dcrodriguez/Code-of-Virginia huggingface dataset:
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-20. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1976, c. 746.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-29. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1976, c. 746.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-3. Terms of office of members of Board; vacancies.
Members serving on the Board on June 30, 1986, shall continue in their respective terms, and the Governor shall appoint the following additional members: one member for a one-year term, one member for a three-year term, two members for four-year terms, and two members for five-year terms. Thereafter, all appointments shall be for five-year terms beginning on July 1 of the year of appointment, provided that appointments to fill vacancies shall be for the unexpired term.

No person shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Board for more than two successive full terms.

Code 1950, § 42-35; 1968, c. 122; 1970, c. 606; 1986, c. 565.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-3.1. Authority of Board generally.
The Board shall be vested with full authority (i) to establish policy concerning what books and other library materials are to be kept, housed, or exhibited by The Library of Virginia; (ii) to enter into agreements with institutions and organizations with purposes similar to its own; (iii) to adopt and amend bylaws; (iv) to charge for such services as deemed proper; and (v) to do such other things as it deems proper to promote education in the realm of history and library and archival science throughout the Commonwealth through The Library of Virginia.

The Board is hereby authorized to sell, grant, and convey or to change the form of investments or control of any funds, securities or other property, provided such action is not inconsistent with the terms of the instrument under which the property may have been acquired.

The Board may confer the honorary degree of patron of letters on any person who has, in its opinion, made an outstanding contribution in the realm of arts, history, humanities, or information, library, or archival science.

1986, c. 565; 1994, c. 64; 2025, c. 679.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-30. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-31. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.1. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.2. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.3. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.4. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.5. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.6. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-32.7. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2003, c. 176.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-4. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1986, c. 565, effective April 7, 1986.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-5. Expenses of members of Board.
The members of the Board shall receive no compensation for their services as such; but reasonable expenses incurred as members of the Board in the discharge of their duties shall be paid out of the Library funds.

Code 1950, § 42-37; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-6. Minutes and records of Board.
The Board shall keep minutes of all its proceedings, which shall be signed by the chairman and attested by the secretary, and a record of all receipts and disbursements, all of which shall be preserved as public records.

Code 1950, § 42-38; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-7. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1985, c. 397.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-8. Rules and regulations.
The Board shall make rules and regulations, not inconsistent with law, for the government and use of The Library of Virginia, and may by general or special regulation determine what books and other possessions of the Library may not be removed therefrom.

Code 1950, § 42-41; 1970, c. 606; 1994, c. 64.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 1 (STATE LIBRARY AND LIBRARY BOARD)
§ 42.1-9. When Library to be kept open.
The Library of Virginia shall be kept open for such days and hours each day as may be prescribed for other state agencies at the seat of government. But the Board may, in its discretion, prescribe additional hours in which the Library shall be kept open.

Code 1950, § 42-43; 1970, c. 606; 1994, c. 64.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-33. Power of local governments to establish and support libraries.
The governing body of any city, county or town shall have the power to establish a free public library for the use and benefit of its residents. The governing body shall provide sufficient support for the operation of the library by levying a tax therefor, either by special levy or as a fund of the general levy of the city, county or town. The word "support" as used in this chapter shall include but is not limited to, purchase of land for library buildings, purchase or erection of buildings for library purposes, purchase of library books, materials and equipment, compensation of library personnel, and all maintenance expenses for library property and equipment. Funds appropriated or contributed for public library purposes shall constitute a separate fund and shall not be used for any but public library purposes.

1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-34. Power of local governments to contract for library service.
Any city, town or county shall have the power to enter into contracts with adjacent cities, counties, towns, or public institutions of higher education to receive or to provide library service on such terms and conditions as shall be mutually acceptable, or they may contract for a library service with a library not owned by a public corporation but maintained for free public use. The board of trustees of a free public library may enter into contracts with county, city or town school boards and boards of school trustees to provide library service for schools. Any city or county governing body contracting for library service shall, as a part of such contract, have the power to appoint at least one member to the board of trustees or other governing body of the library contracting to provide such service. Any city or county thus contracting for library service shall be entitled to the rights and benefits of regional free library systems established in accordance with the provisions of § 42.1-37. The board of trustees or other governing body of any library established under the provisions of § 42.1-33 may also, with the approval of and on terms satisfactory to the State Library Board, extend its services to persons in adjacent areas of other states.

1970, c. 606.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-35. Library boards generally.
A. The management and control of a free public library system shall be vested in a board of not less than five members or trustees. They shall be appointed by the governing body, chosen from the citizens at large with reference to their fitness for such office. However, one board member or trustee may be a member or an employee of the local governing body. Initially members shall be appointed as follows: one member for a term of one year, one member for a term of two years, one member for a term of three years, and the remaining members for terms of four years; thereafter all members shall be appointed for terms of four years. The governing body of any county or city entitled to representation on a library board of a library system of another jurisdiction pursuant to § 42.1-34 shall appoint a member to serve for a term of four years, or until the contract is terminated, whichever is shorter. Vacancies shall be filled for unexpired terms as soon as possible in the manner in which members of the board are regularly chosen. A member shall not receive a salary or other compensation for services as a member but necessary expenses actually incurred shall be paid from the library fund. However, the governing body of Fairfax County may pay members of its library board such compensation as it may deem proper. A member of a library board may be removed for misconduct or neglect of duty by the governing body making the appointment. The members shall adopt such bylaws, rules and regulations for their own guidance and for the government of the free public library system as may be expedient. They shall have control of the expenditures of all moneys credited to the library fund. The board shall have the right to accept donations and bequests of money, personal property, or real estate for the establishment and maintenance of such free public library systems or endowments for same.

B. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection A relating to the terms of library board members, a local governing body may alter the composition of its library board to create staggered terms of service in which approximately the same number of terms expire annually. To achieve this goal, the local governing body shall appoint in any year in which multiple terms expire members for terms of one, two, three, and four years as appropriate. Thereafter, all members shall be appointed for terms of four years. Vacancies shall be filled for unexpired terms as soon as possible in the manner in which members of the board are regularly chosen.

1970, c. 606; 1974, c. 84; 1985, c. 278; 1998, c. 212.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-36. Library boards not mandatory.
The formation, creation, or continued existence of library boards shall not be considered or construed in any manner as mandatory upon (i) any city or town with a manager; (ii) any county with a county manager, county executive, urban county manager, or urban county executive form of government; (iii) any county that has adopted a charter; or (iv) the Counties of Botetourt, Caroline, Chesterfield, King and Queen, and Shenandoah, by virtue of this chapter.

1970, c. 606; 1978, c. 6; 2002, c. 111; 2017, cc. 64, 408; 2018, cc. 177, 213; 2022, c. 352; 2024, c. 486.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-37. Establishment of regional library system.
Two or more political subdivisions, (counties or cities), by action of their governing bodies, may join in establishing and maintaining a regional free library system under the terms of a contract between such political subdivisions; provided, that in the case of established county or city free library systems, the library boards shall agree to such action.

1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-38. Agreements to create regional boards.
Two or more political subdivisions (counties or cities) which have qualified for participation in the state's regional library program, have been recognized as a region by the State Library Board, and have made the minimum local appropriation of funds as may now or hereafter be recommended by the Board, are hereby empowered and authorized to execute contracts with each other to create a regional library board to administer and control the regional library services within the region. Each jurisdiction shall, as a part of such contract, have the power to appoint at least one member to the regional library board.

1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-39. Regional library boards generally.
The members of the board of a regional library system shall be appointed by the respective governing bodies represented. If the board of the regional library system is composed of two or more members from each county, city and town that is a part thereof, then each governing body represented on the board may appoint a member or an employee of the governing body to the board. Such members shall in the beginning draw lots for expiration of terms, to provide for staggered terms of office, and thereafter the appointment shall be for a term of four years. Vacancies shall be filled for unexpired terms as soon as possible in the manner in which members are regularly chosen. No appointive member shall be eligible to serve more than two successive terms. A member shall not receive a salary or other compensation for services as member, but necessary expenses actually incurred shall be paid from the library fund. A regional board member may be removed for misconduct or neglect of duty by the governing body making the appointment. The board members shall elect officers and adopt such bylaws, rules and regulations for their own guidance and for the government of the regional free library system as may be expedient. They shall have control of the expenditure of all moneys credited to the regional free library fund. The regional board shall have the right to accept donations and bequests of money, personal property, or real estate for the establishment and maintenance of such regional free library system or endowments for same.

1970, c. 606; 1985, c. 278.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-40. Powers of regional library board.
The regional library board shall have authority to execute contracts with the State Library Board, with the library boards of the respective jurisdictions, and any and all other agencies for the purpose of administering a public library service within the region, including contracts concerning allocation and expenditure of funds, to the same extent as the library board of any one of the jurisdictions which are parties to the agreement would be so authorized. In addition, to effectuate the purposes of this chapter, a regional library board is empowered to sell the surplus assets, including real estate, of the said regional library board if the net proceeds therefrom are used for public library services within the region.

1970, c. 606; 1986, c. 247.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-41. Funds and expenses of regional library system.
The expenses of the regional library system shall be apportioned among the participating political subdivisions on such basis as shall be agreed upon in the contract. The treasurer of the regional library board shall have the custody of the funds of the regional free library system; and the treasurers or other financial officers of the participating jurisdictions shall transfer quarterly to him all moneys collected or appropriated for this purpose in their respective jurisdictions. Such funds shall be expended only for the library service for which the county or city contracted and for no other purpose. The regional library board shall furnish a detailed report of receipts and disbursements of all funds at the regular meeting of the governing body of every participating jurisdiction after the close of the state's fiscal year. It shall make a similar report to The Library of Virginia. The treasurer of the board shall be bonded for an amount to be determined by the board. The board may authorize the treasurer to pay bond premiums from state aid library funds.

1970, c. 606; 1994, c. 64.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-42. Withdrawal from regional library system.
No county or city participating in a regional library system shall withdraw therefrom without two years' notice to the other participating counties and cities without the consent of such other participating political subdivisions.

1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-43. Appropriation for free library or library service conducted by company, society, or organization.
The governing body of any county, city, or town in which no free public library system as provided in this chapter has been established may appropriate such sums of money as it determines is appropriate for the support and maintenance of any free library or library service operated and conducted in such county, city, or town by a company, society, or association organized under the provisions of Chapter 10 (§ 13.1-801 et seq.) of Title 13.1.

1970, c. 606; 2022, c. 355.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-44. Cooperative library system for Henrico and Chesterfield Counties and City of Richmond.
Notwithstanding the repeal of Title 42, §§ 42-12.1 to 42-12.5 of Chapter 2.1 of former Title 42 are continued in effect and are incorporated into this title by reference.

1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 2 (Local and Regional Libraries)
§ 42.1-45. Transfer of properties, etc., of public free library to governing body of city in which it is situated.
The board of directors or trustees of any public free library established pursuant to Chapter 13, Acts of Assembly, 1924, approved February 13, 1924, may lease, convey, or transfer any interest to its properties, real or personal, to the governing body of the political subdivision in which such library be situated in order that such library may become a part of the public library system of such city, subject to such restrictions and conditions as may be agreed to by such board of directors or trustees and such governing body.

1970, c. 367.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-46. Library policy of the Commonwealth.
It is hereby declared to be the policy of the Commonwealth, as a part of its provision of essential service to communities and for public education, to promote the establishment and development of public library service throughout its various political subdivisions.

Code 1950, § 42-23; 1970, c. 606; 2020, c. 54.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-47. Grants for development of library service.
In order to provide state aid in the development of public library service throughout the Commonwealth, the Library Board, in this chapter sometimes called the Board, shall grant from such appropriations as are made for this purpose funds to provide library service.

Code 1950, § 42-24; 1952, c. 494; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-48. Grants to improve standards.
In order to encourage the maintenance and development of proper standards, including personnel standards, and the combination of libraries or library systems into larger and more economical units of service, grants of state aid from funds available shall be made by the Board to any free public library or library system which qualifies under the standards set by the Board. The grants to each qualifying library or system in each fiscal year shall be as follows:

(a) Forty cents of state aid for every dollar expended, or to be expended, exclusive of state and federal aid, by the political subdivision or subdivisions operating or participating in the library or system. The grant to any county or city shall not exceed $250,000;

(b) A per capita grant based on the population of the area served and the number of participating counties or cities: Thirty cents per capita for the first 600,000 persons to a library or system serving one city or county, and an additional ten cents per capita for the first 600,000 persons for each additional city or county served. Libraries or systems serving a population in excess of 600,000 shall receive ten cents per capita for the excess; and

(c) A grant of ten dollars per square mile of area served to every library or library system, and an additional grant of twenty dollars per square mile of area served to every library system serving more than one city or county.

The Board may establish procedures for the review and timely adjustment of such grants when the political subdivision or subdivisions operating such library or library system are affected by annexation.

Code 1950, § 42-26; 1952, c. 494; 1958, c. 513; 1960, c. 234; 1970, c. 606; 1978, c. 565; 1989, c. 85; 1990, c. 48.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-49. Grants to municipal libraries.
Every qualifying municipal library serving an area containing less than 5,000 population shall receive its proper share, but not less than $400.

1970, c. 606.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-50. Limitation of grants; proration of funds.
The total amount of grants under §§ 42.1-48 and 42.1-49 shall not exceed the amount expended, exclusive of state and federal aid, by the political subdivision or subdivisions operating the library. If the state appropriations provided for grants under §§ 42.1-48 and 42.1-49 are not sufficient to meet approved applications, the Library Board shall prorate the available funds in such manner that each application shall receive its proportionate share of each type of grant. Applications must be received prior to June one of each calendar year.

Code 1950, § 42-25; 1952, c. 494; 1958, c. 426; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-51. Obligations of libraries and systems receiving aid.
The obligations of the various library systems and libraries receiving state aid, shall consist of establishing and maintaining an organization as approved by the Board, provided that personnel standards of such library systems and libraries shall conform to the provisions of § 42.1-15.1. All books and bookmobiles purchased with state aid funds shall, if the Board so determines, become the property of The Library of Virginia in the case of any library system or library which does not meet its obligations as determined by the Board.

Code 1950, § 42-27; 1952, c. 494; 1970, c. 606; 1988, c. 716; 1994, c. 64.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-52. Standards of eligibility for aid; reports on operation of libraries; supervision of services.
The Board shall establish standards under which library systems and libraries shall be eligible for state aid and may require reports on the operation of all libraries receiving state aid.

As long as funds are available, grants shall be made to the various libraries, library systems or contracting libraries applying for state aid in the order in which they meet the standards established by the Board.

In the event that any library meets the standards of the State Library Board but is unable to conform to § 42.1-15.1 relating to the employment of qualified librarians, the Library Board may, under a contractual agreement with such library, provide professional supervision of its services and may grant state aid funds to it in reduced amounts under a uniform plan to be adopted by the State Library Board.

Code 1950, § 42-28; 1960, c. 235; 1970, c. 606; 1988, c. 716.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-53. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1999, c. 24.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-54. Procedure for purchase of books, materials and equipment and payment on salaries.
All proposals for books, materials and equipment to be purchased with state aid funds and all proposals for aid in the payment of salaries of certified librarians shall be submitted for approval to The Library of Virginia by the libraries, library systems or contracting libraries applying for state aid, in form prescribed by the Board, and those approved may be ordered by the libraries, library systems or contracting libraries. Payments and disbursements from the funds appropriated for this purpose shall be made by the State Treasurer upon the approval of the duly authorized representative of the Board, to the libraries, library systems or contracting libraries within thirty days of the beginning of each quarter.

Code 1950, § 42-30; 1952, c. 494; 1956, c. 168; 1970, c. 606; 1987, c. 458; 1994, c. 64.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-55. Free service available to all.
The service of books in library systems and libraries receiving state aid shall be free and shall be made available to all persons living in the county, region, or municipality.

Code 1950, § 42-31; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-56. Meaning of term "books.".
The term "books" as used in this chapter may be interpreted in the discretion of the Board to mean books, magazines, newspapers, appropriate audiovisual materials and other printed matter.

Code 1950, § 42-32; 1952, c. 494; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-57. Authority of Library Board to accept and distribute federal funds.
The Library Board is empowered, subject to approval of the Governor, to accept grants of federal funds for libraries and to allocate such funds to libraries under any plan approved by the Board and the appropriate federal authorities. Such allocations shall not be subject to the restrictions of this chapter.

Code 1950, § 42-32.1; 1964, c. 325; 1970, c. 606; 1972, c. 167.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-58. Agreements providing for expenditure of federal and matching funds.
The Library Board and the cities and counties of the Commonwealth are authorized to enter into agreements providing for the supervision of the expenditure of federal funds allocated to such cities and counties and matching funds provided by such political subdivisions. Such agreement shall set forth the standards and conditions with respect to the expenditure of such funds.

Code 1950, § 42-32.2; 1964, c. 324; 1970, c. 606.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 3 (STATE AND FEDERAL AID)
§ 42.1-59. Reserved.
Reserved.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-60. State Law Library managed by Supreme Court.
There shall be a State Law Library at Richmond maintained as at present, which shall be managed by the Supreme Court. The Court shall appoint the librarian and other employees to hold office at the pleasure of the Court.

Code 1950, § 42-13; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397; 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-61. Books, etc., constituting State Law Library.
The State Law Library shall consist of the books, periodicals, audiovisual materials, and other media now in the law library at Richmond, with such additions as may be made thereto.

Code 1950, § 42-14; 1970, c. 606; 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-62. Additions to Library.
The Supreme Court shall, from time to time, make additions to the State Law Library by purchases, and may lease or purchase computer terminals for the purpose of retrieving available legal reference data, with funds at its disposal for these purposes, and may cause books to be transferred from one law library to another. All law books acquired by the Commonwealth by gift, or by exchange, from the United States, or other states and countries, shall be placed in the Library.

Code 1950, § 42-15; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397; 2011, c. 537.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-63. Regulation of State Law Library.
The Supreme Court shall have the power to make and enforce such rules and orders for the regulation of the State Law Library, and the use thereof, as it determines is appropriate.

Code 1950, § 42-16; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397; 1989, c. 704; 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-64. Who may use Library.
The Governor and other state officers at the seat of government, the Reporter of the Supreme Court, members of the General Assembly and an individual designated by a member of the General Assembly to perform legal research, judges of courts, and practicing attorneys in good standing, and such other persons as the Supreme Court shall designate, shall have the use of the State Law Library, under such rules and regulations as the Court shall make.

Code 1950, § 42-17; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397; 2009, c. 584.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-65. Local law libraries in charge of circuit court clerks; computer research services; expenses.
A. If the members of the bar practicing in any county or city of the Commonwealth shall procure by voluntary contribution a law library with a value of at least $500 for the use of the courts held in such county or city, and of the bar practicing therein, it shall be the duty of the circuit court of such county or city to require its clerk to take charge of the law library so contributed and to keep the law library in the courthouse or clerk's office building according to the rules prescribed by the bar and approved by the court. In addition, all or a portion of such law library may be housed in the local public library with the approval of and subject to the management and control of the local public library.

B. If the members of the bars practicing in two or more adjoining counties or cities of the Commonwealth shall jointly procure by voluntary contribution a law library with a value of at least $500 for the joint use of the courts held in such counties and cities, and of the bars practicing therein, it shall be the joint duty of the circuit courts of such counties and cities to require one of its clerks to take charge of the law library so contributed and to keep the law library in the most convenient courthouse or clerk's office building according to the rules jointly prescribed by the bars and jointly approved by the courts.

C. Such local and regional law libraries may purchase or lease computer terminals for the purpose of retrieving available legal reference data, and if so, the library rules shall provide for the assessment and collection of fees, which may include use of a flat rate or fee structure, for the use of computer research services other than for official use of the courts, attorneys for the Commonwealth and public defenders and their assistants, and counties and cities serviced by such libraries, which fees shall be sufficient to cover the expenses of such services.

Code 1950, § 42-18; 1962, c. 515; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397; 1989, c. 704; 2009, c. 617; 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-66. Circuit courts to enforce rules for government of such libraries.
The observance of the rules so prescribed and approved may be enforced by a circuit court sitting within the area served by the particular local or regional library by such summary process and judgment as shall be provided by such rules.

Code 1950, § 42-19; 1962, c. 515; 1970, c. 606; 1977, c. 397.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-67. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 1977, c. 397.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-70. Assessment for law library as part of costs in civil actions; contributions from bar associations.
Any county, city, or town may, through its governing body, assess as part of the costs incident to each civil action filed in the courts located within its boundaries a sum not in excess of $4.

The imposition of such assessment shall be by ordinance of the governing body, which ordinance may provide for different sums in circuit courts and district courts, and the assessment shall be collected by the clerk of the court in which the action is filed and remitted to the treasurer of such county, city, or town and held by such treasurer subject to disbursements by the governing body for the acquisition of (i) law books, law periodicals and computer legal research services, and computer terminals for offsite placement to maximize access to the law library by the public and (ii) equipment for the establishment, use, and maintenance of a law library that shall be open for the use of the public at hours convenient to the public. In addition to the acquisition of law books, law periodicals and computer legal research services, and equipment, the disbursements may include compensation to be paid to librarians and other necessary staff for the maintenance of such library and acquisition of suitable quarters for such library. The compensation of such librarians and the necessary staff and the cost of suitable quarters for such library shall be fixed by the governing body and paid out of the fund created by the imposition of such assessment of cost. Disbursements may be made to purchase or lease computer terminals for the purpose of retaining such research services. The assessment provided for in this section shall be in addition to all other costs prescribed by law, but shall not apply to any action in which the Commonwealth or any political subdivision thereof or the federal government is a party and in which the costs are assessed against the Commonwealth or any political subdivision thereof or the federal government. The governing body is authorized to accept contributions to the fund from any bar association.

Any such library established in the County of Wythe shall be located only in a town that is the seat of the county government.

Code 1950, § 42-19.4; 1964, c. 439; 1964, Ex. Sess., c. 26; 1966, c. 225; 1970, c. 606; 1972, c. 343; 1977, c. 397; 1981, c. 48; 1982, c. 607; 1983, cc. 309, 355; 1984, c. 16; 1985, c. 381; 1988, c. 571; 2009, c. 617; 2022, c. 355.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 4 (Law Libraries)
§ 42.1-71. Establishment of regional law libraries by governing bodies.
Any two or more adjoining counties or cities assessing costs as provided in § 42.1-70 may jointly establish a regional law library, and each such regional library shall be open to the public.

1977, c. 145.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 5 (OFFENSES)
§ 42.1-72. Injuring or destroying books and other property of libraries.
Any person who willfully, maliciously or wantonly writes upon, injures, defaces, tears, cuts, mutilates, or destroys any book or other library property belonging to or in the custody of any public, county or regional library, The Library of Virginia, other repository of public records, museums or any library or collection belonging to or in the custody of any educational, eleemosynary, benevolent, hereditary, historical library or patriotic institution, organization or society, shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Code 1950, § 42-20; 1970, c. 606; 1975, c. 318; 1994, c. 64.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 5 (OFFENSES)
§ 42.1-73. Concealment of book or other property while on premises of library; removal of book or other property from library.
Whoever, without authority, with the intention of converting to his own or another's use, willfully conceals a book or other library property, while still on the premises of such library, or willfully or without authority removes any book or other property from any of the above libraries or collections shall be deemed guilty of larceny thereof, and upon conviction thereof shall be punished as provided by law. Proof of the willful concealment of such book or other library property while still on the premises of such library shall be prima facie evidence of intent to commit larceny thereof.

Code 1950, § 42-21; 1970, c. 606; 1975, c. 318.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 5 (OFFENSES)
§ 42.1-73.1. Exemption from liability for arrest of suspected person; electronic article surveillance devices.
A library or agent or employee of the library causing the arrest of any person pursuant to the provisions of § 42.1-73, shall not be held civilly liable for unlawful detention, slander, malicious prosecution, false imprisonment, false arrest, or assault and battery of the person so arrested, whether such arrest takes place on the premises of the library or after close pursuit from such premises by such agent or employee, if, in causing the arrest of such person, the library or agent or employee of the library had at the time of such arrest probable cause to believe that the person committed willful concealment of books or other library property.

The activation of an electronic article surveillance device as a result of a person exiting the premises or an area within the premises of a library where an electronic article surveillance device is located shall constitute probable cause for the detention of such person by such library or agent or employee of the library, provided that such person is detained only in a reasonable manner and only for such time as is necessary for an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the activation of the device, and provided that clear and visible notice is posted at each exit and location within the premises where such device is located indicating the presence of an anti-theft device. For purposes of this section, "electronic article surveillance device" means an electronic device designed and operated for the purpose of detecting the removal from the premises or a protected area within such premises, of any specially marked or tagged book or other library property.

1975, c. 318; 1986, c. 33.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 5 (OFFENSES)
§ 42.1-74. Failure to return book or other library property.
Any person having in his possession any book or other property of any of the above libraries or collections, which he shall fail to return within thirty days after receiving notice in writing from the custodian, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished according to law; provided, however, that if such book should be lost or destroyed, such person may, within thirty days after being so notified, pay to the custodian the value of such book, the value to be determined by the governing board having jurisdiction.

Code 1950, § 42-22; 1970, c. 606.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 5 (OFFENSES)
§ 42.1-74.1. "Book or other library property" defined.
The terms "book or other library property" as used in this chapter shall include any book, plate, picture, photograph, engraving, painting, drawing, map, newspaper, magazine, pamphlet, broadside, manuscript, document, letter, public record, microform, sound recording, audiovisual materials in any format, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data processing records, artifacts, or other documentary, written, or printed material, regardless of physical form or characteristics, belonging to, on loan to, or otherwise in the custody of any library, museum, repository of public or other records institution as specified in § 42.1-72.

1975, c. 318.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-76. Legislative intent; title of chapter.
The General Assembly intends by this chapter to establish a single body of law applicable to all public officers and employees on the subject of public records management and preservation and to ensure that the procedures used to manage and preserve public records will be uniform throughout the Commonwealth.

This chapter may be cited as the Virginia Public Records Act.

1976, c. 746.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-76.1. Notice of Chapter.
Any person elected, reelected, appointed, or reappointed to the governing body of any agency subject to this chapter shall (i) be furnished by the agency or public body's administrator or legal counsel with a copy of this chapter within two weeks following election, reelection, appointment, or reappointment and (ii) read and become familiar with the provisions of this chapter.

2006, c. 60.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-78. Confidentiality safeguarded.
Any records made confidential by law shall be so treated. Records that by law are required to be closed to the public shall not be deemed to be made open to the public under the provisions of this chapter. Records in the custody of The Library of Virginia that are required to be closed to the public shall be open for public access 75 years after the date of creation of the record. No provision of this chapter shall be construed to authorize or require the opening of any records ordered to be sealed by a court; however, upon a petition filed with the clerk, a judge may enter an order releasing any record sealed prior to January 1, 1901. Medical and educational records made confidential by law shall remain so after being deposited in the archives. All records deposited in the archives that are not made confidential by law shall be open to public access.

1976, c. 746; 1979, c. 110; 1990, c. 778; 1994, c. 64; 2006, c. 60; 2020, c. 773; 2023, cc. 126, 127.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-79. Records management function vested in The Library of Virginia.
A. The archival and records management function shall be vested in The Library of Virginia. The Library of Virginia shall be the official custodian and trustee for the Commonwealth of all public records of whatever kind, and regardless of physical form or characteristics, that are transferred to it from any agency. As the Commonwealth's official repository of public records, The Library of Virginia shall assume ownership and administrative control of such records on behalf of the Commonwealth. The Library of Virginia shall own and operate any equipment necessary to manage and retain control of electronic archival records in its custody, but may, at its discretion, contract with third-party entities to provide any or all services related to managing archival records on equipment owned by the contractor, by other third parties, or by The Library of Virginia.

B. The Librarian of Virginia shall name a State Archivist who shall perform such functions as the Librarian of Virginia assigns.

C. Whenever legislation affecting public records management and preservation is under consideration, The Library of Virginia shall review the proposal and advise the General Assembly on the effects of its proposed implementation.

1976, c. 746; 1986, c. 565; 1990, c. 778; 1994, c. 64; 1998, c. 427; 2005, c. 787; 2006, c. 60.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-79.1. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2005, c. 787, cl. 2.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-80. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2003, c. 177.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-82. Duties and powers of Library Board.
A. The State Library Board shall:

1. Issue regulations concerning procedures for the disposal, physical destruction or other disposition of public records containing social security numbers. The procedures shall include all reasonable steps to destroy such documents by (i) shredding, (ii) erasing, or (iii) otherwise modifying the social security numbers in those records to make them unreadable or undecipherable by any means.

2. Issue regulations and guidelines designed to facilitate the creation, preservation, storage, filing, reformatting, management, and destruction of public records by agencies. Such regulations shall mandate procedures for records management and include recommendations for the creation, retention, disposal, or other disposition of public records.

B. The State Library Board may establish advisory committees composed of persons with expertise in the matters under consideration to assist the Library Board in developing regulations and guidelines.

1976, c. 746; 1977, c. 501; 1981, c. 637; 1990, c. 778; 1994, cc. 64, 955; 2003, cc. 914, 918; 2005, c. 787; 2006, c. 60.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-83. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2006, c. 60, cl. 2.

Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-84. Repealed.
Repealed by Acts 2005, c. 787, cl. 2.
Code of Virginia — Title 42.1 (Libraries), Chapter 7 (VIRGINIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT)
§ 42.1-85. Records Management Program; agencies to cooperate; agencies to designate records officer.
A. The Library of Virginia shall administer a records management program for the application of efficient and economical methods for managing the lifecycle of public records consistent with regulations and guidelines promulgated by the State Library Board, including operation of a records center or centers. The Library of Virginia shall establish procedures and techniques for the effective management of public records, make continuing surveys of records and records keeping practices, and recommend improvements in current records management practices, including the use of space, equipment, software, and supplies employed in creating, maintaining, and servicing records.

B. Any agency with public records shall cooperate with The Library of Virginia in conducting surveys. Each agency shall establish and maintain an active, continuing program for the economical and efficient management of the records of such agency. The agency shall be responsible for ensuring that its public records are preserved, maintained, and accessible throughout their lifecycle, including converting and migrating electronic records as often as necessary so that information is not lost due to hardware, software, or media obsolescence or deterioration. Any public official who converts or migrates an electronic record shall ensure that it is an accurate copy of the original record. The converted or migrated record shall have the force of the original.

C. Each state agency and political subdivision of this Commonwealth shall designate as many as appropriate, but at least one, records officer to serve as a liaison to The Library of Virginia for the purposes of implementing and overseeing a records management program, and coordinating legal disposition, including destruction, of obsolete records. Designation of state agency records officers shall be by the respective agency head. Designation of a records officer for political subdivisions shall be by the governing body or chief administrative official of the political subdivision. Each entity responsible for designating a records officer shall provide The Library of Virginia with the name and contact information of the designated records officer, and shall ensure that such information is updated in a timely manner in the event of any changes.

D. The Library of Virginia shall develop and make available training and education opportunities concerning the requirements of and compliance with this chapter for records officers in the Commonwealth.

1976, c. 746; 1990, c. 778; 1994, c. 64; 1998, c. 427; 2006, c. 60.