Freedom of Information Act Policy
Aitkin Memorial District Library
Purpose
It is the intent of the Aitkin Memorial District Library (AMDL) to perform public business in an open and public manner as required by Michigan’s Freedom of Information, Act 442 of 1976, and as amended. This Policy prescribes AMDL’s procedures for responding to written public records requests made pursuant to FOIA.
Scope
This Policy applies to AMDL whenever a written request for public records is made under Michigan’s FOIA law. This Policy does not apply to any records that are exempt from disclosure such as, but not limited to:
- Specific personal information about an individual if the release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of that individual’s privacy.
- Records that may be exempted from disclosure by another statute. (Note: statutes which expressly prohibit public disclosure of records generally supersede the FOIA.)
- Information subject to attorney-client privilege.
- Pending public bids to enter into contracts.
- Records that would disclose the social security number of an individual.
Access
Public records shall be open to inspection and copying during AMDL’s regular business hours by the custodian of the requested public records. Reasonable access to and reasonable facilities for copying of these records shall be provided. AMDL shall provide reasonable assistance in identifying and locating public records in accordance with this Policy.
Form of FOIA Requests
All FOIA requests shall be made in writing.
All FOIA requests shall adequately describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable AMDL to locate such records with reasonable effort. The requesting party shall be as specific as possible when requesting records. To assist the in locating the requested records, AMDL may request that the requesting party provide additional information known to the requesting party, such as the types of records, dates, parties to correspondence, and subject matter of the requested records.
A FOIA request will be answered within 5 business days after receiving it. If needed, AMDL will notify the requester in writing and extend the time for an additional 10 business days.
Fees: Fees may be charged as permitted by law.
$.10 per sheet
Hourly rate for searching, reproducing and postage will be set according to 2015 PA 563
If a request must be denied, AMDL will respond to the requester with an explanation of the reasons for the denial and the requester’s right to submit a written appeal to the head of the public body (Board Chair) or to seek judicial review with the right to receive attorney fees and collect damages.
Submit requests to:
Marty Rheaume, Director
Aitkin Memorial District Library
111 North Howard Avenue
Croswell, Michigan 48422
Phone (810) 679-3627
Fax (810) 679-3392