FLITE Policies

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are welcome and permitted in the FLITE building. Service animals are dogs or miniature horses individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. For additional information, see ADA Requirements for Service Animals. “Emotional support,” “comfort,” and “therapy” animals do not meet the ADA's definition of service animals and are not permitted in FLITE.

• To determine if an animal in the library is a service animal, FLITE employees may ask the owner if the animal is required because of a disability and what work or task it has been trained to perform.
• Library employees should not ask for proof that the animal is a service animal, nor should they ask the owner about the nature of their disability.
• If other library users complain that they have allergies or are afraid of the animal, library employees should attempt to accommodate those individuals in another location away from the service animal.

In order to help maintain a safe and comfortable environment for all FLITE users and employees, the following behavioral guidelines for service animals are to be observed:

• Service animals must be in physical proximity to their handler and under handler control at all times.
• Service animals must be on a leash or harness at all times unless the use of a leash or harness interferes with the animal's effective performance of its designated task(s). If the animal cannot be leashed or harnessed, it must be under the handler's control via voice, signals, or other effective means at all times.
• Service animals must not display disruptive behavior such as barking and growling.
• Service animals must be housebroken, and their handler is responsible for any upkeep or clean-up of the animal.

In accordance with ADA guidelines, failure to comply with behavioral guidelines may be grounds for a request to remove a service animal from FLITE. If the service animal is excluded from FLITE, the individual with the disability is welcome in the building and will be reasonably accommodated by FLITE employees.

Approved by Dean Jason Bentley, August 23, 2019 

Beverages

In the public areas of FLITE, users are encouraged to use beverage containers with lids to minimize spills. Should spills occur, please alert staff as soon as possible. Cleaning supplies can be requested at the Checkout Desk and users are encouraged to clean up their own small spills. Beverages are not allowed in the Goldie T. Nott Room.

Food

Food is allowed in FLITE, with the exception of the Goldie T. Nott Room (FLITE 220). Food is allowed in the Seminar Rooms and Instructional Studios, although a fee of $25 will be charged to the person who made the reservation if excessive cleaning is required. Groups are expected to leave Seminar Rooms and Instructional Studios in the same condition and furniture configuration as when they entered the room. Cleaning supplies for these spaces are available at the Checkout Desk. 

Reviewed by FLITE Library Administrative Council, April 2008. Revised and approved by Dean Scott Garrison, January 6, 2017.

The Goldie T. Nott Special Collections Room (FLITE 220) is a limited access location for materials from the Special Collections Department. It contains the rare books collection and the plant patent collection. Patrons needing access to these materials will need to make an appointment with the appropriate Special Collections staff member. Materials may only be used in the room under supervision of a staff member and may not be checked out. No food or drink is allowed in this room. Special handling rules for materials apply at the discretion of staff.

Approved by FLITE Librarians Meeting: February 24, 2009

The Ferris Library for Information, Technology & Education (FLITE) is committed to providing a welcoming and safe environment to enhance the learning experience of all users. FLITE offers a variety of spaces to accomplish this including areas designed to support research, studying, group projects, socializing, meeting, and other academic endeavors. All library users are responsible for choosing an area of FLITE that bests fits their needs. They are also expected to be considerate and respectful of others.

This policy was developed with input from students, faculty, staff, and visitors to create acceptable sound levels in the various areas of FLITE.

FLITE is divided into zones to assist you in finding the environment that most closely meets your needs based on your planned library activity. These zones are as follows:

Hangout Zones ( Floor 1)

• Working in groups is OK
• You may talk and use your cell phone in a normal indoor voice
• Group conversation is OK
• Please be respectful of those around you
• Patrons can expect noise at or below 80 dB

Conversation Zones ( Lower Level, Floor 1, Floor 2, Floor 4)

• Working in groups is OK
• You may talk and use your phone in a normal indoor conversational voice
• Be considerate of library business and others’ work
• Patrons can expect noise at or below 65 dB
• Conversation should be heard only at your table
• Please use the chairs for sitting, not the tables

Quiet Study Zones ( Floor 1, Floor 2, Floor 3)

• Working in small groups is OK
• Set phones to silent/vibrate
• You may speak in low voices
• Turn headphones down low
• Patrons can expect noise at or below 50 dB

Silent Study Zones ( Floor 3, Floor 4)

• Work in silence
• Set your phone to silent
• Turn headphones down low
• Patrons can expect noise at or below 45 dB

If while visiting FLITE your needs change, please relocate to a more appropriate zone.

If you have a concern about an activity taking place in a zone that is not in alignment with the expectations set forth in this policy, please contact FLITE personnel at the Check-Out Desk (231-591-2669) or through the chat service to connect with a librarian. We will address the matter as soon as possible by communicating directly with the individual(s) involved and/or asking them to leave the library if necessary.

The Library Zone Policy is based on the University's Code of Student Community Standards, also known as the Student Handbook. According to the Student Handbook, the policy on disorderly conduct prohibits "Behavior that interferes with teaching, research, administration, or other University or University authorized activity or that disrupts the University environment either during an event or incident or as a result of an event or incident." (Section IV, item B-7). The Student Handbook also prohibits the "failure to comply with the directions of authorized University officials in the performance of their duties." (Section IV, item B-9).

Library Staff, including student employees, are recognized as University officials and are responsible for enforcing the zone policy.

For general expectations of appropriate behavior in FLITE, please see the Personal Conduct Policy.

Approved by Dean Scott Garrison, April 25, 2017.

FLITE offers three outdoor spaces that are accessible to the public, weather permitting. Expectations and guidelines for personal conduct within the library also apply to these outdoor spaces, including the prohibition of smoking or use of any form of tobacco products within 25 feet of any entrance.

Second Floor Balcony

The balcony on the second floor is accessible by groups that are granted permission to reserve the Reading Room (FLITE 240). Requests to reserve this space may be submitted to the Dean of the Library. In warm weather months, the doors to the Second Floor Balcony are unlocked during library open hours and the space is accessible to all when the room is not reserved. 

Fourth Floor Balcony

Groups using rooms 438, 442, and 446 have access to the FLITE fourth floor balcony at the discretion of the group leader (i.e., the person responsible for checking out the key). The balcony doors use the same keys as the corresponding entry doors into 438 and 442. Before exiting the room, the balcony doors must be closed and locked. 

Banners hung from FLITE balconies must be approved by the Dean of the Library. The design of any banners proposed for these areas must be approved by University Advancement and Marketing.

The Sunken Garden on the Lower Level

The lower level of FLITE provides access to the Sunken Garden, a space for contemplation and conversation. In warm weather months, the doors to the Lower Level Sunken Garden are unlocked during library open hours. 

Approved by FLITE Library Administrative Council October 16, 2002; Revised and approved by FLITE Library Administrative Council February 3, 2010. Revised and approved by Dean Scott Garrison, January 2017.

The Public Address (PA) system will be used for general building emergencies and other library and university purposes, to quickly contact all building occupants or to clear the building. The PA system may also be used to make announcements involving personal emergencies, defined a situations involving death, critical illness, or serious injury. The PA system will not be used to make personal announcements. As an alternative to using the PA system, FLITE staff will not vacate a service desk to look for anybody. For emergency paging please contact the Ferris Department of Public Safety (FSU-DPS) at 591-5000, and explain the nature of the emergency. If FSU-DPS confirms that an emergency exists and that paging is warranted, they will contact the FLITE staff at the Check-Out Desk.

Approved by FLITE Library Administrative Council. June 3, 2009.

The Ferris Library for Information, Technology and Education (FLITE) seeks to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for studying, learning, research, and other academic activities. The following rules and regulations regarding personal conduct are intended to facilitate a productive and pleasant experience for all library users.

Prohibited Conduct

Conduct that disrupts or interferes with the normal operations of the Library, its staff, or its use by other visitors is not permitted. Such conduct may include, but is not limited to:

• Harassing or disrespectful language, conduct, or treatment that discriminates against, targets or negatively impacts any person based upon that person's race, color, religion or creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, veteran or military status, height, weight, protected disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable State or federal laws or regulations
• Using language or gestures in public areas that other users consider abusive or obscene
• Making unreasonable noise, including loud talking on a cell phone, using a cell phone in speakerphone mode, or making video calls. ¹
• Using headphones at levels that are audible by others. ¹
• Playing audio openly via mobile devices or portable speakers. ¹
• Interfering with or obstructing the work of library staff through verbal abuse, intimidation, or any form of harassment
• Engaging in sexual conduct or lewd behavior
• Possessing a knife, firearm, or any other weapon in violation of Ferris State University or City of Big Rapids policy or ordinance
• Smoking or using any form of tobacco products (including chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes) in any interior or exterior part of the Library, or within 25 feet of any entrance to the Library.²
• Using alcohol or illegal drugs
• Being in the Library during hours the Library is closed (allowed for Ferris State University employees only)
• Exhibiting personal hygiene that negatively impacts other users' use of the Library
• Making unreasonable use of Library spaces (including prolonged sleeping, bathing or laundering in rest rooms, or personal care involving electric devices)
• Engaging in unauthorized soliciting, petitioning, vending, peddling, panhandling, or canvassing in the Library's public spaces by individuals or groups external to the University.³
• Selling or advertising any goods or services by groups external to the University. ³
• Using a bicycle, roller blades, skates, skateboard, in-line roller skates, hoverboard, or similar devices. Such wheeled vehicles are only allowed in the library when carried as personal property
• Bringing an animal into the Library, unless it is a trained service animal assisting a person with a disability or is otherwise sanctioned by the Dean's Office
• Damaging, defacing, disabling, or misusing any Library materials, equipment, property, or furnishings
• Hostile or rowdy behavior, including but not limited to horseplay, fighting, threatening, or abusing Library staff or patrons with words or actions
• Blocking or obstructing any library entrance, exit, lobby area, staircase, aisle, or walkway either in person or by using Library equipment or furnishings
• Tampering with fire systems
• Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, or local law or University or Library policies

Please also be aware that:

• The Library is not responsible for personal items that are lost, stolen, or damaged on Library premises
• Library staff reserve the right to inspect bags or other personal property when visitors enter or leave the Library
• Clothing and footwear must be worn in the Library
• Some items in the Library cannot be copied because of copyright laws, poor condition, or donor restriction. ⁴
• The Library is not responsible for children who are left unattended on Library premises. ⁵
• Library staff may ask users to show their Ferris State University or other ID at any time
• Large groups wanting to visit/tour the Library are required to obtain permission in advance (except University-organized groups, e.g. orientation tours for incoming students.)
• Users with disabilities may ask Library staff for reasonable accommodations
• Users who do not follow the Library's general rules and regulations including the above may be asked to leave and may lose their Library privileges. Users who violate federal or state law, or FSU and/or City of Big Rapids rules and ordinances may also be subject to arrest or other legal action

Related Policies
¹Library Zones and Noise (see above)
²Board Policy: Smoking Policy
³Board Policy: Campus Solicitation
⁴Copyright
⁵Unaccompanied Minors in FLITE (see below)

Code of Student Community Standards

Updated and approved by Dean Scott Garrison, May 2, 2017 
Revisions approved by Dean Jason Bentley, August 23, 2019

The Ferris Library for Information, Technology & Education (FLITE) is oriented toward the students, faculty and staff of Ferris State University. We cannot guarantee the safety or protection of unescorted children in the building.

All children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult while in FLITE. Unescorted children will be required to rejoin a parent or caregiver. If a parent or guardian cannot be located, the university department of public safety will be contacted. When appropriate, exceptions may be made at the discretion of library personnel.

Access to, or use of, the Internet by minor children is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Unlike many public libraries, computer users at FLITE do not access the Internet through a filter. While some local city and county policies may require public libraries to provide filtered Internet access to minors, FLITE does not use filtering software because this is a university library and does not offer services to children.

All users of the FLITE computer labs are expected to follow the business policy letter 96:07, "Proper Use of Information Resources, Information Technology, and Networks Policy".

Approved by the FLITE Administrative Council, March 3, 2010

Students, Faculty, and Staff

The Bulldog Card, the official FSU ID that is issued to students and faculty/staff, is the preferred form of identification for borrowing library materials. To activate the Bulldog Card for library borrowing privileges, please present the card at the library Checkout Desk and staff will scan the barcode to initiate privileges for borrowing books, DVDs, and other library materials. Cards/borrowing privileges are non-transferable.

Although the Bulldog Card or FSU ID card is the preferred form of ID for activating library accounts and for borrowing privileges, a driver's license or some other form of official photo identification may also be used. Once an individual's record is activated, materials may be checked out with the FSU ID card, with a driver's license, or with some other form of official photo identification.

Resident patrons of the Big Rapids Community Library may request a Guest ID Card at the Checkout Desk in order to borrow FLITE materials.

Patron Responsibilities

Patrons are responsible for any and all materials checked out with the FSU ID card. Signature on FLITE library forms for guests are legally binding for all transactions using a FLITE-issued library card.

Lost/stolen FSU ID cards should be reported by the cardholder at the Student Service Center during normal business hours and the Department of Public Safety otherwise.

Alumni

Alumni and members of the Ferris Alumni Association may obtain a library card to check out FLITE materials by completing the Library Card Application request form. It may be scanned and sent back via email at [email protected]. If preferred, a written request may be mailed to: Circulation Services, Ferris Library for Information, Technology, and Education, 1010 Campus Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307. Upon receipt of the written request, a card will be issued within two business days to eligible requestors and mailed to the address provided. This card grants borrowing privileges for print or media in the library. It does not allow access to online library resources from off-campus, as the use of these resources off-campus is limited to current FSU faculty, staff, and students as determined by vendor agreements.

Guest ID Card

An annual Guest Library Card can be issued at no cost to non-FSU users by submitting a completed Library Card Application. Guest cards may be renewed by providing FLITE personnel with any changes or updates to the patron's information.

The guest card provides access to borrowing of media or print materials from FLITE to guests, alumni, emeriti, faculty/staff spouses, institutions, or organizations.

A non-FSU guest must present a valid driver's license or other official photo identification when the card is issued. FLITE accepts cards from other libraries with which it has reciprocity agreements. Reciprocity Patron Cards must be barcoded and linked by the reciprocating library.

Parent/Guardian consent is required for persons under the age of 18 years unless they are Ferris State University students. The parent/guardian accepts final responsibility for library fines and for charges related to damaged or unreturned material.

MelCat Visiting Patrons

Patrons of Michigan libraries that participate in reciprocal borrowing through MeLCat may borrow select FLITE materials using their home library card. See the Visiting Patron FAQ for more information.

FLITE Checkout Desk is open all hours the library is open in order to facilitate access to the library's collections and spaces. Staff and student employees are available to answer questions or to provide access to technology, course reserves, and study rooms.

Patrons may place a request (hold) on any circulation items found in our catalog.  This FLITE Book Request guide will explain the process. Faculty and staff can request the item be delivered to their campus address. For more information, see the On Campus Delivery guide.

For students and those who did not choose delivery, you will receive an email informing you when your book has been retrieved.  You can then pick up the item from the checkout desk.

Item Type	Loan Period	Item Limits	Number Renewals	Overdue Fines
Undergraduate Students
Books/Gov. Documents	21 days	99	up to 3	None
Juvenile Books	21 days	99	up to 3	None
MelCat Loan MelCat Video	28 days 28 days	50 50	1 1	None None
Videos (DVD/VHS)	7 days	N/A	up to 3	None
Media	4 hours	N/A	N/A	N/A
Reserves	varies	4	1	varies
Study Rooms	4 hours	1	up to 2	$15 per hour
Laptop Computers	6 hours	1	1	$1.00 per hour
Graduate Students
Books/Gov. Documents	56 days	99	up to 3	None
Juvenile Books	21 days	99	up to 3	None
MelCat Loan MelCat Video	28 days 14 days	50 50	1 1	None None
Videos (DVD/VHS)	7 days	N/A	up to 3	None
Media Booking	4 hours	N/A	N/A	N/A
Reserves	varies	4	1	varies
Study Rooms	4 hours	1	up to 2	$15.00 per hour
Laptop Computers	6 hours	1	1	$1.00 per hour
Faculty and Staff
Books/Gov. Documents	180 days	99	up to 3	None
Juvenile Books	21 days	99	up to 3	None
MelCat Loan	28 days	50	1	None
Videos (DVD/VHS)	7 days	N/A	up to 3	None
Media Booking	7 days	N/A	N/A	N/A
Reserves	varies	4	1	varies
Study Rooms	4 hours	1	up to 2	$15.00 per hour
Laptop Computers	6 hours	1	1	$1.00 per hour

FLITE materials that are lost or stolen should be reported promptly to the Checkout Desk at 231-591-2669.

Replacement:

• Actual replacement cost (if known) or average replacement cost will be charged for all lost materials, plus a $20.00 processing fee and a $20.00 (non-refundable) service fee.

Refunds:

• If a book is returned six months or more past the due date, no refunds are made.
• The replacement cost and the processing fee are refunded if the material is returned in good condition within six months.

Overdue material will result in the suspension of library privileges and will incur fees. Please see below for a specific breakdown of overdue fees:

• General Collection (books and Government Documents)
  • No overdue fees are charged for up to 39 days.
  • Overdue material will result in the suspension of library privileges.
  • On the 40th day, a bill is sent to the borrower for replacement costs, which include the cost of the item, the $20 (maximum) service charge, and the $20 processing fee.
  • Ferris students’ fees may be paid at the Timme Center for Student Services. Faculty/staff, emeriti, and guest fees are to be paid at the library Checkout Desk.
• Media
  • No overdue fees are charged for up to 19 days.
  • On the 20th day, a bill is sent to the borrower for the non-refundable service fee of $20 in addition to the cost of the item.
  • Ferris students’ fees may be paid at the Timme Center for Student Services. Faculty/staff, emeriti, and guest fees are to be paid at the library Checkout Desk.
• Laptops
  • $1 per hour or portion thereof
• Hourly Reserves
  • $1.00 for first hour.
  • $1.00 for each additional hour until returned.
• Daily Reserve
  • $0.50 per day (daily reserves, reference, test reserves, etc.)

Books borrowed from FLITE may be renewed three times. If a hold has been placed on an item by another borrower, the item may not be renewed. Renewals may be made in person, by telephone at (231) 591-2669, or online from My Account. Please see MeLCat Resource Sharing Policies for information regarding renewal of MeL items and ILL Policies for information regarding renewal of Interlibrary Loan items.

Books and other materials designated as and housed in Reference collections represent a valuable, discrete portion of a library's overall holdings. Containing the most up-to-date quick fact, statistical, and informational resources, items in Reference collections traditionally do not circulate in order to help ensure patron access at the time when they need to consult them.

Resources may circulate from Reference collections, however, on a limited basis at the discretion of the library personnel on duty. Conditions which may warrant circulation of Reference materials include:

• a suitable substitute is not found within the circulating collection/Main Stacks or online
• the information needed is not easily photocopied or scanned

As a guideline, Reference materials may be checked-out to a Ferris State University faculty or staff member for a period that should not exceed three days and to a Ferris student for a period that should not exceed 24 hours. A form, delineating the duration of the checkout period and signed by the borrower, is required for the Checkout Desk staff to circulate Reference material.

Fines on Reference materials will be assessed at the highest rate currently allowed by the university for library items not returned on time. A 'grace period' is unavailable for overdue Reference materials.

The following Reference materials should never circulate:

• Legal Collection
• Crimson and Gold/Ferriscope yearbooks
• items currently in heavy demand due to a class assignment

This policy applies to any eligible Library patron’s personal use. Classroom or administrative use is considered on a case-by-case basis.

 Last revised: August 27, 2002; Approved by FLITE Library Administrative Council October 2, 2002; Approved by Dean Scott Garrison, June 13, 2017.

FLITE has display spaces throughout the building that are available for the display of materials of interest to the Ferris State University community.  

• Display programming (both virtual and physical), shall support the university core values.
• Display space application forms are only available online. If you need assistance in completing a form, please contact David Scott at (231) 591-3540.
• The approval for displays will be at the sole discretion of the Library Display Coordinator. Displays proposed by the staff of FLITE or from University-affiliated groups or individuals will receive preference over external groups. Groups or persons proposing displays with potentially controversial subjects are encouraged to meet with the Display Coordinator.
• The Display Coordinator will assign display cases in consultation with the organization/individual requesting the display.
• To ensure enough time for review, planning, and set up, display spaces should be reserved at least 30 days in advance. It is advised that 1st floor displays be reserved 60 to 90 days in advance.
• Generally, a display's duration will be one month for 1st floor cases and 2 months for all others.
• Groups may be limited to one 1st floor case display per academic year.
• Keys for display case setup may be obtained from the Checkout Desk or by coordination with the Display Coordinator.
• Displays MUST be set up within two days of the start date, and removed by the last day of reserved time. Displays not set up within two days of start date may be forfeited at the discretion of the Display Coordinator.
• Displays will be reviewed within two business days after setup and photographed for the library website. If a display is deemed to be in non-compliance with display guidelines, the individual or organization responsible for the display may be asked to alter the display after consultation with the Display Coordinator.
• Displays not removed on time will be removed by the Display Coordinator and stored for one month. If the removed display materials are not picked up within one month, they will be disposed of at the discretion of the Display Coordinator.
• No organization may set up a display more than twice a year and there must be at least two months between display times
• Stands and other display items such as push pins, plastic tablecloths, and fabric for backdrops may be available from the Display Coordinator, and will be provided as available
• The identification of the sponsor/provider/creator of a display must be clearly indicated within the display.
• Neither the Display Coordinator nor the library will be held responsible for the loss of or damage to materials on display.
• The group or individual setting up and dismantling the display will be held responsible for damage caused to the display space(s), shelving units, light bulbs, or other items used to support the display if they caused the damage.

Prohibited Uses and Practices

• Library display facilities may not be used to promote or advertise, whether directly or indirectly, a commercial product or service; urge support or opposition to any political candidate or issue; or urge support of or opposition to any religion or religious belief.
• Material that is obscene, defamatory, invades a particular person's privacy, or directly incites violence will not be posted or displayed.
• Material and equipment that, in the opinion of the Display Coordinator, are potentially dangerous to FLITE users, staff, or property will not be permitted in displays.

Sponsorship or Endorsement

• Use of FLITE display space by an organization or individual does not constitute Library sponsorship or endorsement of that organization, individual, or the viewpoints or activities they are promoting. Statements that either directly or indirectly imply otherwise will not be permitted.

Non-compliance

• Displays announcing or promoting fundraising programs or activities sponsored by not-for-profit, non-commercial organizations will be permitted, provided the requirements stipulated in this policy statement are met.
• Use of FLITE display space by an organization or individual does not constitute Library sponsorship or endorsement of that organization, individual, or the viewpoints or activities they are promoting. Statements that either directly or indirectly imply otherwise will not be permitted.

Questions not directly answered by these policies/guidelines may be forwarded to David Scott.

Display Case Reservation Form

Approved by the FLITE Leadership Team, October 13, 2004. Updated and approved by the FLITE Administrative Council, December 7, 2006 and February 3, 2010. Approved by Dean Scott Garrison, September 12, 2016.

Laptops and digital cameras are available for checkout by Ferris State University students, faculty and staff at the FLITE checkout desk. 

A valid Ferris ID must be presented in order to check out equipment.

Only one laptop or digital camera may be checked out by an individual at any given time.

Designated laptops may be checked out for up to six hours of in-library use only (excluding the Extended Studies Area, during the hours when the main part of the library is open).

The borrower must provide a name, FerrisID barcode number, and signature on the Equipment Checkout Agreement form, thereby agreeing

• to accept full responsibility for the equipment in the event of damage or loss
• to follow the guidelines outlined in Proper Use of Information Resources, Information Technology and Networks Policy by Ferris State University.
• to wait while FLITE employees review the status of the equipment and its component parts at the point of checkout and check-in , i.e. to verify that all parts have been returned and are intact
• to pay any fines accrued as a result of lost or damaged equipment or for equipment that is past due:
  • Late fee: $1/hour or portion thereof/minimum charge
  • Missing/damaged power adaptor/cord: $60
  • Missing/damaged battery: $130
  • Missing/damaged carrying case: $70
  • Replacement cost for laptop: $1400
  • Replacement cost for digital camera: $300
  • Repair costs: will be assessed and may vary

FLITE personnel are not responsible for retrieving information or files that are lost or left on laptop.

Equipment must be returned to the Checkout Desk by no later than 15 minutes prior to the due date/time.

Equipment may only be renewed if nobody else has requested it.

If it is determined that the equipment is damaged at the point of check-in, a Suspected Damage Form must be completed by the borrower.

Policy adopted July 15, 2006; revised in August 2012. Clerical updates on December 13, 2013. Revised and approved by Scott Garrison, Dean of the Library on January 30, 2016. Revised and approved by Scott Garrison, Dean of the Library on October 17, 2016. Scheduled for review in July 2016.

Reservations

FLITE’s primary purpose is to be a learning space for access to information and collections, research and instruction, and individual and group study. Secondarily, FLITE is also a meeting center for campus organizations. FLITE welcomes RSOs and other student groups to use its meeting room facilities for business meetings, study sessions, lectures, seminars, and other non-disruptive activities as long as the conduct of groups using the building does not interfere with FLITE’s primary purpose as a learning environment. (See FLITE’s Personal Conduct policy). RSOs and other student groups must submit a FLITE Room Use Agreement each academic year before any room reservation requests will be approved. An RSO officer or responsible representative of a non-RSO group must sign and agree to the provisions of the Agreement.

FLITE is not an appropriate location for scheduling events and social activities that are likely to disrupt the academic atmosphere of the building, including, but not limited to, parties, celebrations, induction ceremonies, rush-related gatherings, entertainment, and rehearsals. FLITE will deny reservation requests for such potentially disruptive events and encourage requestors to reserve space in another appropriate facility on campus. Additionally, FLITE facilities cannot be used for commercial purposes or private profit. FLITE security staff will sweep the building periodically to monitor noise and behavior on each floor.

FLITE Instructional Studios and Seminar Rooms are reservable through the FLITE Room Reservation System for meetings, training, or instruction. Large study groups may reserve the rooms for up to six hours per day. Reservations are suggested at least one week in advance. Ferris-affiliated faculty, staff, and students may request to use a currently unoccupied room without a prior reservation; however, additional equipment or chairs may not be requested in these circumstances. To use a room without a reservation, ask at the Checkout Desk to make the necessary arrangements. Rooms are generally not available outside FLITE’s hours of operation. Any exceptions must be approved by the Dean.

Seminar room reservations are approved on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to members of the Ferris community. Student instruction conducted by librarians or classroom faculty takes priority in reserving FLITE Instructional Studios. Studios may be reserved for other purposes when not in use for student instruction. Instructional Studios are also available for Information Commons overflow during peak times of the academic year.

Reservation blocks are released one semester at a time. FLITE will issue announcements a month prior to a semester’s end to give notice that the next semester’s block of reservations has been made available. FLITE reserves the right to limit reservations to one per week for each group/organization or to move meetings or events to maximize the use of the facility for academic pursuits.

FLITE will attempt to give advance notice when reservation changes need to be made. Because FLITE is not designated as a classroom building, rooms may be reserved for up to 50% of the scheduled class time for the entire semester.

Additional Terms and Conditions

• Groups should assemble quietly while waiting to enter a room and when leaving to avoid disrupting FLITE’s academic atmosphere.
• Groups reserving rooms in FLITE should conform to the FLITE Food and Beverages Policy and be aware of the Ferris Business Policy on the Use, Rental, Lease of University Facilities. Misuse may result in termination of future reservation privileges.
• A cleanup fee of $25.00 may be assessed for excessive mess left in any FLITE spaces, regardless of University affiliation.
• Any damage to the facility/equipment will be charged to the sponsoring organization or person, regardless of University affiliation, at a minimum charge of $25.00 or actual cost.
• Groups must not exceed room occupancy limits.
• For safety reasons, heating devices (curling irons, hot glue guns, heaters, small cooking appliance, etc.) or items with flames are not allowed in FLITE spaces.

Cancellations

In order to accommodate other organizations and groups seeking meeting space, reservations should be canceled as soon as possible if a scheduled room is no longer needed. Groups will be issued a warning the first two times that they fail to show for a reservation without canceling. The third time may result in the group’s loss of FLITE room reservation privileges for the rest of the current semester.

Keys

Room keys are available at the Checkout Desk. A valid FSU ID card or a government-issued photo ID will be required. In the event that a room key is lost, the appropriate fee will be assessed from the university.

Equipment Available on Request

• Conference phone (available in FLITE 112, 114, 438; calling card required)
• Stacking chairs
• Lapel microphone
• Laptop computers (Requests to use FLITE laptops in conjunction with room reservations must be received 24 hours in advance of the scheduled event)  

Software Available Upon Request

The technology offered in the FLITE Instructional Studios and Seminar Rooms is provided by the IT Solution Center. Submit requests for additional software in these spaces to IT Solution Center at least two weeks in advance. Be advised that IT Solution Center may honor last-minute requests for software (less than 24 hours advanced notice) for a service fee of $300 per software title.

Room Fees

Room Types

• Type I: No equipment available in the room.
  
  • Room 442 (12 seats)
• Type II: Presentation station with computer & projection system, but no student computers.
  
  • Room 133 (30 seats)
  • Room 135 (21 seats)
  • Room 214 (21 seats)
  • Room 304 (20 seats)
  • Room 438 (25 seats)
  • Room 446 (25 seats)
• Type III: Presentation station with computer & projection system and student workstations; printing capabilities are available through Papercut printing procedures.
  • Room 108 (25 seats)
  • Room 110 (30 seats)
  • Room 112 (30 seats)
  • Room 114 (30 seats) 

Patron Category A

FSU-registered student organization, FSU-related faculty/staff committee/group, or University department using standard set-up, with no admission charge or fees associated with the event.

Room Types	Patron Category A
Room Type I	$0.00/hour
Room Type II	$0.00/hour
Room Type III	$0.00/hour

Patron Category B

FSU-registered student organization, FSU-related faculty/staff committee/group, or University department using standard set-up, with any revenue or fees associated with the event. All regional and national conferences affiliated with University departments and/or student organizations.

Room Types	Patron Category B
Room Type I	$0.00/hour
Room Type II	$15.00/hour
Room Type III	$30.00/hour

Patron Category C

Non-Profit Organizations with a federal tax-free number.

Room Types	Patron Category C
Room Type I	$0.00/hour
Room Type II	$20.00/hour
Room Type III	$45.00/hour

Patron Category D

All other non-University groups.

Room Types	Patron Category D
Room Type I	$0.00/hour
Room Type II	$40.00/hour
Room Type III	$60.00/hour

Additional Fees

A cleanup fee of $25.00 may be assessed for excessive mess left in any FLITE spaces, regardless of University affiliation.

Any damage to the facility/equipment will be charged to the sponsoring organization or person, regardless of University affiliation, at a minimum charge of $25.00 or actual cost.

FLITE is not a conference facility. We do not have the staff to make room configuration changes. If changes are made, the sponsoring organization or person, regardless of University affiliation, is responsible for returning furniture (workstations, tables, chairs, etc.) configurations to their original setup. A $25.00 fee may be charged if any space is not returned to its original configuration.

For categories C & D, a $25.00 flat fee will be charged for the set-up and removal of any and all additional equipment in each space. 

Payment

Category B groups will be billed at the end of the month; category C and D groups will be billed prior to the event. Fees may be paid via a University budget transfer, cash, or check. All checks should be made out to: Ferris State University (FLITE).

Interpretation and implementation of this policy rests with the Room Reservation Coordinator and the Instruction Coordinator. Questions/comments about rooms should be directed to Rodney Gardei.

This rooms policy supersedes the previous Rooms Policy, Instructional Studio Usage Policy and Use of FLITE Rooms without a Reservation Guidelines. Revised to maintain consistency with University Rates Schedule as approved by President's Council. Approved by Dean Scott Garrison, June, 2017.

Additions and revisions approved by Dean Jason Bentley, August 23, 2019.

Student employees are expected to dress in a manner appropriate to their positions and job duties as defined by their supervisors.

Approved by FLITE Library Administrative Council. July 14, 2009.

Ferris emeriti and retirees may obtain their official Ferris ID at the Timme Center for Student Services. Emeriti will retain the same library privileges as current faculty and staff, subject to the licensing agreements with database service providers and other vendors. All fees assessed will be at the same rate as faculty and staff. The following describes specific library privileges for emeriti and retirees:

• Borrowing Privileges: Most library materials can be borrowed with the official Ferris Emeriti/Retiree ID under the same parameters as a current faculty or staff member. Some restrictions are in effect, however, for materials reserved for certain academic courses.
• Use within FLITE Building: Emeriti are free to use books, journals/magazines, computers, rooms, electronic databases, and other informational resources while in the building during normal posted business hours. Services that normally incur a charge, such as printing or photocopying still will be charged.
• Interlibrary Loan: Interlibrary loan privileges for emeriti and retirees are exactly the same as those for current faculty or staff members.
• Remote Access: Remote access to library materials is very limited. In licensing agreements most database vendors expressly limit access to currently enrolled students and currently employed faculty and staff. We have a legal obligation to abide by these licenses. Databases that provide statewide access are available through Michigan eLibrary using one's driver's license number as a password. Access to the FLITE Online Catalog is unrestricted.

Approved by Dean Scott Garrison. March 2017.

In accordance with the American Library Association's statement on privacy, the Ferris Library for Information, Technology and Education safeguards the privacy of its users and will only disclose user records as required to do so by law.

The designated privacy officer for FLITE is the Dean of the library. All inquiries for user information from law enforcement officials must be referred to the dean. The Assistant Dean for Research and Instruction Services will fill the role of privacy officer in the Dean's absence.

Approved by the FLITE Leadership Team, June 13, 2003. Revised and approved by Dean Scott Garrison, January 6, 2017.