Tue, Thu: 1pm - 9pm
Chatham, MA 02633
Fax: 508-945-5173
Library Policies
The Eldredge Public Library strives to create a warm, inviting, and fun environment for its youngest patrons. The Library offers many programs and services that encourage children to develop a love of the library, books, reading, and learning. However, the safety and well-being of every child is of utmost importance. To ensure that we meet both of these important goals, we have established the following policies.
Library Cards
Children must be five years old and able to sign their name in order to receive a library card. A Clams Registration Form must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian who will be responsible for materials borrowed, fees assessed, and fines accrued.
Borrowing Privileges and Restrictions for Children's Materials
General loan periods are for two weeks with the exception of DVDs which are loaned for one week. Materials can be renewed one time 
only, either in person, by telephone, or online. All items with the exception of Museum Passes may be returned to the library at the front desk or in the book drops in the parking lot. Please be mindful that there are separate book drops for audio visual materials. There is a limit of 50 items allowed per card with borrowing restrictions on the following materials:
- Books - unlimited with the exception of holiday titles which are 5 per card
- Audio Books - unlimited
- DVD - 4 per card
- CD - 5 per card
- Video Games – 4 per card
Unattended Child Policy
Children 8 years-old and younger must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver at all times in the Children's Room. At the discretion of a responsible adult, a child 9 or older may be left unattended for the period of time needed to select materials, complete homework assignments, or attend library programs. The library staff will not be responsible for supervising unattended children. (These children should know how to reach a parent or caregiver during their library visit.) Parents and caregivers should be aware of the library's business hours. The library staff is not responsible for supervising children left unattended when the library is closed but will make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or caregiver for immediate pick-up. If arrangements cannot be made, the Chatham Police Department will be contacted.
Behavior
At all times, parents and caregivers are responsible for the behavior of their children. Though we are not a “shushing” library, the design of our library dictates common sense with regards to noise. Children are expected to adhere to the same rules as stated for all patrons in our Behavior Policy.
Event Registration
Most activities require pre-registration. Registration for all events closes 24 hours prior to the event. This policy ensures that proper staffing and adequate materials will be available for all participants. Please be mindful of age and time restrictions.
