Southern Middle Library
Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a member of a democratic society, it is imperative that you guard and exercise your freedom to read. Reading brings knowledge- an understanding of where we have been, new ideas, different opinions, exposure to various cultures and thoughts, facts, and fiction. When this freedom is lost, the ability of our society to thrive in the face of adversity will be diminished, and our thoughts will not be our own. --Mrs. Duggan
Your Rights as a reader
You have the right to...
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check out and read any library material you choose.
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ask for and check out material on a specific subject without being questioned or judged.
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expect that your personal library information and transactions will be kept private.
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expect high quality books and other materials that make you think and will expand your thoughts in preparation for facing an ever-changing world.
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expect books of varying opinions and thoughts, of different cultures, and ideas.
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expect help in accessing and using technology to grow as an information literate student.
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appropriately share ideas and suggestion for the library and for library materials.
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expect that censorship will be questioned and challenged.
These rights were developed using the American Library Association's stands on intellectual freedom and our freedom to read, as well as the Garrett County School's Media Handbook.
These responsibilities were created by Mrs. Duggan so we have a peaceful learning environment in the library.
Your Responsibilities
You have the responsibility of...
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following all library rules and procedures, including the use of library materials, library classroom rules, and emergency procedures.
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following all school rules and rules addressing the use of technology.
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returning library materials in a timely fashion and in good condition.
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interacting with other patrons respectfully and appropriately.
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treating all library staff with respect.
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treating the library with respect by working quietly and returning all materials to the appropriate places.
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using library materials appropriately.
Description of plagiarism adapted from plagiarism.org.
Acts of plagiarism include, but are not limited to…
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turning in someone else’s work as your own,
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copying information and not putting it in quotation marks,
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using false information in a citation or not citing the source at all,
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copying information then changing just a few words in the sentence,
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or using more of someone else’s ideas than your own in your project.
Please click here to visit the Copyright and Plagiarism page for more information about this issue.
Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty and a disciplinary issue. Click here to access the Southern Middle Student Handbook for more information.
A note on Plagiarism
Garrett County Public Schools' Acceptable Use Statement
"Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) provides information technology equipment, services, and network access for educational purposes. These services are provided to improve learning and teaching through research, teacher training, administrative supports, collaboration, dissemination, and use of materials and resources. In addition, GCPS users (students, teachers, administrators, visitors) have no expectation of privacy while accessing email, the internet, or network resources while on GCPS’ network. Access to networks both inside and outside of GCPS carries with it the responsibility for proper use of those resources and GCPS computing facilities. GCPS recognizes the fact that most computer users are responsible, thoughtful users. However, the actions of irresponsible users can disrupt and interfere with the rights of all users and will be subject to disciplinary action. (Acceptable)"
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Please click here to access a copy of Garrett County Public Schools' Acceptable Use of Technological Resources for Students. This document lists specific user expectations for technological access within Garrett County Public Schools.