Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Manhattan Public Library - Kansas ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://mhklibrary.org/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Building New Traditions through Books](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/12/building-new-traditions-through-books/): Building New Traditions through Books - [Baby’s First Book Recommendation](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/11/babys-first-book-recommendation/): Baby’s First Book Recommendation - [Winter Reading](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/11/winter-reading/): Winter Reading - [Native American Heritage Month](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/10/native-american-heritage-month/): Native American Heritage Month - [Calling All Bourbon Aficionados](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/10/calling-all-bourbon-aficionados/): Calling All Bourbon Aficionados - [Cozy Up with a Cup of Fantasy](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/10/cozy-up-with-a-cup-of-fantasy/): Cozy Up with a Cup of Fantasy - [Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/09/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month/): Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month - [Playing Detective with Epistolary Fiction](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/09/playing-detective-with-epistolary-fiction/): Playing Detective with Epistolary Fiction - [Books for Struggling or Reluctant Readers](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/08/books-for-struggling-or-reluctant-readers/): Books for Struggling or Reluctant Readers - [2025 Bookmark Design Contest](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/08/2025-bookmark-design-contest/): Ever flipped through a great library book and found a beautifully designed bookmark inside? Imagine that bookmark was yours. This September, during National Library Card Sign-Up Month, we’re giving young artists a chance to make their mark — literally — with the 2025 Bookmark Design Contest at Manhattan Public Library. - [Finding Your Happily Ever After](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/08/finding-your-happily-ever-after/): Finding Your Happily Ever After - [I Forgot](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/07/i-forgot/): I Forgot - [Light Reads for Summer](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/07/light-reads-for-summer/): Light Reads for Summer - [Booklist: Many Colored Pages](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/06/booklist-many-colored-pages/): Booklist: Many Colored Pages - [Expanding Space, Growing Gratitude](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/06/expanding-space-growing-gratitude/): Manhattan Public Library Receives Help from Youth Volunteers We’re excited to share a big behind-the-scenes update: our volunteer book sorters officially have a new home base! With some changes we have made to our library’s lower level, we were able to transform a section of that space into a dedicated work area for sorting donated books—an essential task that supports our Rosie's Corner bookstore and our annual spring booksale. This move wouldn’t have been possible without the help of 28 outstanding student volunteers from Kansas State University’s TRiO Upward Bound program. These students traveled from Salina and surrounding areas to lend a hand—and despite a booming thunderstorm, they helped us move and reorganize hundreds of items with enthusiasm and care. Over the course of the evening, volunteers moved 190 empty boxes, 170 full boxes, and a long list of bulky items—including shelving units, book carts, tables, chairs, a file cabinet, flat carts, and even a set of rolling stairs. It was a massive team effort, and their hard work helped us accomplish in one evening what would have taken us days. Upward Bound is a federally funded college preparation program that supports high school students in achieving their postsecondary goals. The program provides academic enrichment, personal mentoring, and guidance on college applications, financial aid, and scholarships. The students who helped us came from schools across the region, including Clay Center Community High School, Clay Center; Ell-Saline Middle-High School, Brookville; Lincoln Junior and Senior High School, Lincoln; and Newton High School, Newton. Throughout the Summer Upward Bound students participate in rigorous academic programming—and community service projects like ours. Why This Move Mattered Our previous sorting space—though carefully organized—was significantly smaller, and it limited how many volunteers could work comfortably at once. With donations coming in year-round and sorting happening continuously behind the scenes, we’ve long needed a space that allowed for more flexibility and breathing room. This newly opened area offers just that. Volunteers will now be able to spread out, sort and process donations more efficiently, and better prepare materials for both ongoing sales at Rosie’s Corner and our annual book sale in the spring. It's a simple change, but a meaningful one—and the result will be felt by our library supporters and shoppers all year long. We’re so grateful to the Upward Bound volunteers who made this transition possible. Your time, effort, and energy were a gift to our team—and a reminder of how powerful community support can be.     - [Will You Be My Neighbor? Community and Unity in Picture Books](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/06/will-you-be-my-neighbor-community-and-unity-in-picture-books/): Will You Be My Neighbor? Community and Unity in Picture Books - [Stronger Than the Storm: Supporting Grinnell, KS](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/06/stronger-than-the-storm-supporting-grinnell-ks/): When a powerful EF-3 tornado swept through Grinnell, Kansas, it left behind a trail of devastation—but also inspired an outpouring of support from people near and far. Here at our library, many of you immediately asked: How can we help? In response to the disaster, our library, along with the Manhattan Library Association, has gathered and sent a collection of high-quality children’s and youth books, carefully chosen from donated materials. We want to give a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who contributed, and especially to our dedicated team of book sorters who took on the thoughtful task of picking out books that could provide a sense of comfort, continuity, and joy during such a difficult time. Your time, care, and generosity are what make efforts like this possible. - [Exploring Art and Colors This Summer](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/06/exploring-art-and-colors-this-summer/): Exploring Art and Colors This Summer - [Booklist: Mental Health Awareness](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/05/booklist-mental-health-awareness/): Booklist: Mental Health Awareness - [Sourdough Stories at Your Library](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/04/sourdough-stories-at-your-library/): Sourdough Stories at Your Library - [Gender Diversity in Fiction](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/04/gender-diversity-in-fiction/): Gender Diversity in Fiction - [A Legacy of Service: Marlene Moormann’s 43 Years](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/03/a-legacy-of-service-marlene-moormanns-43-years/): Marlene working hard by hand preparing books for our collection. - [Spring Gardening](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/03/spring-gardening/): Spring Gardening - [The Women of Art History](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/03/the-women-of-art-history/): The Women of Art History - [The bridge between the library and your hobbies.](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/02/the-bridge-between-the-library-and-your-hobbies/): The bridge between the library and your hobbies. - [Chilling reads for chillier days](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/01/chilling-reads-for-chillier-days/): Chilling reads for chillier days - [New Year, New You? Definitely New TBR](https://mhklibrary.org/2025/01/new-year-new-you-definitely-new-tbr/): New Year, New You? Definitely New TBR - [A Message from Our Director](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/12/a-message-from-our-director/): A Message from Our Director - [Winter Reading Challenge 2025](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/12/winter-reading-challenge-2025/): Winter Reading Challenge 2025 - [Cozy Up With Healing Novels](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/11/cozy-up-with-healing-novels/): Cozy Up With Healing Novels  - [Teaching Literary Terms and Devices with Children’s Picture Books](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/11/teaching-literary-terms-and-devices-with-childrens-picture-books/): Teaching Literary Terms and Devices with Children’s Picture Books - [To Read If You’re Being Stalked](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/11/to-read-if-youre-being-stalked/): To Read If You're Being Stalked - [Books By The “King”](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/10/spooky-season-stephen-king/): Spooky Season = Stephen King - [October Reads](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/10/october-reads/): October Reads By Savannah Winkler, Adult Services Librarian When the season begins to change, I often find myself remembering one of my favorite literary quotes: “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” This quote comes from L.M. Montgomery’s classic novel “Anne of Green Gables,” in which a young orphan (Anne) begins a new life on a farm in Prince Edward Island. In the same passage, Anne admires the royal crimson orchard, the golden sunshine, and the maple branches she wants to use to decorate her bedroom walls. According to Anne, it would be terrible if we “skipped from September to November.” I have to agree with her. Life simply wouldn’t be as enjoyable without Octobers. The fall season is made even more enjoyable with a good selection of books to read. So, for this list of recommendations, I thought why not combine two of my favorite things: books and October. I read the children’s book “Small Spaces” by Katherine Arden a few years ago, and now it tops my list whenever I think of the quintessential October story. Sixth grader Ollie couldn’t have predicted the consequences of stealing an old book from a strange woman. Inside the book is a warning to “avoid large places at night...keep to small” and eerie tales about “the smiling man.” However, it’s not until later, on a school field trip to a local farm, that Ollie begins to understand the book’s messages. Amongst a haunting field full of scarecrows, Ollie learns that “the smiling man” may be real after all. I highly recommend “Small Spaces” for some autumnal and lightly creepy reading. I have to admit that before writing this article, I had never picked up an Alice Hoffman book before. If you’re not already familiar, Hoffman is the author of the best-selling “Practical Magic” series. The books in the series include: “Practical Magic,” “Magic Lessons,” “The Rules of Magic,” and “The Book of Magic.” Each novel follows a different member of the Owens family and their magically complicated lives. Since the 1600s, the Owens women have practiced witchcraft. In “Practical Magic,” sisters Sally and Gillian, raised by their aunts in their whimsical home, are all too familiar with love potions and special herbs. Now in adulthood, they must use their magical knowledge in the face of loss and grief. Hoffman’s mystical and lush writing style is perfect for October. If you enjoy the books, you may also want to check out the library’s copy of the “Practical Magic” film, starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. Maybe you’re someone who enjoys the spooky more than the cozy. Don’t worry, there’s plenty for you at the library. Although not actually set in October, “The September House” by Carissa Orlando will still get you in the mood for the season. The story follows Margaret as she prepares for another September in her large Victorian mansion. Margaret’s home isn’t like most. Every September, the mansion’s walls ooze blood, and the ghosts come out of their hiding spots. After years of these occurrences, Margaret’s husband finally leaves. But Margaret is determined to stay…no matter what. If you need more tales about haunted houses, “The Silent Companions” by Laura Purcell and “When Ghosts Call Us Home” by Katya de Becerra are two other options for a chilling October night. Lastly, this wouldn’t be a fall reading list if I didn’t mention some of the many season-inspired picture books in our Children’s collection. “The Scarecrow’s Dance” by Jane Yolen is an atmospheric story about a scarecrow who gives up his post to enjoy an evening dance across his field. If your little one is excited about carving pumpkins, then “Too Many Pumpkins” by Linda White and “Ready for Pumpkins” by Kate Duke are two fun options to read together. And lastly, “I Got the Spooky Spirit” by Connie Schofield-Morrison is a new rhythmic book about a young girl who excitedly prepares for Halloween night. I hope this list has provided you with at least one or two festive books to enjoy this month. If you’re still looking for more ideas, consider joining in on our Danger and Donuts book discussion from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 24. Also happening this month at the library is our first ever Mystery Writing workshop. Learn how to write a mystery from experienced mystery writer Steven Miller from 6 – 7 p.m. Friday, October 18 in the auditorium. Registration is not required for either of these events. Manhattan Public Library is a cornerstone of free and equal access to a world of ideas and information for the Manhattan, Kansas, community. Learn more at mhklibrary.org. - [Freed Between The Lines](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/09/freed-between-the-lines/): Freed Between The Lines - [LEGO: Adults Can Have Fun Too](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/09/89029/): LEGO: Adults Can Have Fun Too - [Goosebumps in the Summer Heat](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/08/goosebumps-in-the-summer-heat/): Goosebumps in the Summer Heat - [Curious about Appalachia: A Booklist](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/08/curious-about-appalachia-a-booklist/): Curious about Appalachia: A Booklist - [The Fusion of Art and Story: The Magic of Graphic Novels](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/08/the-fusion-of-art-and-story-the-magic-of-graphic-novels/): The Fusion of Art and Story: The Magic of Graphic Novels - [Let’s Take a Hike: A Booklist](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/07/lets-take-a-hike-a-booklist/): Let’s Take a Hike: A Booklist - [Text, Images, and Memories: Exploring Graphic Memoirs](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/07/text-images-and-memories-exploring-graphic-memoirs/): I got into comics as a kid, then Japanese manga as a teen, but it wasn’t until a college course on “The Graphic Novel” that I read my first graphic memoir. Art Spiegelman’s “Maus,” Marjane Satrapi’s “Persepolis,” and Alison Bechdel’s “Fun Home” all amazed me with their ability to combine deeply personal intergenerational memoirs with breathtaking art. Each artist has a different style, honed to match their subject matter and provide added depth to their stories. Since then, I’ve returned to the genre periodically, drawn by the allure of seeing an author-illustrator meld their words and art to create inimitable magic. - [Special Siblings](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/06/special-siblings/): Special Siblings - [Juneteenth Booklist](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/06/juneteenth-booklist/): Juneteenth Booklist - [Literary Adventures: New Turns Down Old Roads](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/06/literary-adventures-new-turns-down-old-roads-2/): Literary Adventures: New Turns Down Old Roads - [Return of the Thunders](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/05/return-of-the-thunders/): Return of the Thunders  - [Adventure Begins at the Library this Summer](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/05/adventure-begins-at-the-library-this-summer/): Adventure Begins at the Library this Summer - [Little Apple Pride](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/04/little-apple-pride/): Little Apple Pride - [The Importance of Wordless Picture Books](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/04/the-importance-of-wordless-picture-books/): The Importance of Wordless Picture Books - [Spring Photography](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/03/88559/): Spring Photography - [Women’s History Month](https://mhklibrary.org/2024/03/womens-history-month/): Women’s History Month ## Pages - [Creation Station Feedback](https://mhklibrary.org/creation-station-feedback/): Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about the Creation Station. As we evaluate the future of this service, we would appreciate hearing about your experiences, how you used the space and equipment, and any thoughts or suggestions you would like to share. Your feedback will help inform future decisions regarding creative technology services at the library. - [Summer Reading 2026](https://mhklibrary.org/sr/): Buckle up, explorers! You’ve just entered the Unearth a Story Safari, where the giants of the past come to life in our Summer Reading Challenge. This summer, the library is your base camp, and every book is your ticket into the deep jungle. - [MessageBee Agreement](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/messagebee-agreement/): Last Updated: 01/22/2025 - [Technology Training Center](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/technology-training-center-2/): In support of its mission and goals, Manhattan Public Library provides a Technology Training Center that offers all library patrons individualized training in basic computer use and in the use of assistive computer technology if needed. The goal of the Technology Training Center is to provide training so that patrons can access and use technology successfully and independently. - [Sponsorships and Partnerships](https://mhklibrary.org/read-a-like-list/sponsorships-and-partnerships/): The library benefits from sponsorships and partnerships that enhance and improve its ability to serve customers and achieve service goals. - [Reconsideration of Materials in the Library’s Collection](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/reconsideration-of-materials-in-the-librarys-collection/): The library’s collection reflects a variety of viewpoints on a variety of subjects. Because a collection of diverse materials may result in complaints about materials or requests for reconsideration of materials, the library has a process for the reconsideration of library materials to assure that concerns are handled in an attentive and consistent manner. - [Whistle-Blower](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/whistle-blower/): The Manhattan Public Library maintains a whistle-blower policy to create a mechanism whereby, if an employee or volunteer becomes aware of a violation of policy or law regarding accounting, internal controls, or auditing matters, this can be reported without fear of retaliation. The policy will ensure that directors, employees, and volunteers are aware of the policy and understand how to report concerns. - [Volunteers](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/volunteers-2/): The Manhattan Public Library encourages and accepts the services of members of the community wishing to contribute to the library through their volunteer service. Manhattan Public Library will make use of the services of volunteers to supplement and not to replace the work done by library staff. - [Unattended Children](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/unattended-children/): A primary mission of the library is to provide a safe, secure, comfortable and convenient facility for patrons and staff. This is especially true for children who visit the library. Although staff are available to assist and provide general guidance, the library does not provide childcare services. Attaining the desired and appropriate environment for children requires the communication and cooperation of both staff and parents. - [Social Media and Web Presence](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/social-media-and-web-presence/): The Manhattan Public Library uses and participates in various media and social networking software to provide services and information and to build connections with people in the community. The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use and maintenance of the library’s digital presence. Digital presence includes websites or applications that allow users to find and share information, including social media. - [Security Camera](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/security-camera/): The Manhattan Public Library strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for staff and customers. In pursuit of this objective, selected areas of the library premises are equipped with video cameras.  The library’s video security system shall be used only for the protection and safety of customers, employees, and property, to assist in law enforcement, and review in case of suspected policy violation. The system is intended to complement and not replace other library security procedures. - [Priorities for Information Assistance](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/priorities-for-information-assistance-2/): In support of its mission and goals, Manhattan Public Library serves the community by providing excellent service with a responsive and knowledgeable staff and high-quality information resources for library users of all ages. - [Photography and Video-Recording in the Library](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/photography-and-video-recording-in-the-library-2/): In support of the library’s policies on privacy and confidentiality (MNG-1) and customer behavior, the following guidelines have been established for photography and video-recording in the library. - [Outreach](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/outreach/): Manhattan Public Library conducts outreach activities to non-profit and public organizations at offsite locations to promote the library, increase library awareness, and extend the use of library resources through the delivery of programs and services that meet the needs and interests of identified groups. Outreach events may be programs or participation at community events. - [Opioid Overdose Prevention](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/opioid-overdose-prevention/): It is the policy of Manhattan Public Library for trained staff to administer Naloxone, in accordance with state law and guidelines and oversight, to persons suffering from opioid overdose at the earliest possible time to minimize chances of a fatality. - [Meeting Room Use](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/meeting-room-use-2/): The Manhattan Public Library welcomes everyone with inviting spaces for collaborative interaction and public use. Meeting rooms are available so that people may gather to exchange ideas, access and share information and participate in community activities. Meetings and activities held in the library should be in accordance with the library’s mission and goals. All meetings and events must be free of charge for those attending. Priority for meeting room use is given to the library and library-sponsored organizations. - [Lost or Damaged Materials](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/lost-or-damaged-materials/): Patrons are responsible for returning materials in clean condition, without stains, bugs, or odors and will be charged for lost or damaged items. - [Lost and Found](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/lost-and-found/): Manhattan Public Library is not responsible for personal items left in the library by customers. When an item is left in the library, a reasonable attempt will be made to return the lost item to its owner. - [Loan Periods and Checkout Limits](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/loan-periods-and-checkout-limits/): The library allows customers with a valid Manhattan Public Library card in good standing to check out circulating materials for a defined period of time. The library establishes loan periods and limits on items in the library’s collection in order to balance user needs and demands. - [Library Programing](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/library-programing/): The Library Programming Policy outlines our philosophy and guidelines as it pertains to programming. It assures that programming at Manhattan Public Library reflects Library goals and the community needs in Manhattan. - [Library Cards and Customer Accounts](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/library-cards-and-customer-accounts-2/): A Manhattan Public Library card is required to make full use of library services, including managing user accounts, borrowing materials, and use of the library’s public access computers, and subscription online services. Library cards are issued to help the library maintain accountability of library resources and make them available to the public. - [Library Board Bylaws](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/library-board-bylaws/): This organization shall be called the "Board of Trustees of the Manhattan Public Library", existing by virtue of the provisions of Kansas Statutes Annotated 12-1220 et. seq. of the State of Kansas, and exercising the powers and authority and assuming the responsibilities delegated to it under said statute. - [Internet Access and Public Computer Safety](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/internet-access-and-public-computer-safety/): The Manhattan Public Library provides access to the Internet at public access computers in the library to support its mission, connecting everyone to the online world of information and ideas. The library also offers free wireless Internet access within the library and in the library parking lot. - [Interlibrary Loan Policy](https://mhklibrary.org/interlibrary-loan-policy/): The Manhattan Public Library (MPL) provides interlibrary loan service (ILL) to enhance and extend resources available to its users. Because the library cannot purchase or subscribe to every useful resource, ILL is an essential service to meet the information needs of the community. - [Inclement Weather and Closing](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/inclement-weather-and-closing/): The safety of library patrons and staff is the first priority during severe weather and related conditions. Conditions that may be a threat within the building or for travel may warrant the modification of service schedules or closing the building (see policy MNG7 – Emergencies and Disasters for procedures for specific emergencies). - [Homebound Services](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/homebound-services/): Manhattan Public Library (MPL) serves the reading needs of library cardholders within Manhattan city limits who are unable to come to the library on their own due to a medical condition or physical disability. - [Health and Safety](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/health-and-safety/): It is the responsibility of Manhattan Public Library to maintain a healthy and clean environment for all Library users and to protect the investment in Library collections, equipment, furniture, and property. In order to fulfill this responsibility, the Library may restrict a user’s ability to borrow materials and/or visit Library facilities when such use may jeopardize the health and cleanliness of Library facilities, collections, and users. - [Emergencies and Disasters](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/emergencies-and-disasters/): In the event of an emergency or disaster, the library’s highest priority is to minimize and/or prevent injury, loss of life, and damage to property. The impact on the delivery of public services and restoring safe work and service conditions is also important. - [Distribution of Non-Library Information](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/distribution-of-non-library-information/): In support of its role as a community information center, Manhattan Public Library maintains distribution space (a pamphlet rack, bulletin board, and shelf space) that may be used by non-profit, non-commercial organizations or groups, which share the library’s goal of serving the educational, cultural, and civic needs of the community and surrounding area. (See Policy MNG-9 Displays) - [Displays](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/displays-2/): Displays are a fundamental component of library service that: - [Customer Service](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/customer-service-2/): Manhattan Public Library staff strive at all times to provide the best personal service and a clean and welcoming facility for all library users. Staff offers services in a fair and professional manner that treat everyone with courtesy and respect. The MPL customer service experience educates, entertains, and informs. - [Customer Conduct](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/customer-conduct/): The Manhattan Public Library strives to provide the highest level of service to all library users. The following rules are set in place to protect the right of library customers to enjoy a safe environment, conducive to the use of library materials and services. The library is a “limited public forum,” created for the specific purpose of providing public access to materials and resources. - [Conflict of Interest](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/conflict-of-interest/): This policy is designed to help directors, officers, and employees of the Manhattan Public Library identify situations that present potential conflicts of interest and to provide the Library with a procedure that, if observed, will allow a transaction to be treated as valid and binding even though a director, officer, or employee has or may have a conflict of interest with respect to the transaction. In the event there is an inconsistency between the requirements and procedures prescribed herein and those in federal or state law, the law shall control. - [Community Profiles](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/community-profiles-2/): The library provides a database of community resources to provide information about the services of local organizations and agencies. Local organizations and agencies are an important source of information to residents. - [Community Presentations](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/community-presentations/): In an effort to reach out to the community and promote library activities and services, Manhattan Public Library (MPL) offers planned presentations that extend beyond the library. - [Collection Development Policy](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/collection-development-policy/): The materials selection policy is designed to guide selectors in developing the collection and in allocating resources to meet the needs of the people in the Manhattan area, as well as to explain collection building principles and processes to staff and to the public.  This plan outlines the responsibilities of persons involved in selection, describes each area of the library collection, explains special circumstances and provides guidelines for development. - [Claims Returned or Claims Never Had](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/claims-returned-or-claims-never-had/): Occasionally a customer believes that they have returned an item or items that are checked out on their account, or the account shows items checked out to the customer that they believe were never checked out. The library has an established process to locate the item and resolve the issue of outstanding items on a customer’s account. - [Charges](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/charges/): Library customers are responsible for returning borrowed materials in good condition on or before the due date. (See CIR-2 LOAN PERIODS AND CHECKOUT LIMITS) Items may be returned in person or in the library book drops. - [Children’s and Teen Spaces](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/childrens-and-teen-spaces/): The Manhattan Public Library is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for users of all ages. In support of this commitment, the library maintains designated spaces for children and teens where they can explore their interests in the company of their peers. - [Canvassing, Peddling and Solicitation](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/canvassing-peddling-and-solicitation/): As a limited public forum, Manhattan Public Library respects and supports the free speech of its patrons. It must, however, set limits to certain activities both in order to ensure equal access to the library and its services, and to ensure that the beliefs and opinions of one group do not interfere with those of another. - [Reserves/Holds](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/reserves-holds/): The library allows customers to reserve or place “holds” on items that are in the library’s circulating collection or on order. - [Tour and Group Visits](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/tour-and-group-visits/): Tours and group visits promote the library and inform patrons about the facility and services. In addition, tours and group visits provide an opportunity for people to visit the library who may not be able to do so independently. - [Privacy and Confidentiality](https://mhklibrary.org/policies/privacy-and-confidentiality-3/): The Manhattan Public Library recognizes the need to safeguard the privacy of library patrons’ personally identifiable information. The choice of library materials and use of the informational services of the library is a private endeavor for each individual patron. To make full use of library resources, patrons must not feel constrained by the possibility that others may become aware of their presence in or use of the library, what books they read, the resources they use, the questions they ask, or have any personally identifiable information. The Manhattan Public Library will make every reasonable and responsible effort to see that information about patrons and their choices remains confidential. This applies to all information collected by or submitted to Manhattan Public Library in person, in writing, or via phone, chat, or the Web. - [Kansas 250 Reading Challenge Survey](https://mhklibrary.org/kansas-250-reading-challenge-survey/): Manhattan City Lifestyle Magazine is writing an article about our challenge! Tell us about your experience and you may be in the article too! Please feel free to answer only the questions relevant to your experience. Providing your first name is entirely optional, but we would love to have it if you’re comfortable sharing. - [Women’s History Month](https://mhklibrary.org/home/online-resources/subject-lists/womens-history-month/): Adult Nonfiction  - [Kansas History Cabinet Resources](https://mhklibrary.org/home/online-resources/subject-lists/kansas-history-cabinet-resources/): The resources in the Kansas History Cabinet are unavailable for checkout; however, patrons may request staff at the reference desk to open the cabinet for in-library use. Patrons may also take pictures or scan pages for future reference. - [Kansas 250 Reading Challenge](https://mhklibrary.org/reading-challenges/kansas-250/): Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through the stories that shape Kansas and our nation.  - [Changes to the Library Music Collection](https://mhklibrary.org/discontinuation-of-cd-music-collection/): The Manhattan Public Library strives to maintain collections that reflect our community’s needs, interests, and the ways people access information. After careful review of long-term trends, we will be retiring our physical music CD collection. This change affects music CDs only. Audiobooks on CD will remain available. - [Event Brochure](https://mhklibrary.org/event-brochure/) - [1000 Books Before Kindergarten](https://mhklibrary.org/reading-challenges/1000-books-before-kindergarten/): As you read, you and your child will earn fun prizes to celebrate every milestone. ## Portfolio Filter Gallery - [Online Resources – Duplicate](https://mhklibrary.org/awl_filter_gallery/online-resources-duplicate/) - [TEst 2](https://mhklibrary.org/awl_filter_gallery/test-2/) - [Tech Training Resources](https://mhklibrary.org/awl_filter_gallery/tech-training-resources/) - [Online Resources](https://mhklibrary.org/awl_filter_gallery/online-resources/)