The Levi Heywood Memorial Library makes gallery space available to area artists for display of their work.
- The space may be booked for a one month period, up to 18 months in advance, by submitting the APPLICATION FOR USE OF EXHIBIT FORM.
- Individual artists are limited to one exhibit within a within a twelve month period, unless participating in a group show.
- Displays are limited in format and size to items which can be hung from the picture moldings already in place, or on the counter space in the room.
- Artists set up and dismantle their own displays. Hanging hooks and wires are provided. Any signage must be of a type that does not cause damage to the walls when removed.
- The Library is not able to store art works before or after displays.
- Prices may be displayed on items but sales and inquiries are to be handled by individual artists, not by Library staff.
- Each artist or group will provide a brief biography/exhibit statement as well as an image from the exhibit which will be used to publicize the exhibit on the Library’s website and in the Gardner News.
- The length of time materials are displayed will coincide as much as possible with the calendar month. (i.e. March 1-March 31)
- Exhibitors may host an artist event during regular library hours. No food or drink is allowed in the Art Gallery.
THE LIBRARY ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGE OR THEFT OF MATERIALS ON DISPLAY
Passed by the Board of Trustees
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
February 12, 2014
BORROWING POLICY
Approved by the Trustees May 8, 2024, Revised March 13, 2025, January 14, 2026
Library Cards
A valid library card must be presented in order to check out materials from the Library.
Applying for a Card
To obtain a library card Massachusetts residents must present photo identification showing both name and current address. If the photo ID lacks the current address, an additional document with name and current address (such as a utilities bill, automobile registration, or mail addressed to the applicant at their current address) is required.
Applicants for a library card must be at least 5 years old. In the case of children and teens under 18 years of age, proof of address of a parent or legal guardian is acceptable. Applicants who are 11 years old or under must have the permission of their parent or legal guardian. Parents registering minor children for a library card must also show their own ID. Out of State residents or residents without a fixed address will be granted a card at the Director’s discretion.
The first library card is issued free of charge. Replacement cards cost $2.00.
Library cards are usable at other public C/W MARS member libraries in Central and Western Massachusetts. If patrons already have a library card from another public C/W MARS member library, they may use it here. Borrowing privileges at C/W MARS member libraries are determined by the patron’s residential address, not by the library where the card was obtained. Residents of communities with closed or decertified libraries cannot borrow or request materials from Levi Heywood Memorial Library.
Library cards are issued immediately upon completion of an application form and presentation of acceptable identification. Patrons may also register online for an e-card; address verification will be confirmed through the online portal. E-cards are only for online access, they may not be used to check out physical materials. An e-card may be upgraded to a full access library card by completing the process aforementioned.
Library cards are renewed every two years, and renewal can be done in person or online. At the time of renewal, borrower information is verified, and the card’s expiration date is extended.
Borrowing Library Materials
Circulating items will automatically renew twice if there are renewals remaining unless the patron record is blocked. If materials are not returned an overdue notice will be e-mailed 2 weeks after the due date. Items borrowed from other libraries are subject to the owning library’s loan, renewal, and fines policies but may be paid at the LHML.
Patron borrowing privileges are suspended when the patron registration expires, the patron owes $10.00 or more, has more than 50 items out, and/or has one lost item.
Patrons are responsible for fines and costs of replacing lost or damaged items checked out on their card. The Library does not accept replacement copies of lost or damaged books in lieu of replacement costs. It is important not to lend your card to anyone, or check out materials for use by another.
Checkout Limits and Loan Periods
| Material | Limit | Loan Period | Renewals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Books | 50 items | 21 days | 2 |
| Magazines | 10 items | 21 days | 2 |
| DVDs | 10 items | 7 days | 2 |
| Music CDs | 10 items | 21 days | 2 |
| Books on CD | 10 items | 21 days | 2 |
| Art Prints | 2 items | 21 days | 2 |
| Museum Passes | 1 item (Friends Member only) | 1 day | None |
Holds and Renewals
If a desired item is not available on our library’s shelves, patrons can request it as a hold from another library. Once the item becomes available, it will be delivered to Gardner for the patron to check out. The maximum number of holds allowed on a library record at any given time is 20.
Renewals are limited to two additional circulations. With the exception of Museum Passes and special collections, all materials may be renewed online, in person, or by telephone with patron barcode.
Fines and Lost Materials
Levi Heywood Memorial Library is a fine-free library, except for special collections. For example, Museum Passes accrue a fine of $10.00 when returned late.
When an item is 4 weeks overdue, the item will be marked as “Lost” and the patron will receive a bill in the postal mail. At this time, the patron’s borrowing privileges will be suspended until the materials are returned or the replacement costs are paid.
Returning Library Materials
A book return is located to the left of the main entrance (clock tower side of Library). Materials returned in the book return after-hours will be checked in the next day the Library is open. Gardner items may be returned to other C/W MARS libraries.
POLICY
LIBRARY BULLETIN BOARDS
passed by Trustees on May 14, 2008
A limited number of bulletin board and distribution areas are available within the library for the posting and passive distribution of materials from not-for profit organizations of a civic, educational, or cultural nature. Priority will be given to postings for events or services in the City of Gardner and contiguous towns. Others may be posted as space allows.
The following items may not be posted or left for distribution:
- Materials that support or oppose any political candidate or ballot measure. (However materials such as those provided by the Leagues of Women Voters and the Secretary of State will be made available.)
- Materials asking library patrons to sign a petition.
- Materials of a commercial nature or individual enterprises (tutoring, babysitting, snowplowing etc.)
- Materials advertising items for sale.
- “Personals” advertisements or notices.
POSTING OF MATERIAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT OF ORGANIZATION OR CONTENT.
All notices must be approved. Only library staff members may post items after approval by the Library Director. The decision of the Director may be appealed to the Board of Trustees. MATERIALS POSTED WITHOUT PROPER APPROVAL WILL BE REMOVED AND DISCARDED.
Materials publicizing an event will be posted for no longer than four weeks. Once notices are posted, they become Library property and will be disposed of when the information is no longer current or at the discretion of the Director. (Long term postings including hot-lines and social services information will be displayed as space permits.)
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
Date: May 11, 2024
Introduction
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library, hereafter referred to as “the Library,” is committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity, accessibility, and equity for all members of the community it serves. As an essential resource center, the Library recognizes its responsibility to provide equal access to information, resources, and services without discrimination.
Equitable Practices
1. Fine-Free Policy
The Library has implemented a fine-free policy effective immediately, eliminating barriers to access for individuals facing economic challenges. This decision aligns with the Library’s mission to serve the entire community equitably.
2. Non-Discriminatory Access
The Library ensures that all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, disability, or any other characteristic, have equal access to library materials, programs, and facilities.
3. Community Outreach
The Library actively engages in outreach programs to underserved and marginalized communities, aiming to bridge gaps in access to information and resources. These efforts include partnerships with local organizations, outreach events, and targeted programming.
4. Accessible Facilities
The Library is committed to improving and providing physical and digital spaces that are accessible to all patrons, including those with disabilities. This includes wheelchair accessibility, assistive technologies, and accommodations for individuals with visual or auditory impairments.
5. Cultural Sensitivity
The Library promotes cultural sensitivity and diversity in its collections, programs, and services. It strives to represent the diverse backgrounds and experiences of its community members and actively seeks feedback to ensure inclusivity.
Conclusion
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library reaffirms its dedication to equitable practices and recognizes that fostering inclusivity and accessibility is an ongoing commitment. By upholding these principles, the Library continues to serve as a vital resource for education, enrichment, and community engagement.
Approved By Board of Library Trustees 9/11/24
For students whose schools require remote study, the Levi Heywood Memorial Library is happy to proctor paper exams only subject to staff availability and the requirements of the school. We are unable to proctor online exams. Please note the following guidelines:
- Exams will be administered during the Library’s regular operating hours. Exams may not exceed 3 hours in length and must be completed 30 minutes before the Library closes.
- The Library will provide an individual conference room. Students are responsible for supplying all materials needed (pencils, erasers, pens, papers, calculators) to complete the test.
- Exams will be proctored by the Librarian on duty at the Reference desk at the time the exam is scheduled. Proctors will not monitor a student continuously during the exam but will check periodically to enforce time limits and other rules set forth in the exam materials. Cell phones are not allowed in testing rooms.
- Proctors cannot interpret test instructions or discuss examination content with the student.
- Proctors will not enter personal information (Social Security number, home contact information) on the proctoring materials nor attest to having the student under observation at all times during the exam.
- At the time of testing, the student must provide current photo identification and the name on the identification must match the name on the exam documents.
- The Library does not charge a fee to proctor exams, nor will it incur any expenses associated with providing this service. The student must provide an addressed stamped envelope for materials that need to be mailed.
- The Library is not responsible for completed tests that are not received by the testing institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm the institution’s receipt of completed test materials.
- The Library will not administer GED tests. These requests will be referred to the official Massachusetts Testing Center at Mt. Wachusett Community College.
- If it is determined that the proctoring request is unreasonable or the demands are too burdensome to administer, the Library reserves the right to deny this service.
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library is pleased to provide fax service to the public. Patrons needing fax service will be accommodated as soon as possible, but library services and operations will take priority.
- Operation of the fax machine is limited to library staff.
- The cost for faxes sent is $1.00 for the first page and $.50 for each additional page. Fees must be paid prior to transmission (CASH ONLY). No international fax transmissions will be allowed.
- Documents must be in a condition acceptable by the fax equipment. Documents to be faxed must be one-sided letter size (8.5 x 11) sheets. If copies need to be made the patron is responsible for standard copying cost ($.15/page). Proper copy is the patron’s responsibility.
- Patrons must complete a supplied cover sheet to send a fax. There is no charge for the cover sheet unless it is the only page sent.
- The library is NOT responsible for the quality of the fax sent including missing pages, bad transmissions, failure to transmit or incomplete information. Patrons are expected to confirm the receipt of the fax by the other party. Library phones cannot be used for this purpose.
- Patrons must be present when the fax is sent. If transmission is unsuccessful after 3 attempts, the patron may try back no sooner than one hour later.
- All fees must be paid at the time the fax is sent. If the fax cannot be transmitted, prepaid fees will be refunded in full.
- The Library will NOT receive faxes for patrons. All faxes received will be destroyed.
- The fax service may not be used for any illegal purpose and patrons must abide by all copyright laws.
- Abuse of the fax service may lead to denial of future use.
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library makes gallery space available to area artists for display of their work.
- The space may be booked for a one month period, up to 18 months in advance, by submitting the APPLICATION FOR USE OF EXHIBIT SPACE FORM.
- Individual artists are limited to one exhibit within a twelve month period, unless participating in a group show.
- Displays are limited in format and size to items which can be hung from the picture moldings already in place, or on the counter space in the room.
- Artists set up and dismantle their own displays. Hanging hooks and wires are provided. Any signage must be of a type that does not cause damage to the walls when removed.
- The Library is not able to store art works before or after displays.
- Prices may be displayed on items but sales and inquiries are to be handled by individual artists, not by Library staff.
- Each artist or group will provide a brief biography/exhibit statement as well as an image from the exhibit which will be used to publicize the exhibit on the Library’s website and in the Gardner News.
- The length of time materials are displayed will coincide as much as possible with the calendar month. (i.e. March 1-March 31)
- Exhibitors may host an artist event during regular library hours. No food or drink is allowed in the Art Gallery.
THE LIBRARY ASSUMES NO RESPONSBILITY FOR DAMAGE OR THEFT OF MATERIALS ON DISPLAY
Passed by the Board of Trustees Levi Heywood Memorial Library
February 12, 2014
Approved by the Trustees on March 10, 2010; Amended May 8, 2024, March 11, 2026
STOP!
PLEASE READ ENTIRE DOCUMENT BEFORE CONTINUING TO NEXT PAGE.
BY ACCEPTING THIS POLICY YOU ARE AGREEING TO ITS TERMS.
- Internet computers are for use by all patrons. Patrons under the age of 12 are asked to use a computer in the Children’s Room, when available.
- Computer reservations and time management for Internet use are handled through PC Reservation software. Patrons must use their own library card account number to reserve and use computer time. Parents may use their adult library card to reserve computer time for their child, but must remain with the child while the computer is being used. Guest passes will be issued to visitors and/or out-of-state patrons.
- Patrons may sign up for a 15-minute or a 55-minute computer session, more time will be granted if no other patrons are waiting to use the computers. Reservations are made in person only and may be made up to 24 hours in advance. The Library’s computers shut down 10 minutes prior to closing.
- Patrons may bring in compatible storage devices to save or print material. The Library is not responsible for damage or loss of storage devices or data files during use of the Library’s computers.
- Printouts are black and white only, cost 10 cents per page (cash only), and are released from the Reservation Print Manager PC. Step-by-step instructions are affixed to the PC.
- Use of the internet by minors, defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act as “anyone who has not attained the age of 17,” is the responsibility of the minor’s parent or legal guardian. The Library urges minors to review the internet safety guidelines provided on the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s website www.netsmartz.org.
- Patrons may not use the internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright, viewing or dissemination of pornography, or accessing unauthorized networks. Using library computers, networks, or WIFI to copy and distribute copyright protected works may be an infringement of the copyright law (Title 17 U.S. Code).
- Any inappropriate behavior or disregard of this policy will result in loss of access to the Library’s internet service. Any unlawful activities will be reported to the police.
- REFUSAL TO ACCEPT THIS POLICY WILL END THIS SESSION
By borrowing a laptop you are agreeing to abide by these guidelines:
- Laptops are loaned on a first come, first served basis. They may not be reserved.
- All borrowers must have a valid CWMars Library card in good standing. Borrowers must be 12 years of age or older and must use their own library card.
- Laptops may be borrowed for 2 hours. The laptop may be renewed if no patrons are waiting.
- Laptops may be used only inside the library. Removing a laptop from the library will be considered theft, and the registered borrower could face criminal charges and/or the cost of replacement and suspension of library privileges.
- Laptops must not be left unattended. If you need to step away for any reason, please leave the laptop with a staff member.
- Please report any problems with the laptop to Reference staff as soon as possible.
- Any documents saved on the laptop will be lost once the laptop restarts. Any documents the user wishes to keep must be saved to a flash drive or emailed.
- Laptops must be returned to the Reference Desk 15 minutes prior to closing. Borrowers should be prepared to wait a few minutes while staff checks that the laptop and all returned items are in working order.
- Borrowers are responsible for complying with the library’s computer use and code of conduct policies, including but not limited to:
- Patrons may not use the internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright, viewing or dissemination of pornography, or accessing unauthorized networks. Using library computers, networks or WIFI to copy and distribute copyright protected works may be an infringement of the copyright law (Title 17 U.S. Code).
- Any inappropriate behavior or disregard of this policy will result in loss of access to the library’s internet service. Any unlawful activities will be reported to the police.
- Food and drink are allowed in the library, except at public Internet computers, so please keep all food and beverages away from laptops to avoid spills.
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
The purpose of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library is to provide books and other materials to meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of the community. Because of limitations of budget and space, the Library must have a policy, based on the interests of the community, to guide in the selection of materials. Interlibrary loan is used to obtain from other libraries those materials that are beyond the scope of the Library’s collection.
The ultimate responsibility for selection of library materials rests with the library director, who operates within the framework of the policies determined by the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Board of Trustees. In selecting materials, consideration is given to the literary merit of each item, the popular appeal or demand for the item, the suitability of material for the patrons, existing Library holdings, and available funding. The Library Bill of Rights and The Freedom to Read Statement are endorsed by the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Board of Trustees and are integral parts of the policy.
Reviews are a major source of information about new materials. An unfavorable review is insufficient reason for rejecting a title which is in demand. Consideration is given to requests from library patrons and books discussed on public media.
The Library accepts gifts of books and other materials with the understanding that they will be added to the collection only if appropriate and needed. If they are not needed because of duplication, condition, or dated information the items may be discarded, sold, or otherwise disposed of.
A current and useful collection is maintained through a continual withdrawal and replacement process. Replacement of worn volumes is dependent upon current demand, usefulness, more recent acquisitions, and availability of newer editions.
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library recognizes that some materials are controversial and that any given item may offend some patrons. Selection of materials will not be made on the basis of anticipated approval or disapproval, but solely on the basis of the principles stated in this policy.
Responsibility for the reading of children rests with their parents or legal guardians. Selection of library materials will not be inhibited by the possibility that materials may come into the possession of children. No library material will be sequestered except to protect it from damage or theft.
Although materials are carefully selected, there can arise differences of opinion regarding suitable materials. Patrons requesting that material be withdrawn from or restricted within the collection may complete a “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” form which is available in the library. The inquiry will be placed on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Board of Trustees.
Adopted September 20, 1972, Amended May 1980, Revised and Adopted May 18, 2011
Greenwood Meeting Room Policy
General Information
The Board of Trustees allows the use of the Greenwood Meeting Room for civic, educational, philanthropic, and recreational purposes having a substantial connection to the Gardner community. The Board of Trustees and Library Director will not discriminate on the basis of political or religious beliefs or any other constitutionally or statutorily prohibited basis.
The provision of meeting room space is not the primary mission of the library and must remain subordinate to the need to provide a safe, peaceful, and respectful environment for reading and study. Use of the meeting room may not disturb library patrons, interfere with library staff duties, or endanger the building or collections. Library use of the Greenwood Meeting Room takes precedence over all other uses.
The meeting room may not be used for entrepreneurial or commercial purposes, business solicitation, or profit-making activities. Political campaigning is prohibited. Goods or services may not be promoted, sold, or exchanged on library premises. Fundraising activities are limited to the Friends of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Association.
Meeting Room Reservations
Reservations for the Greenwood Meeting Room must be made through the office of the Library Director. Groups requesting use of the room must complete and submit an approved application form and agree to follow the terms of the policy.
The applicant’s signature serves as a release of claims against the Board of Trustees, the City of Gardner, and library staff for injury or property damage resulting from use of the meeting room. Any damage to or loss of library property caused during a meeting or program will be the responsibility of the reserving individual or organization and may result in cancellation or denial of future reservations.
Reservations may be made up to three months in advance and are accepted in the order received.
Groups paying a fee for room use are limited to twelve meetings within a twelve-month period.
Failure to notify the library of cancellations may result in loss of future reservation privileges.
Minors may not reserve a meeting room or serve as sponsors of a meeting.
Rules for Use
The Greenwood Meeting Room has a maximum occupancy of 125 persons.
Groups are responsible for obtaining all licenses and permits necessary for their meetings and must comply with all applicable laws. The applicant is responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from use of the room. The library may require proof of insurance, licenses, or permits for special events.
Wireless internet service is available in the meeting room. Audio-visual equipment is not provided.
Groups may rearrange tables and chairs as needed but must return all furniture to its original location after the meeting.
Smoking is prohibited in the building and on library property. Open flames are not permitted in the meeting room.
The kitchenette adjacent to the meeting room may be used for food preparation. Light refreshments may be served with prior approval from the Library Director. Alcohol is prohibited unless prior written approval is granted by the Board of Trustees. No food may be left on the premises, and users are expected to remove excess trash after meetings.
All persons using the meeting room must follow the library’s Patron Behavior Policy.
Publicity
Use of the meeting room does not imply endorsement of a group by the Board of Trustees or library staff.
Groups may identify the library and include its address in publicity materials but may not provide the library’s telephone number or direct attendees to contact the library.
Flyers, signs, brochures, and similar materials must remain within the meeting room unless approved under the library’s Bulletin Board Policy.
Parking
Limited off-street parking is available on library property and at nearby municipal lots, subject to posted restrictions.
Hours and Fees
The Greenwood Meeting Room is available only during library operating hours and must be vacated fifteen minutes before the library closes.
There is no charge for use of the meeting room by:
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in the City of Gardner or serving Gardner residents
- Departments of the City of Gardner
Proof of nonprofit or municipal status may be required.
All other groups must pay:
- $50 for the first 1–3 hours
- $15 for each additional hour
Checks for room use must be made payable to the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Association and submitted before the meeting begins.
Policy History
Adopted by the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Board of Trustees on November 10, 2004.
Revised:
- November 8, 2006
- April 13, 2011
- December 4, 2013
- September 10, 2025
Nondiscrimination Policy
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library is committed to maintaining an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. In accordance with state and federal law, the Library does not discriminate unlawfully on the basis of race, color, age, sex, national origin or ancestry, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or military status.
This policy shall apply to, but is not limited to, (1) any member of the public using or accessing Library services or programs, (2) any employee or candidate for employment, and (3) any non-employee providing goods or services to the Library.
The Director of Human Resources of the City of Gardner, MA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the Library’s nondiscrimination policy concerning employment . In all other regards, the Library Director shall serve as the compliance officer and will provide prompt and equitable resolution of complaints with respect to alleged discrimination. Complaints against the Director may be filed with the President of the Library’s Board of Trustees. All Library employees, volunteers, and Trustee Board members are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner consistent with this policy.
Adopted January 11, 2012
-Board of Trustees
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
In an effort to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all Library patrons, the Board of Trustees of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library has established a Library Patron Behavior Policy. The Policy is designed to provide clear and reasonable guidelines governing patron behavior within the Library and on the Library premises.
Unacceptable behavior includes behavior within the Library or on the Library premises that interferes with the use of the Library by other patrons, creates a risk of injury to other patrons or Library personnel, interferes with the work of Library personnel, or creates a risk of damage to Library property. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to:
- Use of profane, abusive or threatening language or gestures, or unwanted physical contact.
- Sleeping, stalking, running, fighting, littering, or soliciting.
- Blocking doorways, stairs or entrances.
- Possession of weapons of any kind, except by law enforcement officers.
- Damaging, defacing or theft of any Library property or materials.
- Possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, narcotics or controlled substances.
- Use of tobacco products, including electronic tobacco devices.
- Unreasonable noise levels including shouting, or disruptive conversations.
- Food and drink are allowed in the library, except at public Internet computers, under the following conditions: Drinks are limited to those in closed containers such as covered cups, cans, or water bottles. Wrapped snacks are permitted such as chips, cookies, and candy. Other foods are not considered snack food and are not allowed. (This includes fast food and take-out meals.)
- Bringing animals into the Library building with the exception of registered service animals.
Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible caregiver.
Patrons may not enter the building without footwear or a shirt, or while wearing clothing with offensive language or graphics.
Skateboards and scooters are not allowed in the library; they must be left outside or at the service desks.
Bicycles must be parked in the bike racks. Locks will be provided for checkout to library patrons.
Patrons are encouraged to keep belongings with them at all times; the library is not liable for any unattended item that is lost or stolen.
The Library building and grounds are private property, owned by the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Association. Parking is limited to Library patrons. No overnight parking is allowed.
Violation of the Policy may result in escalating responses ranging from limitation or revocation of the patron’s Library privileges to removal from the premises or criminal prosecution if the conduct constitutes a violation of local, state or federal law. Refusal to leave the library when asked to do so constitutes trespassing and will be dealt with as such, including requesting Police action.
Updated March 13, 2024
Board of Trustees
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
Gardner, MA 01440
In accordance with the State’s Minimum Standard for Public Library Service (Massachusetts General Laws, Ch. 78, Section 19B 1 & 6, and 605 CMR 4.01 (1&6)) the Levi Heywood Memorial Library extends reciprocal borrowing privileges to all residents of the Commonwealth who reside in towns which meet the standards and are therefore “certified” for State Aid to libraries.
Such reciprocity is not possible when a library ceases to provide services (i.e. closes completely) or reduces its hours or support below the MBLC standard for the size of community it serves.
The Levi Heywood Memorial Board of Trustees does recognize the hardship this places on residents of decertified communities. However, when officials of other communities have chosen not to fund their own library, the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Board can not pass the costs of serving these decertified patrons on to the taxpayers of Gardner.
It is therefore the policy of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library to discontinue borrowing and Network transfer privileges to residents and libraries in communities who terminate library service or reduce hours opening and or funding to below certification standards for the size of that community as determined by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
Public libraries that receive waivers from the MBLC will be viewed as being “certified.”
The Library Board of Trustees, the Library Director, and the municipal officials of the affected community will be notified in writing by the LHML Trustees when reciprocal borrowing privileges have been terminated.
Patrons from decertified libraries are still invited to visit the LHML to use the collection in the building and to make use of our public computers. Registration for library programs with limited attendance will not be open to residents from decertified communities. Attendance at open programs is welcomed.
Revised and approved by the Board of Library Trustees on May 14, 2025.
Social Media Policy
Levi Heywood Memorial Library
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library uses social media for outreach, education, and information. It is a means we use to connect residents with library services.
Library social media policy is not intended to supplement or replace other library policies. LHML is not responsible for enforcing restrictions which a parent or guardian may place on a minor’s use of this resource.
The LHML’s social media pages are hosted by the company that owns them, and are governed by their own separate website policies, including their Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. To view these policies, please visit each site.
Content that is posted on library-sponsored social media sites is subject to the Freedom of Information Act and records retention requirements.
We expect conversations on the Levi Heywood Memorial Library’s social media sites to follow the rules of polite discourse and we ask that participants treat each other, as well as our employees, with respect.
We reserve the right to monitor content before it is posted on all of the library’s social media sites. We reserve the right to remove comments or posts that fall into the following categories:
- Vulgar or abusive language
- Threats of physical or bodily harm
- Sensitive information (for example, information that could compromise public safety)
- Offensive terms that target certain groups of people because of their ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender, or religion
- Any other comments found by the Levi Heywood Memorial Library administration to be offensive, inappropriate, or illegal
- For the benefit of robust discussion, we ask that comments remain “on-topic.” This means that comments must relate to the topic that is being discussed within the particular social media site.
We also reserve the right to terminate involvement by users who post such content. LHML has no affiliation with any advertisements or other material posted by third-party sites or software.
Approved by the LHML Board of Trustees, 9/10/2025
Study Room Policy
General Information
Study rooms are available for public use free of charge and may be reserved during library hours. The library’s goal is to provide these spaces to as many people as possible. Study rooms may be used by individuals or groups.
All users must follow the library’s Patron Behavior Policy established by the Board of Trustees. Individuals who are unable to comply with the policy may be asked to leave the study room area.
The Levi Heywood Memorial Library does not sponsor, recommend, or assume responsibility for the work or activities of tutors using library space. All arrangements must be made between tutors, students, and parents. Use of study rooms does not constitute endorsement by the library of the viewpoints expressed by individuals or groups using the space.
Requirements for Study Room Reservations
Anyone reserving a study room must provide:
- Name
- Phone number
- Number of people using the room
- Organization name, if applicable
Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Study room reservations are limited to four reservation dates at one time and may be made up to eight weeks in advance per individual.
Failure to notify the library of cancellations may result in cancellation of upcoming reservations and denial of future reservations.
Reservations will be held for 15 minutes past the reserved start time.
Study rooms may be reserved for up to two hours per day per person or group. Patrons may remain longer if the room is not needed by another patron, but may be asked to leave at any time.
Any damage to the study room space may result in loss of study room privileges.
Rules for Use
Study room occupancy limits are:
- Study Room #1: 4 persons
- Study Room #2: 8 persons
- Study Room #3: 6 persons
No exceptions may be made to occupancy limits.
Additional rules include:
- Walk-in users may request a study room if one is available. Sessions may be shorter than two hours depending on room availability.
- Patrons must be 16 years of age or older to reserve a study room.
- Study rooms must be vacated 15 minutes before library closing and left in their original condition.
- Use of study rooms is subject to the discretion of library staff.
- Special accommodations may be approved by library administration in advance when necessary.
Levi Heywood Memorial Library WiFi Policy
Persons utilizing the wireless connection agree to comply with all provisions of the LHML acceptable use policy as described herein.
The Library’s wireless connection is unencrypted and unfiltered. Use of the wireless connection is done at the patron’s own risk. By using this connection, patrons acknowledge any security risks associated with wireless service and agree to hold the Library harmless from any unauthorized use or access into the patron’s computer, as well as from any damage done to the patron’s equipment from viruses, spyware, or other internet-borne programs.
Patrons may not use the internet for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright, viewing or dissemination of pornography, or accessing unauthorized networks. Any unlawful activities will be reported to local law enforcement.
Using library computers, networks, or WiFi to copy and distribute copyright protected works may be an infringement of the copyright law (Title 17 U.S. Code).
The Library accepts no responsibility regarding the ability of patron-owned equipment to connect to the wireless network. Library staff will not change settings on patron equipment.
Wireless printing from portable computers is available by following prompts on the Library’s website.
Any inappropriate behavior or disregard of this policy will result in loss of access to the Library’s internet service.
Approved by the Trustees May 8, 2024
