COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICY
BERKELEY HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Approved May 13, 2002, Reviewed and Revised September 12, 2011, Revised May 14, 2018
BACKGROUND:
A Collection Development policy outlines the philosophy and standards used to determine the acquisition, retention and removal of materials in BHPL’s collection. It defines selection policy, assigns responsibility, and provides the means for public input.
The Collection Development Policy is based on the following:
- BHPL will acquire, organize, preserve and distribute materials and information in a variety of formats for the use of people of all ages and backgrounds in the community.
- BHPL will research and identify the information needs of the community.
- BHPL will examine and evaluate priorities for service in response to the community’s evolving needs.
- BHPL will provide opportunity and encouragement for life-long learning through the use of BHPL’s facilities, materials, resources, programs and personnel.
- BHPL will provide materials, resources and programs to facilitate the pleasurable use of leisure time.
- BHPL endorses the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, The Freedom to Read, and Freedom to View Statement.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
As established by N.J.S.A. 40:54-12, The Board of Trustees is responsible for the selection of library materials. The Board of Trustees holds the final authority for developing policies concerning collection development and the corresponding budget priorities. The Board delegates to the Director the responsibility for materials selection and withdrawal. The Director may delegate material selection and withdrawal responsibilities for specific areas within the collection to the Department Heads of the Children’s, Circulation and Reference Departments.
SCOPE OF THE COLLECTION:
As a municipal library, the first level of service within the New Jersey Library Network structure, BHPL’s collection will be developed and maintained to emphasize generality rather than comprehensiveness or depth. BHPL will purchase materials that reflect as varied a range of interests, opinions and mores as is evident in the community. In its efforts to provide a wide range of views, BHPL will inevitably purchase materials on controversial subjects or by controversial authors. BHPL recognizes that some materials may displease some members of the community, but the goal of serving a diverse population results in a collection reflecting that diversity.
BHPL will maintain a separate collection of children’s materials in a variety of formats selected to meet the information and recreational needs of children from birth through sixth grade. Young Adult and Teen fiction collections are maintained to serve the needs of older children.
Textbooks will be purchased when they are the best source of information available on a specific subject, but BHPL will not automatically purchase the textbooks used in local schools.
Databases and other electronic resources are provided through a variety of sources: purchase by BHPL; purchase and access through a consortium; or, made available by the New Jersey State Library. Again, the goal of serving the needs of the entire community will apply.
ACCESS TO THE COLLECTION
It is the right and responsibility of the individual to select the materials he/she will use. It is the duty and privilege of parents to supervise the reading, viewing and listening habits of their children. BHPL cannot assume such a role in loco parentis. As adults have full access to children’s materials, children have full access to adult materials. BHPL places labels on materials to assist the patrons who wish to borrow them. These labels are intended to describe the contents of the material (Science Fiction or Mystery) or the reading and/or interest level (Juvenile, YA or Teen). Labels are not used to restrict the use of any items.
As necessary, BHPL may place materials in special locations. This decision is based on space considerations (Stacks), physical condition of the materials or local history. Placement in a special location does not imply censorship.
CRITERIA FOR THE SELECTION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
Selection of materials is based on generally accepted professional standards. Recommendations may come from the following sources:
- Book reviews in professional library literature
- Standard bibliographic sources
- Book reviews in non-library literature
- Recommendations from library patrons
- Media reviews (for the purchase of audiovisual materials)
- Other appropriate reviewing media
Materials are selected to meet certain criteria and standards, including, but not limited to:
- Anticipated usefulness to the public
- Quality of a particular title within its genre
- Informational or educational value
- Popularity of the author or particular title
- Inclusion on the New York Times Best Seller List
- Permanence or timeliness of the materials
- Recreational value
- Necessary to fill undeveloped areas in the collection
- Reliability of the publisher
- Anticipated usefulness to the staff as a management tool
- Suitability of format and/or physical condition
- Local author or subject matter
PURCHASE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM PATRONS
Requests and recommendations from patrons are welcome and will be given consideration using the Criteria for the Selection of Library Materials. If BHPL does not purchase a requested title, every effort will be made to fill the request through inter-library loan. Request forms are available at the Reference, Circulation and Children’s Desks. In the case of materials which may not be available for interlibrary loan (i.e. reference materials, periodicals, items restricted by loaning library), every effort will be made to locate the materials if the patron is willing to visit other libraries.
REVIEW OF LIBRARY MATERIALS
The following steps are to be taken if a patron wishes to question the appropriateness of any library material:
- The staff member to whom the question is first addressed will discuss the complaint with the patron. If the patron is not satisfied with the result of this discussion, a Request for Reconsideration (attached) form will be given to the patron. The completed form must be returned to the Director.
- The Director will review the Request for Reconsideration and reply in writing to the patron. A patron who is not satisfied with the reply may appeal to the Library Board of Trustees.
- When the Library Board of Trustees receives an appeal from a patron, it will discuss the complaint at the next regularly scheduled meeting. The patron will be notified and invited to attend. The patron will be promptly informed of the Board’s decision.
GIFTS
BHPL is pleased to accept donations of money and materials to support library services.
Money given as a memorial, in honor of a person, or as a gift will be used to purchase needed additions to the collection. If the donor specifies a particular interest, every effort will be made to purchase in that subject area. If the donor specifies a particular title, the Director will review the request according to the Criteria for Selection of Library Materials.
Based on space constraints, donations of books/material may be limited to those items approved in advance by the Library Director.
WEEDING AND DISCARDING
Materials are continually withdrawn from the collection. The choice of materials to be withdrawn is determined by the professional staff under the supervision of the Director. The following factors will be taken into consideration:
- Subject coverage available in the collection
- Number of copies
- Age of material (differs according to subject area)
- Physical condition
- Editions available
- Circulation/use
- Space limitations
Withdrawn materials are disposed of through the sale cart, donation to other libraries and/or agencies, or otherwise discarded.
Confidentiality of Library Records
The Berkeley Heights Public Library protects the confidentiality of Library users’ records to the extent required by applicable law. “Library Records” shall include any document or record, however maintained, the primary purpose of which is to provide for control of the circulation or other public use of library materials, including print and non-print items and electronic resources.
Anyone requesting access to Library Records, including individuals and law enforcement, will be referred to the Library Director or in his/her absence, the Director’s designee. Only the Director or the Director’s designee are authorized to respond to requests for Library Records.
To protect the Library user against invasion of privacy, the Library Director will only authorize access to Library Records pursuant to a validly issued search warrant, subpoena, or court order, in accordance with the terms set forth therein unless: (a) otherwise permitted by law, (b) as necessary for the Library’s proper operation; or (c) as provided in the Video Surveillance Policy in the event of an active emergency or suspected crime.
Adopted October 13, 2003, modified June 9, 2025
Policy for Donation of Books/Materials
The Library will not be accepting donations of books or other materials at this time. Ask at the Reference Desk or Circulation Department for organizations to contact for donation information.
BERKELEY HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY
FINE-FREE POLICY
Adopted: February 14, 2022
In keeping with public libraries across the country, the Board of Trustees of Berkeley Heights Public Library is instituting a Fine-Free Policy, starting March 1, 2022. BHPL stopped charging fines during the Covid-19 quarantine in 2020 and removed outstanding fines from patron records. Only fees for lost and/or damaged items were retained. Removing fines also restored the ability to borrow materials and use downloadable resources for cards that had been blocked.
Although Fine-Free will apply to the majority of the collection, fines will still be charged for high demand titles. Popular items such as New Books (adult), new DVDs (adult and children’s), and WiFi hotspots will continue to accrue fines. Patrons will have the ability to renew these items from their home computers and phones or by calling BHPL. Renewals will be blocked only if other patrons have placed reserves or the renewal limit per item (2) has been reached.
In order to make materials and titles available to as many residents as possible, overdue reminders will be sent by email at 14 days and a bill for replacement value will be sent by mail at 28 days. When the bill is sent, the patron’s account will be blocked until all items are returned and any applicable fines paid.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) materials, borrowed from other libraries for BHPL patrons, will also incur fines. BHPL is responsible for these items and, as necessary, will charge any replacement costs/fees to the patron. The same will apply to items borrowed from MUF and MURAL libraries through Reciprocal Borrowing agreements. Any charges will be passed along to the patron.
This policy is subject to change as new formats and collections are added.
New fee schedule:
- WiFi Hotspots: $0.25 per day
- New adult books: $0.10 per day
- New DVDs: $0.25 per day
- ILL materials: $0.25 per day
Interlibrary loan (ILL) is based on the willingness of libraries to share and cooperate with each other. By receiving materials from another library, BHPL is agreeing to adhere to the policies of that library. BHPL is also assuming responsibility for the safekeeping and timely return of these materials. Any violations of this agreement may place at risk our future ability to borrow. Since every library’s first priority is to serve its own clientele, restrictions can be placed on which materials are eligible for ILL. New and popular titles will not be requested through ILL for six months, possibly longer depending on the popularity.
The ILL process begins with a patron request. BHPL staff enters the request into JerseyCat, an online catalog of N.J. public and academic libraries. Requests proceed through the system in a pre-determined queue until a lending library is located. If a request cannot be filled, the patron will be notified. The ILL process takes time. If staff is advised that the request is time-sensitive, other options, such as reciprocal borrowing, can be considered.
- Patrons may have a maximum of five (5) interlibrary loans in process (requested, received and circulating) at any time.
- Requests for interlibrary loans will be accepted only from patrons in good standing. All fines and overdue materials must be cleared before the request will be processed. Any patron who has been referred to the collection agency for not returning an ILL will not be permitted to borrow through ILL for a period of six (6) months from the time the overdue and any charges are resolved. At the discretion of the Board of Trustees, further abuse of ILL could result in the loss of this privilege.
- Interlibrary loan materials are subject to all restrictions, such as in-house use, placed upon them by the lending library.
- Materials may/may not be renewed at the discretion of the lending library. Requests for renewal must be made before the item is overdue.
- Interlibrary loans will be held at the Circulation Desk for 10 days. The patron will be notified, by either email or telephone, when the materials arrive and again after one week. Because the loan period begins when items leave the lending library, any delay in pick-up will shorten the remaining loan period.
- Materials borrowed through Interlibrary Loan must be returned to BHPL.
- Patrons will be responsible for all fees, fines, and service charges set by the lending library. This amount will be attached to the patron’s record even if the materials are not picked up. If materials are lost or damaged, the replacement costs will be established by the lending library. Payment is expected in a timely manner.
- ILL is a library to library transaction. Patrons should not contact the lending library.
Adopted March 16, 1998, modified June 13, 2005; 10/2014
Berkeley Heights Public Library Membership
A. Berkeley Heights Resident Card
Adult Qualifications: lives or owns property in Berkeley Heights
ID Required: (one form with BH address) current NJ Driver’s License; NJ ID; current utility bill; current bank statement; lease, mortgage or rental agreement. Exception allowed for NJ Address Confidentiality Program participants – proof of BH address must be shown, but only a P.O. Box address will be entered.
Privileges: borrow from BHPL collections**; ability to place reserves; Inter-Library Loan; borrowing at MUF and MURAL libraries; on-line and downloadable resources, library of things items, hotspots and museum passes. This list is subject to change without notice as new services become available.
Expires: every three years, proof of ID will be required to renew
Juvenile Qualifications:under the age of 18
ID Required: in person parental/guardian signature required by parent/guardian with BH card
Privileges: Same as Adult with the exception of tablets and hotspots. This list is subject to change without notice as new services become available.
Expires: based on grade level, proof of ID will be required to renew
B. Courtesy Card
Qualifications: works in B.H. and lives elsewhere* or temporarily living and working in B.H*
ID Required: ID with home address plus letter from employer or paystub
Privileges: borrow from BHPL collections** only
Expires: annually, proof of ID plus paystub or letter from employer will be required to renew
C. Student Card
Qualifications: attending BHPL schools and living elsewhere*
ID Required: in person parental/guardian signature plus current school ID, report card, or letter from school
Privileges: borrow from BHPL collections** only
Expires: good for school year (September – June), ID will be required to renew
D. Purchased Berkeley Heights CarD-Cost adjusted annually
Qualifications: can be purchased annually for individual use only
ID Required: (one form) current NJ Driver’s License with street address; NJ ID; current utility bill or bank statement; lease, mortgage or rental agreement
Privileges: borrow from BHPL collections**; ability to place reserves; on-line and downloadable resources
Excluding: access to MUF and Mural libraries, Inter-Library Loan
Expires: annually, proof of ID will be required to renew
E. MUF and MURAL Borrowers
ID Required: Card from home library and proof of ID to register. BHPL will call home library to verify that account is in good standing.
Privileges: borrowing from BHPL collections only**
Expires: annually, proof of ID with home address and valid library card from home library will be required to renew
*Anyone living in a town with which BHPL has a reciprocal borrowing agreement (MUF or MURAL) is required to use their home library card and show a valid form of ID to register initially and renew annually.
** BHPL collections include books, DVDs, magazines, and audiobooks.
Adopted May 14, 2001; Revised and Approved: May 11, 2020
FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY OF BERKELEY HEIGHTS
POLICIES, RULES AND PROCEDURES FOR MEETING SPACES
Adopted 6/11/2001, Rev. 3/11/02, 2/22/16, 11/8/2021, 3/14/2022
The Free Public Library of Berkeley Heights (“BHPL” or “Library”) offers a variety of spaces for group work, collaboration, programs, and meetings. Use of meeting spaces at the BHPL should focus on civic, cultural and educational purposes. Other than official BHPL programs, BHPL neither sponsors nor endorses the meetings or programs held in these spaces.
Meeting Space Available
BHPL offers 4 Meeting Spaces for public use on Level 2 in the Municipal Complex at 29 Park Avenue, Berkeley Heights:
- Study Room 1: 8.5’ x 12.5’ including 4 chairs and one table
- Study Room 2: 12’ x 12’ including 5 chairs and one table
- Conference Room: 14’ x 19’ including 10 chairs and one table or 20 chairs
- Creative Space: 13.5’ x 22’
Use of the Meeting Room on Level 1 in the Municipal Complex is scheduled and controlled by the Township of Berkeley Heights.
Guidelines
Users of BHPL Meeting Spaces must adhere to the BHPL’s Rules of Conduct and Policies on Library Use in addition to this Meeting Spaces Policy.
Only Berkeley Heights residents and/or BHPL cardholders in good standing may reserve Meeting Space. A current NJ Driver’s License or State ID with a Berkeley Heights address is required. For the Conference Room or Creative Space, an application must also be completed.
Meeting Spaces may be reserved by individuals age 18 or older. The reserving patron must remain present for the entire time and is responsible for policy compliance and the condition of the space. Cancellation notice must be given to BHPL to maintain future booking rights.
In case of inclement weather, patrons must verify library hours. Use of BHPL technology must be confirmed 24 hours in advance with the Reference Department, and patrons must provide an experienced operator.
Reservations must fall within library hours and may not occur in the first or last 15 minutes of operation. Patrons must sign in at the Circulation Desk and display a Pass in the Meeting Space. Late arrivals (over 15 minutes) forfeit the reservation.
Library Director approval may be needed for large programs. Reservation approvals are at the discretion of the Director. Appeals may be made to the Board of Trustees. BHPL reserves the right to cancel reservations for library needs or non-compliance.
Meeting Space Usage Rules
Rooms are not soundproof—noise must be kept low.
Prohibited in Meeting Spaces:
- Smoking or vaping
- Food (unless approved in advance)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Recreational drugs
- Removing/adding furniture
- Taping to walls/windows or obstructing view
Drinks must be in lidded containers.
Rooms must remain unlocked during use and will be locked when not in use.
Do not exceed maximum occupancy.
Distribute materials only with group identification, and remove all items after use.
Leave the room clean, with trash/recyclables in bins. Return furniture to original layout.
BHPL is not responsible for lost or damaged belongings.
Users are responsible for damages or theft.
Non-compliance may result in termination of reservation and/or future access.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES FOR SPECIFIC ROOMS
Study Room 1 and Study Room 2
- After 1:00 pm, a minimum of 2 users is required; individual use allowed before 1:00.
- Reservations: max 2 per week, up to 2 hours each, one week in advance.
- Possible extension for another 2 hours if room is unbooked.
- Max total use: 4 hours/day, 2 days/week across all rooms.
- Walk-ins follow the same rules as advance bookings.
Conference Room
- Max occupancy: 10 (with table), 20 (chairs only)
- After 1:00 pm, minimum of 4 users required.
- Reservations: max 2 per week, up to 3 hours each, 4 weeks in advance.
- Extension of 3 hours possible if unbooked.
- Max total use: 6 hours/day, 2 days/week.
- Walk-ins follow same rules as advance bookings.
Creative Space
- Applications considered on a case-by-case basis.
Policy for the loan of Library of Things
Approved September 11, 2023
The Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional library items available to Berkeley Heights resident cardholders and paid cardholders age 18+ who are in good standing. Some items are an individual piece, while others are kits with multiple pieces and can include books. All items within the tote bag are considered 1 Library of Things kit.
- Any item in the Library of Things collection is available at the Circulation Desk on a first-come, first-serve basis from the time of opening until 15 minutes before closing.
- Loan period is 7 days and items cannot be renewed. A returned item must remain available in the Library for 24 hours before the same patron, or another person living in the same household, may check it out again.
- Overdue charge of $10 per day will be charged with a maximum of $200.
- Library of Things checkout limit is one per household, excluding the Toniebox Audioplayer kit, which allows for 1 audio player plus 4 Tonie characters per checkout as the household limit.
IMPORTANT: Items in the Library of Things are fragile and must be returned at the Circulation Desk and not in the book drop. Items returned in the book drop will result in a $10 fine plus any damages which might incur. The patron is responsible for any changes in condition while the item is in the patron’s care. Patrons will be charged the current replacement cost of any item lost or damaged.
The Library reserves the right to refuse lending these items to patrons who have lost or damaged equipment or who are repeatedly late returning Library of Things items. The Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expenses resulting from the use or misuse of these items, connection of electronic devices, or networks, or data loss resulting from use of these items. The Library is not responsible for information accessed using the items or for personal information shared over the Internet. Engaging in any behavior meant to harm another person, such as cyberbullying, or use of the hotspots or tablets to access websites which are illegal or contain illegal content when using the device, will result in loss of borrowing privileges.
BERKELEY HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY
POLICY FOR THE LOAN OF MOBILE WI-FI HOTSPOTS
Adopted: September 11, 2017
Revised: February 23, 2022
In order to promote access to online resources, the Berkeley Heights Public Library (BHPL) is circulating mobile Wi-Fi hotspots. This service is not meant to replace home internet service, but to provide access away from home or during unexpected power outages. Hotspots can be used anywhere in the continental United States that is serviced by T-Mobile.
- Hotspots will be loaned to BHPL cardholders in good standing (card is not blocked due to fines, fees or overdue materials) and 18 years of age and older.
- Hotspots are available at the Circulation Desk on a first-come, first-served basis from the time of opening until 15 minutes before closing.
- A patron must present their BHPL card and a current, valid, government-issued photo ID to the Circulation Desk staff to checkout a hotspot.
- The loan period is 14 days and hotspots cannot be renewed. A returned hotspot must remain available in the Library for 24 hours before the same patron, or another person living in the same household, may check it out again.
- An overdue charge of $0.25 per day will be charged. When the hotspot reaches one day overdue it will be deactivated, rendering the device unusable.
- Hotspot checkout is limited to one per household.
IMPORTANT: Hotspots must be returned at the Circulation Desk and not in the book drop. Devices returned in the book drop will result in a $10 fine plus any damages which might occur. Patrons are responsible for any changes in condition while the device is in their care.
Charges for lost, damaged or stolen items:
- Hotspot: $100.00
- Micro-USB charger: $15.00
- Case/bag: $4.00
- Get Started Guide: $1.00
Total: $120.00
The Library reserves the right to refuse lending to patrons who have lost or damaged equipment or are repeatedly late in returning devices. The Library is not responsible for liability, damages, or expenses from use or misuse, including connection to other devices or networks, or data loss. The Library is not responsible for content accessed or shared over the Internet. Harmful behaviors like cyberbullying or accessing illegal content will result in loss of borrowing privileges.
Getting Started:
- Read the Get Started Guide
- Turn on the hotspot and select the network name (SSID) provided
- Enter the provided password
- Do not select a different network or change the password
Proper Care and Use:
- Do not leave in a hot vehicle for extended periods
- Do not remove the SIM card or battery
- Accept software updates if prompted
- If “Data Limit Reached” appears, power off and restart
- Do not leave plugged in—unplug once charged and let battery drain before recharging
- Return the hotspot fully charged
- T-Mobile Tech Support: 1-877-746-0909
Berkeley Heights Public Library
Museum Pass Program Policy
Revised 3/2025
Program Overview
The Berkeley Heights Public Library is pleased to offer museum passes to BHPL cardholders in good standing. Passes are available to residents of Berkeley Heights only. MAIN, MUF, and MURAL patrons are not eligible to check out museum passes.
BHPL patrons ages 18 and older who are in good standing may check out museum passes. A household may only have one museum pass checked out at a time. The museum pass must be picked up at the library’s circulation desk by the patron whose library card was used to reserve the pass.
Reservations
Museum passes are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Cardholders may reserve a pass on our website or in person at the library’s circulation desk. Passes may be reserved up to 30 days in advance. One pass may be borrowed per household at one time.
If plans change and the pass can’t be used in the time frame reserved, the patron must cancel the reservation on our website or by contacting the library and speaking with a staff member.
If the reservation is not cancelled and the pass is not picked up, it will be considered a no-show and will be noted on the patron’s account. After two no-shows, the account will be barred from reserving museum passes for 90 days from the date of the last no-show.
There is no charge to borrow a museum pass. Museum passes are checked out for 3 days. Passes are not renewable. Most museums provide physical printed passes to the library that must be returned to the library within the 3-day checkout period.
Using Passes
Please note that each museum has its own policies regarding admission and that BHPL has no control over a museum’s operating hours or special circumstances that may result in unscheduled closures. Please verify that a museum will be open on the day you plan to visit.
Some institutions require timed entry tickets in addition to the museum pass and may require the museum pass holder to show their valid library card. In addition, patrons are responsible for any fees or charges not included with the pass, which may include parking fees and special exhibit admission fees.
Returning Passes
Passes must be returned to the library’s circulation desk prior to closing on the due date. Passes may not be returned in the book drop. You do not need to return a digital pass.
Assessment of Fines
- Late passes will incur fines of $10/day, with a maximum fine of $200.
- A pass will be considered lost if it is not returned within 14 days of the due date.
- Lost and damaged passes will be billed at the full replacement rate as determined by the museum.
- Passes returned in the book drop will incur a $5 fine.
Adopted 9/11/2023, revised 9/13/2023, revised 3/10/25
Berkeley Heights Public Library Board of Trustees
Photography Photography and Recording Policy
The Library is considered a “limited public forum” under federal law. As such, the Library may reasonably restrict the time, place, and manner of photography and recording in the Library. For purposes of this policy, “recording” includes video, audio, and live streaming. “Photography” includes still images.
Photography and Recording by Members of the Public
Photography and recording by members of the public are generally permitted subject to the following rules:
- Photography or recording that harasses or intimidates a patron, employee, or Board Trustee, or interferes with Library business or a patron’s enjoyment of the Library is not permitted.
- Photography or recording that compromises public safety is not permitted.
- Photography or recording that captures a patron’s right to privacy is prohibited.
- Photography or recording in bathrooms, offices, or any other space marked “Private” is prohibited. Photography or recording in study rooms and conference rooms when being used by other patrons or for closed session Board meetings is also prohibited.
- The person taking photographs or recordings must honor the request of any patron who does not wish to be photographed or recorded.
- Persons under the age of 18 may not be photographed or recorded without their parent’s or guardian’s consent, except by Library staff during Library- sponsored events.
- Photography or recording for commercial purposes is not permitted without the Library Director’s prior written approval.
- The use of tripods, stand-alone lighting equipment, microphones, or other specialized equipment is not permitted without the Library Director’s prior written approval.
- Photography or recording may not impede ingress or egress from the Library building or interfere with public safety.
Library staff may terminate any photo or recording session if they determine that any of the foregoing rules are being violated.
All persons photographing or recording on Library premises have sole liability for any injuries to persons or property arising out of, caused by, or resulting from their photographing and/or recording. Those persons are solely responsible for obtaining any necessary releases or permissions required by law.
Photography and Recording by the Library
The Library often photographs or records programs and events for publicity and promotional purposes. Unless patrons inform staff that they do not consent, it is assumed that they agree to being photographed or recorded. Patrons should notify a staff member if they do not want themselves or their children to be photographed or recorded.
Photography and Filming by Program Partners
Local organizations that regularly partner with the Library on free community events may use photographs or recordings taken during these events in promotional materials. If one of the Library’s partner organizations intends to arrange for a recording of an event that is scheduled to take place within the Library, this request must be made at least five business days in advance of the event to the Library Director. Note that even when permission to record a program is granted, the photographing or recording of minors who attend such programs is not permitted without parental or guardian consent.
Adopted July 10, 2023, modified June 9, 2025.
Welcome!
We want everyone to have a safe, clean, and pleasant library experience at the Berkeley Heights Public Library (“BHPL” or “Library”).
Appropriate use of the Library includes activities such as selecting materials, researching, studying, attending programs and meetings, using BHPL’s computers and wireless services, reading, and quiet conversation.
Library users must respect others and avoid disruptive or inappropriate behavior. Any action that disturbs others, damages property, interrupts Library operations, or creates unsafe conditions is not allowed.
Examples of Prohibited Behavior
- Breaking any federal, state, or local laws, regulations, or ordinances;
- Violating Library policies;
- Possessing or using weapons, firearms, stun devices, explosives, or similar items (unless legally permitted);
- Engaging in sexual activity, lewd behavior, or inappropriate physical contact;
- Harassing, threatening, or disturbing other patrons or staff;
- Interfering with other patrons’ use of the Library space or virtual programs;
- Interfering with Library employees’ performance of their duties;
- Entering staff-only or unauthorized areas;
- Smoking, vaping, using, displaying, sharing, selling, or appearing under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, or illegal substances;
- Failing to follow instructions from Library staff or law enforcement;
- Soliciting money, donations, or signatures without written permission;
- Blocking entrances, exits, aisles, or walkways;
- Using rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, or similar equipment inside the Library; running is not allowed;
- Defacing or marring Library materials, equipment, or property;
- Bringing animals except service animals or those in approved programs;
- Taking photos or videos in violation of the Photography and Recording Policy;
- Adults (aged 20 or older) using the teen area from 3:00 p.m. to closing during the school year;
- Having offensive bodily hygiene that constitutes a nuisance;
- Sleeping or appearing to sleep on Library premises;
- Leaving personal belongings unattended (items may be removed without notice);
- Eating or drinking, except water in closed containers or at authorized events;
- Entering the Library without a shirt or shoes (virtual programming requires adequate clothing);
- Creating messes, spills, or garbage that disrupt use of the Library.
Library Use by Minors
The Library welcomes children and teens and encourages family visits. However, parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for their children while in the Library. Staff cannot monitor or supervise minors and cannot prevent interactions with unknown individuals.
A minor is considered “unattended” when not supervised by a parent, guardian, or caregiver.
- Children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- During regular school hours, all minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Parents/guardians must stay within sight of their children at all times.
- Outside school hours, children ages 9–12 may use the Library without an adult but should not be left alone for more than one hour.
- Teens ages 13–17 may use the Library without adult supervision if rules are followed; parents/guardians should be reachable by phone.
Staff Response to Unattended or At-Risk Minors
- Staff will attempt to contact a parent/guardian if a child is left unattended, appears neglected, behaves inappropriately, or seems at risk.
- If unreachable, the Berkeley Heights Police Department will be contacted.
- In medical emergencies, staff will call 911 immediately.
- If a minor is left at closing time and no adult arrives within 15 minutes, police will be contacted and the child escorted to the Police Department.
Consequences of Policy Violations
Violations will be addressed depending on severity. Responses may include education about the rules, direction to leave the premises, suspension of Library privileges, and/or police involvement. Serious or illegal activity results in immediate notification of police, revocation of privileges, and removal from the Library.
Appeal of Revocation of Library Privileges
If privileges are revoked for more than 45 days, patrons may appeal by submitting a written request to the Board of Trustees within one week of notice. Board decisions are final.
Adopted 11/8/2021, modified 12/11/2023, modified 6/9/2025
Replaces prior Rules of Conduct and related policies.
INTRODUCTION: Berkeley Heights Public Library is pleased to offer patrons access to the wealth of information available through the Internet as part of the Library’s goal of meeting the educational and recreational needs of its public.
Berkeley Heights Public Library endorses the American Library Association Library’s Bill of Rights as well as its Access to Electronic Information, Services, and Networks: an Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights.
Berkeley Heights Public Library can not endorse the myriad viewpoints or vouch for the authenticity of information accessed via the Internet. Patrons must determine what information is appropriate and must evaluate for themselves the accuracy of the information accessed.
Professional staff members of BHPL will answer basic questions about use of the Internet and offer searching suggestions to help locate information resources and popular sites. For more in-depth training in Internet use or personal computer skills, patrons may inquire at the Reference Desk to schedule one-on-one time assistance with a member of the reference staff or for classes held by the Library.
GETTING STARTED: An Internet Management System facilitates the equitable use of the Library’s Internet resources and provides use statistics to help the Library assess its technology needs.
Library patrons initiate Internet access by typing in a user barcode numbers. BHPL and registered MUF and MURAL cardholders, in good standing, will use their existing barcode numbers.
Internet users must use their own card. Anyone found using a different card will at a minimum immediately lose any remaining Internet time. Repeat offenders will risk losing Internet use for progressively longer periods of time, as determined by the Library.
Guest passes are available at the Circulation Desk for those not registered to borrow from the Library. Guest passes are good for one day only.
Time will be allotted in 60 minute segments. Sessions may be extended if no other library patron is waiting. Internet use will be limited to 3 hours per day per patron.
A pilot project of free printing with limitations is in effect for April 20, 2026 to October 20, 2026. The printing policy will be updated after the pilot project is evaluated. Until that time patrons wanting to print should direct inquiries to Reference Desk Staff.
The Library reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to establish and enforce reasonable limits or caps on the number of prints permitted per patron, per day or per period, in order to ensure equitable access and responsible use of resources.
RESPONSIBLE AND COURTEOUS USE OF PUBLIC ACCESS INTERNET: Computer workstations are shared by and visible to library patrons of all ages, backgrounds and sensibilities. Individual Internet patrons are expected to consider this if accessing potentially controversial or disturbing information and images.
Due to space and time constraints, conversations should be kept to a minimum while using the Library’s Internet resources.
PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES: Include but are not limited to…
- Illegal or unethical activity including but not limited to displaying, sending, receiving or printing illegal or obscene content, or violate laws relating to child pornography (N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4)
- Transmission of threatening, harassing or abusive language and/or images
- Inappropriate or intrusive behavior that interferes with or disrupts library operations or creates an offensive, intimidating or hostile environment for library patrons or staff
- Making unauthorized copies of copyrighted, licensed or otherwise controlled information and/or software residing on the Internet
- Seeking disallowed access to any other computer system via the Internet
- Damaging or altering the setup of any equipment used to access the Internet
- Modifying the configuration settings of any program on a BHPL computer
- Downloading files to the hard drive
- Introducing or installing any software to BHPL computer equipment
- Deliberate propagation of computer malware and/or viruses
Berkeley Heights Public Library reserves the right for staff to terminate a patron’s Internet session at any time and to enforce the guidelines expressed in this document. Repeated abuse of this policy will result in a loss of Internet use for a specified period of time based upon the severity and frequency of the offense.
Staff will report any potentially illegal activity of which they become aware to the appropriate authorities who will determine whether to prosecute.
PUBLIC ACCESS INTERNET USE BY CHILDREN: Oversight of and responsibility for (and any restriction of) a child’s use of the Internet rests solely with his or her parents or legal guardians. Parents are encouraged to discuss the use of the Internet in relation to values, beliefs, and boundaries. This is not the role or responsibility of the BHPL.
DISCLAIMERS:
Library staff is not responsible for monitoring use of the Internet.
BHPL will not release information on the use of specific Internet resources by patrons except as required by law.
BHPL is not responsible for any damage done to patron’s disks, data, hardware or software by any virus which may have been contacted or through library equipment.
BHPL is not responsible for any damage done to patron’s disks, data, hardware or software as a result of the malfunctioning of library equipment.
BHPL is not responsible for the privacy practices or security of any web sites or social media sites accessed by patrons and cannot guarantee the privacy of searches and/or transactions conducted at public access computers.
BHPL accepts no liability for any loss of privacy or data patrons may experience, or any damages or harm arising from such loss.
BHPL expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility arising from access to or use of information obtained through its electronic information resources, or any consequences thereof.
Approved: April 13, 2026
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE POLICY
Notice
The Library takes reasonable precautions to ensure a safe and secure environment for its patrons and staff. To assist in those efforts, the public interior areas of the Library are subject to a video surveillance system. Notice has been conspicuously posted at the front entrance of the Library.
Cameras have not been installed in areas where staff or patrons have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Access
The Library Director, as well as the Director’s designee during the Director’s absence, will have unrestricted access to real-time footage and recordings thereof. Staff may have access if necessary to address the operational, legal, or safety needs of the Library.
Members of the public, including law enforcement, can access the footage and recordings only with a subpoena, search warrant or court order. In cases of an emergency or suspected criminal activity within the Library, law enforcement may be granted immediate access to real-time footage and recordings solely to ensure public safety.
Adopted June 9, 2025
BHPL’s Policy For Use of Public Access Internet and Responsible and Courteous Use of Public Access Internet statement, and applicable state and federal laws apply to wireless access through BHPL’s network.
The wireless network is shared bandwidth and connection speeds are not guaranteed. Connection strength may vary within the building.
BHPL assumes no responsibility for any alteration or interference with a laptop’s configuration, settings, operation or data files resulting from connection to the wireless network.
BHPL assumes no responsibility for damage, theft, or loss of any kind to a user’s equipment, software, data files or other personal property being used on BHPL property.
Virus and security protection is the user’s responsibility.
BHPL staff cannot configure your computer.
*Printing is not available to wireless users.
BHPL may terminate any wireless session which is adversely impacting the library network’s performance. Such activities may include downloading software, large images, music, etc.
Adopted June 13, 2005
*Printing to BHPL’s public printer is now available to wireless and remote users. See the instructions for wireless printing here.
