Library Policies

Library Bill of Rights

The Conant Public Library subscribes to the tenets of the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights:

The American Library Association affirms that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services.

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.

V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.

VI. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use.

VII. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.

Adopted June 19, 1939, by the ALA Council; amended October 14, 1944; June 18, 1948; February 2, 1961; June 27, 1967; January 23, 1980; January 29, 2019.

Inclusion of “age” reaffirmed January 23, 1996.

Although the Articles of the Library Bill of Rights are unambiguous statements of basic principles that should govern the service of all libraries, questions do arise concerning application of these principles to specific library practices. See the documents designated by the Intellectual Freedom Committee as Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights.

BEHAVIOR IN THE LIBRARY AND ON GROUNDS

The library is a place to pursue education, instruction, information and recreation in a quiet setting. If someone’s behavior in the library infringes on the use of others, the staff has the responsibility to ask that the behavior stop. The second request will be for the offender to leave the library.

Children nine and under are to be supervised by a responsible caregiver while on library property. Supervision is important for the safety of children and for the comfort of other library users. Library staff are at work and conducting their duties. They are unable to supervise children. If in doubt about the safety of a child or any serious behavior problems, the staff will call the parent and may call the police for assistance.

The Children’s area is reserved for use by children, their parents or caregivers, and patrons using the children’s collections. Adults and teens unaccompanied by a child may enter the Children’s area to obtain books or other materials but extended browsing by unaccompanied adults and teens is not encouraged, and library staff may, at their discretion, request unaccompanied teens or adults to move to another area of the library.

Any person whose behavior is causing a problem for library staff or other users will be expected to give the staff his or her name upon request. Failure is grounds for ejection.

The library staff member in charge will judge whether or not a behavior is disruptive to library use. Examples of such behavior include but are not limited to running, unnecessary use of the elevator, putting feet on chairs or tables, threatening or obscene language or gestures, damage to library materials or property, or littering. The library staff has authority over all library property.

Eating is not allowed inside the library except by staff in the library staff rooms or as part of library-sponsored programs. Non- alcoholic beverages are allowed if in a closed container.

Neither smoking nor vaping is permitted anywhere in the library or on library grounds. Smoking materials must be safely extinguished outside.

Patrons are asked to turn their cell phones to vibrate while in the library.

Excessive noise is not allowed in the library, including but not limited to talking loudly and using audible devices without headphones or with headphones at a volume that disturbs others.

Proper dress for the library includes shirts and shoes. A person may be asked to leave the library if his/her personal hygiene interferes with the orderly operation of the library or the ability of patrons to use and enjoy the facility.

Certified service animals are welcome—other animals are not allowed inside. By Massachusetts state law, only dogs and miniature horses can be service animals; no other animals are allowed in the library. Service animals are individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. Service animals in training are afforded the same rights under Massachusetts law as fully trained service animals. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support are not considered to be service animals and are therefore not allowed in the library. Service animals are not required to wear anything that identifies them as such. However, if it is not obvious that an animal is a service animal, library staff is permitted to ask persons requiring service animals:

Is the dog or miniature horse a service animal required because of a disability?
What work or task has the dog or miniature horse been trained to perform?

A service animal’s handler is solely responsible for caring for and supervising the animal while in the library. Animals must remain under the control of their handler at all times; shall be housebroken; and shall pose no danger to people or property. Animals that are disruptive to library operations, including service animals, may not remain in the library. If a service animal must be removed from the building, library staff will offer to continue providing services to the handler without the service animal present.

Limitation of Liability

By bringing an animal into the library, the handler is responsible for the actions of its animal, and the library disclaims all liability for injuries that an animal may inflict upon other individuals or other animals in the building. An animal that demonstrates aggressive or dangerous behavior or has a history of such conduct may not be brought into the library.

Revised October 20, 2025

Bulletin Board Policy

Bulletin board and display areas will be available for the posting of non-profit events and announcements as space permits. No solicitations for profit, request for votes, or petitions will be posted. Postings intended primarily as advertising to promote financial gain will not be allowed.

Advertisements for library programs and announcements will take priority above all other materials. Town of Sterling announcements will then be given priority followed by town organizations. Other events may be posted if relating to cultural or educational events in the area. Size should be no larger than 8 ½ x 11” because of space limitations.

All exhibit spaces within the library are open to adults and children of all ages; and therefore, exhibits should be appropriate in scale, material, form and content for every patron. The library does not accept exhibits of a purely commercial nature, nor will materials available for purchase be displayed. The library reserves the right to remove any item from a display on the above grounds or if the exhibition is a possible safety hazard, is too large, or interferes with other activities in the library.

The posting of notices within the library does not constitute an endorsement of the organization’s policies and viewpoints. Once posted, all bulletin board notices become property of the library and will be removed and disposed of at the discretion of the library director. Materials that would put the library in violation of Massachusetts General Laws will not be displayed.

Revised by the Board of Library Trustees January 10, 2022

Circulation Policy

I.1 BORROWERS

Any resident of Massachusetts may become a registered borrower by showing proof of current address and providing registration information. Anyone who wishes to borrow materials from the Conant Public Library must have either a Conant or CW MARS member library card. Non-residents of Sterling are accorded all the same services as Sterling residents.

Children are encouraged to have their own library card and will be issued a card at any age at the request of a parent or guardian. The parent of a minor child under the age of 18 will be financially responsible for fines or material replacement costs attributed to the child. A parent or legal guardian must accompany and provide residence verification for any child under 12. Parents of children under 12 years of age determine whether or not their child has permission to borrow DVDs, Blu-rays or items from the Library of Things. The library does not censor material selected by any cardholder. Children 12 years or older must provide proof of address and registration information in order to obtain a library card.

Before a library card can be issued, all applicants must show identification containing their name and current home address. Acceptable forms of identification include:

Driver’s License, Permit, or State ID
Automobile Registration
Residential property tax statement
Lease or Rental Agreement
Current Utility Bill
Official photo identification from a school, employer, or government agency
Bank Statement or Check Book
Piece of Cancelled Mail

I.2 RECIPROCAL BORROWING PRIVILEGES

In accordance with the State’s Minimum Standard for Public Library Service (Massachusetts General Laws, Ch. 78, Section 19B 1 & 6) the Conant Public Library extends reciprocal borrowing privileges to the residents of the Commonwealth who reside in towns who also meet the standards.

It is therefore the policy of the Conant Public Library to discontinue borrowing privileges to residents of communities who are on the list of libraries decertified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Whenever the Board votes to implement the above policy the Conant Public Library Board of Trustees will notify in writing the affected community’s Library Board of Trustees, governing body, and individuals who are registered borrowers of the Conant Public Library.

The Conant Public Library Board of Trustees agrees to provide reinstatement of borrowing privileges to all affected borrowers once a library is recertified.

I.3 MATERIALS CIRCULATION POLICY

All materials held by the Conant Public Library may be borrowed by any registered borrower in good standing, except for newspapers, materials designated as reference, materials designated as In-Library-Use-Only, and materials designated irreplaceable historical materials. Museum passes are limited to one pass per family per day. Either a library card or identification is required at the time of check out.
Patrons may authorize others to use their account to place holds, pick up holds, view checkout history, and/or check out materials. Those authorized to use another patron’s account must provide either the library card associated with the account or their own identification in order to check out items. The account holder is responsible for all activity on their card, and can remove or update authorized persons at any time.

Holds: A patron may pick up a requested item for another patron if given prior authorization. Authorization must be given to a library staff member by the cardholder; staff will then list the permission on the cardholder’s account for future use. The cardholder requesting this permission is responsible for the care and return of any borrowed materials. A cardholder may remove a designated borrower from their account at any time but must notify library staff to do so. Authorized users are still required to provide identification or a library card to pick up the hold.
Parents may check out items on their children’s cards without the child being present if the child is under 12 years of age. Parents and guardians who identify minors at the time of account creations are encouraged to add themselves to the account, with the caveat that minors may remove them at any time.

Loan Periods

Books, puzzles, memory kits and books-on-CD are loaned for a period that ends three weeks from the day borrowed.
Magazines, video games, break-in bags, Library of Things items, telescopes and DVDs are due 1 week from the day borrowed.
Museum passes are not issued more than one day before use and should be returned in person or in the book drop prior to opening on the following day.
Materials obtained through interlibrary loan are due on the date shown at any CW MARS circulating library. Materials borrowed directly from non-member libraries will be accepted for delivery, but cannot be checked in as received until the material reaches the owning library.

Renewals

All Conant items except museum passes, break-in bags and the telescope, will be renewed once automatically. Items from other CWMARS circulating libraries will renew automatically depending on the owning library’s policies. Interlibrary loans from non CW MARS circulating libraries may not be renewed.

Reserves

A borrower may request that an item not available (e.g. in circulation or on order) be reserved. Borrowers may request any item from a participating library by phone, at the library, or on-line. Purchase of multiple copies of heavy demand items will be considered, contingent upon funding.

Interlibrary Loans

For any cardholder, the staff will actively encourage interlibrary loan of any requested material not available through the CW MARS or Commonwealth Catalogs.

I.4 OVERDUE MATERIALS

Museum pass overdue charges are $1. per day, with a maximum fine of $5. per item. Telescope, Hotspots and VR headsets have overdue charges are $5. per day, with a maximum of $25. Break-in Bag overdue charges are $1. per day. The library does not charge late fines on any other materials. When a cardholder has incurred ten dollars in fines, borrowing privileges will be suspended until payment is made to bring the total under ten dollars.

The library shall make, within reason, every effort to ensure the return of overdue materials, including, if necessary, actions in pursuit of severely delinquent borrowers. Such actions may include, but are not limited to: denial of borrowing privileges; securing the assistance of the courts under Chapter 266 Section 100 of Massachusetts General Laws; securing assistance of a professional collection agency; and advising other libraries in Central Massachusetts not to loan materials to those borrowers severely delinquent in Sterling.

“Severely delinquent” shall be defined as overdue two months or longer.

I.5 MATERIALS LOST OR DESTROYED

If an item is determined to be lost or destroyed while checked out to a patron, the borrower must pay the amount recorded on the item’s bibliographic record, or if none is listed, then the CW MARS default price for that category.

Staff will offer to renew lost items, if possible, to encourage further searching. If it still cannot be found, the item must be paid for. No refunds can be issued, even if the item is subsequently found. The only refunds made are when the library was in error.

In some cases, the borrower may be given the opportunity to replace the item with another copy. The replacement copy must be brand new, and must be in the same format as the lost or damaged copy. This would require the prior approval of the owning library.

I.6 CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS

“That part of the records of a public library which reveals that identity and intellectual pursuit of a person using such library shall not be a public record…” – Mass. Gen. Law Chap. 78. Sec. 7, as amended by Chap. 180 of 1988.

In accordance with the above law and with the ALA Code of Ethics, the library will keep circulation and registration records confidential. Information from these records will not be given to any individual, agency, or government entity except pursuant to a process, order, or subpoena which Town Counsel will have advised us is in good form and with good cause.

The only exception to this policy is for children under 12 years of age and for those authorized by the account holder to view their accounts. If asked the library staff will give parents or legal guardians only, the titles of materials currently checked out, or lost. This is a courtesy to aid parents in identifying items to be returned. Young people 12 and older will be accorded all the privacy rights of adults, outlined above, including having the right to remove authorized users at any time.

Privacy rights for any individual terminate when materials are seriously overdue, in the interest of restitution.

Parents/Legal Guardians reserve the right to suspend the library privileges of minors for whom they are responsible.

Amended March 9, 2026

Freedom of Information Act Requests

The library complies with all Public Record Laws of the Commonwealth. In the normal course of library service to the public, the library routinely provides information to be copied at a requested donation of 10 cents per page.

As allowed by state law, for requests under the Freedom of Information Act that would involve more than $25 in copying costs (including paper and staff time), the library staff will prepare a good faith estimate and require advance payment of 75% of the estimate.

As the Guide to the Massachusetts Public Records Law states: “the estimate should contain a statement advising the requester that the actual cost of producing the record might vary once the custodian begins preparing the record.” Upon completion and pickup of the requested documents, the actual total cost will be known and the requester will be charged the balance due.

Applicable state guidelines are attached and will be followed.

The Town of Sterling FOIA Request Form, available on the town website, will be used.

Gift Policy

1. Monetary Gifts

The library receives and welcomes many financial donations to add to the collection or increase the level of library services. Some come with a request for specified use and that is honored if it fits with the library’s mission and goals. If an intended use is not specified, the Trustees of the Conant Free Public Library receive donations with the understanding that these gifts made to the library are intended to complement, and not to supplant funding of the library.
Monetary gifts are frequently made to the library in memory of, or in honor of, an individual. While the subject matter of a memorial gift is suggested by the donor, the library staff selects and purchases books. A memorial bookplate is placed in the book.

2. Materials Gifts

Gifts must meet the same standards for inclusion as items we select and purchase. Generally, the Library will not accept items that would not be purchased or otherwise added to the collection. Memorabilia and works of art are examples of the kinds of items that the Library would not buy from its regular budget.
Note that many more items are donated than we can add to the collection.
If a gift of materials is accepted by the library, the gift shall be final and no restrictions on the library’s ownership, possession, use or disposition of the gift shall be effective.
Gifts are accepted with the understanding that the library, if it cannot use them, may at any time dispose of them in any way it sees fit. No conditions may be imposed relating to any gift after its acceptance by the library.
The library will not agree to separate treatment for gift materials. Donated materials will not be placed on special shelves, or separated from other similar materials already in the library collection. Placing materials in special collections reduces the usefulness of the overall library collection.

Historical Collection Material and Use Policy

The Library has a responsibility to collect, preserve, and make available to the public materials documenting the history of the Conant Library, the Town of Sterling, and its environs. The Library works in cooperation with, but is not directly affiliated with, the Sterling Historical Society.

Scope

The focus of the local history collection will be materials about the history of Sterling, and, to a lesser extent, its environs. Selected materials more generally about the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be included provided that they help set Sterling within a historical context. Genealogies and family histories will be collected only for families with a substantial connection to Sterling. Emphasis is also given to the acquisition of those materials which contribute to a knowledge of the region’s social, civic, religious, economic and cultural life, past and present.

Collections and Acquisitions

The Library welcomes donations to the historical collection. The Library reserves the right to turn down any donation that is not relevant or does not fit the scope of the collection; is a duplicate of material already in the collection; is too large to house; or is in a condition that would be an undue conservation burden. Donors may not impose any restrictions on any donated materials, and materials or other gifts will be accepted only if given unconditionally. Once an item has been accepted by the Library, it becomes a part of the Library’s collection and the Library shall be its sole owner. The Library will not appraise any materials; should a donor want an appraisal for tax purposes, they will be responsible for this. It is recommended that, if desired, appraisals be accomplished before the item is conveyed to the Library. If a potential donation is deemed unfit for the collection, the Library will attempt to refer the donor to other organizations which may have an interest in or need for the item.

Deaccessions

The Library may remove items from the collection due to poor condition, duplication, or irrelevance to the scope of the collection. All decisions to deaccession materials from the collection will be made by the Library Director. The Library Director is empowered to deaccession items of modest value; the final decision on deaccessioning items of high value or extreme rarity will be made by the Library Board of Trustees on the recommendation of the Library Director. Items deaccessioned from the collection may be sold, returned to the donor if feasible, given to another organization, or discarded. The Sterling Historical Society shall have the right of first refusal for any items deaccessioned from the historical collection.

Use of the Historical Collection

Materials may be used by members of the public; however, in order to maintain the safety and integrity of the collection, materials may only be accessed under the supervision of a library staff member. All Historical Collection materials must be used within the library at a designated table on the main level. Special care should be taken when handling Historical Collection materials, particularly those that are fragile. The collection is available to the public during regular library hours. Patrons may use two items at a time; a driver’s license or other government issued identification will be held as collateral until items are returned. No food or drink are permitted when using materials from the Historical Collection. Only pencils are permitted for taking notes when using the collection. Photocopies will not be permitted. Researchers may digitally photograph the desired information.

Hotspot Policy

A wi-fi hotspot is a portable device that allows you to connect your mobile-enabled devices (such as laptops, smartphones, tablets) to the internet.

Loan instructions

Hotspots circulate to adults 18 years or older for one week with one renewal
Borrowers must have a CWMARS library card in good standing
Hotspots must be picked up inside the Conant Public Library and returned to the circulation desk in the library; they cannot be returned to other libraries or in the book drop
Hotspots are limited to one per household at any given time. Upon returning a hotspot, patrons must wait 24 hours before checking out an additional hotspot.
If the hotspot is not returned on time, service will be turned off and the hotspot will become unusable. There will be a $5 charge for each day that the hotspot is overdue; the maximum late fee is $25.

Borrower Responsibilities

Borrowers are responsible for damage, loss or theft of hotspots or any of the accompanying materials. Replacement costs of damaged hotspots will be $50. Hotspots not returned 28 days after their due dates will be considered lost, and the borrower will be charged the total item cost outlined in the agreement form.
As a library-provided Internet device, hotspots fall under the Conant Public Library’s Internet Use Policy. The Conant Public Library is not responsible for any information a borrower accesses while using a wi-fi hotspot or any actions they take while online.Using the hotspot to access any online content determined to be illegal or obscene according to federal, state, or municipal law will result in revocation of hotspot borrowing privileges and possible criminal prosecution
All patrons will be required to fill out a hotspot loan form that confirms their acceptance of this policy.

Approved June 10, 2024

Internet Use Policy

The Internet brings a world of resources, including information, ideas, and issues, to the library. By providing access to the Internet, Conant Free Public Library accomplishes two goals:

Staff and patrons can access current and accurate resources not readily available in other resources in the library.
The public, and especially those who would otherwise be without access to internet services, has free access to the Internet to search for information to meet educational, business, or personal needs.

The following policies apply to public use of the Internet at the Conant Public Library.

Eligibility: All library patrons are free to use the Internet. Library card holders may sign in directly at a computer; non-library card holders and visitors can request a guest pass from library staff. As anywhere else in the library, a responsible caregiver must directly supervise children aged nine and under, when using computers. All public computers are available for 1 hour sessions; sessions may be extended at the discretion of staff.

Access: The expression or receipt of constitutionally protected speech will not be restricted or denied.

Content: The Conant Free Public Library cannot be held responsible for the information on the Internet. The Library cannot control and does not block any information for content or accuracy. It is an individual’s responsibility to judge the validity, accuracy or appropriateness of any information available via the Internet. As with other library materials, it is a caregiver’s responsibility to monitor their child’s use of the Internet.

Training: The staff cannot give one-on-one instruction with the use of the Internet but will answer basic questions.

Services: Printing is available at a cost of 25 cents per page. Library Policy does not allow loading of personal software onto library computers. We encourage you to save your data regularly using a removable storage device. If the library computer you are using powers off for any reason or when your session ends, any files that you have saved to the computer are immediately deleted, and cannot be recovered by library staff.

Monitoring

The library does not routinely monitor public computers, but reserves the right to do so when a violation of this policy or illegal activity is suspected. Illegal activities or activities that interfere with or disrupt the network, users, services or equipment are prohibited and not protected by the library’s privacy policy. Staff are authorized to take immediate action to protect the security of computers and the network. This includes confiscating any removable media, requiring a user to leave a computer or the premises, and contacting law enforcement.

Suspension of Privileges: The library reserves the right to suspend the privileges of users who abuse the library’s Internet access by unethical or illegal use of the Internet or the library’s equipment. Users are responsible for damages to equipment. Examples of unethical or illegal use include, but are not limited to, the following:

Destruction of or damage to equipment, software, or data
Disruption or unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications
Harassment of other users
Unauthorized copying of copyright-protected material
Unauthorized use of computer accounts, access codes, or network identification codes/numbers
Use of computer communication facilities in ways that are intended to impede the computing activities of others
Violation of another’s privacy
Violation of computer system security
Violation of network or host usage policy
Violation of software license agreements

Public Environment

Whether using a library computer or a personal device, patrons are expected to refrain from displaying or printing graphics which are inappropriate for public viewing, or playing audio that could disturb other patrons.

Internet Safety Policy: Using computers in the library for illegal purposes is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to using the Internet in violation of Massachusetts General Law 272 Section 31, the Harmful to Minors statute or for the transmission of threatening, harassing, threatening or obscene materials.

Images that are deemed by the library staff to be threatening or unsafe for very young children will not be allowed on computer monitors in the children’s room. The public is encouraged to seek the assistance of a library staff member if enforcement of this rule is necessary.

For their own safety, members of the public who access direct electronic communication on the Internet should not reveal private information about themselves or respond to inquiries from anyone they meet online.

The library protects information that reveals the identity and intellectual pursuits of a person using library resources. (Massachusetts General Laws CH. 78, Section 7)

Violation of internet policies may result in the cancellation of the individual’s computer privileges and may also be subject to prosecution by local, state and federal authorities.

Adopted November 4, 2003, amended October 20, 2025

Hours and Closings

The library will be open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. On Saturday, the library will be open from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturdays in July and August, the library will be open from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m.

The library director is authorized by the Board of Trustees to close the library when conditions warrant; for example, hazardous weather or lack of heat in the building or lack of staff to safely handle the library, and to adjust holiday, closing and work schedules consistent with town by-laws and the needs of the library.

Library Materials Collection Policy

It is the aim of the library’s collection to provide free access to books and other materials that will enable it to meet its objectives, outlined in the long-range plan, within the constraints of budget and space.

Materials selected are chosen on how well they relate to the purposes of the library outlined in the Long Range Plan, created with public input and adopted by the Trustees. It is the goal of the Conant Public Library to seek out materials in a timely fashion. The Library shall give a high priority to provide circulating, reference, and research materials that meet the varied needs of its patrons. The Library’s commitment is to provide services to all patrons regardless of age, education, background, personal philosophy, religious beliefs, occupation, economic level, ethnic origin and human condition.

Specific Principles for Selection

The Library seeks to develop an outstanding collection for a diverse population within the constraints of budget allocations and shelf space and taking into consideration the availability of network transfers, interlibrary loan or online sources. Library materials are provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people, and should present diverse points of view in the collection as a whole. Materials will be chosen for the collection based on the authority of the author; price, format, and ease of use; contemporary significance; permanent value; popular demand, and consideration of existing library holdings. Collection development of fiction materials aims to provide reading for recreational use. The Library attempts to purchase a wide variety of fiction to meet the many preferences of its patrons. Non-fiction collection development has a goal of providing information for independent, self-directed learning and social development.

Non-Print Materials

The Conant Public Library recognizes the importance of non-book materials as a supplement to its book collection. Videos, eBooks, and online services are purchased as part of the library’s collection development. Selection of videos includes newly released popular titles, classic films, and popular television series. The Library also provides access to a collection of downloadable eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines made available to our patrons through our C/WMARS membership. In addition, the Library provides access to library-owned eBooks, through OverDrive Advantage. Collection development of eBooks follows the collection policy for both fiction and non-fiction print materials.

Youth Services Collection Development

Care is used in the selection of children’s books to consider the following: literary and artistic distinction; mental and emotional maturity levels; and reading levels. Accuracy and style, coupled with imaginative and appropriate treatment of the range of knowledge are the criteria used to select materials at many levels of reading ability.

The main purpose of the young adult collection is to provide materials of interest to adolescents, primarily between the ages of 12 and 18. Materials selected for this collection are used to serve the educational, developmental, and recreational needs of this population.

The library does not limit access to resources for minors; children and young adults have access to the entire collection. Any limitations placed upon the materials of minors are left to the discretion of parents or guardians. Parents and guardians have the responsibility to guide their children’s – and only their children’s – use of library resources.

Controversial Materials

Materials will not be excluded because of the origin, background or views of those contributing to their creation. In an effort to provide patrons with a diverse range of information and a wide variety of viewpoints, it is almost inevitable that materials selected to serve the needs, interests, or tastes of one group may be of no interest to, be repugnant to, or inappropriate for another segment of the library-using public. Materials may be offensive because of perceived profanity, social, economic, and political ideas, religious viewpoints, or other reasons. Anyone is free to select or reject materials for themselves, but cannot restrict the freedom of others to read and inquire. The library does not characterize library materials by labels or other devices which by intention or effect prejudice the library user against particular items. The addition of these materials to the Library’s collection does not imply approval or endorsement of the contents.

A Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration of Library Material will be available for patrons and will be reviewed by the director and the Trustees and acted upon in compliance with ALA Bill of Rights. For a Request for Reconsideration to be considered, the form must be completed in full. The patron submitting the request must be a resident of Sterling and hold a valid borrower’s card. Materials will not be removed from the collection while under review. The Director will respond, in writing, within thirty days of receipt, to the patron’s request for reconsideration. An item will only be evaluated for reconsideration once in a 3 year period.

It is the responsibility of parents or guardians to monitor the appropriateness of library materials for their own minor children, in terms of their individual beliefs, values and the maturity level of the child.

Withdrawal of Materials

The library strives to maintain an up-to-date and useful collection through a continual re-evaluation of demand, the removal of unneeded titles and replacement of lost and damaged titles. Materials are removed from the collection when they become out of date, are no longer used, have poor appearances, and because of space constraints. Discarded materials will be auctioned if required by current town policy. Items may also be given to other government or charitable organizations, or made available to the public; every effort will be made to recycle or repurpose weeded items.

Amended September 14, 2026

Meeting Space Policy

The Baker Meeting Room in the Conant Public Library is available for use by town departments or non-profit groups, when not scheduled for library programs. The room may be reserved for activities held during hours the library is open; room use must end 15 minutes before closing. To request a reservation for the meeting room, call the library at 978-422-6409.

REGULATIONS FOR USE

All meetings shall be free and open to the public.
Furnishings must be restored to the conditions existing prior to use. Library staff is not able to help with furnishing arrangements. The library is able to provide tables and chairs only; the library’s AV equipment, including projectors, screens and speakers, is not available for use.
The library does not have space to store materials for a group before or after a meeting.
Nothing may be attached to the walls.
Publicity for a meeting may not list the library phone number for further information, nor should it suggest the library endorses the meeting.
The library cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items.
Any organization using a library meeting room shall indemnify and hold harmless the Conant Public Library and its Board of Trustees and the Town of Sterling and its officials for any and all liability which may arise from use of the premises.
All Town of Sterling ordinances and library regulations must be observed.

Responsibility for this is assumed by the person(s) who sign the application. Rooms must be reserved by a representative of the group who is 18 years or older; an adult 18 years or older must be present and have supervisory responsibilities at all times.

Current regulations and policies state that:

Children nine and under must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
Meetings may not interfere with the activities of library patrons and staff.
A group or individual using the meeting room is not permitted to approach, solicit, harass, or recruit participation from Library patrons.
Patrons using the Library are entitled to privacy and are not to be approached by outside groups.
The library must enforce the fire code capacity of 25.
Smoking, alcohol, food and beverages are prohibited.

Upon arriving at the library, the responsible party must check in at the circulation desk to read and sign the Meeting Room Policy. Staff will walk through the room with the responsible party. Following use of the meeting room, the responsible party must have a staff member check the room for damages prior to departing.

The meeting room privileges of any organization that fails to comply with the policies, procedures, and rules in this document will be rescinded.

If tables are to be used for craft, painting, or any kind of art activity, groups are responsible for providing and removing table coverings to protect the tables. Tables must be left in clean and unmarked condition. If activities result in any kind of litter or materials falling on floors, floors must be swept.

Groups should exercise all necessary precautions to avoid damage of library equipment, furnishings, floor coverings, and other library property. The group and its designated individual shall be responsible for any damage to library property.

CANCELLATIONS

Groups should give as much notice as possible by calling during hours the library is open.
The library may cancel due to building conditions, weather conditions, or other special situations. In non-emergency situations, the library will attempt to give as much notice as possible.

RESTRICTIONS

Under the terms of library policies the following restrictions apply:

There can be no solicitation of business. Goods or services may not be promoted, sold, or exchanged. The one exception is that authors who are giving talks or readings may sign and sell copies of their books.
The library is not able to schedule meetings that reoccur on a regular basis, so that future use for library programs is not curtailed.
The Board of Trustees will resolve any situation not covered by this document.

Photocopier/Printer and Faxing Policies

Photocopier/Printer Policy

The photocopier is made available for public use. There is a charge of 10 cents per page to help defray cost. Public use takes priority over staff use. A user requiring assistance will have the same priority as reference help.
Printing is available from public computers. There is a charge of 25 cents per page to help defray cost. Both color and black and white printing is available.

Faxing Policy

Faxing services are available at the library. Only library staff will operate the fax machine. The library accepts no responsibility for missing pages, bad transmissions or incomplete identification on outgoing faxes. A confirmation of transmission to the number given is available. The library does not provide an incoming faxing service. Privacy of information cannot be assured in faxing.

Amended September 14, 2026

Program Policy

The staff of the Conant Library select, plan, and present programs and events for Library patrons. These programs further Library goals and are part of ongoing Library service. Library programs frequently have wait lists, and no-shows cause the library to incur financial loss due to staff time and the purchasing of unused materials, as well as deny wait list registrations a seat at the program. Patrons who are registered for a program they can no longer attend are asked to cancel either online or by phone by 9am on the day of the program. Failure to attend three programs without advanced cancellation will result in the suspension of program registration for 60 days. Individual infractions will be erased after one year if the patron has not been suspended from program registration.

At any Library sponsored event:

All programs are open to the public.
Programs may be held on site at the Library or off site.
Professional performers are selected by Library staff.
Program attendance will not exceed the capacity of its space as determined by the fire code.
Programs may be designed for and limited to a specific audience, age, or grade level.
Decisions concerning an event’s audience, registration, capacity, late arrivals, and allowable walk-ins will be made by the Library staff supervising the event.

Some programs may require registration. This is done in order to:

Not exceed the capacity of the venue.
Ensure the audience meets all requirements.
Allow the presenter to adequately prepare for the number of people attending.
Ensure the success of the program.
Some programs will offer priority registration to Sterling residents. Non-residents will be approved after one week if space allows and will be added to the program in order of registration.

Amended January 13, 2025

Public Participation in Board of Library Trustee Meetings

Under the Open Meeting Law, the public is permitted to attend meetings of the Board of Library Trustees but is excluded from an executive session that is called for a valid purpose listed in the law. While the public is permitted to attend an open meeting, an individual may not address the public body without permission of the chair. An individual may not disrupt a meeting of a public body, and at the request of the chair, all members of the public shall be silent. If, after clear warning, a person continues to be disruptive, the chair may order the person to leave the meeting. If the person does not leave, the chair may authorize a constable or other officer to remove the person.

Guidelines for Individuals Speaking at Public Meetings

The chair of the Trustees is responsible for conducting all public meetings in an orderly and peaceable manner.
Members of the public may speak only with the permission of the chair. To maintain an orderly and peaceable meeting, all speakers must identify themselves by name and address prior to speaking.
All remarks shall be addressed to or through the chair or to the public body as a whole. Matters presented by speakers during a public comment session will not be debated or acted upon by the public body at the time they are presented. Public session is not a dialogue; rather, it is an opportunity to be heard by the Board of Library Trustees regarding issues of concern. Due to the necessity of efficiently running a meeting with a set agenda, it will be unlikely for the Board to address your concern immediately.
Individuals are asked to keep their remarks brief and to the point. Since others may wish to speak on other issues and the meeting agenda could be lengthy, please keep your podium time to a 3-5 minute limit.
In order to efficiently address all agenda items, public session will be limited to twenty minutes.
Individuals in attendance at a public meeting may not interrupt recognized speakers or members of the public body.
Whenever the public is allowed to participate in remote public meetings, the same rules and guidelines that apply to in-person meetings apply to their remote counterparts.
Comments made during public comment sessions do not reflect the view or the positions of the public body before which the member of the public is speaking. Because of constitutional free speech principles, public bodies do not have the authority to prevent or limit all speech that may be upsetting or offensive during such sessions.

Recordings

Any member of the public may make an audio or video recording of an open session of a public meeting. A member of the public who wishes to record a meeting must first notify the chair and must comply with reasonable requirements regarding audio or video equipment established by the chair so as not to interfere with the meeting. The chair is required to inform other attendees of any such recording at the beginning of the meeting. If someone arrives after the meeting has begun and wishes to record a meeting, that person should attempt to notify the chair prior to beginning recording, ideally in a manner that does not significantly disrupt the meeting in progress. The chair should endeavor to acknowledge such attempts at notification and announce the fact of any recording to those in attendance.

Revised April 14, 2025

Reference Policy

Reference assistance is a primary responsibility of the library staff. All library users are entitled to the help they require to make use of the library’s resources. Staff will initiate a reference interview, and will actively offer help in locating information or materials in the library. If the necessary material is not available at our library, staff will recommend interlibrary loan. All reference requests will be followed up to determine if the response of the library satisfies the patron.

Telephone questions will be handled the same way as in person. Information may be read over the phone, but not interpreted. The source will always be cited. Staff will do a “shelf check” for particular titles for a subject and will set aside materials for pickup, if time allows.

Legal, medical and tax information will be sought as thoroughly as other subjects but staff will not interpret or offer advice. Staff will refer to authoritative databases, special libraries and published “help lines” when appropriate.

Amended 10/18/2021

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Social Media Policy

The Conant Public Library engages patrons through social media platforms as well as a host of other communications tools. This policy is to inform users of the rules and regulations regarding official Conant Public Library social media.

Social media provides a valuable and timely way for the Conant Public Library to share information and promote library news, events, and resources. It also serves to inspire conversation and expand the Library’s connection with the community. Only Library events and information will be promoted through the Conant Public Library’s social media accounts. Social media platforms used and posts made by the library will be developed to enhance or provide more effective means of delivery of library functions, including but not limited to:

Community outreach, marketing and publicity
Education in use of library resources
Reader’s advisory services
Information and reference services
Library events and programs
Other library-related uses as deemed appropriate

All official Conant Public Library presences on social media platforms are considered an extension of the organization and are governed by the library’s policies, including but not limited to the Internet Use policy and the Behavior policy. By choosing to view, engage with, comment on, or otherwise use Conant Public Library-sponsored social media, users agree to abide by these policies.

CONTENT OF LIBRARY-SPONSORED SOCIAL MEDIA

The Conant Public Library reserves the right to edit or modify any postings or comments for space or content, while retaining the intent of the original post

PUBLIC TERMS OF USE

When engaging with the Library over social media, users give the Library permission to access, monitor, and read any postings on the platform.

The Library welcomes comments and messages from the community and recognizes and respects differences in opinion. Public comments made by users do not necessarily reflect the views of the Conant Public Library, its employees, or the Town of Sterling. Social media users should exercise their own judgment about the quality and accuracy of any information presented through social media.

All comments, posts and messages will be periodically reviewed. Comments that are not protected by the First Amendment, including the posting of copyrighted material or child pornography, will be removed. Users are urged to adhere to the guidelines established by the specific social media host platform.

The Conant Public Library assumes no liability regarding any event or interaction that takes place by any participant in any library-sponsored social networking-service and does not endorse or review content outside the pages created by Conant Public Library

Conant Public Library Security Camera Policy

The Conant Public Library operates and maintains a video security system for the safety of its patrons, staff and property to discourage violations of the Library’s policies and criminal behavior while also protecting individuals’ right to privacy. Staff and visitor safety is the first priority in any threatening situation; the protection of Library property is of secondary importance. The video footage is reviewed on an as-needed basis.

Security Camera Purpose and Placement Guidelines

Video recording cameras will be used in indoor and outdoor public spaces where individuals lack a reasonable expectation of privacy. Examples include public areas such as parking lots, entrances/lobby areas, and areas prone to theft or misconduct.
Cameras will not be installed in areas of the Library where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy such as restrooms and private offices. Cameras will not be positioned in areas where patrons’ viewing, listening, or personal account information may be easily monitored.
Signs will be posted at all entrances informing the public and staff that security cameras are in use.
Cameras will not be continuously monitored. The public and staff should take appropriate precautions for their safety and the security of their personal property. The Conant Public Library is not responsible for loss of property or personal injury.
Recorded data is confidential. Video recordings will typically be stored for no longer than 30 days with the exception of records retained for criminal, safety or security investigations. As new images are recorded, the oldest images will be automatically deleted.

Use and Disclosure of Video Records

Circumstances of reports of policy violations, suspected criminal activity and destruction of theft of Library resources may be monitored in real time.
In the case of altercations, theft of library property, vandalism or questionable behavior the footage will be reviewed by the Library Director, Assistant Director, and/or the Director’s designee. The footage will be submitted to the Sterling Police Department with a written report for further review as deemed appropriate by the Director.
The Director or Director’s designee may use a still shot or portions of the recorded data to request law enforcement review for assessing a security risk or as part of an investigation.
For investigations initiated by law enforcement agencies, recorded data will be made available to law enforcement upon presentation of a valid court document and a written request specifying the date and time of the footage requested. Only the Director or Director’s designee will be authorized to release images to law enforcement.
In emergency situations the Sterling Police, or other appropriate first responders, will be granted temporary access to the library’s live camera feed to manage the emergency response. This access will be terminated once the situation is under control and the immediate danger to public safety has passed as determined by the Director and emergency responders.
In situations involving banned patrons, stored still images may be shared with library staff. Shared images may remain posted in restricted staff areas for the duration of the banning period
Patrons who experience a crime such as theft of personal possessions while at the Library must submit a report to law enforcement. Members of the public will not be granted access to recorded data.
In all other respects, recorded data will be accorded the same level of confidentiality and protection provided to library users by Massachusetts State Law, the Conant Public Library’s policies, and the American Library Association policies on patron confidentiality and privacy.
The Library disclaims any liability for use of the video data in accordance with the terms of this policy, given that the library is a public facility and the security cameras shall be limited to those areas where patrons and/or staff have no reasonable expectation of privacy.

Board Review

The Board of Trustees of the Conant Public Library will review the Security Camera Policy and regulations periodically and reserves the right to amend them at any time. The Board authorizes the Library Director and/or the Director’s designee to waive regulations under appropriate circumstances, specifically during emergencies when response time is critical. The Library Director and Assistant Director are the chief individuals empowered to make decisions regarding the use of security cameras. The Conant Public Library reserves the right to consult legal counsel in matters involving warrants or subpoenas seeking access to security footage.

Approved April 8, 2024

Sustainability Policy

From the Town of Sterling Master Plan of 2022 vision statement: “Sterling is a community that values its natural beauty, agricultural history, and can-do spirit. We envision a sustainable and equitable future that protects our town legacy, purposefully promotes growth and development, embraces our ages and abilities, and encourages community engagement to enhance the quality of life for our diverse residents.”

As a part of the Town of Sterling, the Conant Public Library envisions sustainability as a core component of its mission and values. As of July 2026, we are embracing the triple bottom line as set forth by the Sustainable Libraries Initiative: using practices that are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable. The Conant Public Library recognizes the important role libraries play in larger community conversations about resiliency and a sustainable future. The Library Board of Trustees, Administration, and staff are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and promoting environmental stewardship at all levels of our organization.

Our overall goal is to minimize our organization’s impact and maximize future community members’ ability to live, work, and play in our shared natural environment, with equal access to clean air, clean water, and natural resources. The Library supports sustainable principles that ensure a resilient, sustainable community and Library for all residents. We strive for economic efficiency, to conserve energy and water, support renewable energy resources, minimize pollution and waste, protect habitat, buy environmentally friendly products, and encourage environmentally preferable transportation. The library is meant to be a welcoming place for all with a collection that represents the diverse populations that comprise our community. Just treatment of all patrons, staff, and administration is an inherent necessity to becoming more sustainable. Employee understanding and involvement are essential to the implementation of sustainable environmental and economic policy; library staff are encouraged to be proactive and apply sustainable thinking in all areas of operating the Library. All employees will receive a copy of this policy and will be educated about and participate in the Library’s efforts to strive towards the “triple bottom line” definition of sustainability: using practices that are environmentally sound, economically feasible, and socially equitable.

Adopted September 14, 2026

Telephone Policy

The telephones are for conducting library business. Staff is permitted to make and accept brief local calls that do not interfere with public service. Calls by the public are allowed on the library phone if related to library use or for safety.

Wireless Electronic Device Policy

The library provides free wireless access to the internet during regular library hours.

Internet access via wireless connection from a personal electronic device is not filtered, however as the use is in a public area, people within the library are still subject to the library Internet Use Policy posted on public PCs and the library website. This policy states the limitations of internet access, and responsibilities for using that access.

The Library’s wireless network is not secure. Information sent to and from your notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device may be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software.

Library staff cannot provide technical assistance and there is no guarantee that you will be able to make a wireless connection.

The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for notebook/laptop computer or other wireless device configurations, security, or data file resulting from connection to the library’s wireless access.

Adopted August 14, 2006; revised February 14, 2022

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