When do items have to be returned?

In most cases, items go out for two weeks. Some exceptions are DVDs (some go out for only three days), video games (1 week), and audio-visual equipment (overnight).

What if I return an item late?

GCLS is fine free for most of our items. While you may not be charged fines, items that are not returned in a timely manner will result in your account being blocked from borrowing additional materials until these have been returned.

There are exceptions as well. Materials borrowed from LOGIN Consortium Libraries will still accrue fines as will the speciality items in the chart below.

EACH day EACH item is late, we charge as follows:

More about returning items…
We have a handy bookdrop where you can return items before or after hours. Both books and non-print items (such as videos) may be returned in the drop. However, museum passes may not be placed in the bookdrop and must be returned to their home library. Please remember that late materials returned in the book-drop are assessed normal fines.

Renewing items
If the item is not reserved you may have it for another two weeks. Some materials, like 3-day DVDs, may NOT be renewed. Renew in person, by phone, or online at http://www.gcls.org/catalog. Have your library card number handy.

Expired or lost cards
GCLS cards are renewed every 2 years. Please don’t throw away your old card! Renew your card by presenting it to circulation staff along with your current driver’s license. Your card will be updated. There is a $1 fee to replace a lost library card. If you have forgotten your card, you may present your driver’s license.

Non-resident cards
Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) has five branches and one associated municipal library, serving fourteen member communities in Gloucester County. Branches are located in Glassboro, Greenwich, Logan, Mullica Hill, and Swedesboro. Our associated municipal library is located in Newfield.

Our member communities are: Clayton, East Greenwich, Elk, Glassboro, Greenwich, Harrison, Logan, Mantua, National Park, Newfield, South Harrison, Swedesboro, Woodbury Heights, and Woolwich.

Out-of-County residents (excluding Cumberland and Salem counties) may purchase access to GCLS library services for an annual fee of $100 per year. A six month membership may be purchased for $50.

GCLS is a member of the LOGIN consortium and honors library cards issued by LOGIN member libraries located throughout Gloucester, Cumberland, and Salem counties.

More information about member communities…

Suggestions
The Gloucester County Library System believes in providing quality library service. The staff is happy to serve you and welcomes your ideas and suggestions.

Adopted by the GCL Commission on September 26, 2018.

POLICY

The Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) makes a limited amount of bulletin board and literature rack display space available for flyers, notices, and printed information that may be of interest to the community. Priority will be given to Library and County notices, followed by notices issued by local non-profit organizations, and educational or governmental agencies that provide community services and events of educational, cultural or recreational value and interest. All postings must be appropriate for viewing by all ages.

GCLS does not advocate or endorse the viewpoints of any group or individual, and welcomes a broad spectrum of opinion and a variety of viewpoints. Items will be posted or made available on an equitable basis, subject to available space, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals or groups represented. Accepting a notice or placement of materials in a display rack does not imply endorsement or sponsorship by the Library or the GCL Commission.

Generally, events and services posted on the bulletin board should be available to the general public at no charge. Events or services by non-profit or governmental organizations may be posted even if an admission fee is required.

Local businesses may post a general flyer, brochure, or business card. However, no items devoted solely to the sale, solicitation or promotion of commercial products will be accepted. Items may not be offered for sale by individuals on the bulletin board.

The following materials may not be accepted:

• Materials inconsistent with library policies
• Campaign literature for a political candidate
• Campaign literature for political issues
• Handwritten materials, or notices on paper that is ripped or torn
• Personal messages

Items larger than letter-size (8.5 x 11 in.) may not be accepted due to space limitations. In the event the amount of material exceeds the available space, the Library reserves the right to limit individuals or organizations to one piece of literature for display or distribution.

All notices and flyers, brochures, etc. must be approved by an authorized member of Library staff. Notices and other information that have been posted without being approved will be taken down immediately and discarded. The library is not responsible for materials that are removed by someone other than a library staff member.

PROCEDURE

1. To request this free service, all materials must be submitted to a staff person at the Circulation Desk.
2. The name and contact information of the person responsible for submitting the material must be attached to the submitted material.
3. All notices and flyers, brochures, etc. must be approved by an authorized member of the library staff. The staff person’s initials and the date of posting will be clearly written on the notice.
4. Materials must be posted by a staff person, not the person submitting the materials. It may take at least one week for submitted material to be authorized and posted.
5. Library staff is responsible for removing items after the information has expired or 30 days, whichever is sooner. All materials are considered disposable and library staff may remove and discard them as necessary.

Concerns about the Public Bulletin Board and Literature Policy must be presented in writing with specifics to the Library Director. Please provide your name and contact information. GCLS may amend or supplement this policy from time to time without notice and reserves the right to do so.

GCLS Collection Development Policy (PDF Document)

Adopted by the GCL Commission on September 26, 2018.

It is the intent of the Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) to comply with Title 17 of the United States code, titled “Copyrights,” and other federal legislation related to the duplication, retention, and use of copyrighted materials. U.S. Copyright law prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted material, except as permitted by the principles of fair use.

Gloucester County Library System is not responsible for the improper or illegal use of any copies of materials from its collections. GCLS staff will provide any information available for specific items that it has available, but it is ultimately the patron’s responsibility to determine the appropriate use of an item. It is the patron’s obligation to determine and satisfy copyright or other use restrictions when copying, publishing or otherwise distributing materials from GCLS collections. Any responsibility for the consequences of copyright infringement lies with the patron.

GCLS Copyright Policy (PDF Document)

Adopted by the GCL Commission on July 26, 2017.

SECTION 1.0 – PURPOSE

The Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) encourages the interest and involvement of residents and organizations through donations of book or non-book materials, monetary contributions, and appropriate gifts. It is understood that gifts and donations do not take the place of public support but enable GCLS to provide and enhance library services in ways not financially possible within the annual operating budget.

GCLS reserves the right to refuse any gift or donation that is deemed to be not in the best interests of the Library to accept.

SECTION 2.0 – CONDITIONS OF ACCEPTANCE

GCLS accepts gifts and donations at the discretion of the Library Director and/or the Gloucester County Library Commission.

Gifts and donations are accepted under the following conditions:

Materials: Gifts of miscellaneous books or other materials in good condition will be evaluated using guidelines set forth in the GCLS Collection Development Policy.  GCLS reserves the right to add any donated item(s) to the collection, or distribute, sell, or discard them. No conditions regarding location, use or eventual withdrawal from the collection or building can be imposed.

Collections: Gift collections will be accepted at the discretion of the Library Director and/or the Gloucester County Library Commission with the understanding that the collection may not be kept intact.  If the donated material is rare or irreplaceable the donor will provide GCLS with a “deed of gift” letter.

Recognition/Memorial gifts: GCLS welcomes monetary gifts for the purchase of library materials for the collection given in recognition of individuals or organizations.

Other monetary gifts: GCLS welcomes monetary gifts to provide and enhance services in ways not financially possible within the annual operating budget.  Depending on the wishes of the donors, such donations may be referred to the Friends of the Gloucester County Library System.

Real estate or other personal property: GCLS will accept gifts of real property that support the mission of the Library. Such offers will be handled by the Library Director, who in consultation with the Gloucester County Library Commission and Library Solicitor will determine the suitability of the gift and the terms of acceptance compatible with GCLS’ mission and policies, the donor’s intent, and applicable laws.

Wills, Estates and Bequests:  Individuals may contact the Library Director who in consultation with the Gloucester County Library Commission and Library Solicitor will determine the suitability of the gift and the terms of acceptance compatible with GCLS’ mission and policies, the donor’s intent, and applicable laws.

Tangible gifts: The decision to accept gifts such as furnishings or equipment shall be made by the Library Director. Among the criteria on which the decision shall be based is need, space, impact on staff time, and expense and frequency of maintenance. If a gift is accepted, the gift shall be final and there will be no restrictions on GCLS’ ownership, possession, use or disposition of the gift.

Art & decorative objects: In general, gifts of art objects shall be of local interest to the community, of a professional quality, well executed and in good condition. Because of limited display and storage areas, potential donors of art & decorative objects are requested to discuss any possible gifts with the Library Director.

As with all other gifts, art objects will be accepted only with the donor’s full agreement that GCLS has the right to handle or dispose of the gift in the best interests of the Library.

Valuation: Income tax regulations leave the determination of the gift’s monetary value to the donor. GCLS cannot assess or suggest a value for non-monetary gifts for income tax or other purposes.  On request, a statement acknowledging receipt of the donation will be provided, but will not contain a statement of value. Donors wishing to have an appraisal of their gift done for income tax purposes should do so prior to donation.

Disposition of gifts: If a gift is accepted by GCLS, the gift shall be final and there shall be no restrictions on GCLS’ ownership, possession, use or disposition of the gift. GCLS may dispose of any gift without notification to the donor.

SECTION 3.0 – LIBRARY MATERIAL DONATION

The Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) accepts donations of books, audiobooks, DVDs and CDs. GCLS may accept donations of materials that pertain to local history. Items must be in good condition. Good condition is defined as not containing dirt, dust, mold, mildew, water damage, musty odor, broken bindings, torn, missing, yellowed or brittle pages, or markings in pen, pencil, crayon or highlighter. An inscription or ownership stamp (including a bookplate) is acceptable. GCLS reserves the right to add any donated item(s) to the collection or distribute, sell, or discard them.

The Library will not accept newspapers, newsletters, magazines or encyclopedias.

The Library will not appraise or assign a monetary value to donated materials. On request, a statement acknowledging receipt of the donation will be provided.

Donors should call the library before bringing in donated materials.  Library staff are not available to lift or carry any boxes, bags, etc. of donated items.  Library staff are not available to pick up donated material from patron homes.

Library staff reserve the right to accept or reject donations based on the above criteria, as well as storage considerations. GCLS will not guarantee donated items will be added to the collection.

Mission

The Gloucester County Library provides excellent library service to the residents of its member communities. We accomplish this, in part, by offering residents of member municipalities and other Gloucester County Library users free access to the Internet.

Internet Access
The Internet, a worldwide network of computer networks, is an essential medium for obtaining and transmitting information of all types. Therefore, public access to the Internet is extremely important to the mission of the Gloucester County Library.

The Internet, however, is an unregulated medium. It also provides access to information that may be inaccurate, illegal, or that some may find offensive or disturbing. The Gloucester County Library has no control over the information found through the Internet and is not responsible for its content, timeliness, or accuracy.

Responsibilities of Library Staff and Users
Library staff will not monitor a user’s Internet use, except for length of use in order to ensure equal opportunity of access for everyone. The user, or the parent or guardian of a minor, is responsible for his or her Internet session at all times.

The Library reserves the right to terminate an Internet session that disrupts Library services or that involves user behavior that violates the Library’s policies.

As with all Library resources, the Library affirms the right and responsibility of parents/guardians, NOT Library staff, to determine and monitor their minor children’s use of the Internet. (Minors are defined in this policy as children and young people under the age of 17 years.) Parents are responsible for their minor children’s use of the Library’s resources and facilities. Parents who believe that their children cannot responsibly use the Library’s Internet access are requested to monitor their Internet use.

Disclaimers
While the Library endeavors to provide access to information of the highest quality, the Library specifically disclaims any liability as to the information’s accuracy, timeliness, authoritativeness, usefulness or fitness for a particular purpose. The Library will have no liability for direct, indirect or consequential damage related to the use of information accessed through the Library’s Internet service.

The Library will make every effort to maintain Internet access for all hours the Library is open to the public. The Library will have no liability, however, if the service becomes temporarily unavailable for technical reasons.

The Library, having installed and enforced the operation of filtering software in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, will have no liability for damages related to the operation of, or failure of, the filtering software, or for its circumvention by users.

Since software and information downloaded from any sources, including the Internet, may contain computer viruses, users are advised to utilize virus-checking software on their home computers. The Library is not responsible for damage to users’ disks or computers or for any loss of data, damage or liability that may occur from use of the Library’s computers.

Unacceptable Uses of Computers
Among the uses that are considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation of this policy are:

1. Uses that violate the law, promote violence, or encourage others to violate the law. Transmitting of offensive or harassing messages; offering for sale or use any substance the possession or use of which is prohibited by law; viewing, transmitting or downloading pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; downloading or transmitting confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, users should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them.
2. Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. Engaging in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); uploading a worm, virus, “trojan horse,” “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participating in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems. 
3. Uses that jeopardize the security of access of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. Disclosing or sharing the user’s password with others; impersonating another user; altering the Library’s computer settings; damaging or modifying computer equipment or software.
4. Uses that compromise the safety and security of minors when using e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications: Minors under age 17: Giving others private information about one’s self or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers; arranging a face-to-face meeting with someone one has “met” on the computer network or Internet without a parent’s permission.
5. Uses that Violate Confidentiality of Information: The New Jersey Confidentiality of Library Records Law (NJSA 18A:73-43.2) prohibits unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information regarding Library users, including minors. Personally identifiable information about users may not be disclosed or used in any way, except to law enforcement authorities as provided in the law. Users should be aware, however, that due to the technical difficulties involved in providing absolute security, transactions and files may become public.

Filters
The Library will install filtering software or other technologies on all library computers with Internet access, and will enforce the operation of same during any use of those computers, to prevent minors from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors.

The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 254 [h][7]), as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:

• taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion;
• depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; 
• taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.

Filtering software is not foolproof. It diminishes the likelihood that searchers will inadvertently retrieve text or images that they may find offensive, but does not eliminate that possibility. Filters often block access to sites that users would consider both inoffensive and useful. If you do not find what you need, please do not hesitate to ask a librarian for help. Technology protection measures will be disabled by a library staff member, as necessary, for any lawful purposes by people aged 17 and older.

Procedures
The Library staff will develop such rules and procedures as are necessary to ensure the fair and reasonable use of Internet access.

Response to Violations
The user’s access to the Library’s computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A user violates this policy by his or her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to the attention of the user. Further, a user violates this policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet. Failure to comply with this policy and its procedures will result in the forfeiture of the user’s right to access these computers.

Adopted June 28, 2004

How do I reserve a meeting room?

To reserve a meeting room at a GCLS branch library, download and complete the forms below. Return the forms by faxing them to 856-223-6039 or by scanning and emailing them to meetingrooms@gcls.org.

What forms do I need to fill out to reserve a meeting room?

The following forms must be completed to reserve any meeting room at any GCLS library:

What are the policies for using a meeting room?

When Library functions are not scheduled, the meeting rooms are available to non-profit community organizations and government agencies engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, or charitable activities in Gloucester County.  GCLS provides meeting room spaces as a public service regardless of the beliefs or affiliation of groups requesting their use.  GCLS does not advocate or endorse the viewpoints of meetings or meeting room users.  There is no charge for use of a room; no admission fee may be charged by groups using a room.  No group will be denied access to these facilities because of age, race, creed, political beliefs, or viewpoints.  All meetings will be open to the public, should they wish to attend.

From time to time, the library may decide to present a program utilizing the resources of a for-profit company.  Such programs will be considered library sponsored programs and a library staff member shall be present during the program.

The intent of these policies and procedures is to provide equitable access to this popular resource to as many groups as possible.  Failure to comply with the policies and procedures may be cause for denial of further use by an organization. We ask that you read, agree to, and sign the Policy and Regulations Concerning the Use of Meeting Rooms and follow the rules when you are here.

Are there floor plans available?

Yes, floor plans for all GCLS locations are available. See the Meeting Room Floor Plans below:

Glassboro

Greenwich

Logan

Mullica Hill

Swedesboro

The Gloucester County Library offers free notary public services for the benefit of the residents of our  communities. Library notaries are scheduled to work during the libraries’ regular hours of  operation. Notary service is not available in the fifteen minutes prior to the time of closing. Customers seeking notary service should call the appropriate library branch prior to their visit to ensure that a notary is available. 

· Valid photo identification is required of any customer seeking notary service.

· Notary service is not available for deeds, mortgages, wills, powers of attorney, living wills, living trusts, codicils, and depositions.

· Notaries cannot pre-date or post-date an action, prepare a legal document or give advice on legal matters, or notarize documents in which they have a personal interest.

· The library will not provide  witnesses, and witnesses may not be solicited from customers using the library.  In order to serve as a witness, the witness must personally know the person whose document is being notarized and must be in possession of a valid photo identification.

· Since the notary must be able to read and understand what he or she has been asked to notarize, documents in any language other than English will not be notarized at the library.

· A third party may assist a customer communicate with the notary, if necessary. In this case, the notary should require valid photo identification from the third party.

· Certain public documents cannot be copied and notarized. Examples are: birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage certificates.

· Notaries will not provide service if the customer, document or circumstances of the request for notary service raise any issue of authenticity, ambiguity, doubt or uncertainty for the library. In this event, the library notary may, at his or her sole discretion, decline to provide notary service.

Adopted by the Gloucester County Library Commission February 28, 2007
Revised October 22, 2008, April 2012

Adopted by the GCL Commission on July 26, 2017.

ARTICLE 1 – OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

As an integral part of the Gloucester County Library System’s (GCLS) commitment to lifelong learning, the Library offers proctoring services for written and online examinations to students engaged in distance learning. There is no charge for these services, and they are available whenever the Library is open. All librarians can serve as proctors, regardless of which staff member made the initial arrangements. Proctoring services will be provided by librarians as scheduling allows. Any branch can serve as a proctoring location, if a librarian is available at that branch. Students do not have to be GCLS cardholders or Gloucester County residents to use the proctoring service.

This proctoring policy will be reviewed on a regular basis.

ARTICLE 2 – RESPONSIBILITY OF THE TEST TAKER

• It is the student’s responsibility to schedule the exam at least one week in advance by contacting library staff, and come prepared with the necessary supplies. When scheduling, they should keep in mind GCLS hours, noting the difference between summer and winter hours. Adequate time must be allowed for completion of the test at least 30 minutes prior to closing.
• It is the student’s responsibility to coordinate the transfer of the exam from the testing institution to the Library and to verify that the exam has been received by the Library prior to the test date.
• If a written test, the student must verify receipt of the exam by the library prior to the test date. If an online test is to be given, the student must ensure the school knows the email address to use for tests or passwords: proctoring@gcls.org. All GCLS librarians have access to this email.
• If an online test is to be given, the student must verify that the necessary hardware and software are available at the Library’s public computer workstations. No special software can be installed to allow for the test.
• The student must present a current picture ID at the time of the exam. The name on the identification must match the name on the testing materials.
• The test taker must abide by any restrictions placed on the exam by the educational institution. Any observed violation of these restrictions or cheating will be reported to the educational institution.
• If  the exam is to be mailed back to the school, the student will provide a postage paid, addressed envelope for this purpose. All mailed completed tests will also be scanned and emailed to the educational institution by library staff. An email address for this purpose must also be provided.
• If photocopying, printing or faxing is necessary, the student is responsible for the cost of doing so at the posted rate.

ARTICLE 3 – RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PROCTOR

• Prior to administering the exam, the proctor will read and follow all instructions from the testing institution.
• If a written test is received prior to the test date, the test will be filed in a secure staff area until the day of the test.
• The proctor will verify the identity of the student at the time of the test through a valid photo ID.
• The proctor will attempt to provide a quiet area for taking the test, but can not guarantee that such an area will be available.
• The proctor will monitor the student periodically, but not continuously.
• The proctor will enforce the time limit  for the exam, as well as any other rules the educational institution imposes.
• Proctors will complete appropriate documentation forms provided by the issuing institution.  Proctors will not sign a form that attests to more than they are able to do, for example, continuous monitoring of the student.
• Librarians serving as proctors will not provide his/her personal information (driver’s license number, or any other personal identifying number or personal address, etc.) to the educational institution.
• The Library will not proctor exams that students bring in themselves.
• The Library will not be liable for any costs or fees associated with an exam, including mailing costs.
• GCLS will hold uncompleted test papers until the school’s deadline, at which point they will be shredded.
• If requested by the school, GCLS will hold completed written tests for the time requested before destroying.
• When the institution requests that the completed test be physically mailed back to them, GCLS will also scan and email the completed test to ensure receipt by the school. Tests to be mailed will be placed in the library’s outgoing mail bin for pickup on the next business day.
• The Library will not be responsible for any completed tests once they leave the library’s possession and have been mailed back to the educational institution, nor for any delay in receipt of completed tests by the educational institution. The student must contact the institution to determine if the completed test was received.
• The Library reserves the right to cancel/re-schedule testing dates due to inclement weather, computer issues, etc.
• The Library will not be responsible for tests that are interrupted by Library emergencies, power failures, or computer hardware or software failures.

Proctoring Policy (PDF Document)

Tutoring in the Library is a privilege granted by the Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) as part of its service to the community. All tutors must sign a GCLS Tutor Agreement. Tutoring will not be permitted to interfere with the use of the Library by other community members.

The following regulations apply to all tutoring which takes place in GCLS libraries:

• The Library will provide designated areas for tutoring as space permits. Tutoring is limited to designated areas only.
• Tutoring areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The Library reserves the right to assign tutoring locations or relocate tutors in the building.
• Several tutors may be using the same space at one time.
• Tutors may work with a maximum of two (2) students per tutor per session.
• Tutoring sessions must end 30 minutes prior to closing time.
• Individual study carrels in the library are reserved exclusively for individual reading and study.
• Tutors are responsible for establishing communication protocols for their students and the student’s parents. Library staff will not relay messages to tutors or students. Library phones are not available for use for incoming or outgoing calls.
• Tutors must provide their own supplies, including paper, pens, staplers, etc. The public photocopier is available at a cost per copy if copies are needed. Faxing is available at regular public rates.
• Tutors are responsible for the behavior of students being tutored during the tutoring session.  Appropriate noise levels will be observed at all times. 
• GCLS recommends that a parent/adult legal guardian accompany a child who is being tutored for the duration of the session. GCLS assumes no responsibility for children left unattended.
• Children who are tutored in the library are the responsibility of the tutor while on library property until released to a parent/adult legal guardian and/or authorized transportation.
• GCLS does not sponsor, recommend, or assume liability or responsibility for the work and/or activities of tutors who use library space. All arrangements must be made between the tutor, students, and parents.
• Tutors may not publish or distribute advertisements, flyers, letters, press releases or

e-mails identifying the Library as their place of doing business or imply GCLS sponsorship of their activities.

• Tutors may not solicit Library patrons in the Library.
• GCLS reserves the right to restrict or ban tutoring at any time without prior notice in the event that library staff determines that it interferes with Library programs or use of the Library by other community members.

GCLS Tutor Agreement (PDF Document)