Policies & Use
Below is a list of some of our most commonly referenced policies. All policies are adopted by the Berkeley Public Library's Board of Trustees. Physical copies of policies are available for review at the library upon request.
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General Policies provide the library's hours, observed holidays, and describe general use of the library including basic restrictions/limitations. Last revised April 2024.
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Patron Policy defines the roles and responsibilities patrons have to ensure a safe and welcoming library. Last revised September 2022.
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Facility Use Policy defines public use of library facilities including meeting rooms and includes limitations and restrictions. Last revised April 2024. (See also: online use application form).
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Circulation Policy provides details on the lending of library materials including through interlibrary loan and reciprocal borrowing. Last revised March 2025. (See also: the library's Loan Rule Chart)
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Youth Policy includes information about library service to youth and defines the responsibilities of both parents/caregivers as well as library staff. Approved July 2024.
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Donations Policy gives valuable information if you're thinking of giving materials or monetarily to the library. Last revised July 2023.
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Reference & Readers' Advisory Policy insures all patrons receive the same level of assistance when requesting information, books, and referral service. Last revised April 2025.
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Technology Policy provides information and restrictions for the public use of library equipment including WiFi, public computers, and more. Last revised August 2023.
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Collection Development Policy (pdf, 2023) is an important document that describes both how materials will be chosen to add to the library's collections as well as how library staff manage the maintenance and weeding of those collections. See also the 'Request for Consideration' form.
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Homebound Policy describes the library's effort to ensure the homebound within Berkeley have access to materials and services. Last revised July 2019.
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Lost & Found Policy provides information for lost and unclaimed items found at the Library. Last revised May 2023.
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Security Camera Policy provides information about security cameras in use at the library. Approved April 2025.
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In addition, the Berkeley Library also strongly supports the following from the American Library Association (ALA):
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