) calendar days after the event or occurrence giving rise to the alleged grievance took place or within thirty (30) calendar days from the date on which the employee should have reasonably known of its occurrence.

The written grievance must include (1) a statement of the specific problem and/or complaint; (2) the Library policy violated or a statement as to why the employee feels the situation represents unfair or inequitable treatment; (3) all facts relevant to the problem and/or complaint; (4) a recommended solution; and (5) evidence establishing that all reasonable informal avenues to achieve a solution have been attempted. A copy must be forwarded to the Director of Human Resources at the time it is filed.

Step 4: The formal written grievance must be submitted to the appropriate Deputy Director within the time frame outlined in Step 3. The Deputy Director will conduct any necessary interviews and respond in writing to the grievance within five (5) working days from the date of receipt.

Step 5: If Step 4 does not resolve the grievance to the employee's satisfaction, the employee may appeal the decision within five (5) working days to the Library Director. The appeal must include a copy of the original grievance and any subsequent communication or documentation, including the written response from the Deputy Director. The Director will respond to the appeal in writing within five (5) working days from the date of receipt of the appeal and the Director's decision shall be administratively binding.

All employees of the Library are entitled to the above enumerated due process steps and fair consideration of their viewpoint under this procedure. No reprisals of any kind will be taken against any employee for participating in the grievance process.

Administrative Procedure 322.01 (Adopted 10-89 / Rev. 7-99)

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