Purpose

The Metropolitan Library System (“Library System”) considers telework (work conducted away from the regularly assigned work location) to be a viable alternative work arrangement in cases where job duties and responsibilities are best suited to such an arrangement. Telework allows employees to work at home, on the road, or in an alternate work site for all or part of their regular workweek. Telework is a work alternative that will be designated by position. It is not an entitlement and it is not a system-wide benefit. Telework in no way changes the terms and conditions of employment with the Library System.
 

Policy

All telework eligible position designations will be made focusing on the business needs of the Library System and requires that the employee consistently produces valuable key deliverables to the system, internal or external customers, and colleagues.

Productivity will be measured by the achievement of weekly goals that include projects, tasks, and initiatives within predefined time frames and objectives. The employee must communicate at a level consistent with employees working at the office or in a manner and frequency that is appropriate for the job and the individuals involved. Employees doing telework will be expected to be accessible and responsive to communications in a timely manner during regular working hours.

Unless otherwise stated, remote employees are expected to follow the same guidelines set forth in the Metropolitan Library System Policy and Procedures.

Failure to appropriately and honestly track or record hours may result in the immediate termination of the Telework Agreement and/or employment.

Telework-eligible positions will be designated by the Executive Director as follows:

• Core - eligible for limited telework on a regular or scheduled basis; or
• Emergency – eligible for telework during an extended system-wide closure or other public emergency

Core telework to perform essential job functions will be offered and approved on a limited basis, as defined in SH 612.1 Telework Procedures. Examples of situations where telework may be supported include short-term work assignments (e.g. special projects, performance development, virtual programming, virtual meeting and conference attendance, scheduling, budget, etc.), or remote work identified as part of light duty or family and medical leave, subject to supporting medical documentation and approval by Human Resources.

Emergency telework eligibility during an extended system-wide closure or other public emergency may vary from telework eligibility during normal operating hours, as defined in SH 611 Unexpected Closure and SH 612.1 Telework Procedures.

Positions designated as telework-eligible will be identified in the official job description, as applicable.