The library maintains up-to-date collections for infants, children, youth and adults, which include print books, as well as audio books (on CDs), DVDs, magazines and a collection of Great Courses.
We have:
- public use computers inside the Library,
- WiFi available (password free) both inside and outside,
- two iPads with children’s books and early learning programs loaded,
- a printer/copier,
- a fax machine.
With your library card, you are a member of the Mid-Hudson Library System. Besides the items that the 66 Mid-Hudson libraries have in their collections, you can also use downloadable audios, eBooks, eMagazines and online databases.
Registration
All borrowers must be registered and must have a valid local or system patron card to borrow library materials. Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued.
Patrons must fill out an application form to register for a new library card. By signing the application, the patron is indicating that they will be responsible for all materials signed out on their library card.
Identification with proof of address is required. A driver’s license or student ID is preferred; however, any other official ID or recent non-personal piece of mail may be acceptable.
Applicants under 16 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the application form before a new card can be issued. By signing the child’s application, the parent or guardian is indicating that they will be responsible for all materials signed out on the child’s library card. All library cards expire after 3 years. In order to renew a library card, patrons must produce identification and must clear all outstanding fines and bills.
Lost or forgotten cards
If a patron loses his/her library card, he should notify the library as soon as possible and request a replacement. All patrons, adult and juvenile, are expected to bring their library cards with them if they intend to check out items. An individual who repeatedly ignores this expectation may be denied the privilege of checking out materials until they present their card at the library.
Loan periods
- A three-week loan period is given for books, audiobooks, DVDs with multiple disks, music CDs and periodicals.
- A one-week loan period is given for single DVDs.
- Materials borrowed from other MHLS member libraries through the NCFL follow the circulation rules of the North Chatham Free Library.
- The director may establish a different loan period for special collections or materials added to the collection which are in a new format.
There is no limit on the number of items a patron can borrow at one time.
Overdue notices and bills relating to lost items will be sent by mail or e-mail in a timely manner.
Fines and charges
The purpose of overdue fines is not to punish borrowers; it is to encourage patrons to return items by the due date so they can be available to others. Fines established by the Director.
Damaged materials
If materials are damaged so as to be judged by the library as being unsuitable for the collection, the patron must pay the replacement cost. This rule does not apply to DVDs or CDs that are damaged due to normal wear and tear. A notice of these charges will be sent to the borrower.
Lost materials
It is the patron’s responsibility to request a receipt when paying for a lost item. The library may accept a new replacement copy of a lost item that belonged to the North Chatham Free Library in lieu of payment; however, the library director must be consulted before such arrangement is made.
Approved by Library Board 11-8-2018