Current page:

LIBRARY POLICIES


Choose from one of the categories above to view the various resources.

Library Cards



Anyone who lives, works, or owns property in Matawan or Aberdeen may apply for a library card at the circulation desk. Proper identification and a signed application are required. Students become eligible for adult cards in seventh grade. Those children who are younger require a parent's signature on their application. Non-residents who are not eligible for an LMxAC library card may purchase a MAPL library card for $30 ($15 for seniors) renewed annually.

PROOF OF RESIDENCE GUIDELINES

The following documents may be accepted as proof of Matawan or Aberdeen residence when obtaining a library card or renewing an expired card:

(The patron should present the expiring card, if available, and one other proof of residence. If the proof of residence is not a photo ID, then a second ID may be required.)

  • New Jersey driver’s license
  • Lease
  • Utility bill or credit card statement
  • Imprinted check or bank statement
  • Current pay stub with imprinted address
  • Children up to 7th grade must be accompanied by a parent with proof of residence.
  • Students in grade 7 and up must show their school-issued photo ID and present one of the above documents provided by a parent.


All identification listed above must be current and must include name and a Matawan or Aberdeen (including Cliffwood and Cliffwood Beach) street address. (If the applicant has a Matawan street address, but pays taxes to Old Bridge, he/she will need to go to the Old Bridge Public Library to obtain a card.)

Updated 3/9/2023

Borrowing



Materials Loan Period Renewal Limit if not on hold
Most Books 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times None
New Adult Books 2 Weeks Yes, 2 times None
Adult Magazines 2 Weeks Yes, 2 times None
Books on CD, Playaways 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 5
Music CDs 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 5
DVDs Most - 3 days
TV Series - 7 days
Instructional - 7 days
No 2 per Adult Card, (18 yrs. or older)
Chromebooks 2 Weeks Yes, 1 time 1 per Adult Card
YA Playaway Views 3 Weeks No 1 per Adult Card
Children's Books 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 3 per subject, author,
series, holiday
Children's Summer Reading 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 3 per subject, author,
series, holiday
Children's Magazines 2 Weeks Yes, 2 times None
Children's books on CD, CDs,
and Playaways
3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 2
Children's Read-a-longs 3 Weeks Yes, 2 times 2
Children's Playaway Launchpads 3 Weeks No 1 per Adult Card
Children's Playaway Views 3 Weeks Yes, 1 time 1 per Adult Card
Children's Educational Games 3 Weeks Yes, 1 time 1 per Adult Card
Wonderbooks 3 Weeks No 1 per Card (Adult or Child)

Updated 3/9/2023

Returning



  • An outdoor book return is located in the parking lot behind the library and may be used at any time. The book return is emptied once a day. There is also a return at the Circulation desk.
  • DVDs, CDs, Playaways, and Playaway Views should be returned to the Circulation desk or the dedicated AV box next to the outdoor book return.
Updated 3/9/2023

Lost Cards



  • Identification is required to get a replacement library card. See the Library Card Policy Proof of Residence Guidelines for details.
Updated 3/9/2023

Renewing Loans



  • Library materials may be renewed in person, by phone, or online as long as they are not on hold for someone else.
  • Most materials may be renewed up to 2 times, with the following exceptions:
    • Playaway Launchpads, DVDs, Playaway Views, and Wonderbooks cannot be renewed.
    • Chromebooks can be renewed 1 time.

Updated 3/9/2023

Placing Reserves



  • You may reserve a book online.
  • You may call the library during operating hours to ask that a book be reserved for you.
  • You may also fill out a reserve card in the library.
  • There is no charge for placing reserves.
updated 3/9/2023

Interlibrary Loans



  • Items not owned by the library may often be borrowed from other libraries at no charge.
  • Lending policies may not be the same for all libraries
  • See a librarian to make a request.
Updated 3/9/2023

Overdue Materials



All library materials are now fine free, with the following exceptions:

  • Museum passes have an overdue fine of $5.00 per day. If the pass is not returned or if it is stolen, lost, or damaged, the patron will be charged the cost of replacement.  

  • Chromebooks have an overdue fine of $5.00 per day. Chromebooks not returned after 28 days will be assumed lost and the borrower will be charged the replacement cost. Patrons are responsible for costs associated with loss or damage of Chromebooks and/or cords, cases, etc.

Delinquent patron accounts (showing previous fines or lost materials) are blocked at $5.00. Patrons must pay the replacement cost for any lost item billed to their account. The library does not accept in-kind replacements. The fine free policy does not apply to lost materials.


Updated 3/9/2023

Collection Development Statement

The Matawan-Aberdeen Public Library strives to maintain a balanced collection, consisting of subjects of interest to our community. The library carefully considers all collection development decisions before purchasing items by reviewing professional journals such as Publisher’s Weekly, Library Journal, School Library Journal, and The Horn Book. The Library’s membership in the Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium (LMxAC) enables our patrons to borrow materials from 30 other local libraries, either in person or through interlibrary loan. There is also access to collections in other libraries throughout the state via JerseyCat, a service provided by the New Jersey State Library. The Library staff is happy to assist with interlibrary loans, or consider requests for additions to our collection.

The Matawan-Aberdeen Public Library carefully considers all collection development decisions before discarding items. In order to keep our collections fresh and interesting, items that are outdated, in poor condition, or do not circulate often are discarded. Other factors, such as an item's availability at other libraries, and overall balance in our collection are also considered.

The Matawan Aberdeen Public Library Board of Trustees, the library director, and staff believe that the freedom to read is a human right and an integral part of the First Amendment of the US Constitution. We endorse the Freedom to Read statement of the American Library Association. We oppose efforts to censor any content.

Any additional questions regarding the library's collections should be directed to Kimberly Paone, Library Director (732-583-9100, kpaone@lmxac.org).

Adopted by the Board of Trustees, December 7, 2018. [Revised January 11, 2023]

Notary Public Services


  • The Matawan Aberdeen Public Library does not currently provide Notary Public services. Please see a Librarian for local Notary Public options.

Updated 2/16/2024

Exam Proctoring


  • Due to space and staff limitations, we do not offer proctoring services.

Updated 3/9/3023

Use of Recording Devices



  • Filming and photography are prohibited on library property unless permission has been granted by the Library Director.
Updated 3//9/2023

Confidentiality

The Board of Trustees of the Matawan Aberdeen Public Library supports the basic premise that every individual has the right to read what he or she wishes without fear of censure or legal consequences. MAPL will protect each user’s right to confidentiality with respect to all information required for registration, information sought or received, and materials consulted, borrowed, or acquired.
Exceptions to this policy are provided in N.J.S.A. 18A:73-43:2:
Library records which contain the names or other personally identifying details regarding the users of libraries are confidential and shall not be disclosed except in the following circumstances:

  1. The records are necessary for the proper operation of the library
  2. Disclosure is requested by the user; or
  3. Disclosure is required pursuant to a subpoena issued by a court or court order
L.1985, c.172,2, eff. May 31, 1985

Exceptions to this policy are also contained within the US Patriot Act, adopted by Congress on October 26, 2001. This Act enlarges the ability of the FBI and law enforcement officers to request court orders, including search warrants and court-ordered subpoenas.
Examples of when records may be disclosed for proper operation of the Library include, but are not limited to: correspondence with a collection agency to retrieve overdue materials or fines, discussions concerning borrowing and overdue status with other libraries the patron may be using, and inter-library loan requests. Also, registration information may be used in cases of theft or vandalism, if there is a need to contact parents of school-aged patrons, or in circumstances of illegal use of MAPL’s Internet resources (see MAPL’s Public Internet Use Policy).

Any questions or problems relating to the confidentiality of Library records that are not covered by this policy (or other policies referred to above) should be referred to the Library Director. As necessary, these questions will be discussed with the Library Board of Trustees and the Library’s attorney.
Nothing in this policy shall be construed to limit the public’s right to access under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA).

Procedure for Responding to Requests for Confidential Information

If the staff is approached by a person making a request for confidential records (registration or usage records, computer or reference use, etc.), the following steps will be taken:

  1. The staff member receiving the request will immediately refer the person making that request to the Library Director. If the Director is not available, the staff member will locate a senior staff member (Department Head or Librarian). At the same time, the staff member will notify the Director by telephone, if possible.
  2. The Director or senior staff member (as outlined above) will verify and record the identity of the person asking for the confidential materials. Then, the Director or senior staff member will explain the Confidentiality Policy and make a copy available.
  3. If the Director or senior staff member receives a subpoena, search warrant, or other court-ordered process, the Library’s attorney will be notified to determine if the request is properly prepared in accordance with local, State, or Federal regulations.
  4. If the process, order, subpoena, or warrant is not in proper form, the Director must insist that any problems be rectified before any records can be released.
  5. Any threats or unauthorized demands (those not properly supported by the necessary legal forms) concerning confidential information will be reported to the Director. Such threats or demands will be reported to the Library’s attorney and President of the Library Board.
  6. Any problems or questions relating to this policy that are not addressed above, will be referred to the Director.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees, March 14, 2012. [Revised May 9, 2012; Reviewed March 9, 2018] Updated April 12, 2023.

Standards of Acceptable Behavior

All patrons of the Matawan Aberdeen Public Library are expected to use the Library and its resources in a responsible, lawful, and courteous manner. To better serve all Library patrons, the Library Board of Trustees has established the following standards of acceptable behavior to maintain an atmosphere which promotes the use and enjoyment of the resources and services of the Library and which protects the safety of the general public, the Library staff, and the equipment and materials of the Library.

Any activity which interferes with the rights of other patrons to use the Library, which disrupts Library operations, could result in physical, emotional, or mental injury to oneself or others, or in damage to the facilities, equipment, material, or Library property and grounds will be considered disruptive and unacceptable.

Conduct not acceptable in the Library or on Library grounds includes, but is not limited to:

  • Engaging in any activity in violation of Federal, State, local, or other applicable law or Library policy.
  • Using behavior disruptive to the legitimate use of the Library. This includes disorderly conduct, noise, or activity, whether intentional or inadvertent, that interferes with the rights of others, physical abuse, abusive or threatening language, misuse of Library equipment or furnishings, and/or the Library staff’s performance of their duties.
  • Using any behavior that disturbs other patrons; for example: talking loudly, staring, or using offensive language.
  • Using audible devices set at a volume that disturbs others.
  • Using cell phones and other communication devices. Cell phone audible notifications/ringtones must be turned off.
  • Using any behavior that presents an imminent danger to the life or safety of others, including intentional non-emergency activation of alarmed exits or fire alarms.
  • Carrying any instrument which could reasonably and commonly be classified as a weapon or a dangerous instrument, or could be reasonably used as means of aggression or defense against another, into the Library or onto Library grounds, unless authorized by law to do so. Any person authorized to carry a weapon must notify Library staff of that fact.
  • Soliciting, gambling, or panhandling, including distributing printed materials, signing petitions or conducting surveys not authorized by the Library.
  • Sleeping, except for young children under the supervision of a parent or caregiver.
  • Neglecting to provide proper supervision of children.
  • Running, jumping, yelling, or climbing on Library property.
  • Littering.
  • Consumption of tobacco products, smoking, vaping, or aerosolizing of cannabis products, or the use of alcohol, or any drug constituting a controlled dangerous substance as defined by New Jersey law. Intoxicated persons or those under the influence of any substance, will not be permitted in the Library or will be subject to removal from the Library.
  • Bringing animals, insects, and other living organisms into the Library, other than service animals necessary for disabilities, except as authorized by the Library Director.
  • Using wheeled devices in the Library or on Library grounds including, but not limited to: skateboards, roller-skates, rollerblades, bicycles, scooters, and shopping carts. Exceptions include wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

Patrons are required to wear a shirt and shoes in the Library. Patrons who present a health hazard shall be required to leave the building.

No person may use the lavatory facilities other than for ordinary and usual use. Bathing and laundering clothes are specifically not permitted.

Library management has the discretion to discard personal items left unattended on Library property in order to preserve a safe environment for Library patrons, volunteers, and staff.

All bags and other articles are subject to inspection by Library staff members. The Library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items brought into the Library.

All patrons must leave the Library premises by closing time, when evacuation of the building is necessary, or at any time when requested to do so by Library personnel.

Violation of Standards of Acceptable Behavior:

In the event that a patron violates any of these rules, a staff member will tell the individual that their behavior violates the Standards of Acceptable Behavior, and that it must stop.

If the individual continues the behavior, a staff member will inform the patron that they will be asked to leave the Library if the behavior does not stop immediately.

If the behavior persists, they will be asked to leave the Library. If the patron refuses, the police will be called to remove the patron from the premises. Under no circumstances will a Library employee touch the patron. The staff member who interacts with the patron, and any staff members who witness the interaction, will complete an incident report.

A patron may be suspended from the Library for a specific amount of time. This decision will be made by the Library Director. Notice of the suspension will be delivered by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by overnight courier with delivery confirmed to the last known address of the patron or, in the case of a minor child, to the parents or guardians. A copy of the letter shall be kept on file at the Library.

Appeal of the suspension may be made, in writing, to the Board of Trustees, Matawan Aberdeen Public Library, 165 Main Street, Matawan, NJ, 07747, within ten (10) days of receipt of notice of suspension. The patron, or in the case of a minor child, the parents or guardians, will be notified by the Board of the date and time of the hearing on the notice of appeal. At the hearing, the Board of Trustees may determine to lift, continue, modify, or extend the period of suspension.

Multiple activities violating the Standards of Acceptable Behavior executed by the same offender will be considered the second or third offense, even if the action is different.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees, February 9, 2012. Updated May 10, 2023.

Supervision of Children

The Matawan Aberdeen Public Library encourages all children to visit the Library and use its resources. The MAPL Standards of Acceptable Behavior apply to library users of all ages, and are in place to create a safe environment for all.

Parents need to be aware that the Library is a public facility and that it is open to all individuals. It is not the function or purpose of library personnel to supervise or care for children while parents, guardians, or caregivers are outside the Library, or while the adult is occupied elsewhere in the Library. Children visiting the Library should be supervised for their own safety and the consideration of other patrons.

The following guidelines have been established to insure the safety and well-being of children visiting the Library:

  • No child under the age of 10 may be left alone in the Library or on the Library premises for any reason. Children 9 years of age or younger must be supervised by a caregiver aged 14 or over at all times.
  • If a child attends a Library program without a parent/caregiver in the room, the parent/caregiver is expected to remain in the Library building and immediately join the child at the end of the program.
  • If a parent of a child under 10 years of age cannot be located within the Library building, and is not reachable by phone, the police will be called.
  • Children aged 10 and older may be left alone in the Library for reasonable periods of time. This time may vary with the child's maturity. Parents are still responsible for the actions and well-being of their child. Children behaving inappropriately may be asked to leave the Library, in accordance with the Standards of Acceptable Behavior. Should problems arise, the Library will attempt to contact a parent or guardian.
  • If a child requires close supervision or constant individual attention, regardless of age, the child should not use the library on their own.
  • If a child is not allowed to leave the Library without an adult, the child should not be in the Library alone. This is a particular concern in inclement weather and after dark.
  • All children should have the telephone number of someone who can assist them in an emergency.
  • Teenagers (ages 13-18) are treated as adult users. However, they are still legally the responsibility of their parents.
  • Parents/caregivers must be aware of the opening and closing times of the Library. All children should be picked up or have arrangements to leave the Library at or before closing time.
  • If a child has not been picked up within 15 minutes after closing time, the police will be called.

As a public agency, the Library serves in the best interest of the welfare of all children. The Library is required by law to notify the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) in the event of suspected abuse or neglect of any child. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • mistreatment of a child
  • lack of proper supervision of a child, or
  • repeatedly leaving a child unattended at the Library.
    • Approved by the Board of Trustees, March 14, 2012. Updated April 12, 2023.

Public Internet Use

The Matawan Aberdeen Public Library (“Library”) empowers patrons by offering opportunities both by accessing the broadest range of information created by others and by the sharing of information. Digital resources enhance the ability of the Library to fulfill this responsibility. One such resource is the Internet, to which the Library provides free access to all cardholders in good standing. Internet access is provided via our computer workstations as well as through wireless connection. The Library affirms the right of all patron users, regardless of age, to use the Internet in a safe and confidential manner.

The Internet is an unregulated, interactive medium with a highly diverse user population. It contains vast amounts of useful and valuable information. It also contains content that is inaccurate, misleading and offensive. The Library does not control information accessed through the Internet and cannot be held responsible for its content. Patrons are responsible for the content that they access. Parents are responsible for the safe use of Library computers by their children. The Library does not filter content on its computers or provide filtering software. Provision of Internet service does not imply that the Library endorses or approves of any material accessed.

The Library is not responsible for any damages resulting from use of the Library's computers or the Library's connection to the Internet, nor can it guarantee privacy of any Internet sessions. The Library reserves the right to suspend a user's privileges due to illegal usage or for any violation of this Policy.

Internet and Computer Use Guidelines

  • Patrons must have a valid Matawan Aberdeen Public Library card or a valid card from an LMxAC library to use Internet computers. Visitors who are not eligible for an LMxAC library card may obtain an Internet Access card after showing a valid ID. Patrons must use their own Library card to access the computers. Sharing of cards for this purpose is not permitted and could result in the suspension of computer use privileges for the cardholder.
  • Patrons with overdue fines in excess of $5.00 will be blocked from computer use until the fines have been paid.
  • There is a limit of 90 minutes of computer time per person per day. This 90 minute usage period includes any time spent on a SAM computer (Internet station) at any LMxAC library in a given day. Additional 45 minute sessions may be provided as long as there are at least 2 available computer stations. The Library cannot guarantee that usage time can be extended beyond the original 90 minute allotment.
  • As with other Library materials, parents or guardians are responsible for the Internet information selected or accessed by their children. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or a caregiver aged 14 or over, while using an Internet computer. (See also: MAPL’s Supervision of Children Policy.)
  • Printing and downloading of materials from the Internet is permitted as long as it does not violate copyright laws or established licensing agreements. Users may not download or save files or software to the computer’s hard drive. Downloads should be made directly to a flash drive. The Library has flash drives ($3.00) available for purchase at the Computer Assistance desk. Any files stored temporarily on the desktop must be removed before the end of the user’s session.
  • Users may print information from the workstations at the cost of $.15 per black and white page and $.35 per color page. Users should be aware of the size of the document they are printing. Users must add money to their Library account before printing, and are financially responsible for all printouts. Users should preview their print selections prior to printing. No refunds are given after pages have been printed.
  • Computer Assistants are available to assist patrons Patrons who require extensive help are encouraged to ask about computer classes and one-on-one sessions offered at the Library. The Reference Librarians are also available to help navigate the Library’s website, to troubleshoot computer hardware and the Library’s software, to assist with electronic library resources, or to help with printing questions.
  • The Library cannot guarantee privacy and security for any user. Personal information such as addresses, credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, etc. may be intercepted and misused if transferred electronically. Patrons should use caution when accessing personal and financial information, especially emails, bank accounts, credit card information, etc. The Library is not responsible for damage that may result from information accessed, transferred or downloaded by the user.
  • Patrons must respect copyright laws and established licensing agreements and abide by general Internet conduct.
  • No patron may disclose personal information about a minor through interactive online media, i.e., email, chat, etc. Illegal or criminal activity utilizing the Internet is prohibited. Such illegal or criminal activity includes, but is not limited the following: hacking, uploading or downloading computer viruses, sexual exploitation of minors, online stalking or harassment.
  • Users may not charge to or impose any charges upon the Library through Internet usage or by access to fee-for-service information providers. The Library is not responsible for any software or shareware fees incurred through downloading of software by patron users. Patrons may not attempt to circumvent or compromise the Library’s web security software. Behavior which jeopardizes the Library’s account or access to resources or attempts to tamper with the Library’s web security will result in revocation of Internet use privileges.
  • The Library reserves the right to cancel any patron’s session or to deny access to computers by patrons who violate this Internet Policy, the Library’s Acceptable Behavior Policy or engage in illegal or criminal activities. In the case of serious, deliberate damage to the Library computer systems or illegal or criminal activities, the Library reserves the right to contact law enforcement. The Library also reserves the right to modify this Policy and guidelines as necessary to ensure the fair, safe and reasonable use of the Internet.


Adopted by the Board of Trustees, May 9, 2012. Updated November 12, 2014. Updated March 9, 2016. Updated January 11, 2023.

Chromebook Lending Policy

To increase access to the Internet and the library's digital resources, especially among our community’s senior population, the Matawan Aberdeen Public Library is pleased to offer a Chromebook lending program. Each of the five (5) Chromebooks available for loan are embedded with a Wi-Fi hotspot for ease of use where no Internet connection is available.

Eligibility

Chromebooks may be checked out by adult residents, with a valid Matawan Aberdeen Public Library card in good standing.

Loan Period and Holds

Chromebooks can be borrowed for up to fourteen (14) days. One renewal is allowed if no one has the item on hold at time of renewal. Chromebooks can be placed on hold at the library, by phone, or online. Once a Chromebook becomes available, it must be picked up within seven (7) days of notification of availability or the item will go to the next customer in the queue. Borrowers may not borrow a Chromebook for two or more consecutive loan periods.

Restrictions

Only one Chromebook can be borrowed per household at one time.
Chromebooks must be picked up and returned directly to the Computer Assistance desk, located in the Reference room at the front of the library.
Chromebooks must never be placed in library’s book drop - they could be damaged and the borrower will be responsible for replacement costs.
Overdue Chromebooks will be have the Wi-Fi hotspot deactivated.
Matawan Aberdeen Public Library reserves the right to terminate Chromebook borrowing privileges from borrowers who damage, abuse, or lose equipment, or who are repeatedly late in returning the device.

Fines & Liability

The overdue fine is $5 per day. Chromebooks not returned after 28 days will be assumed-lost and the borrower will be charged the replacement cost.
Patrons are responsible for costs associated with loss or damage of Chromebooks and/or cords, cases, etc.

Need help?

Assistance with the device is available from Matawan Aberdeen Public Library Computer Tech Assistants in person, via email, or via phone. Please call 732-583-9100 or email techQ@lmxac.org if you have questions.

If a technical issue arises, the borrower should return the device immediately to the Matawan Aberdeen Public Library Computer Assistance desk. A Matawan Aberdeen Public Library staff member will assess the issue and either issue a new device or return the corrected device to the borrower. The lending period will be extended to account for any days spent without the device due to a technical issue.

Disclaimer

Matawan Aberdeen Public Library is not responsible for any liability, damages, or expense resulting from use or misuse of the Chromebook, connection of the Chromebook’s Wi-Fi hotspot, or data loss resulting from use of the Chromebook.


Matawan Aberdeen Public Library is not responsible for the information accessed, obtained, or disseminated while using the Chromebook. Any actions that lead to criminal prosecution are the responsibility of the borrower, not Matawan Aberdeen Public Library.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees, August 12, 2021



































Copyright © 2017-2024 Matawan Aberdeen Public Library