About Us

RESIDENTS OF UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP

You may fill out an application at home, print it and bring it in or come into the library fill out an application in person.

Any resident of Upper Merion Township is eligible to register for a free library card, renewable every 3 years. The Library will require identification containing the name and current mailing address of the applicant. Children under 18 years of age will be issued a library card with the signature and identification of a parent or legal guardian. All residents will receive an ACCESS PA sticker on their library card that enables them to borrow materials at other public libraries in Pennsylvania. In order for a library card to be issued, the person named on the registration form must be present in the library.

Replacement Cards
To replace a lost card there will be a fee of $3.00 for the Adult Department and $1.00 for the Children’s Department.

NON-RESIDENTS OF UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP

Montgomery County Residents
Montgomery County residents who do not have a home library in their township or borough may apply for a Montgomery County-Norristown library card through Upper Merion Township Library.

PA Residents
If you have a valid Access Pennsylvania Library card from your home library, you are welcome to check out materials according to borrowing periods and limits from the Upper Merion Township Library. You will be responsible, as our residents are, for returning on time and in good condition any materials checked out on your card. If you do not have a valid Access Pennsylv?ania Library card, you may use any materials in our Library, you cannot check anything out. “Home library” is defined as the library that serves the town or township in which you live.

Non-PA Residents
Individuals who DO NOT live in Pennsylvania may obtain an Upper Merion Library card for a fee of $65.00 for a year. Library cards issued to individuals who do not live in Pennsylvania will NOT have an ACCESS PA sticker on their card. The card may be used only at the Upper Merion Township Library. The cardholder will be responsible, as our residents are, for returning on time and in good condition any materials checked out on your card.

Temporary Residents of Upper Merion Township
Persons living in Upper Merion Township for a limited time (for example, someone residing here on a temporary employment assignment for a time period of less than one year) are eligible for a Temporary Library Card. Temporary residents must pay a $25.00 deposit. Temporary residents will be responsible, as our residents are, for returning on time and in good condition any materials checked out on your card. Once the library card along with all outstanding materials are returned, the temporary resident will be issued a refund of $20.00. Temporary Residents do not receive an ACCESS PA sticker on their card. This card may be used only at the Upper Merion Township Library.

Persons working in Upper Merion on a temporary basis, but not living in Upper Merion, must apply for a non-resident card for a fee of $65.00.

Loan Periods

• 3 days – museum passes
• 1 week – new feature length DVDs (for up to 6 months)
• 3 weeks – books, DVDs, magazines, audiobooks on CD, music, Playaways, Launchpads, Views, toys, video games
• 3 weeks – New Books (no renewal, no hold)
• Some reference, most recent adult magazine issues, and some special materials do not circulate.
• Please note that items borrowed from other libraries may have a different loan period or fine structure which we are required to honor.

Returns

• All items can be returned at the Adult and Children’s Check-Out Desks. Please be sure to hand DVD cases to a staff member to prevent damage to the DVD.
• Only BOOKS can be returned in the book drop located between the front doors of the township building. The book drop is open 24 hours/day.

Fines

• Books/Audio/Magazines/Toys: 15¢/day for adult and teen material, 5¢/day for children’s material. 
• DVDs/Video games/ Launchpads/Views  – $2/day
• Museum Passes: $5/day

Fines can be paid by:

• Visiting the library and paying by cash or check.
• Pay online by credit card by logging in to your account with your library barcode and password. The minimum payment is $5 and there is a $1 processing fee in order to provide and maintain this service. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards are all accepted.

Fees for Lost or Damaged Material

• Retail cost of material
• $4 processing fee/item

Other Fees

• Lost Library Card – $3/adult card and $1/child’s card
• Temporary Resident Library Card – $25 deposit for a year; $20 return when all materials are returned
• Non-resident Library Card – $65/year
• Printer/Copier Fees
  • 8.5×11 BW (15¢/page)
  • 8.5×14 and 11×17 BW (30¢/page)
  • 8.5×11 COLOR (25¢/page)
  • 8.5×14 and 11×17 COLOR (50¢/page)
• Flash Drive – 2GB drive – $2.40, 8GB drive – $3.90 (*prices subject to change)
• Notary Service – $5.00 fee per document
• Proctoring Fee
  • A $10.00 proctoring fee
  • A $5.00 cost recovery fee for any faxing or scanning required by the exam
  • A cost recovery fee for any postage/shipping required by the exam
  • A cost recovery fee for any printing required by the exam

Computer Use
This policy applies to all users of the Upper Merion Township Library public access computers and wifi Internet.

1. To ensure that computer time is equitably allocated among computer users, the Upper Merion Township Library uses EnvisionWare’s PC Reservation® – PC Access and Session Control. To access a computer session, users must enter a current Library card barcode and PIN. Anyone unable to obtain a Library card can request a temporary pass (good for only the date issued) from the front desk.
2. A 30-minute time limit comes into effect when others are waiting.
3. When computers are full, users may reserve the next available computer at the Library’s Information Desk.
4. Public computers are available from opening until 10 minutes before closing, when computers will be automatically shut down.
5. To ensure the privacy of individual computer users, barcode information or data on Internet searches and software use is not tracked and cleared once a patron logs out of their session.
6. If users feel that an Internet site has been blocked erroneously by the filtering software, they should report that to a staff member.  Staff can temporarily allow access to that site and will pass the site on to the MCLINC office for review.
7. Staff may limit the number of persons sitting at a single workstation.
8. Users may download files to external devices.  Users may not load their own software programs onto library workstations.

User Responsibility

1. Users may not display or print images that are inappropriate for viewing within a public setting. The library expressly prohibits any use of library computers for illegal activities, including hacking, or to access material that is obscene, contains or makes reference to explicit sexual materials as defined in 18 PA. C.S. 5903, contains child pornography, or is harmful to minors.  
2. Users must respect copyright laws and licensing agreements.
3. Users must respect the privacy and privileges of others.
4. Users must respect library hardware and software configurations.
5. Users must act in accordance with Pennsylvania and federal law to promote the safety and security of minors when using electronic communications.
6. Parents and legal guardians must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the Internet, as with other library materials.  Library staff does not act in the place of a parent to determine which materials are appropriate for an individual child.

Internet Use
The library provides public access to the resources available on the Internet and on subscription databases through computer workstations and via wireless Internet (wifi) for use with customer-owned devices. This service is intended to enhance the traditional print and audiovisual collections that have been established to meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of our community. Users are strongly cautioned, however, that the library does not control, and therefore, cannot be held responsible for the accuracy, currency or content of information accessed through the Internet. Users are urged to consult with library staff members who can recommend reliable sources of information and Internet search strategies.

Children’s Computer Use
The library supports the principles of intellectual freedom and the right of each individual to have access to constitutionally protected material. The library also affirms the right and responsibility of parents, not library staff members, to determine and monitor their own children’s use of library facilities and resources, including the Internet. Some sites may contain material that is offensive or inappropriate for minors as defined by law or as determined by their parents or guardians. Library personnel can assist parents and children to find age-appropriate resources. If parents or guardians are concerned about their child’s responsible use of the Internet or the potential for exposure to offensive material, they should monitor or restrict that use.

Educational materials are available in all our libraries to promote Internet safety. All users, regardless of age, should exercise caution in sharing personal or private information online.

Statement on Filtering
In order to maximize federal and state funding that is vital to operating our library, the library complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Filtering software is used to block access to sites with adult, sexually explicit content. Users 17 years of age and older may request the library staff to disable the filter provided that their subsequent Internet use complies with the conditions of CIPA and this Internet Use Policy. The library staff may also unblock a particular site (but not disable the filter), for users under the age of 17 if the site has been blocked in error. Wireless access is also filtered for adult, sexually explicit content. Library devices and non-library owned equipment cannot be unblocked. If users require unfiltered access to the Internet, they should use library-owned equipment that does not access the Internet through the wireless network.

All users should note that filtering software is imperfect and inappropriate and/or offensive sites may not be blocked. Similarly, the software may block appropriate and/or legitimate sites. In addition, all computer software and equipment is subject to malfunction. While every effort will be made to accommodate legitimate requests to disable the filter or unblock a site, our ability to do so is determined by conditions outside our control.

Staff Assistance

1. Library personnel will take reasonable and known precautions to prevent loss of data but the patron attests that all data has been appropriately saved and separately backed-up to prevent a permanent loss of data; and if the patron experiences loss of data, the patron will hold the library and its personnel harmless for any data loss.
2. Library personnel may be able to offer suggestions and answer some questions. For more in-depth training, see our schedule of events for Computer Classes and Tech Nights.
3. Because some library personnel are more knowledgeable than others and their presence depends on particular schedules, more or less assistance may be available to patrons at any given time.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure uninterrupted access to the Internet, no warranty is provided and the library or MCLINC is not responsible for any loss, financial or otherwise, associated with the use of this service. Software and information downloaded from any source may contain viruses or other malicious content. The library is not responsible for damage to users’ back-up media or computers, or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from use of the library’s computers.

Termination or Prohibition of Computer User Access
Internet access is a privilege. Use of any library computer constitutes an agreement to abide by this policy. Inappropriate use, as determined by the library staff, may result in the loss of all computer access and/or prosecution under applicable state and federal laws.

To help us provide a welcoming environment for all, please note the following when you are in the library:

1. Speak quietly to those around you. In addition, headphone use is permitted as long as the sound does not disturb others. Be conscious of the noise level of your conversations in order to respect others using the library. Refrain from using profanity.
2. Verbally or physically harassing or threatening other patrons, volunteers, or staff including stalking, staring, lurking, offensive touching, and obscene or inappropriate acts will not be tolerated.
3. Please place your phone on vibrate or silent so as not to disrupt other patrons. Cell phone conversations may be taken in the building lobby.
4. Personal property is your responsibility. Do not leave laptops, purses, or other valuables unattended.
5. Shirt and shoes are required and must be kept on at all times. Be respectful of the library furniture and keep feet placed on the ground. Patrons whose bodily hygiene is a nuisance to other patrons or staff may be asked to leave the library.
6. Patrons are welcome to have beverages in covered containers while in the library. All snacks should be consumed in the building lobby.
7. Smoking in the library is not allowed, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, Juul, and other vaping tools.
8. Staff may inspect bags and other articles.
9. Service animals that support people with disabilities and animals used for library programs are welcome in the library.
10. Treat all library materials as if they were yours.
11. Children’s furnishings and toys in the children’s area are reserved for children’s use only.
12. Children in the library – see Using the Library -> Children for our policy.
13. No solicitation, campaigning, or selling, or petitioning is allowed.

Enforcement of the Patron Code of Conduct:

1. In most cases of inappropriate behavior, a verbal warning will be given by a member of the library staff.
2. If the behavior continues, the patron may be asked to leave the library.
3. Patrons asked to leave the Library for disciplinary reasons are, at a minimum, barred for the remainder of the day and/or evening.
4. Library staff may immediately contact the Upper Merion Township Police if the patron is asked to leave and refuses to do so.
5. Any patron who is banned from the Library for a period in excess of one week will be notified of such in writing by the Director. The patron has the right to appeal by requesting a hearing before the Library Board of Directors, provided such hearing is requested by written notice.
6. Restriction of privileges shall be for progressively increasing periods of time, including permanent expulsion for repeat offenses.

The library and its staff are dedicated to providing a welcoming environment that encourages children to visit the library, use library collections and services, and attend library programs. Library staff are available to assist and support children with their use of library resources.  However, responsibility for the welfare and the behavior of children using the library rests with their parent, guardian or responsible caregiver. The library cannot assume custodial responsibility for children.  

The library cares about the safety and welfare of children and establishes this policy for the protection and well-being of children and to prevent disruptive behavior.

1. Children under the age of 10 years old must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver (at least 16 years of age) who remains within sight and conversation distance of the child.
2. Children age 10 and older, who are able to follow the Library’s Patron Code of Conduct Policy and do not require supervision due to special needs, may use the library unattended.
3. Unattended Child Policy – If a child under 10 years old is found unattended, library staff will attempt to locate the parent or caregiver in the library. If the parent/caregiver cannot be found using reasonable measures within a reasonable amount of time, staff will call Upper Merion Police and leave the child in care of an officer at the police department
4. Closing Time Policy – An attempt to contact the parent/guardian of an unattended child (under the age of 16) will be made if the child not picked up within fifteen minutes of closing time. If no contact can be made, the library staff will call Upper Merion Police and leave the child in care of an officer at the police department. The library staff will not provide transportation to children under any circumstance.

The library is a public building with staff trained to provide public library services. The library staff is not equipped, nor is it the role of the library, to provide childcare. We encourage parent/guardian cooperation and involvement regarding the above policy. Working together we better ensure a safe setting for patrons of all ages.

The Library will proctor written, emailed, or online examinations. Charges for this service include:

• $10.00 proctoring fee
• A $5.00 cost recovery fee for any faxing or scanning required by the exam
• A cost recovery fee for any postage/shipping required by the exam
• A cost recovery fee for any printing required by the exam

Appointments are required for this service. You must call the library to schedule an appointment.
Students must schedule a time during library operating hours. The test must be completed 30 minutes before the library closes.

The student is responsible for ensuring that the exam and other required materials are sent to the proctor from the learning institution before arriving to take the test. Library computers will not be modified to accommodate online tests. Installation of any special software needed to take the exam will not be allowed.

The student must arrive for the test with a current photo I.D. that matches the name on the testing materials. The student must bring all supplies needed to take the test (i.e. scratch paper, pen, pencil, calculator) .The proctor will not enter any personal information on the proctoring forms.

Proctors will enforce time limits or other rules set forth in the exam materials, however the proctor will not sit with the student for the length of the exam.

The library offers a notary service by appointment only for a $5.00 donation per document. Please make sure to bring all necessary documents and, if needed, a witness. To make an appointment, call 610-265-4805.

1. Rooms may be reserved no more than 1 (one) week in advance in person, by phone or from the library’s website.
2. Rooms may be reserved for no more than 2 (two) hours per day. However, if the patron wishes to stay beyond the allotted time they may do so, as long as the room has not been reserved for someone else. If another patron needs to use the room the patron must give it up.
3. Use of Study rooms is limited to those 18 years of age and out of high school.
4. NO excessive noise. The rooms are NOT soundproof.
5. NO food in the rooms. Drinks permitted if in closed containers.
6. Limit of 4 (four) persons per room.
7. Person signing in assumes responsibility for the room.
8. Furniture is to be left in the original configuration of the room.
9. Room reservation will be held for 15 minutes before being given to another patron unless we are notified.
10. Any abuse of Study Room Policy will result in loss of privilege.

To support, encourage, and foster access to local talent, the library will maintain a Local Author Collection. The mission of the Local Author Collection is to continually improve library service to the public by providing free access to books by local authors, enriching the community with books created by local authors, and promoting individual achievements in authorship. This collection features donated books from local authors.

Items included in the Local Author Collection must meet the following guidelines:

• Authors must reside in Montgomery County, or their work must be based in the area.
• The library will accept one copy of each title. Authors may donate up to three titles per year.
• Materials must be bound and formatted in a way that enables circulation, ease of use, and durability. The library will only accept physical formats. Items must be in new condition.
• Donated materials become property of the library and are subject to the library’s Collection Management Policy, including weeding procedures.
• Regardless of genre, all items in this collection will be labeled as “LOCAL” and include the name of the author.

The library selects materials in support of its mission. The emphasis of the collection is on acquiring materials of wide-ranging interest to the general public and offering choice of subjects, perspectives, and formats that meet most library needs within current budget limitations.  Collection development is founded on the principles espoused in the American Library Association’s

• Library Bill Of Rights,
• Freedom To Read Statement,
• Freedom To View Statement, and
• Diversity In Collection Development.

A patron who wants the library to reconsider keeping a specific title in the collection may fill out the Material Reconsideration Form.  

1. Once the form is submitted to the library, the director will meet with all librarians to address the concern and review the material and the selection process.  
2. The patron will be informed of the decision in writing within four weeks.  
3. If the patron is not satisfied with the response, a written appeal may be filed within 30 days with the Upper Merion Township Library Board of Directors.  
4. The Library Board will make the final decision and the patron will be informed in writing.