Summary
This policy establishes guidelines for photography in library spaces by balancing the rights of individuals with the need to protect patron privacy, ensure safety, and maintain an environment conducive to library use. The word “photography” in this policy is interpreted to mean any type of camera usage, including but not limited to taking still images, filming, videotaping, and film or digital photography.
The Johnson County Library is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for all patrons.
Effective Date:
November 13, 2025
Reviewed:
Policy Statement
a. Personal photography is permitted in Johnson County Library public spaces as provided in this policy, provided such activities do not interfere with library operations, violate the privacy of patrons or staff, or contravene state, local, or federal law.
Personal Photography
b. Non-commercial photography without flash for personal use is permitted in public areas of the Library during regular public hours, provided such activities do not disrupt library services or other patrons’ use of the Library. Photography is prohibited in library book shelving and storage areas, at circulation desks, self-checkout kiosks, in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, or around a public computer where the computer screen would be visible to the photographer and when in use by a library user.
Commercial Photography
c. The use of tripods, lighting, or other camera equipment is prohibited without prior written approval from the Library.
Photography for commercial, advertising, or other business purposes, or that would otherwise violate ARM 20-80-28, by any photographer, whether an individual person or organization, is prohibited without the prior written approval of the Library. Groups are prohibited from using the Library logo per ARM 20-80-26.
Patron and Staff Privacy
d. Photography is not permitted in areas where a person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy, including but not limited to restrooms, designated staff areas, designated children’s areas, or in a manner that would constitute a breach of privacy as provided under K.S.A. 21-6101, as amended.
Library Programs and Events
e. The Library may record or photograph programs and events for promotional or archival purposes. Notice will be provided to attendees when such recording is planned.
f. Attendees who do not wish to be photographed or recorded should notify Library staff.
g. Photography of third-party intellectual property and works displayed or presented in the Library, including but not limited to artwork and art installations, speaker events, exhibits, and films may be prohibited without express permission of the Library or the third-party property owner, as applicable.
Operational Disruption and Safety
h. Photography shall not disrupt Library operations, programs, or the ability of patrons to use Library spaces, in accordance with the Patron Code of Behavior (ARM 20-10-50).
i. Library staff shall have authority to instruct and require photographers to cease photography if it is determined to be in violation of this policy.
Compliance
j. All photographers engaged in photography must comply with the Library’s Patron Code of Behavior, all other applicable Library policies, and relevant Kansas statutes, including but not limited to K.S.A. 21-6101 (Breach of Privacy), K.S.A. 21-5808 (Criminal Trespass), and K.S.A. 21-5427 (Stalking), all as amended.
k. Failure to comply with this policy may result in removal from Library property and/or suspension of Library privileges, in accordance with ARM 20-10-30.
l. Notwithstanding anything in this policy to the contrary, this policy is separate from and does not affect the effect and enforceability of ARM 60-10-30, Surveillance Cameras and Dissemination of Surveillance Images.
November 13, 2025
ARM 20-10-60 End
Administrative regulations
Tab: Patron/Other Services
Document number: 20-10-60
Section: General Patron Services
Subject: Filming and Photography