4.3 Social Media

This policy outlines the use of social media by the Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL) to communicate in ways that align with our Library's mission, vision, and values. The objective of this policy is to:

• engage our community effectively and efficiently through social media;
• set clear expectations for staff and public participation on our social media channels; and minimize risks by establishing comprehensive guidelines for social media use.

This policy applies to all TBPL employees, contractors, and volunteers who engage in social media activities on behalf of TBPL, as well as those who may reference the Library in their personal social media use. It includes all social media platforms, including but not limited to blogs, social networks, online communities, websites, and mobile applications. This policy also covers the responsibilities and conduct expected in these spaces to pro- tect the Library's integrity and reputation.

The Thunder Bay Public Library is committed to using social media to provide a means for meaningful communication and interaction between Library personnel and the community.

The TBPL supports the responsible and effective use of social media for library purposes, including:

• engaging in promotion, outreach, awareness raising and branding;
• engaging in dialogue with the community so that TBPL is responsive to community needs;
• delivering information;
• improving and supporting customer service;
• supporting media and public relations activities; and
• promoting inclusiveness and accessibility.

The Library does not accept any responsibility for content that appears on social media that does not originate from TBPL employees.

Designated TBPL staff are responsible for facilitating communication and providing customer service through social media, adhering to this policy's standards.

All content shared on social media, including posts, comments, and multimedia, must reflect the Library's mission, vision, and values, serving as a digital extension of our institutional identity.

TBPL recognizes that employees are committed to high standards of ethical and professional communication and expects this standard to extend to the online environment.

When using social media for personal use, and when identifiable as a library employee, staff must be aware of their role in the organization and the potential impact of their communications on the brand, reputation and values of the TBPL and act appropriately and with good judgment.

The Library may take appropriate disciplinary or legal action in instances of non-compliance with this policy, specifically regarding behaviors that violate our community standards or jeopardize the Library's integrity.

This policy overlaps with relevant legislation including the Copyright Act, the Ontario Hu- man Rights Code, and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This commitment also adheres to internal TBPL policies and procedures, such as the Code of Conduct and confidentiality agreements.

This policy, along with guidelines and training for staff, are intended to prevent problems that may occur when communicating online.

The TBPL will engage in best practices for managing online communication, including: requiring approval for establishing channels;

• creating guidelines for employees in the effective and appropriate use of channels; monitoring channels regularly for relevance and adherence to guidelines;
• designating appropriate staff resources to manage channels;
• training staff in the use of social media; and evaluating the success and sustainability of channels.

Members of the public are encouraged to contribute to the TBPL's online and social media channels and communities. Comments, posts, messages, and creative content are welcome, provided they are in keeping with the Library's vision, purpose and values.

If an issue or incident occurs, TBPL will investigate the matter and take appropriate action, which may include:

• issuing a response, correction or apology in a timely manner;
• deleting a comment or post;
• pursuing legal advice and/or action; and
• applying the Behaviour Policy, Customer Bill of Rights and procedure for banning a patron, as appropriate.
• TBPL does not substitute parental or guardian oversight over minors' use of these digital platforms. Responsibility for monitoring a minor's social media use rests with parents or caregivers.