Policies

Internet Access Policy

1. The Berlin Public Library’s Internet terminals are for use by all library patrons. Patrons must have an updated library card in order to use the computers. 
2. Internet access is limited to 30 minutes. Your time may be extended an additional 30 minutes if no one else is waiting for the computer.
3. Patrons may not do the following:
   • Harass other users.
   • Destroy or damage equipment, software or data.
   • Bookmark personal information or web sites.
   • Set up individual email accounts. However, you may check your email account.
   • Perform unauthorized copying of copyright protected material.
   • Violate computer system security, software license agreements or network usage policies.
   • Perform unauthorized use of computer accounts, network identification, or access codes/numbers.
   • Violate another’s privacy.
4. In consideration of the fact that our terminals are in plain sight of other patrons, the viewing of sexually explicit materials is not allowed.

The Berlin Library reserves the right to discontinue any patron’s use of the Internet/computers for violation of this policy.

Borrowing Policies

Loan Periods

Lending Limits

There is a borrowing limit of 50 items at a time per library card.

Renewals

All materials may be renewed unless there is a hold on the material. Berlin Library materials may be renewed two times. Inter-library loan materials may be renewed one time.

Materials may be renewed in person, by telephone, or online from home.

Overdue Fines and Other Charges

• Items borrowed from other libraries – fines vary by library.
• Museum passes – $25.00 for a lost pass.
• All fines must be paid in order to borrow museum passes.
• Lost materials must be replaced or paid for at full value.
• Damaged materials must be replaced or paid for at full value.
• Library privileges will be suspended until lost materials are returned or paid for.

Equal Access Policy

The Berlin Public Library will make every effort to make its services available and accessible to all patrons. The library acknowledges that it is not accessible to the physically challenged because of its stairway and lack of ground-level entry. The library is committed to the removal of these barriers. Until such barriers are removed, the library will continue to do its utmost to provide services, programs and activities to all patrons through alternative methods. Staff voluntarily will obtain books and other materials from upper shelves, and provide curbside service as requested. Under certain circumstances, the director will arrange for door-to-door service. With due notice, the director will relocate programs to accessible sites within the Town. Library staff or a volunteer will continue to make monthly deliveries and collections of books to Northbrook Village. In addition, with two weeks’ notice, the director will provide an interpreter for the deaf at library programs. The library will maintain its collection of books-on-tape and books-on-cd and arrange for the delivery of “Talking Books” as requested through the Central Massachusetts Regional Library System. Patrons who need assistance are asked to contact the director so that services may be arranged as expeditiously as possible.

Collection Development Policy

Please reference the documents below for information about the Berlin Public Library's Collection Development Policy and the Request for Reconsideration Form.