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Human Resource Policy

Section 1: Welcome to the Library

Welcome to the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library 

We are delighted to welcome you to the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library (CRCPL). Whether you are beginning your first day with us or continuing your professional journey here, we are glad you have chosen to be part of our team. The Library’s Board of Trustees, administration, and coworkers hope that your work with CRCPL will be both professionally fulfilling and personally rewarding.

Our Mission

Enriching our community by providing free access to information, fostering a love for reading, promoting lifelong learning, and creating a welcoming space for connections and collaboration. 

Our Vision

CRCPL is the center of information and discovery that sparks imagination and fuels potential. 

A Brief History

For many years, Ross County was served by two independent systems: Ross County Library Services and the Chillicothe Public Library. Both were strong organizations, but they became even stronger when they merged in August 1968 to form the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library.

The Main Library is housed in the historic 1906 Carnegie building at 140 S. Paint Street. CRCPL also operates six additional locations: 

  • Paxton (Bainbridge) 
  • Howard S. Young (Frankfort) 
  • Kingston 
  • Richmond Dale 
  • South Salem (located inside Buckskin Elementary School) 
  • Northside Branch (Chillicothe)

In addition to our physical branches, CRCPL maintains a robust digital footprint with eBooks, databases, and a wide range of other online resources. CRCPL also houses a full-service Outreach Department that includes a mobile library, book lockers, and multiple community collections throughout the county.

CRCPL is funded through the state’s Public Library Fund and a county continuing levy. Gifts and bequests are handled through the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library Fund, administered by the Chillicothe-Ross Community Foundation. The Friends of the Library provide additional support for library activities.

CRCPL is a long-standing member of the Serving Every Ohioan (SEO) consortium, which makes library collections from across the state available locally. CRCPL collaborates with a variety of organizations, businesses, schools, and groups throughout our communities and region. 

About This Handbook

CRCPL staff play a significant role in the library’s success. This Employee Handbook has been created to acquaint you with CRCPL’s values, expectations, and operational practices. Inside, you will find information about: 

  • Working conditions
  • Employee benefits
  • Policies and procedures that guide your employment
  • Your responsibilities as a member of the CRCPL team

This handbook is intended as a practical reference for both new and current employees. While it provides an overview of many important topics, no single handbook can address every potential circumstance or question.

Flexibility and Policy Updates

To maintain the flexibility necessary for effective library operations, the CRCPL Board of Trustees reserves the right to revise, update, or rescind any policy outlined in this handbook at any time. Employees will be notified of significant changes as they occur. Policies established by the Board are implemented and interpreted by the Executive Director to ensure consistent, fair, and efficient day-to-day operations. 

Please note that this handbook does not constitute a contract of employment and does not confer rights or privileges beyond those provided by applicable laws or agreements.

Open Doors

The library administration practices an open-door policy and promises to actively engage in sharing and receiving information and feedback. Staff are invited to stop by the administrative offices at 40 W. 5th St. or schedule a meeting at any time. Emails and phone calls are also welcome.

Library Board members likewise welcome input and comments from Library employees. 

Your Role

CRCPL serves the residents of Chillicothe and Ross County. We strive to ensure that the library is a place where everyone feels welcome, safe, and supported. As a staff member, you play a vital role in fulfilling that purpose. Employees are expected to demonstrate empathy, kindness, and patience in all interactions.

Library staff also support and celebrate coworkers’ achievements and milestones through Above and Beyond Recognition, monthly Joy Jar callouts, and anonymous Well Wishes. By working collaboratively, responding to community needs, and upholding our service values, you help coworkers and CRCPL grow and continue to be an agency for good that meets its users wherever they are. 

As stewards of the public’s trust and resources, staff should seek to make positive changes in the library’s operations by expressing concerns to decision-makers in constructive ways that benefit everyone. If you have any questions about the policies or information in this handbook, please speak with your supervisor or with Human Resources. We are here to support you. 

Again, welcome to the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library. We are glad you are here and look forward to the contributions you will bring to our organization.