Borrowing books from the Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library is a privilege, and anyone borrowing our Contractor Circulating Reference Books must agree to the following rules:

  1. You must apply for and receive a library card at the Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library;
  2. You must leave a cash deposit for the amount of the replacement cost of the book.
  3. The books must be returned by the due date.
  4. If you need another week, you can renew the books for one more week by phone or in person IF and ONLY IF there is no one else waiting for them;
  5. For books in the collection requiring a deposit, the deposit will be returned when the books are returned.
  6. There is a fine of $1.00 per day for overdue items up to the replacement cost of the items. With your signature on your library card, you agree to abide by these rules.

The Board of Trustees of the Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library endorses the following code of conduct as presented to patrons, staff and volunteers:

It is the purpose of BHFPL to provide free, open and equal access to ideas and information to all members of the community. To accomplish this purpose, a code of conduct is provided to assist staff, volunteers and patrons in promoting safe, healthy and barrier-free access to all the resources and facilities the system has to offer. The code is designed to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and courtesy and applies to all patrons, volunteers and staff while on library property.

 WHEN VISITING THE LIBRARY, YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO:

  1. Ask the staff for help. Let the staff know when you are unable to find what you need so they can try to get the information for you. This also helps the library know what needs to be added to the collection.
  2. Inform the staff if you need accommodation or if assistance is needed for your full use of library services.
  3. Explore new ideas and interests by attending library programs.
  4. Be responsible for the safety, well-being and conduct of children in your care.
  5. Any child under middle school age must be accompanied by an adult.
  6. Cooperate with the requests of library staff.
  7. Turn off mobile phones when attending a library sponsored program.
  8. Keep your personal belongings in your control at all times. The library is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
  9. Enjoy light refreshments. If you are having more than a drink or snack, you may be asked to move to a designated eating area. In the event of a spill, we ask that you alert staff so the area can be cleaned.

 WHEN VISITING THE LIBRARY, THE FOLLOWING IS PROHIBITED:

  1. Behavior that is unsafe or disturbing to other patrons, volunteers or staff such as using offensive language, loud talking, shouting, screaming, children crying or making other loud noises, pushing, running, shoving, throwing things, or other disruptive behavior.
  2. Verbally or physically harassing or threatening other patrons, volunteers or staff. Harassment may include, but is not limited to: initiating unwanted conversation; impeding access to or within the building; or other actions that an individual reasonably perceives to be hostile, threatening, intrusive or offensive.
  3. Abandoning, or leaving unattended children or other persons in need of supervision. Leaving young children unattended in the library at any time.
  4. Actions that damage library property or the property of others.
  5. Any behavior that is prohibited by law.
  6. Sexual misconduct, such as exposure, offensive touching, verbal comments or unwanted sexual advances to patrons, volunteers or staff.
  7. Smoking or use of tobacco, tobacco products or vaping. Use of alcohol and/or drugs. Smoking is not permitted in the building or within 25 feet of the entrance to the building.
  8. Accessing staff areas, unless accompanied by a library employee.
  9. Inappropriate dress, including no shirt or shoes.
  10. Tampering with the arrangement of library materials, which makes finding or using them difficult.
  11. Disruptive use of mobile phones. Phones may be used for quiet short conversations anywhere in the library. You may be asked to end your call if you cause a disruption to other patrons.
  12. Skateboarding, skating or loitering on the library property.
  13. Use of library computers for anything other than their intended purpose. See internet policy.
  14. Blocking aisles or passageways so as to make it dangerous, difficult or impossible to walk through. This includes placement of cords for electricity to electronic equipment.
  15. Placing flyers on cars in the public or staff parking lots or on cars parked on the street around the library.

 

INTERPRETATION FOR CHILDREN OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT

Let's work together!

The people who work in the library will help you find things, learn something new and have fun.

GOOD LIBRARY BEHAVIOR MEANS THAT YOU WILL:

  1. Ask for help when you need it.
  2. Be kind and polite to everyone.
  3. Speak in your indoor voice. Loud talking and noise makes it hard for those who need a quieter place.
  4. Never climb in the library.
  5. Keep your hands to yourself.
  6. Walk and look where you are going.
  7. Be careful of younger children, especially in the children's area.
  8. Take good care of the books and other items that belong to the library.
  9. Practice your listening skills in story times and library programs.
  10. Do what a person who works for the library asks you to do.

*Note: This list is not all inclusive and other behaviors judged inappropriate by library staff may be cause for consequences.

CONSEQUENCES OF MISCONDUCT:

 

The Library Director or designee will apply these rules in a fair and equitable manner for the benefit of all. If any of the information is unclear, please ask a member of the library staff for clarification.

The consequences of misconduct may be any of the following: verbal warning, eviction, loss of library privileges, or prosecution to the full extent of the law. If the police are called, the offender may be cited. Parents will be called or notified in writing in the case of a minor (less than 18 years of age).

The library also reserves the right to inspect all bags, purses, briefcases, packs, personal listening devices, computers and coats.

REGISTRATION


All borrowers must be registered and must have a valid local library card to borrow library materials. The patron is responsible for all materials borrowed on this card.

Identification and proof of local mailing address are required. [A driver's license or student ID would be preferred; however, any other official ID or recent non-personal piece of mail may be acceptable.]

Out of State library cards will be issued with proof of identification and a $20.00 annual fee.

Applicants from 5 to 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian give their consent on the student application form before a new card can be issued. This parental signature is not required for children who are renewing cards.
Materials cannot be checked out until a library card is issued. All library cards must be renewed after approximately 3 years.

LOST OR FORGOTTEN CARDS

If a patron loses a library card, they 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, however if they do not, they will not be denied checkout privileges. If a library card is lost, a replacement card is $1.00.

LOAN PERIODS

  1. All materials may be checked out for 3 weeks.
  2. After getting a card, new patrons may check out 3 items. After those items are returned, the patron has a limit of 30 items unless otherwise determined by staff (i.e. homeschool purposes).
  3. Audio books and DVDs may only be checked out up to 6 at a time. However, this may be overridden in special circumstances (e.g. illness, travel etc.) at the discretion of the staff.
    4. Generally, reference books do not circulate. However, upon request, some reference
    materials may be checked out overnight to patrons in good standing.
    5. Interlibrary loans are due by the date indicated by the lending library.
    6. Books may be renewed twice if there is not a waiting list for the title.

The director may establish the loan period for special collections, materials which are
temporarily in great demand, such as for student projects, or materials added to the
collection which are in a new format, e.g., computer software.

There is a 30-item system-generated limit on the number of items a patron can borrow
at one time, except for audio books and DVDs, which may be checked out 6 at a time.
This may be overridden in certain circumstances (such as illness, travel, etc.)

HOLDS

Holds may be placed by patrons either in person, over the phone or via the library
website. Patrons will be notified by telephone or email when the materials are available.
There is no charge to the patron for placing a reserve.

FINES AND CHARGES

There is a $.10 per day fine for overdue materials with a maximum of $2.00 per item. If the material is not returned within a designated period, the cost of the material will be added to the account. Every Friday is fine-free, as are Library Week, and the weeks between Christmas and New Year’s.

DAMAGED MATERIALS

If materials are damaged and unsuitable for the collection, as deemed by the library, the patron must pay the replacement cost. If requested, and after
deaccessioning the item, the patron may keep the damaged item.

NEW ITEMS

When a new item is added into circulation, a check-out restriction is in place for four months. During this time the item will not be sent through courier to our affiliate libraries. Patrons may come into the Library in order to check out the new item. After a period of four months the ‘new’ designation will be removed and items may circulate within the system.

Computers (in Library PCs)

The library has seven computers (PCs) for general use by the public.  There is no requirement to be a patron, nor is there any charge for the use of the machines.  A time limit of 45 minutes is placed on the PC. Library staff is available for general assistance in using the computer; while staff are not expected to train patrons in the use of the computers or their programs, they will assist as time and expertise permit. A printer is available that will be available for a fee. Fees are as posted and must be paid for (using cash or check) at the conclusion of the session.  A photocopy machine is available to patrons who wish to copy materials at the posted rate. Copy machine users are advised that there are restrictions on copyrighted materials. Any violation of copyright is the responsibility of the copy machine user.  The Library has faxing capability, both sending and receiving.  Faxes will be charged at the following rates: Domestic Outgoing and All Incoming:  $1.00 per page.

Hot Spots

The library has a limited number of T-mobile 5G hotspots for patrons to check out. In order for a person to check out a hotspot they must sign the ‘Hotspot Wi-Fi Check out Agreement’ and meet the following criteria:

  • Must hold a BHFPL card and be at least 18 years of age.
  • Only one hot spot may be checked out per family at a time, exceptions can be made at the discretion of the staff.
  • Have a borrow history of at least 4 months and not have unpaid fees on their account.
  • The hotspot can be checked out for 3 weeks and cannot be renewed.
  • If it, and all included parts and packaging, are not returned, the service will be terminated. If all packaging and parts are not returned in good condition, there will be a $25.00 replacement fee.

The T-mobile Acceptable Use Policy and Terms of Use Policy and the Library’s Internet Use Policy is available for review online. It is the patron’s responsibility to read and abide by these policies. The Library or Service Provider are not responsible for any data, files, or personal information accessed, transmitted, or lost or damaged while accessing the internet via the hotspot.  The hotspot may not be used for illegal activity or to access illegal materials.

Computers (in-Library use laptops)

The library has a limited number of laptops for patrons to check out and use within the library building. In order for a person to check out a laptop they must meet the following criteria:

  • Must hold a BHFPL card and be at least 18 years of age.
  • Patron must leave a driver’s license at the desk while using the laptop.
  • Patrons must sign a Laptop computer usage form before being allowed to use the laptops.
  • Laptops are for in-Library use only and may not be taken outside the Library.
  • Laptop computers will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be signed out for use within the library for up to two hours. If there is another patron waiting to use the computer, it must be turned in so that they may use it. If nobody is waiting to use it, the patron may check in with the desk and request to use it up to an additional two hours.
  • A current valid driver’s license or photo id will be required to check out a laptop.
  • Laptops should not be left unattended at any time. Laptops found unattended by library staff will be immediately returned to the circulation desk and the patron will not be allowed to continue to use the laptop.
  • At the end of the loan period the laptop computer must be returned to the circulation desk.
  • All files saved on the hard drive must be erased before the computer is returned.
  • Laptops not returned will be considered lost/stolen and the user will be billed for the full replacement cost. The Police Department will also be notified of the computer theft.
  • The Library’s Internet Use Policy must be followed and is available for review online. It is the patron’s responsibility to read and abide by these policies.
  • The Library or Service Provider are not responsible for any data, files, or personal information accessed, transmitted, or lost or damaged while accessing the internet via the laptop.
  • The laptop may not be used for illegal activity or to access illegal materials.

COPIER AND PRINTER

The copier is for public use.

The charge for black and white and colored copies are as posted in the library. Costs are subject to change to cover printing fees accrued by the library for providing the service. Fees can change at the discretion of the director and approval from the board.

Payment can be made using cash or check only. The library does not accept payment by card or digital means.

Patrons should pay for all copies, including mistakes, unless the copier is at fault.

Staff may use their discretion in the event of mistakes.

SCAN AND EMAIL

Self-serve scanning and emailing services are available free of charge on the library computers and copy machine.

FAX

The fax machine is for public use, but must be operated only by staff.

Charges are as follows:

Sending and Receiving $1.00 per page, not including the cover page.

INTERNET

Internet access is free for the public, whether or not the person is a patron.  Internet may be used through the Library’s WIFI and a patron’s personal device or on the Library’s computers.

Each person will be asked to read the Internet policy of the Library, and will be informed of the following rules prior to using the Library’s computers:

At the beginning of the computer session, the user must sign in with the time of day.

When no one is waiting, there is no time limit on use, except as indicated on the PC.

When someone is waiting, the user will need to limit his/her use to 45 minutes from the sign-in time.

If the user is at the end of his/her session, s/he may have 5 minutes to close out the session before turning it over to the next user.

*Please see: Important Information for Users of Internet Access and the Internet Use Policy.

TELEPHONE

The Fax telephone may be used for local, toll-free or collect calls only. Children may use it whenever it is needed.

INTER LIBRARY LOANS (ILL)

Patrons in good standing are permitted to take up to three Interlibrary Loans out at a time. Patrons should be asked to return the book a few days in advance of the indicated due date, if possible, to allow the library time to return the books. * Parameters subject to change to align with policies set by Martinsburg Berkeley County Public Library.

The Library Director shall be authorized to accept gifts of cash or marketable securities, unrestricted donations of books and other library materials, and in-kind donations specifically designated or solicited for existing projects.

Materials will be added to the collection following the same guidelines used for purchasing materials.

Memorial gifts of books or media will be accepted by the Director as deemed appropriate.

The library does not appraise the value of donated materials, though it can provide an acknowledgement of receipt of the number of items if requested by donor.

Donors may place restrictions on gifts under the following conditions:

  • The restriction must be one considered compatible with the overall mission of the Library.
  • The restriction shall not impede the ability of the Library to acquire gifts from other sources.
  • The restriction shall not place undue burden on the Library’s resources.
  • The restriction shall not subject the Library to adverse publicity.

Board consideration and majority vote approval is required for the following types of gifts:

Gifts of art or other valuables that will encumber the Library either financially or administratively.

Securities that are not readily marketable. These may include closely held stock, limited partnership interests, joint venture interests and other forms of investments that may not fall into the marketable securities category.

Real estate. Every proposed gift of real estate must be examined on its individual merits, including, but not limited to, the title to the property and its insurability, the results of environmental investigations, and marketability. A current appraisal completed by a qualified appraiser must be provided by the donor.

Gift annuities.

Charitable Remainder or Lead trusts.

Named endowment funds.

Gifts that may encumber the library either financially or administratively require approval of the Library Director before acceptance. Examples are gifts of books given under the condition that they be placed in the collection, gifts of art given on the condition that it be displayed in the library, or cash given to create a new library program.

The Library reserves the right to decline any gift that interferes with its ability to fulfill its mission or that unduly encumbers the Library.

DAYS AND HOURS

  • Monday 9:30 – 5:30
  • Tuesday 9:30 – 5:30
  • Wednesday 9:30 – 5:30
  • Thursday 8:30 – 7:00
  • Friday 9:30 – 5:30
  • Saturday 9:30– 3:30
  • Sunday Closed

ANNUAL DAYS CLOSED

  • New Year’s Eve
  • New Year’s Day
  • Martin Luther King Day
  • President’s Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Juneteenth
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Veteran’s Day
  • Thanksgiving Day and the day following
  • Christmas Eve
  • Christmas Day

The library may be closed for additional days set at the discretion of the director and approved by the board. In exceptional circumstances, such as emergencies or weather-related events, the Library Director may decide on immediate closure. Efforts will be made to inform the public through available channels as soon as possible.

The library will close for inclement weather in conjunction with Jefferson County Schools.  However, if Jefferson County Schools are closed for cold weather or have a delayed start, Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Public Library will remain open. Please check Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Public Library’s Facebook page for up to the minute closing information.

The Library provides access to the Internet as a means to enhance information and learning opportunities for the citizens of the library's service area. The Board of Trustees has established the Internet use policy to ensure appropriate and effective use of this resource.

Access to the Internet is available to all patrons and visitors; however, this service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with the guidelines. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the library's Internet service; please see specific children internet guidelines under the Safe Children Policy.

All users must sign in prior to beginning their session.

Expectations:  Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. The user will be held responsible for his/her actions using the Internet. Users are expected to abide by the policies below, which include generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Unacceptable uses of the service will result in the suspension or revocation of Internet use privileges.

Warnings:  The Internet is a decentralized, unmoderated global network; the Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library has no control over the content found there. The Library will not censor access to material nor protect users from offensive information, and it is not responsible for the availability and accuracy of information found on the Internet.

The library cannot assure that data or files downloaded by users are virus-free. The library is not responsible for damages to equipment or data on a user's personal computer from the use of data downloaded from the library's Internet service.  The use of the Internet and e-mail is not guaranteed to be private. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the proper authorities.

Guidelines: Users may use the Internet for research and the acquisition of information to address their educational, vocational, cultural, and recreational needs.

Users may use the Internet for the receipt and transmission of electronic mail (email) as long as they use a free e-mail service which will establish and maintain an account for them; the library is unable to manage e-mail accounts for any organizations or individuals;   Internet use is offered in forty-five (45) minute sessions on a first-come, first-served basis; each user is allowed one session--if there is no patron waiting for the service at the end of a session, the user can have another session, but once having had the service for 45 minutes the user must abandon use of the Internet if another patron requests use of the service.

Users will respect and uphold copyright laws and all other applicable laws and regulations; they will not use it for illegal purposes.

Users will respect the rights and privacy of others by not accessing private files.

Users agree not to incur any costs for the library through their use of the Internet service.

Users shall not create and/or distribute computer viruses over the Internet.

Users shall not deliberately or willfully cause damage to computer equipment, programs, or parameters.

Pets are allowed in the library at the discretion of staff. All pets must be leashed and patron is responsible for cleaning up after the animal. Any animal left outside should be restrained to avoid risk and annoyance to patrons.

The Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library welcomes families and children of all ages and aims to create an atmosphere that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. While the Library Staff work hard to create a safe and welcoming environment, we do not assume responsibility – in loco parentis- for the care of any children left unattended. The child’s parent, guardian, or caregiver holds the ultimate responsibility for the safety and behavior of their child. The Library is a public center and is open to all. Therefore, the Library cannot guarantee the safety of its patrons and urges all caregivers to be aware of the location and activities of their children. In order to ensure safety and protection for our young patrons, the following policies have been established:

  1. Any child under middle school age must be accompanied by an adult or caregiver over the age of 14. If a child under middle school age is left unattended, the staff will attempt to reach their parents/guardians. If they cannot reach a caregiver, the staff may contact the appropriate authorities.
  2. Any child (of middle school age or above) not accompanied by a parent/caregiver, should have contact information for a parent/caregiver in case of an emergency. Children may ask to use the library phone to contact a parent.
  3. Parents/caregivers should pick up their children at least 5 minutes before the closing time of the Library. All patrons will be asked to leave the library at closing time. Staff are not responsible to stay until a parent arrives to pick up their child. If a parent/caregiver is not at the library at closing time, and the staff feels that the child is unsafe, the staff may refer the child to the appropriate authorities for their safety and well-being. As a general rule, if it is felt that a child is not mature enough to be left home alone or to leave the library alone, they are not mature enough to be left unattended within the library.
  4. Parents/caregivers (whether present or not) are responsible for ensuring their child’s appropriate behavior while at the library. Inappropriate behavior includes behavior that interferes with another patron’s enjoyment or use of the Library or that could cause damage to the Library property.
  5. As with other library materials, restriction of minor’s access to the Internet is the responsibility of parents/caregivers. Parents/caregivers are the sole responsible party for the information accessed by their children while on the public WIFI or on public computers. It is not the Library’s responsibility to manage or restrict a child’s access to technology. However, staff may intervene if they actively observe inappropriate behavior.

 

 

The Bolivar Harpers Ferry Public Library is committed to providing a safe, clean and healthy environment for our visitors and staff. As a responsible community leader in information and life-long learning, the library provides a tobacco, drug and alcohol-free environment to reduce health risks associated with the use of these products (including, but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, smokeless tobacco, dip and snuff) and to promote and encourage healthy lifestyles throughout the community. Tobacco, drug and alcohol use is not permitted anywhere on library grounds.