Library Policies

Borrowers Policy

  1. All library patrons are eligible to receive a library card.
  2. To acquire a card, borrower must provide proper identification.
  3. Children may obtain a library card at the age of 5.
  4. Teacher cards are available for classroom teachers and homeschoolers. These cards extend the due date from the default two week loan to a four week loan. Personal items may not be checked out on Teacher cards.
  5. Borrowers are responsible for all items borrowed on the card, including the fines charged for overdue materials and replacement costs for items lost or damaged.
  6. Borrowers are responsible for keeping their registration information current.
  7. Anyone, of any age, who is eligible for a library card may use any materials in the Eldredge Public Library and shall not have that privilege limited by any staff person. Parents who wish to deny their children access to certain materials must take on that responsibility.

Borrowing Restrictions

  1. General Loan periods: Fiction and non-fiction books, new books, compact discs, audio recordings, magazines, and kits/games are loaned for a period of two weekes. VHS videos and DVDs are loaned for a period of one week. Museum passes are loaned for a period of three days.
  2. Borrowing Restrictions: There is a limit of 50 items that a borrower may take from the Eldredge Public Library at any given time. The following limits per card are enforced to assure that there is sufficient information or materials available in a given format.
    • DVD - 4 (this includes any combination of adult and childrens DVDs)
    • VHS - Adult VHS is not limited
    • VHS - Children's feature films limited to 4, no limit on children non-fiction films
    • MUSIC CD - Pop music is limited to 5 CDs, all other adult music is not limited
    • MUSIC CD - Children's music CD is limited to 5
  3. Renewals: Materials checked out may be renewed 1 time, either in person or over the phone.
  4. Book Returns: All items (except museum passes) may be returned in the book drops outside the building or brought to the front desk. There is a drop box designated for videos and audio cassettes in the parking lot. Museum passes must be returned inside the library during library hours.

Public Computer Policy

Users cannot save or download files or programs to the hard drive. Saving files or documents to a disk is acceptable. Users may not install or use their own software programs on the library computers. Users may bring in a laptop computer for use in the Library, but they may not hardwire the laptop to our Internet connection or use the Library telephone lines. Users may use our wireless Internet service if their laptop has wireless capability. (Please refer to Internet policy for rules on Internet access and email.)

The Eldredge Public Library makes no guarantees, implied or otherwise, regarding the reliability of the computers. We make a great effort to keep all the computers in working condition, but occasionally a computer may stop working; the library shall not be held responsible for any loss or corruption of the users' data.

Printing is available on designated machines at no charge to the user. Donations toward printing costs are gratefully accepted.

The Eldredge Public Library does use a computer sign up system. There are computers designated for adults, teens and children. Users may not use a computer that is not for their age group, even if those computers are in use and other computers are not in use.

Internet Policy

The Internet is an international collection of computer networks that can communicate with one another. The Internet is decentralized, with no person, organization or government in charge. Unlike materials available at the Library which have been selected by professional librarians, information found on the Internet could come from anywhere . Users are therefore cautioned to be aware of the reliability and authority of the site being used. The Eldredge Public Library does not monitor and has no control over the information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. Users can only access the Internet through the designated public computers. They can bring in their own laptop computer for use with our wireless Internet access.

Users must comply with the United States copyright law and all other applicable laws. Users cannot save or download files or programs to the library computers. Saving files to a disk is acceptable.

The library is a forum for all points of view and adheres to the principles of intellectual freedom as expressed in the Library Bill of Rights formulated by the American Library Association. The Library does not censor access to the Internet or protect users from materials they may find offensive. Internet users should be aware that some websites contain offensive material.

Unauthorized access, including "hacking" and other unlawful activities by users is prohibited. Access to sites that violate local, State or Federal Laws is prohibited. Public display of materials on the Internet that are objectionable to other patrons or staff is prohibited. A user who violates one or more of these rules will be made to shut down the website and computer use may be suspended or banned.

As with other library materials, restriction of a child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. We cannot guarantee or supervise the safety and security of minors when they are using the Internet, electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications. The unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors is prohibited. Minors are not allowed to access materials that are harmful to them . It is the responsibility of the parents or guardians to monitor their child's Internet access and behavior while they are online in the Library.

The Eldredge Public Library allows users to access their e-mail from the designated public computers. However, users may not configure Outlook Express or Netscape Messenger to access their e-mail. E-mail is in no way associated with the Eldredge Public Library. Users are not allowed to use the library name or address when opening an e-mail account.

The Eldredge Public Library makes no guarantees, implied or otherwise, regarding the reliability of the data connection and shall not be reliable for any loss or corruption of the data resulting from using the Internet connection.

Unattended Child Policy

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 the safety and well-being of each child, the Eldredge Public Library has established the following 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 a program. 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 hours. The Library staff is not responsible for supervising children left alone when the Library is closed but will make an effort to contact a parent or adult caregiver for immediate pick-up. The Library staff will not transport children from the Library to any other location. If arrangements cannot be made, the Chatham Police Department will be contacted.

Behavior Policy

When a behavior of a patron constitutes a disruption which interferes with the use of the library by other patrons or with a staff member's carrying out his/her duties, the following steps will be taken:

  1. Issue a verbal warning that if the behavior in question does not cease the patron will be asked to leave.
  2. Request that the patron leave the library.
  3. If patron refuses to leave, inform him/her that the police will be called.
  4. Call the police
  • If the offender is an unaccompanied juvenile, staff may elect to call the child's parent in lieu of police.
  • A habitual juvenile offender may be barred from using the library except in the company of a parent.
  • When a parent is present but is unable or unwilling to elicit suitable behavior from his/her child, he/she will be asked to remove the child from the building.
  • A staff member may physically intervene with a child only to prevent injury or property damage.
  • A patron who repeatedly fails to conform to behavior standards may be denied access permanently.
  • Any time a staff member feels that a patron's behavior threatens the safety of another patron or staff members, the staff member in charge will call the police immediately.

Unacceptable Behaviors Include:

  • Disruptive behavior
  • Smoking
  • Excessive noise
  • Abuse of library materials, furnishings, building
  • Running
  • Sleeping
  • Unwelcome attentions or interactions with other patrons or staff
  • Consuming food or beverage (outside of designated or program areas)

Forgeron Meeting Room Policy

Download an application for the use of Forgeron Hall (pdf)

Forgeron Hall, located in the lower level of the Eldredge Public Library, is available for meetings and programs. The primary purpose of the room is to provide appropriate space for Library meetings and programs to support and promote the Library’s mission of providing free and easy access to informational, recreational and educational materials. However, when the room is not being used by the library or by its support groups, it will be available for use by community groups and organizations.


Reservations

The hall has a seating capacity of 180. The room can be divided in half with a seating capacity of 110 in the front half and 70 in the rear half. Meetings must end and the room be vacated ½ hour before the Library closes. There is no admittance to the Library before the Library opens. Please allow for set-up and break down time with you are scheduling the program. (See “User Responsibilities” section) All bookings are to be made by signed application at least two weeks prior to the event if possible. The reservation is not complete until the applicant receives a confirmation from a designated library representative.


Meeting Room Use

The Forgeron Hall is for meetings of non-profit community organizations, a substantial number of whose members are Chatham residents. Other groups may present informational or educational programs. No commercial activity or sales are allowed. Programs are to be approved by the Director and be of an educational, cultural or community nature and open to the public. Club meetings may be limited to members only but Clubs must be willing to accept new members from the community, space permitting. Non-library meetings must not be publicized in a manner which suggests the library’s sponsorship or affiliation.

Performance acts must be sponsored by the library or by a local community group or organization. All performers are approved at the discretion of the Director and/or Board of Trustees.

The meeting room cannot be used for personal or family purposes, or company parties. Library facilities may not be used for any religious worship, exercise or instruction or the support of any religious establishment. The room may only be used by political groups for holding political forums where all sides of the issue are being discussed.

The room may only be reserved by an adult. Youth groups may use the room if a responsible adult is present at all times.

Forgeron Hall may be used for art or craft displays for a period of two weeks. All items are to be hung from existing strips (no thumb tacks, tape, etc) or placed in designated display areas. The mounting and removal of display materials is the responsibility of the owner. A date and time for the mounting and removal of materials must be arranged with the Director. The artist mounting the display must sign a waiver accepting full responsibility for the safety of all items in the exhibit. No sales may be made in the library, but pertinent information may be made available.


Fees

The Forgeron Hall is available during Library operating hours without charge. Any requests for use of the hall other than Library operating hours will be subject to a fee of $25 per hour to cover supervision, utilities, and custodial services. Use of the room is contingent upon the Library’s ability to provide a staff member to supervise the meeting. There is a minimum fee of $25.00.

No meetings may be held at which admission is charged, or at which money raising projects are conducted. This regulation would preclude the holding of auctions, rummage sales, etc. (Requests for permission to use the hall for fund raising projects that would directly and solely benefit the Eldredge Public Library will be acted on by the Library Board of Trustees.) Selling of books, music cd’s or other related materials is only allowed if a portion of the proceeds is donated back to the library.


User Responsibilities

The sponsoring organization is responsible for setting up the room and for returning the room to its former state, including the removal of all support materials and equipment. Absolutely nothing may be stored at the library, and the library will not be responsible for anything left by any user of the hall.

Kitchen facilities are available upon request, including a stove, sink, refrigerator and dishwasher. It is requested that foods that create maintenance problems not be served. The sponsoring organization is responsible for clean-up of the kitchen facilities, tables and chairs. Under no circumstances should any leftover food products be left stored in the refrigerator or cabinets. Alcoholic beverages may be not served.

The users and/or sponsoring organizations shall be responsible for any damage or misuse of the room and its equipment. Payment for any damage or misuse shall be made in full within thirty days of notification of the amount due. If any individual or group continues to damage or misuse the facilities, that individual or group will have their privileges terminated by the Board of Trustees.

The users and/or the sponsoring organization shall be responsible for the adherences to all fire, safety, and capacity laws and regulations. No smoking is allowed anywhere in the building.


Equipment

Tables and chairs are available for use. A sound system, television, video/DVD player, projection screen, compact disk player, cassette player, digital, slide and overhead transparency projectors, laptop computer, lectern and electric piano are also available for use. The user must provide additional furniture or equipment if needed. If the presenter is using a Macintosh computer, they must provide their own connector cable to work with our digital projector. Users must show that they are capable of using the equipment properly.


Policy

The Eldredge Public Library Board of Trustees establishes the policy regarding the use of the Forgeron Hall and is the sole authority to interpret these regulations. The Director has the supervision responsibility delegated by the Board of Trustees. Any and all parts of this policy may be revised, modified or amended by the Board of Trustees at any time. Exceptions to the rules concerning the use of the Forgeron Hall can be made only by a vote of the Board of Trustees.

The Town of Chatham, the Eldredge Public Library, its Board of Trustees, Director, Employees and Volunteers assume no responsibility for the loss, theft or damage of any property of any group, individual or organization using the Forgeron Hall.

Due to the extremely limited parking at the library, it is advisable that, through advertising or newsletters, people can be encouraged to utilize other parking lots in town.

Quiet Study Room Policy

Download an application for the use of the Quiet Study Room(pdf)

The Quiet Study Room is available during normal library hours for use by patrons who require a quiet atmosphere in which to pursue individual study, as well as to contain the noise of small group discussions.

The room is available on a first come, first serve basis unless reserved in advance. Patrons with advance reservations take priority. Reservations can be made by filling out the reservation form which is available at the Front Desk.

Individuals may reserve the room to ensure a quiet study area. They do not have exclusive use of the room. The room will also be available to other individuals who use the room for quiet study, the word processing computer or the microfilm reader.

Small groups may reserve the room for their exclusive use. Some examples of acceptable use include tutoring, study groups, interviews and discussion groups. The room may not be used to distribute or solicit orders or sell goods and services. The room is not intended to be the regular meeting site of a group or organization. Noise must be kept to a minimum and should not be heard outside the room.

When occupied, the door is to remain unlocked. As is true throughout the library, no food or drinks, cell phones, radios, MP3s or other sound equipment use is allowed in the quiet study room. Persons who misuse the quiet study room will be asked to leave.