Live Oak Public Libraries recognizes that customers often bring personal items with them to the Library. When these items are lost on library premises, the Library’s first priority is to identify the owner, when possible. This policy outlines staff guidelines for addressing unclaimed customer personal items.
Lost and Found Guidelines for Staff
Live Oak Public Libraries is not responsible for the security of personal items brought into the library. Unclaimed items are managed in accordance with the following guidelines:
- If the owner of a lost and found item satisfactorily identifies the lost item, the item will be returned. The owner or their proxy must come in person to pick up the item.
- Perishable items such as but not limited to food, baby bottles, beverage containers, and personal care items will be disposed of immediately.
- Lost and found items will be dated and stored for a period of thirty (30) days. Reasonable attempts will be made to contact the owners (to the extent ownership is known) to reclaim their lost items. Items not claimed within thirty (30) days become Library property. Unclaimed items will then be donated to the community, considered a donation to the library, or disposed of. Currency or equivalent will be added to the library’s General Fund.
- Certain types of property including identification documents, driver’s licenses, credit and bank cards, gift cards, wallets, laptops, tablets, and cell phones will be turned over to city police if not claimed within seven (7) days.
- Papers left in library printers or copiers will be shredded if unclaimed by close of the next business day.