While the Library is closed, we are providing virtual programming over the internet to stay connected with our community and to keep you informed and entertained during this stressful time. “
Please be advised that the Library makes no warranties and/or representations concerning the virtual programs. Your decision to participate in the programs is an express consent on your part to waive any and all claims against the Library which may result from said participation and hereby release and discharge the Rockville Centre Public Library from any and all liabilities.
Eligibility for RVCPL Borrowers
1) Residents of the Rockville Centre Union Free School District (RVC UFSD)
a) Library cards are issued free of charge to all the residents of the School District by showing proper proof of residency. b) Parent or legal guardian must sign child’s application for children 12 years of age or younger accepting responsibility for library materials borrowed.
2) Residents of the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre, not in the boundaries of the RVC School District
a) Borrowers are issued library cards in the same manner as for residents of the School District, provided they first obtain their home library card which is the Library chartered to serve the School District in which they reside. For example: the Baldwin Public Library or Oceanside Free Library.
This is a courtesy that has been extended to the Village residents without charge since the Library was provisionally chartered in 1894.
Click here for the complete policy. For more information, please call us at 516-766-6257.
- Computer use is on a first-come, first- served basis. Use of computers will be limited to one (1) hour at a time. If no one is waiting, additional sessions may be available. If all computers are in use, patrons can sign-up on a wait list kiosk.
- All decisions as to the use of the computers are at the sole discretion of the staff.
- No food or uncovered beverages are allowed at computer stations.
- No more than two persons may sit at a computer station at one time.
- Patrons should be able to use computers independently including navigating the Internet and using chosen programs. Staff can provide search suggestions and limited assistance. For in-depth assistance, patrons can make an appointment with a staff member.
- Printing fees are posted at the business print center. Patrons are responsible for the costs of printing.
- There is no guarantee that the Library’s computers will meet the user’s specific requirements for software or hardware, or that the computers will be error/virus/spyware/ malware free, offer uninterrupted service or that content will not be viewed by third parties.
- .Users are responsible for the proper use of equipment Attempts to degrade, disrupt, tamper or destroy the equipment, system, or software is prohibited. Patrons may not download any software onto the Library computer or system.
- Patrons may not use the cameras on the public computers. Patrons may make an appointment to use a library PC equipped with a camera in a private study area. Patrons need to be able to work independently on this equipment.
Internet
- The Library provides Internet access to the community without discrimination. All regulations apply to adults and children. Any restriction of a child’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of the child’s parent or legal guardian.
- The Library is not responsible for the content of websites visited by users.
- The Library makes no warranty, expressed or implied, for the timeliness, accuracy or usefulness of information accessed via the Internet.
- Consistent with its materials selection policy, the Library is a forum for all points of view and adheres to and endorses the principles of intellectual freedom as expressed in the American Library Association’s “Library Bill of Rights” (January 23, 1996) and in “Access to Electronic Information, Services and Networks: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights” (January 24, 1996 and amended January 19, 2005). The Library affirms the American Library Association’s “Code of Ethics,” which states in part: “We uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and resist all attempts to censor Library resources.”
- Illegal activities, commercial use of the Internet or attempts to violate system security are prohibited.
- It is illegal under the Penal Law of the State of New York to display offensive sexual material, pornographic images or obscene materials in the Library both on a public computer or a personal device or to disseminate such materials to minors.
- Computer users must comply with all New York State laws, including, but not limited to, copyright and cyberbullying.
Failure to comply with any portion of this policy will result in termination of computer privileges and the possibly of expulsion from the Library.
Revised 1/16/2007
Revised 10/12/2010
Revised 11/14/2013
Revised 10/11/2017
Revised 12/14/2022
Payments must be paid by cash, check or E-commerce, no replacement for lost item is allowed.
AMERICAN GIRL & BITTY BABY DOLLS
multiple items)..Current list price… see Youth Services
AUDIO BOOKS
- Damaged or lost… Replace entire audio book or single disc depending upon availability.
- Compete kit…Current list price
- eReader (NOOK/KINDLE +charger) replacement cost …$200.00 – Charger…$10.00
Any e-Reader put in book drop or left at unattended circulation desk will result in a $25.00 fine. Must return to RVC library.
- Playaway case…$1.00
- Playaview cable …$5.00
- Playaview case …$1.00
BOOKS
Hardcover
Lost … Current list price (Less 25% if book is later found and returned)
Cover damaged:
- Plastic cover torn …25¢
- Buckram (hard cover) damaged:
- If inside of book undamaged …$4.50
- If inside of book is also damaged…Current list price
- Pages torn …25¢ per page Pages marked, if erasable…25¢ per pagePages marked, not erasable…Current list price
Paperback
Lost or damaged …Current list price
BORROWERS CARD
Lost card, for replacement …$2.00
Fee for non-Nassau County resident …$400.00
DVD’s
Damaged or lost: Current list price. For multi-disc sets, replace entire set or single disc, depending upon availability.
DVD PLAYER
Any DVD player put in book drop or left unattended at circ desk will result in a $25 fine. Must return to RVC library.Damaged or lost replacement cost for DVD player is $140
GO PRO CAMERA
Damaged or lost replacement cost for camera is $275.00 Cost for accessories and/or case is $30.00
INTERLIBRARY LOANS
- Lost item belonging to NLS Member Library …Current list price
- Lost item belonging to NY State or Special Library…Owning Library sets price
LAUNCHPAD
Damaged or lost: Current list price.
Any Launchpad put in book drop or left unattended at circ desk will result in a $25 fine. Must return to RVC library.
Launchpad case…$8.00 Bumper…$9.00 Cord…$7.00 Adapter…$10.00
MAGAZINES
Lost or damaged …$3.00 Adult …$2.00 Children
MUSEUM PASS
Lost…Current list price
ROKU
Stick…$45 Remote…$15.00 USB cable and power adapter…$10.00
TELESCOPE
Any Telescope put in book drop or left unattended at circ desk will result in a $25 fine. Must return to RVC library.All fees and charges are listed on the Telescope patron signature form.
Overdue Fines
Fines are accrued per item per day unless otherwise noted
BOOKS, AUDIOBOOKS, CDs, MAGAZINES, MP3, PAPERBACKS, PLAYAWAYS, PLAYAVIEW, USB KEY
| Adult Department | per item per day / 15¢ per item per month / $4.50 |
| Children’s Department | per item per day / 5¢ per item per month / $1.50 |
DVDs
| Children’s | 7days | $.50 overdue |
| Adults | New releases | 3 days | $1.00 overdue |
| Adults | Others | 7days | $.50 overdue |
| Fine Arts, Sports, Education, Travel, How-to | 7 days | $.50 overdue |
| Series for complete kit | 7 days | $2.00 overdue |
| Maximum fine for overdue DVDs | $10.00 | |
| DVD PLAYER | 7 days | $2.00 – (Any DVD player put in book drop or left at unattended circulation desk will result in a $25.00 fine. Must return to RVC library.) |
Other Materials
| GO PRO CAMERA | 7 days | $2.00 overdue |
| eREADER (Kindle + charger) Adult, Young Adult and Children’s | 14 days | $2.00 – (Any e-Reader put in book drop or left at unattended circulation desk will result in a $25.00 fine. Must return to RVC library.) |
| LAUNCHPAD | 7 days | $1.00 |
| MUSEUM PASS | 1 day | $10.00 |
| ROKU (Adult, Youth Services) | 7 days | $2.00 overdue |
| TELESCOPE | 7days | All fees and charges are listed on the Telescope patron signature form. – (Any Telescope put in book drop or left unattended at circ desk will result in a $25 fine. Must return to RVC library.) |
| VIDEO GAMES (Adult, Young Adult and Children’s) | 14 days | $1.00 overdue |
REFERENCE MATERIALS – Special Circulation
Deposit – per item, for overnight loan …$50.00 minimum
- Adult or Children’s Librarian sets deposit based on current list price of item.
- Full Deposit will be refunded if material is returned on time in good condition.
- Deposit, less fines, will be refunded for overdue material returned in good condition.
- Overdue fines for Reference materials…$1.00 per hour
- Damaged or lost Reference materials …Current list price
PURPOSE
- The purpose of the Rockville Centre Public Library is to select, organize, preserve and make freely and easily available to the community print and non-print materials, within the limitations of space and budget, which will aid them in their pursuit of education, information, research, recreation and culture. The Library actively seeks to stimulate and expand the reading and cultural interests of both children and adults. It serves as a resource for the continuing education of all members of our community.
- “Selection” refers to the decision that must be made either to add a given title to the collection or withdraw one already in the collection.
- The Library recognizes that many books, magazines and newspapers are controversial and that any given item may offend someone. Selections will not be made on the basis of any assumed approval or disapproval, but only on the merit of the work as it relates to the Library’s purpose and as it serves the needs and interests of the community as a whole.
- It is the right and duty of the Library to keep on its shelves a representative selection of books on all subject of interest to its reader and not prohibited by law, including books on all sides of controversial questions.
- Library materials will not be marked or identified to show approval or disapproval of the contents and nothing will be sequestered except for the express purpose of protecting it from mutilation or theft.
- Responsibility for the reading selections of minors rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of adult materials will not be limited by the possibility that they may come into the possession of minors.
RESPONSIBILITY
- It is the responsibility of the Library to satisfy the diverse needs and interests of our community within the limitations of space and budget. The Library recognizes its obligation to provide materials, as far as possible, which reflect all points of view.
- The Materials Selection Policy is established by the Library Board of Trustees. The Library Director is responsible for the selection of materials and development of the collection in accordance with established policies. All professional members of the staff make recommendations to the Director for new materials as well as for older items needed to serve the needs of our community.
SELECTION OF MATERIALS
- Since it is impossible to have every book read by a Librarian before it is acquired for the collection, skilled use is made of such selection aids as basic general lists, current reviewing journals selected by the Library and special bibliographies. No one publication is relied upon exclusively.
- The Library takes no sides on public issues and does not attempt to promote any beliefs or points of view, nor does it endorse the opinions expressed in the materials held. The Library recognizes its responsibility to provide materials presenting various points of view in order to enable people to make their own decisions.
CRITERIA
- Materials will be judged on the basis of the content of the work as a whole, not by selected random passages.
- Factors influencing selection of a item include: factual accuracy, effective expression, current usefulness, significance of subject, interest, permanent value, relevance to the existing collection, qualifications of the author in subject field, style, reputation of publisher, arrangement of material, clear presentation and readability, format and physical qualities, price.
- Demand is a valid factor in book selection. Materials selected on this basis will be of popular interest and in high demand or of significant current interest, not always of enduring value. Best sellers are evaluated on their individual merits following selection policies.
SUGGESTIONS FOR PURCHASE
- Community members may make suggestions for purchase. The Library will make the final decision about whether or not to purchase, based on the criteria and selection methods described above.
COMMUNITY ANALYSIS
- An attempt is made to be aware of the changing needs of the people of Rockville Centre, and this awareness should be an integral part of book selection. The Library’s resources should reflect the whole community and the many viewpoints within it.
RELIGION
- As a public library, we attempt to maintain an impartial recognition of all religions. The Library’s selection of religious literature should be broad, tolerant, without partisanship or propaganda.
TEXTBOOKS AND SCHOOL SERVICES SELECTION
- It is the responsibility of the public school system to supply the textbooks required in school courses. It is the responsibility of the Library to furnish supplementary materials for both formal and informal education. As a rule, textbooks are not purchased except where such books are considered the best available.
- The Library cannot accept the responsibility of providing the same book in sufficient quantities to serve a whole class. The cooperation of the local schools in advising the Library of assignments is earnestly sought.
NON-BOOK FORMATS
- The Library also acquires audio-visual material, eReaders, newspapers, periodicals, microforms, computerized reference materials and on-line databases to provide increased access to information for our community.
GIFT AND DONATIONS
- Donations of books, magazines subscriptions or other library materials, or donations of money for the purchase of library materials, are welcomed. However, the Library accepts gifts without commitment as to final disposal. Those that are suitable for the Library collection will be retained, and other items disposed of in whatever manner the Library deems best.
- Suggestion of specific titles or subjects are welcomed although when donations are given, the final decision rests with the Library.
- The Library reserves the right to integrate gifts into the general collection, as they cannot be given special housing. An appropriate bookplate will be placed in each gift if requested by the donor.
LOCAL AUTHORS
- Materials written or produced by local authors must meet the general selection standards for inclusion in the Library collection. No materials will automatically be added to the collection.
DUPLICATION
- It is difficult to evaluate the demand and needs for the publication of materials, but the general policy is to purchase additional current titles if there are 5 reserves for a 14-day book.
- LABELING
- The Library does not indicate, through the use of labels or other devices, particular philosophies outlined in the book, or held by the author. To do so would be to establish in the reader’s mind a judgment before the reader has had an opportunity to examine the book.
WEEDING
- The collection should be constantly and systematically weeded of material that is no longer useful. The Rockville Centre Public Library is not a center for historical research and it does not have the space to retain all the material that might possibly be of use to some future scholar. Several factors may be involved in the decision to withdraw material. These may include physical condition, space limitations, age, or obsolescence. The retention of dated material decreases the Library’s effectiveness.
- Material will not be removed solely as a result of pressure or demand.
RECONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
- A request for the reconsideration of the material must be made in writing. A form “Reconsideration of Library Material” is included as part of this selection policy for the patron’s use.
- When a request for reconsideration is made the Director and appropriate department head must be notified. The Director will then appoint a committee of librarians to read the material and research the review media. The patron will be notified of this action. The review committee will report to the Director with its findings within thirty days. The Director will then discuss the material with the patron. If the patron is still not satisfied then the matter will be brought before the Library Board of Trustees at the next meeting. At the meeting the Library will be represented by the Director and the review committee. The patron and the Library will make their presentations, and the Board will make a final decision on the status of the material.
FREEDOM TO READ
- In its selection of books and other materials, the Rockville Centre Public Library subscribes fully to the principles adopted by the American Library Association in the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement. Therefore the Library incorporates these two documents as part of its Book Selection Policy.
- Parents who wish to limit or restrict the reading of their own children or young adults should personally oversee their selections.
Approved 01/31/2013
Revised 03/15/2022
- Permission for use of the Library Meeting Rooms as a limited public forum may be granted to Rockville Centre based groups and organizations whose purposes and programs are educational, cultural and/or civic and whose membership and attendees shall be composed of a majority of Rockville Centre residents.
- The Library Meeting Rooms may be used during library hours subject to availability. In general, they shall not be utilized more than once each month by any organization or group. The Director is authorized to approve any exceptions. The Board may refuse or rescind permission for use of Meeting Rooms.
- The Library Meeting Rooms shall not be utilized by any organization or group which charges admission, solicits business, or otherwise obtains compensation or contributions of any nature, unless such organization or group is a purely educational or cultural not-for-profit organization and has received prior approval of the Board.
- Meeting Rooms shall be available on a first come, first served basis. The Library may cancel or reschedule meetings which conflict with Library’s scheduling of Library related or sponsored programs or meetings.
- In consideration of the use of Meeting Room facilities, each organization or group must agree that it will pay for all damage to any property of the Library resulting directly or indirectly from the conduct of any member, officer, employee or agent of the organization or group, or by any person in attendance; that it will save harmless and indemnify the Rockville Centre Public Library and the Rockville Centre Union Free School District from any and all liability which may be imposed upon them for any injury to persons or property caused by the organization or any other person in connection with the program.
- The Rockville Centre Public Library shall assume no responsibility whatever for any property placed in the Library in connection with a program, and the Rockville Centre Public Library and the Rockville Centre Union Free School District shall be expressly released and discharged from any and all liability for any loss, injury or damage to persons or property which may be sustained during or by reason of any program held on the Library’s premises.
- Authorization for use of the Library Meeting Rooms shall be in accordance with Regulations promulgated by the Library for use of the Library’s facilities. Permission to use a Meeting Room shall not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Trustees or staff of the policies, beliefs, or activities of the organization receiving such permission.
- The Library Director shall have authority to grant, refuse, or revoke permission for use of the Meeting Room. Continued use of facilities by any group or organization is contingent upon observance of rules and regulations for use. Permission for future use may be withdrawn for infractions of the Rules and Regulations, or by reason of loud, boisterous behavior or other action or conduct which interferes with library operations and the quiet use and enjoyment of library facilities by staff and library patrons.
- Applications for use shall be obtained at the Library. Complete user information shall be furnished on the application form.
- All meetings shall be open to the general public. The Library Meeting Rooms will not be used for meetings that are prohibited by Section 414 of the Education Law, or those that are commercial in purpose or support, or to further an individual’s goals, or for purely social functions.
- The sponsoring organization shall be responsible for its own publicity. Use of the Meeting Rooms by any group or organization does not mean co-sponsorship by the Library. The sponsoring organization shall not use the Library’s name as co-sponsor in any press releases or any other publicity. A draft copy of press releases pertaining to scheduled use of the Library Meeting Room must be sent to the Director of the Library prior to publication.
Adopted 11/19/92 ; Revised 4/24/97; Revised 11/06; Revised 02/15/17
The Rockville Centre Public Library is pleased to offer to our patrons free and discounted passes for many of our area’s museums and gardens. The passes are selected from suggestions from patrons and staff members. Certain factors such as cost, location, popularity, and number of patrons admitted per pass are taken into consideration before the pass or discount is offered. Additionally, the Library considers the educational, cultural, and/or recreational value of each program or facility. All offerings are approved by the Board of Trustees.
The Rockville Centre Public Library does not endorse nor assume responsibility for the quality, content or safety of exhibits at museums, gardens and parks participating in the Library’s Museum Pass Program.
- Rockville Centre Public Library cardholders in good standing may reserve museum passes online or by calling the Adult Reference Desk at 516-766-6257 x 5. Three passes may be reserved in a 30-day period per library card. Only one pass may be reserved per day and each museum’s pass may be reserved once in a 30-day period. A maximum of one pass per family may be borrowed at a time.
- Passes that are marked “Pickup/Return at Library” may be borrowed for two days from the Adult Reference Desk (pick up one day and return the next day). We ask that a pass be returned as soon as it is no longer needed so that it can go to the next borrower. There is a $10 late fee per day, in order to ensure that the pass is available for the next patron. Museum pass kits may be placed in the book drop or returned, in person, to the Adult Reference Desk.
- Passes that are marked “Print on Demand” can be printed at home or in the Library. The pass will be valid for the date of the visit listed on the confirmation page.
- Each museum sets its own rules regarding museum passes. Museum passes do not necessarily provide access to all exhibits or to special museum events. Special events at the museums and parks may have additional fees which are not covered by the pass or discount and are therefore the responsibility of the patron. In addition, patrons should check the days and hours a facility is open before visiting as these might change at the organization’s discretion. It is the borrower’s responsibility to contact the museum regarding days/hours of operation and questions concerning the honoring of museum passes. For more information, please check each museum’s website.
- Any patron who loses a museum pass will be charged the replacement cost of that pass. If a patron loses two passes, his or her museum pass privileges may be revoked.
Approved October 20, 2022
Please enjoy the Library. Everyone using our Library deserves a quiet and safe environment. No person shall engage in any behavior which disturbs or interferes with other patrons.
Unacceptable behavior includes but is not restricted to:
- Smoking anywhere on Library grounds
- Talking loudly
- Cursing or using obscene, abusive, or threatening language or gestures
- Running, pushing or climbing
- Displaying offensive images on public Internet computers or personal electronic devices
- Sitting on tables or desks
- Loitering or sleeping
- Bringing pets into the Library, except service animals
Regarding Cell Phones and Snacks:
- So as not to disturb nearby patrons, please put your cell phone on silent or vibrate. Please keep your voice low and your conversation brief.
- No food is permitted by the computers.
No hot food or food deliveries are permitted. - Covered, non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks are allowed.
- No food is permitted by the computers.
- No hot food or food deliveries are permitted.
- Dispose of all refuse properly.
Library staff has the authority to make decisions that are in the best interests of the Library whenever the rules do not specifically cover certain situations.
Violators of the rules of the Library who refuse to leave when requested to do so are subject to arrest under the Criminal Trespass Section of the New York State Penal Code.
Thank you for your cooperation!
Approved 9/2015
The Library is available for the use of members of the public to meet their needs in accessing information and for quiet enjoyment of Library materials and equipment. As part of its educational mission, the Library permits tutoring on the premises in accordance with this policy.
The Library does not sponsor, recommend, or assume liability or responsibility for the work and/or activities of tutors who use available Library space.
Tutors are expected to follow the Library’s Rules of Behavior in addition to these guidelines:
- Library staff is happy to assist tutors and their students, just as they assist any patron of the Library. However, the Library staff should not be relied upon to act as intermediaries, deliver messages or to find a tutor or a student.
- Tutor is responsible for the behavior of the student during the session. It is preferred that a parent or caregiver remain in the Library while a child under the age of 9 is being tutored. Refer to the Library’s policy on unattended children. The Library assumes no responsibility for children left unattended.
- Library space is not to be used as a classroom or place of business for tutors to work from, but as a safe and quiet workspace for students to receive instruction. Tutor belongings or use of space are not to interfere with easy access through the Library by other Library users.
- Quiet study rooms cannot be used by tutors. Tutors must share the designated tables in the Main Reading Room, in the Children’s Room or other allocated area.
- Tables can neither be reserved nor moved to accommodate a tutoring session. When the Library is crowded, tutors must share a table, if necessary.
- Tutors may be asked by Library staff to move location to accommodate space or noise issues.
- Low voices must be used. Library staff will provide a warning if tutors or students are disturbing others. The tutoring session will be ended if tutoring is disruptive.
- Tutors may not tutor more than two children at any given time in the Library.
- Money, or any other form of payment for tutoring, cannot be exchanged in the Library.
- Tutors and students must bring their own supplies. The Library does not provide study supplies.
- All tutoring sessions must end 15 minutes before Library closing. Tutors must make sure the students have arranged for a ride home prior to closing.
Any violation of this policy will result in loss of tutoring privileges at the Library.
These guidelines also apply to:
- Literacy volunteers who represent non-profit organizations.
- Rockville Centre School District students who are scheduled through the District to meet their tutors in the Library.
Approved 07.21.21
The Rockville Centre Public Library strives to provide a warm, welcoming, and safe environment for all community members. The library is concerned for the safety of children and vulnerable adults in and around the library.
A parent, guardian, or caregiver 18 years of age or older must be responsible for monitoring the activities and managing the behavior of children and vulnerable adults during their library visits. Staff cannot be expected to monitor or prevent children and vulnerable adults from leaving the building/grounds or to assume responsibility for monitoring their behavior. The library is a public building, and therefore the safety of children and vulnerable adults left alone or unsupervised is a matter of serious concern. Accordingly, the library will adhere to the following guidelines concerning the care and behavior of children and vulnerable adults:
Vulnerable Adults
A vulnerable adult is an individual over the age of 18 who is mentally or physically challenged to a degree that significantly impairs the individual’s ability to provide adequately for his or her own care or manage his or her own behavior without assistance.
Vulnerable adults, who can understand and follow the rules of conduct and who can care for themselves, are welcome to be in the library unattended. Vulnerable adults will be expected to follow the rules of conduct as outlined in the library’s Rules of Behavior. Vulnerable adults who are unable or unwilling to care for themselves must be attended and have adequate supervision at all times.
All vulnerable adults should have contact information for a parent, guardian, or caregiver who can assist them in an emergency. Staff will attempt to contact this parent, guardian, or caregiver if a vulnerable adult’s health or safety is in doubt, their behavior disturbs other library users, their actions violate any of the library’s Rules of Behavior, or the parent, guardian, or caregiver is not present at closing time.
Every reasonable effort will be made by the staff to assist the vulnerable adult in contacting the appropriate responsible adult. If no responsible adult is reached, no contact information is available, or the vulnerable adult is not picked up within 15 minutes of library closing, staff may notify the police and/or an appropriate County agency.
Children
Children are welcome in the Rockville Centre Public Library. Staff creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in our Children’s Room, where the physical environment and programs are designed to encourage a love of books, reading, and libraries.
As a general guideline, children in third grade or below cannot be left alone or unsupervised. Specifically, parents/caregivers must keep their child/children within visual range. However, the Board recognizes that mature and responsible behavior can vary within a given age group, and therefore expects the staff to use good judgment in enforcing the policy.
At no time is the library responsible for children of any age left unattended. Library staff will attempt to locate a parent/caregiver if a child is left alone or unsupervised, a child who has been left alone or unsupervised is disruptive, or in the event of an emergency, illness, or library closing.
If unsuccessful in locating a parent/caregiver, staff will call the police to take charge of the child/children. Children of any age who are out of control or disruptive to other patrons or staff will be required to leave the library premises.
NOTE
The attached report form must be completed and forwarded to the Library Director anytime the Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy is implemented.
Approved 09/25/1996
Revised 02/23/2015
Revised 03/16/2023
The Rockville Centre Public Library believes that everyone, regardless of differing abilities, is entitled to equal access to services and public accommodations. In pursuit of this objective and in accordance with the guidelines promulgated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rockville Centre Public Library welcomes service animals when needed to assist persons with disabilities.
For purposes of this policy, “service animal” means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals, except that reasonable modifications may be made for miniature horses as discussed below.
A service animal must be trained to take specific action when needed to assist a person with a disability. For example, a person with diabetes may have a dog that is trained to alert him when his blood sugar reaches unsafe levels or a person who has epilepsy may have a dog that is trained to detect the onset of a seizure and then help the person remain safe during the seizure. Because emotional support, therapy, comfort, and companion animals have not been trained to perform a specific job or task, they do not qualify as service animals.
Library employees cannot be expected to supervise or care for service animals. To promote a welcoming environment for all patrons and staff, the following behavioral guidelines for service animals are to be observed:
Service animals shall be under the control of their handler at all times.
Service animals may not be left unattended by their handler at any time. In addition, service animals may not be allowed to wander away from their handler at any time.
Service animals must be on a leash or harness at all times, unless either the handler is unable because of a disability to use a leash or harness, or the use of a leash or harness interferes with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks. If the animal cannot be leashed or harnessed, it must be under the handler’s control via voice commands, signals, or other effective means.
The handler is responsible for caring for and supervising the service animal, which includes toileting, clean-up, feeding, grooming, and veterinary care.
Service animals must not display disruptive behavior such as barking or growling.
If a service animal’s behaviors or actions pose an unreasonable or direct threat to the health or safety of others, or do not conform to these guidelines, library staff may ask the individual with a disability to remove their service animal from the premises. If the service animal is excluded from the facility, the individual with the disability is welcomed to stay and will be reasonably accommodated by library staff.
In regards to miniature horses, the library shall consider the following factors in determining whether reasonable modifications can be made to allow the miniature horse into the library: (i) the type, size, and weight of the miniature horse and whether the library can accommodate these features; (ii) whether the handler has sufficient control of the miniature horse; (iii) whether the miniature horse is housebroken; and (iv) whether the miniature horse’s presence in the library compromises legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation.
Adopted March 16, 2023
By using the Rockville Centre Public Library’s wireless Internet service, you hereby expressly acknowledge and agree that there are significant security, privacy and confidentiality risks inherent in accessing or transmitting information through the Internet. Security issues include, without limitation, interception of transmissions, loss of data, and the introduction or viruses and other programs that can corrupt or damage your device.
Accordingly, you agree that the Library is not liable for any interception or transmissions, computer worms or viruses, loss of data, file corruption, hacking or damage to your computer, data and other devices that result from the transmission or download of information or materials through the internet service provided.
Use of the Library’s wireless network (Wi-Fi) is subject to the provisions set forth in the Library’s Computer and Internet Policy. The Library reserves the right to terminate a user’s Wi-Fi access for violation of this policy.
Approved December 11, 2017
These rooms are intended for serious study or research demanding quiet. In order to ensure the proper atmosphere, free from disturbances, the following guidelines have been established:
- Patrons must be sixteen (16) years of age or older. Proof of age may be required.
- Study Rooms have the following occupancy requirements:
| Room | Minimum Occupancy | Maximum Occupancy |
| Quiet Study Rooms 1-6 | 1 | 2 |
| Group Study Room 1 | 2 | 4 |
| Group Study Room 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Group Study Room 3 | 2 | 6 |
- Quiet Study Rooms 1-5 are not soundproof. Occupants need be keep their voices low.
- Time may be limited to periods of two hours, as demand requires.
- Occupants will be asked to leave if there are more or less than the permitted number in a room.
- Tutoring is not permitted in Study Rooms.
- Rooms are not reservable.
- Study room privileges will be denied to those who disregard Library regulations.
Library staff has the authority to make adjustments if necessary.
Adopted 04.12.22; Revised 5.22.24
Library of Things Policy
A Library of Things (LOT) is a collection of non-traditional circulating items. A collection of this nature provides access to items people may not be able to purchase and reduces waste and consumption of items needed infrequently. In addition, LOT fosters learning, increases accessibility, promotes social engagement, provides entertainment, and aligns with the Library’s mission statement and strategic goals. Items are collected based on public interest or demand, cost and availability, durability, and available storage space. Categories of items collected may include, but are not limited to: arts and crafts; games, toys, and sporting equipment; home improvement and tools; musical instruments; science and technology.
Library of Things items may be borrowed by Rockville Centre Public Library cardholders with accounts in good standing. Patrons who borrow LOT items agree to abide by the LOT policies and guidelines as well as related general reservation and borrowing guidelines for Library materials. The Library reserves the right to monitor and regulate usage to ensure fair access to the greatest number of patrons.
The Library assumes no responsibility of any kind arising out of use of LOT materials. By taking possession of any item, the patron is certifying that they are capable of using that item in a safe and responsible manner. All LOT items are to be returned in the same condition as they were in when checked out. Upon return, each LOT item will be inspected by staff and will remain on the patron’s account until determination that all components have been returned in working order. Patrons agree to pay for the loss of, or damage to, any item. Replacement charges may vary dependent on the specific item.
Library of Things Guidelines
- A valid Rockville Centre Library card in good standing must be presented at checkout to pick up reserved items.
- Patrons must sign a Library of Things Agreement provided by the Library prior to borrowing an item.
- A parent or guardian must sign the Library of Things Agreement with minors under the age of 18.
- Parents and/or guardians shall supervise minors in their use of any LOT item.
- Patrons under the age of 18 may only borrow LOT items from the Children’s LOT collection.
- LOT items may not be renewed online.
- Late fees will be assigned to all items (a list of late fees may be found on the LOT webpage).
- All LOT items must be returned during the Library’s open hours to a staff member at the Circulation Desk (Adult items) or Children’s Desk (Children’s items).
- Items will be inspected upon return. Patrons agree to pay the full cost for items stolen, lost, not returned or damaged (a list of parts and replacement fees for each item may be found on the LOT webpage).
- Patrons may reserve a maximum of three LOT items per month.
- Patrons are limited to borrowing the same item once each month in order to ensure that all patrons have an opportunity to enjoy popular materials.
- Patrons agree that if any item becomes unsafe or in a state of disrepair, they will immediately discontinue use of the item and notify the Library of the issue upon return, if not earlier.
- Patrons agree to use the items in the manner which is intended by the manufacturer.
- Patrons agree that they will carefully examine the items they intend to borrow prior to their use and the items are accepted in an “AS IS” condition.
- To the fullest extent permitted by law, patrons agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Library from any claims and costs attributable to injury or to damage or destruction of property arising from borrowing a LOT item.
- Patrons shall not allow any other individual to use a borrowed item, unless such individual has also signed and submitted a Library of Things Agreement.
- One signed agreement will cover all items borrowed from the LOT collection for the duration of the patron’s Library card. A new agreement will be required at the renewal or reinstatement of a Library card.
- By reserving and checking out items contained in the LOT collection, patrons agree to abide by the guidelines set forth above.
Approved November 21, 2023