Public libraries in Massachusetts that do not meet the minimum standards for funding and service necessary for certification by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners are ‘decertified’ by the Board. As such, they are not eligible to receive state aid to public libraries funding, apply for LSTA grants, or contract with a region to provide supplemental services.
Massachusetts state law (605 CMR 4.01) states that certified public libraries are not required to lend materials to residents of municipalities with decertified libraries.
The Rockport Public Library supports the importance of libraries maintaining at least the minimum standards of public library service required for certification by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. Therefore, the Rockport Public Library will not lend materials to residents of municipalities with decertified libraries.
Public libraries that receive waivers from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners are considered certified. Residents of communities where the library has received a waiver will be allowed to borrow materials from the Rockport Library.
Massachusetts General Law (605 CMR 4.01) states,“all residents of the Commonwealth shall have access to reading and reference rooms under the same conditions as residents of the community.” Residents of communities with decertified libraries are therefore welcome to use Rockport Public Library resources within the library building.
The Board of Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy and to rule on situations not specifically covered herein. The Board of Trustees and the Library Director shall review this policy as needed.
| Library Director
Cindy Grove |
Board of Library Trustees Lana Razdan, chair Rob Audano Cindy Sharfstein
|
Policy voted on and adopted on: February 25, 2015
Updated: 12/29/22