PLUMB LIBRARY RULES
We try our best to keep the rules simple:
- Here are the loan periods for library material:
| Books, Audiobooks, Kits, Magazines | 2 weeks, 2 renewals |
| DVDs | 1 week, 1 renewal |
| Hotspots, MOBY kits, Library of Things | 1 week, no renewals |
| Museum Passes | 1 day, no renewals |
- All library material may be checked out on any library card, regardless of the age of the cardholder with the exception of museum passes which may only be checked out on an adult’s library card.
- DVDs are limited to 5 per card.
- Items, except for equipment and museum passes, will be automatically renewed, unless there are holds on the item, or you have fines over $10. If you are receiving emails or text messages from SAILS, you will be alerted when your item has been renewed. You may still renew in person or by phone during library hours, or via our online catalog. You should have your card with you when you renew items. Those with personal devices can download the free SAILS app, which will allow you to check your account, renew items, place holds, or pay fines with debit or credit card.
- Reference and historical material are available for use in the library only.
- Any Rochester resident is entitled to a library card. Children under 13 need the approval of a parent. When applying for a card, all applicants must provide proof of address.
- There are no library fines for overdue books, DVDs, magazines, and audiobooks that are owned by the Plumb Library when they are returned. There may be fines for other items owned by the Plumb Library as well as items owned by other public libraries returned at the Plumb Library.
Art Displays
The library’s downstairs art display space, when available, may be used by individuals and organizations to display materials of a cultural and artistic nature. In accordance with the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and its interpretation pertaining to exhibit spaces, the library neither endorses nor advocates the viewpoints of the artwork or the artists.
Promotion of library art exhibits may be done by both the artist and the library staff. The library staff is not responsible for promoting or providing for a library opening reception planned by the artist who is reserving the meeting room.
Art may be displayed at the discretion of the director for a period not to exceed one month.
Display space will be determined by the library director. Generally, it is limited to the downstairs event and meeting space.
The artist is responsible for both setting up and removing the display. The library is not responsible for the loss or damage of any item on display, although reasonable safety and security precautions will be taken by the staff to secure the artist’s property in accordance with facility general procedures. Great care should be taken not to damage any library material, surface, art or artifact already in the building. The artist is responsible for any damage to objects or surfaces. The Library reserves the right to move any art content if necessary.
The library director reserves the right to remove or refuse any material.
The artist agrees to refrain from commercial advertisement. Business cards of the exhibitor may be left in the library for patrons. Prices of items may be included in a list at the circulation desk but library staff will not be involved in sales. Purchasers must work directly with the artist.
Bulletin Board
It is part of the library’s function to provide access to intellectual and cultural resources to the community. Thus, the Plumb Memorial Library welcomes community groups, organizations and individuals to use the display area and the public bulletin board of the library. Space is provided for items of an educational, cultural, civic, or recreational nature, rather than for commercial or political purposes.
The community bulletin board may be used for the following types of information:
- Postings of forthcoming educational, social, civic, charitable, cultural, or recreational activities.
- Postings by nonprofit organizations, groups or agencies providing services to citizens.
- Posting announcing community services and volunteer opportunities.
- Nonpartisan election information, such as provided by the League of Women Voters.
- Postings by any federal, state, or local government agency providing services to citizens.
- Legal notices and job postings from the Town of Rochester.
- Election information provided by the Secretary of State or local town clerk’s office.
Bulletin boards MAY NOT be used for the following types of information:
- Commercial notices, solicitations, business cards, job postings, and retail advertising.
- Personal notices of items for sale.
- Personal solicitations for fundraisers (ie. Walkathons, road races, etc.)
- Materials that support or oppose any political candidate or ballot measure.
- Materials that support or oppose a specific religious conviction.
- Petitions will not be posted, distributed, or placed within the Library.
Posting Guidelines
- Individuals are invited to post notices without prior approval, as long as they meet the criteria of acceptable information (see above); however, the Library reserves the right to remove materials judged to be inconsistent with this policy.
- Due to limited space, the Library reserves the right to prioritize the items that are posted based on community interest and timeliness of the event. Postings larger than 8 ½ x 11” may not be accepted.
- Postings without a specific date will be removed after 30 days or as space is needed.
- When space is needed, events and information specifically concerning Rochester will take priority.
- Once notices are removed they are discarded and cannot be saved for future pickup.
- All areas of the Library aside from the community bulletin board are reserved for distribution of Library material only.
- No notices may be displayed or posted on the outside of the Library building.
- Postings of materials does not imply Library endorsement or consent, nor will the Library accept responsibility for the accuracy of the statements made in such materials.
Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees on June 12, 2025
Our Mission
It is the mission of the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library to make available to the people of the town of Rochester a center which provides information, entertainment, education, and enrichment. We seek to provide these services to all segments of the community, and to all age groups. Our collection will reflect the wants and needs of the whole community, and we will make available, as best we can, material in many formats and reflecting many points of view. The Trustees and staff are committed to intellectual freedom, and support the Library Bill of Rights.
In keeping with the mission of the Plumb Library, the Board of Trustees have adopted this policy regarding collection development and materials selection.
Responsibility for Selection
The Board of Trustees delegates to the Library Director the authority and responsibility for selection and maintenance of all library materials. The Library Director will select material based on the wants and needs of the community as a whole, and taking into account the goals and objectives of the library. The Library Director will use their best judgment for selection, based on daily observation of circulation trends, reference questions, and library circulation statistics, as well as patron requests and interlibrary loan activity.
General Selection Criteria
- Present and potential relevance to community needs
- Sustainability of physical form for library use
- Suitability of subject and style for intended audience
- Cost
- Importance as a document of the times
- Relation to the existing collection and to other materials on the subject
- Attention by critics and reviewers
- Potential user appeal
- Requests by library patrons
Specific Selection Criteria
It is the goal of the Plumb Library to provide its users with a well-rounded, balanced collection of materials consisting of information on all major subject areas and all genres of fiction. As we cater to many age and interest levels, we cannot specialize in any particular area, but will strive to improve areas where material is lacking. Most types of material will be considered for purchase; the following are guidelines for specific types of material:
- TEXTBOOKS: The library will not generally purchase textbooks. Due to their specialized nature and their expense, they do not fit the criteria for the collection. Texts given as gifts may be added in specific areas where there is a need and where the information is current.
- FRAGILE MATERIALS: The library will not generally purchase materials that are fragile in nature or that require unique packaging or specialized treatment. These might include toy/moveable/pop-up books for children or adults; books with special inserts or removable pages; books with “fill in the blanks” type pages, etc. Exceptions may be made on an individual basis, especially if the fragile material is part of the library’s historical collection.
- DVDS: The library will purchase as interest and space allows. Ratings are not considered when purchasing.
- TIMELY MATERIAL: The library tries to fill the immediate informational needs of its patrons while maintaining its goal of providing them with material of lasting value. If interest is substantial, we will purchase titles on subjects of fleeting interest.
- CONTROVERSIAL MATERIALS: The library will collect materials on all subjects regardless of their perceived appropriateness by any individual or group. Controversial but important subjects (for example: sex education, abortion, witchcraft, etc.) will be added as needed, based on reviews and striving for balance. No library material will be shelved separately or restricted based on its subject matter. The Board of Trustees and staff support intellectual freedom and have adopted the philosophy expressed in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights. Parents are ultimately responsible for the material their children use within the library and the material they take home. The library does not act in loco parentis. Patrons wishing to challenge the library’s selection decisions should consult the guidelines set forth in this document for dealing with challenged materials (see final section).
- GIFTS: The library accepts gifts of materials of all kinds. Please refer to the library’s Gift Policy for requirements and restrictions.
- LOCAL AUTHORS: Local authors publishing material of interest to the community will be purchased, or their books accepted as gifts.
- SPECIAL COLLECTIONS: The library seeks to provide its patrons access to a collection of historical and genealogical important materials relating to the town of Rochester & surrounding towns, as well as Rochester families. Such material will be offered for in-house use, and ongoing maintenance and preservation of such materials will be a high priority. The library welcomes all additions of locally pertinent material to this collection.
Resource Sharing
The Plumb Memorial Library is a member of the SAILS Library Network, an automated resource sharing network of public, academic, school, and special libraries covering a wide geographic area in the south coast area of Massachusetts. Shared digital collections provide online access to a variety of ebooks, audiobooks, and streaming video. A weekday delivery system ensures availability of physical materials. For patrons with needs beyond the local library and the SAILS network, the Commonwealth Catalog allows access to materials in libraries throughout the Commonwealth. Cooperative interlibrary loan agreements allow access to materials outside of Massachusetts throughout the United States.
Collection Maintenance
The entire collection will be evaluated, maintained, and weeded on a continuous basis throughout the year. The systematic removal of materials that are in poor physical condition, contain obsolete, misleading, or superseded information, or are no longer of relevance to the interests of the community is an essential part of maintaining an effective, relevant, and vibrant library collection. Items that have not circulated at all for 3-5 years will be strong candidates for weeding due to space constraints. Older items with low circulation will be considered as well. Items in poor condition will be weeded from the collection and replaced as necessary. “Classic” titles should be replaced whenever possible; other titles should be replaced if they circulated well and/or the budget allows. If subject areas will be depleted by the weeding process, priority will be given to collecting new material in that area.
Any materials discarded will be screened through the Better World Books portal, sold at the Friends Book Sale or, in the case of juvenile and young adult titles, donated to classrooms in the area before being donated to local charities or discarded altogether. Circulation will be evaluated using analytics reports compiled by the director and by SAILS.
Procedures for Dealing with Challenged Materials
Any patron or community member who lives in Rochester can request that materials in the collection be reconsidered. The following steps will be taken when a patron has a concern:
- If the patron feels comfortable, they should discuss the matter with the Library Director, who is responsible for material selection. They might also bring the matter to the attention of a member of the Board of Trustees. Many concerns may be alleviated if the patron understands the collection policy and selection process.
- The patron should fill out a “Request for Reconsideration” if they believe the material should be removed or restricted in some way.
- Copies of the form, along with the material in question, will be forwarded to the Board of Trustees for their evaluation and consideration.
- At the next meeting of the Board, the Library Director and Board will review the complaint and the material in light of the library’s selection policy, and taking into account the ALA’s Freedom to Read statement and the Library Bill of Rights.
- After a decision has been made regarding the material, the complainant will be notified of the Board’s decision and the material will be handled according to that decision. The complainant may appeal the decision based on the guidelines set forth in the ALA’s Intellectual Freedom Manual.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on January 1998
Revised on February 11, 2006
Revised on June 10, 2016
Revised on December 6, 2022
Revised on March 14, 2024
Revised on January 13, 2026
Plumb Library will go “fine free” as of August 1, 2021, by vote by the Board of Library Trustees.
Overdue fines will be waived for the following items:
- Books
- Magazines
- DVDs
- Audiobooks
- Games
Overdue fines will still be charged for:
- Wifi Hotspots
- Museum Passes
- Telescope
- Ukulele Kit
- MOBY backpacks
- Snowshoes
- Voltage meter
Fines levied before March 15, 2020 will still be owed.
Books overdue more than 45 days past the last due date will be declared “Lost”, and the patron’s account will be Blocked until the item is either returned, paid for, or a suitable replacement can be found.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on July 15, 2021
Revised December 6, 2022
1. Policy
a. The Plumb Memorial Library and the Board of Library Trustees, within referenced as “the Board”, welcomes proposals for gifts of money and materials, consistent with its policies and the goals and objectives of the library. All donations are subject to M.G.L. c. 78 section 11 which states, “The Board shall have the custody and management of the library and reading room and of all property owned by the town relating thereto. All money raised or appropriated by the town for its support and maintenance shall be expended by the Board, and all money or property which the town may receive by gift or bequest for said library and reading room shall be administered by the Board in accordance with the provisions of such gift or bequest.” The Library Director is responsible for applicable documentation related to gifts provided to the library.
b. Upon request, the library will provide a receipt for donation but cannot assess the value of any item.
c. Memorial or honorary gifts, where deemed appropriate by the Library Director, will have a gift plate naming the donor/ honoree and acknowledgement will be sent to the honoree or family of the deceased.
2. Unrestricted Gifts
a. The Library Director has the discretion from the Board to determine the disposition, declination, or allowance of unconditional or unrestricted proposed donations. The Board may be consulted by the Library Director as needed.
b. Donated materials, not subject to restrictions, may be sold and the proceeds used for the benefit of the library (e.g., Friends of the Library’s Book Sales).
3. Restricted Gifts
a. To comply with M.G.L. c. 78 section 11 all gifts are considered unconditional and unrestricted. Restricted gifts must have agreed upon terms and conditions in a written agreement between the donor and the Board. Prior to full execution of the written agreement, the restrictions must be discussed at a Board of Trustee meeting to allow for discussion as required by the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. The donor is recommended to be in attendance for discussion with the Board. It will be determined by the Board if there is an ad hoc need for inclusion of other Rochester Town Officials (e.g., Board of Selectmen or Town Administrator). After discussion and following the Open Meeting Law requirements, the restricted gift can then be voted upon by the Board and must obtain a passing vote to move forward with full execution of the written agreement.
b. Verbal agreements do not comply with this policy.
c. The Library Director, individual Library Trustees, nor other Town Officials have the authority to agree to Restricted Gift terms and conditions made to the library.
4. Gift Categories
a. Books and Other Materials
Books, periodicals, audio-visual, computer, and other materials in good condition. Acceptance and utilization of donated materials is at the discretion of the library. The library does not accept textbooks, or encyclopedias.
b. Art and Decorative Objects
Gifts of art, furnishings and other decorative objects may be accepted for use in the library if such gifts are compatible with the library’s needs, facilities and purpose. The acceptance of a gift does not imply that the object will be retained by or displayed at the library.
c. Monetary Gifts
The library is pleased to receive monetary gifts which will be used to further the purposes of the library. All monetary gifts will be documented appropriately in the library’s financial records. See section on Restricted Gifts for information related to terms and conditions around monetary gifts.
d. Permanent Structures
According to M.G.L. c. 78 section 11, the Board is responsible for the property related to library grounds that is owned by the town. Any structure permanently affixed to the grounds becomes the responsibility of and owned by the library. The library can use, remove, or alter the structure as they see fit. Any potential content within a structure is required to be maintained by the library, unless otherwise documented in a written agreement approved by the Board. See section on Restricted Gifts.
The Board of Library Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on March 8, 2008
Reaffirmed on September 28, 2023
Revised on December 12, 2023
The Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library maintains a collection of historical materials available for use in local historic and genealogical research. This collection includes items that have been purchased by or donated to the library, copies of local church records, and materials belonging to the Rochester Historical Society. This collection represents a unique resource for users researching Rochester’s history.
As part of the overall mission of the library, archival and research-significant materials have been collected, preserved, exhibited (when possible), and made available to users. The library maintains this collection in order to preserve the vital history of the Town of Rochester while considering the research value of the items. The collection pertains mainly to Rochester and the “daughter towns” of Marion, Mattapoisett, and Wareham, but also contains histories and genealogies from across Massachusetts and New England.
When adding items to the collection, emphasis is placed on printed materials about Rochester and its citizens, photographs or artwork depicting local scenes, and other materials or artifacts pertaining to life in town. Due to lack of physical space and archivally-appropriate storage options, the library will not collect oversized objects or those with special storage needs. Donated items will be acknowledged in writing by the Library Director and donor information will be kept on file.
When possible, materials in this collection will be cataloged, labeled, and stored to the best of the library’s ability with regards to preservation. Cataloged items are searchable via the SAILS online library catalog.
The Library Director and Library Staff have administrative control over materials in the Historical Collections. The Library Director, or an appointed staff representative, will coordinate and document donations, additions to, or withdrawals from the collection. The Library Director and Library Staff also oversee any ongoing preservation measures.
Historical Collections Use
- Users are not allowed access to the Historical Collections without staff assistance or approval. Library Staff will make every attempt to ensure that materials are safe at all times by limiting unsupervised physical access to the collection.
- Identifying and requesting materials for use ahead of time is preferred. Users are limited to three (3) titles at a time. If/when able, Library Staff will assist with searching for or recommending materials. All items will be left at the Circulation Desk to be reshelved by staff.
- Users must be seated within view of Circulation Desk staff while using items from the collection. If there is no risk of damage to the items, photos, scans, or photocopies may be made.
- Items from the Historical Collections cannot be taken out of the library except for preservation purposes or at the approval of the Library Director. This does not apply to items owned by the Rochester Historical Society, who may request return of their items at any time.
- As part of ongoing preservation practices, some materials in the collection have been photocopies or have duplicated copies that can be circulated/loaned out.
Accession/Deaccession
- Materials will be added based on the overall criteria of the library’s Collection Development & Materials Selection Policy. The Library Director can accept or decline donations to the collection as needed and at their discretion.
- Materials will be cataloged and processed in keeping with appropriate preservation practices.
- Items can be removed from the collection at the approval of the Library Director. Prior to deaccession, the item should be analyzed based on collection guidelines. If the item was donated, any stipulations made at the time of donation should be investigated.
- If a more appropriate facility can be found to house items in the collection, the library has the option to donate those items to another group or organization.
- If an item is deemed no longer appropriate for the collection, but has potential monetary value, the library may take steps to sell the item at the best price for its known value through appropriate channels. Any money received from these sales will be held by the library for future preservation needs.
The Board of Library Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on February 10, 2025
To fulfill its mission to provide the people of the Town of Rochester with a center for information, entertainment, education and cultural enrichment, the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library is pleased to provide access to the internet through publicly accessible computers and a free wireless network.
The Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library only provides access to the internet. The Library cannot control and is not able to monitor any information on the internet for either content or accuracy. The individual user is the ultimate judge of the appropriateness, usefulness, and value of all material accessed via the internet. In the case of minors, this responsibility rests with their parents or legal guardian. In no case does the display of any materials on the Library’s internet workstations constitute an endorsement by the Library of the material’s content and point of view. The Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Trustees, the Library staff, and the Town of Rochester are not liable for any negative consequences that may occur as a result of using the Library’s internet or wireless connection.
Guidelines for Use
Patrons are expressly prohibited from using the Library’s equipment to:
- access material that is obscene, child pornography, or “harmful to minors”, consistent with any applicable federal, state, or local law.
- threaten, libel and harass others, including sexual harassment.
- alter, destroy, or damage equipment, software, or data.
- disrupt or participate in the unauthorized monitoring of electronic communications.
- make unauthorized copies of copyright-protected material.
- participate in the unauthorized use of computer accounts, using access codes, and/or network identification assigned to others.
- use computer communications facilities in ways that unnecessarily impede the computing activities of others.
- tamper with the computer security system.
- intentionally violate software license agreements.
- intentionally violate network use policies.
The Library Board of Trustees is the final authority in determining appropriate use. Violations of the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Internet & Wireless Use Policy will be dealt with in a serious and appropriate manner, which may include loss of privileges and/or prosecution by local, state, or federal authorities. This policy is subject to review and change, as deemed necessary by the Trustees.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on December 13, 2008
Revised on December 2, 2024
Meeting Room Policy
The Trustees of the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library welcome the use of library meeting space for the informational, educational, cultural, and civic benefit of the community. The Event & Meeting Space may be used by any nonprofit organizations, and their meetings must be free and open to all.
Requests for meeting space must be made by an adult at least two weeks in advance. Children’s programs and events must have appropriate adult supervision. Initial requests for meeting space must include a completed application which will need to be approved by the Library Director.
Priority for the use of meeting space will be as follows:
- Library-affiliated groups
- Town, state, regional, or federal agencies
- Community non-profit organizations
- Meetings held by individuals (must not be for profit)
The use of meeting rooms does not constitute library endorsement of the group’s purpose.
Occasional use of the Meeting Rooms outside of library hours requires special arrangements. These requests should be made at least two weeks in advance in order that we may schedule an employee to be present in the building. Groups otherwise should vacate the building at least ten minutes before closing.
There is no smoking in the building. Light refreshments may be served. Sponsoring groups must bring all supplies including coffee pot and items needed for cleanup. Trash must be removed from the premises at the end of the meeting. The room must be left as it was found upon arrival. The library cannot be responsible for items left behind or damaged, and staff is not able to store items. Attendance is limited by room capacity. Fire laws limit maximum capacity to 49 people downstairs, but only 25 chairs are available.
Groups may reserve space up to three months in advance but may not reserve a room for the entire year. Groups are encouraged to bring their own audiovisual equipment and be familiar with its use prior to any presentation. There may not be library staff available to assist, so groups are encouraged to prepare in advance for any audiovisual needs.
The Library Director and Board of Trustees reserve the right to refuse the use of the facility for meetings and programs that they believe might interfere with the use of the library for its intended purpose, or to any group who might disrupt the use of the library and/or its grounds.
Except as a designation of location, the name and contact information of the library may not be used in any publicity for a meeting or event.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, June 2013.
Revised August 2022, February 2023, March 2024.
Plumb Memorial Library will allow non-profit groups to provide a collection box for donated goods only when approval is secured in advance via submission of the attached application and when approved placement meets all criteria specified below. The library cannot support the collection of cash or checks.
To reserve a space for a collection box, the non-profit organization must apply using the attached form. Any box left without prior and explicit approval will be disposed of immediately. All requests will be considered and may be approved at the Library Director’s discretion. An application must be submitted for each subsequent placement request.
Approval is granted for collections on a first-come, first-served basis, for one specified four-week maximum period unless a specific timeline is agreed upon with the Library Director. Each authorization is for the specified time period and does not imply permission for any future time period.
The collection box is to be provided by the organization and allowable size is determined by the Library Director. The non-profit organization should label the box with a sign (8 ½ by 11) that clearly and neatly indicates the sponsoring organization and contact information, the purpose of the collection drive, and the collection box pick-up date. All signs must be approved by the Library Director and modifications may be required until signage meets appropriate standards.
It is the responsibility of the requesting party to remove the contents of the box and signage on that date. If the collection box is not retrieved within three (3) business days following the expiration date, the box and all its contents will be disposed of. No reminder or warning will be provided.
The organization is responsible for monitoring their collection box throughout their collection period, emptying them when they are full, and picking up all donations by the end of the scheduled collection period. Failure to monitor/maintain boxes and pick up donations in a timely manner may result in a loss of hosting privileges in the future and/or removal of the collection box. The Library Director at any time has the discretion to request removal before the end date for any reason.
The library staff are not responsible for monitoring, maintaining, or emptying items in collection boxes or preventing library patrons from taking items from the box.
Hosting a box for collecting donations does not imply endorsement by library staff or the Board of Library Trustees of any product, service, activity, event, or viewpoint.
The Board of Library Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on December 2, 2024
Notary Services Policy
Library staff provide Notary services as a courtesy. Library staff who serve as Notaries do not receive additional compensation for these services.
The following guidelines will be followed in the provision of Notary Service:
- Notary Service is provided on an appointment-only basis during open hours.
- Notary service is provided free of charge by the Library. In lieu of fees, donations to the Library are welcomed.
- This service is provided on Library property only.
- A valid, government-issued photo identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.) is required of any customer seeking Notary Service.
- The person(s) signing must provide a proper photo ID and sign document(s) in front of the notary.
- Documents to be notarized must be signed in person before the Notary who will certify the signature. All signers must be present at the time of notarizing.
- The document must contain the appropriate Jurat, Notarial Statement, or Clause.
- Documents in any language other than English will not be notarized.
- Documents cannot be copied and notarized.
- Massachusetts law requires that a Notary and the person seeking notarization be able to communicate directly with each other. The Notary is not permitted to make use of a translator to communicate with a Notary Service customer.
- The Notary may, at his/her sole discretion, decline to provide Notary Service.
Residents seeking Notary Service should call the Library prior to their visit to ensure that the Notary is available. Notary Service is not guaranteed to those who do not call in advance to make an appointment. Please be advised that Notary Service may be declined by the Notary Public for any reason; the services provided are performed as a courtesy.
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees, November 4, 2021..
Revised April 6, 2026.
The Plumb Memorial Library encourages people of all ages to visit the library. Those using the library and its resources have the right to expect a safe, comfortable environment that supports appropriate library services. To deliver these services, the library promotes a safe, welcoming, and hospitable environment for all of our patrons, irrespective of ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, nationality, educational background, religious affiliations, physical limitations, and any other criteria which may motivate discrimination.
The following are prohibited at the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library:
- Engaging in any activity in violation of Federal, State, or Local law is prohibited.
- Threatening behavior including but not limited to violence, threats of violence, and possession of weapons. (M.G.L. c. 269 S10)
- Fighting or challenging to fight: pushing or shoving a person, or throwing objects. (M.G.L. c. 272 S40, 41)
- Using, selling, possessing, or being under the influence of alcohol, and/or illegal drugs.
- Sexually, verbally, or physically harassing, intimidating, or threatening other patrons, staff, or volunteers; this includes, but is not limited to, behavior such as stalking, staring, lurking with intent to annoy, offensive, obscene acts, and indecent exposure.
- Smoking (M.G.L. c. 270 S22), chewing and other tobacco use in library facilities, including the use of e-cigarettes or any other nicotine delivery devices.
- Consuming marijuana. (M.G.L. c. 94G S13)
- Creating a disturbance by making noise, talking loudly, or engaging in other disruptive conduct which could reasonably be expected to disturb other persons. (M.G.L. c. 272 S41)
- Playing audio equipment so that others may hear it (without headphones or with headphones at a volume audible to others).
- Stealing, mutilating, destroying, vandalizing, or inappropriately or illegally using library property (including computer hardware and software, printers, copiers, phones, and other equipment). (M.G.L. c. 266 S100)
- Theft of materials, use of false identification to obtain a library card, and use of another person’s library card without permission. (M.G.L. c. 266 S99)
- Misusing the restrooms (e.g. using them as a laundry, grooming, or bathing facility). Flushing of any materials other than waste and toilet paper is strictly prohibited.
- Loitering on library property without being engaged in purposes for which the library was opened, such as studying, reading, participating in programs, and researching.
- Soliciting, distributing, or posting of materials without the permission of the Library Director.
- Violating the library’s Internet & Wireless Use Policy.
- Not wearing a shirt and/or footwear. Engaging in behavior that qualifies as public indecency or open and gross lewdness.
- Running, sleeping, littering, and/or blocking aisles, exits, and entrances.
- Entering restricted staff areas without previous authorization from a library staff member; trespassing in non-public areas, or camping on library grounds.
In addition:
- Those who damage or deface library materials or property will be prosecuted. (M.G.L. c. 266 S100)
- Parents are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their young children. Parents may be held liable for damage done by a child under 18. (M.G.L. c. 231 S85G)
- Unattended items (such as bags, backpacks, or laptops) may be regarded as suspicious and removed.
- The library is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
- All patrons must leave promptly at closing time.
Please note: the items listed above are not an exhaustive list. Library staff may address any other behaviors which interfere with the use and enjoyment of the library by other patrons and/or interfere with library staff in the performance of their duties.
Any willful or repeated violations of this Patron Behavior Policy or other posted library policies may result in removal from the facility and/or suspension of library privileges. For repeated violations, the length of suspension of library service and/or exclusion from library property will be determined by the Library Director, in consultation with Rochester Town Counsel. The Library Director reserves the right to modify the length of a term of suspension of library privileges based on administrative review and/or the outcome of the formal appeal process.
The Rochester Police Department will be summoned whenever staff members or members of the public feel threatened by a patron, or whenever a patron refuses to leave the premises once asked to do so by a library staff member. Police will also be summoned if library staff members have reason to believe that a patron has violated federal or state laws and/or local ordinances.
Appeal Process
Patrons (or the parent and/or guardian of a minor) who have been asked to leave and/or have been banned from the library premises for any period of time have the right to submit a written appeal request to the Library Director. The appeal must be filed within ten (10) calendar days of the date that the patron is notified that the patron’s privileges have been suspended. The decision of the Library Director shall be final.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on March 2000
Revised, January 12, 2013
Revised, July 23, 2025
1) Scope
This policy refers to programs presented or sponsored by Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library. Programs held at the Library by community groups are subject to the Meeting Room Policy.
2) Policy
Programs are done in accordance with the goals and objectives for the library as listed in the applicable Five-Year Plan. The library presents programs for children, teens, and adults throughout the year designed to:
- Assist patrons in the use of library materials or resources, or
- Encourage and promote the use of library materials and resources, or
- Present information not otherwise available, or
- Facilitate the sharing of the community’s “people resources” (e.g., hobbies, skills, collections, expertise)
A program is a planned public activity (other than a tour or training session) that takes place at the library and is presented or sponsored by the library. A program can be, but not limited to, a story time, lecture, workshop, discussion group, performance, author readings, puppet show, demonstration, or panel discussion.
The Library seeks to include a broad spectrum of opinion and a variety of viewpoints in Library-initiated programs. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute or imply an endorsement of third-party’s policies, beliefs, or program by any library personnel, the Board of Trustees, or the Town of Rochester.
3) Program Requirements
a) The library budget does not pay for programs. All funds for performers or speakers will come from the Friends of the Library or from other sources.
b) Free of charge and open to the public.
- An exception to this policy is fundraising programs held by the Friends of the Library to benefit either themselves or the Library.
c) Must have 2 or more attendees, unless otherwise indicated/advertised
d) Led by or has a library staff in attendance
e) All program attendees must adhere to the library’s policies on patron conduct
f) Pre-registration may be required for some programs, particularly where space is an issue. - Rochester residents will have first preference. Out-of-towners will be placed on a waiting list and called one week prior to the program as space permits.
The Board of Library Trustees reserves the right to amend this policy at any time.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on January 10, 2009
Revised December 12, 2023
Patrons who reside in towns whose public libraries have been decertified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners will not be able to check materials out of the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library in Rochester. They are welcome to visit our library and use materials in the building, but they will not have the ability to check materials out on their library cards or take materials home with them.
Holds for patrons from decertified libraries will not be filled.
This policy applies to ALL decertified libraries.
We will only provide materials to decertified libraries through the SAILS Interlibrary Loan delivery system based on the SAILS policy, as adopted by the SAILS membership.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on February 8, 2003
Revised on November 15, 2003
Reaffirmed by Board of Trustees on January 12, 2013
The Plumb Memorial Library welcomes users of all ages to enjoy the many programs and services we have to offer. We are interested in assisting users of all kinds with finding material, using our computers and other equipment, and interpreting homework assignments. The library, however, cannot be responsible for unattended children. We welcome you to allow your children to use the library for homework assignments and other library services. Young children are safe when supervised by a parent or caregiver while in the library. Parents should remember that the library is a public building available for the use of all. For the protection and well-being of children who enjoy libraries, the following policy has been established:
- All children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult or caregiver.
- Parents, not library staff, are responsible for the actions and safety of children visiting the library.
- Parents or caregivers must stay in the library building while their child age 9 and under is attending a library sponsored program. Children attending library programs are supervised by the library staff only during the scheduled time of the program.
- At the discretion of a responsible adult, a child age 10 or older may be left unattended for the period of time needed to select materials, complete a homework assignment, or attend a program. The child must know how to reach the responsible adult in case this need should arise. Children will be expected to display appropriate behavior.
- The parent or caregiver is responsible for ensuring the appropriate behavior of their children in the library. Disruptive behavior such as shouting, running, pushing, or other loud physical activities will not be tolerated. Children who continue to be disruptive will be asked to leave the building. The parent or caregiver is liable for all damage done by their children to the library facility or equipment.
- The library cannot assume responsibility for children while a parent or caregiver is participating in a library program or other activity in the library.
- Bicycles should be left on the rack provided outside the library.
- Children Left At Closing: children and their adult caregivers should be aware of the closing times of the library. If a child has been left at the library without a ride or assistance home at closing time, every attempt will be made to contact a family member or caregiver by phone. Staff are not permitted to remain after hours with an unattended child nor give him/her a ride home or to any other location. If a family member or caregiver cannot be reached, the Rochester Police will be called about the child. A staff member will remain with the child until the police have arrived. The Library Director will be informed whenever this action becomes necessary. The Director will contact the child’s parent or caregiver to explain the library policy and why the action was required.
Thank you for helping us make the library a safe place for you and your children to enjoy.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees in January 1997
Revised and reaffirmed by the Board of Trustees, January 12, 2013
Revised per request of Chief Magee, August 28, 2017
The Reading Garden and the Gazebo were officially opened in June 2008, with the “Little 100 Acre Woods” officially opening in June 2019. These spaces were intended for use by the citizens of Rochester for individual and group activities of all kinds. The Gazebo was built by David Santos and his Scout troop in 1998 as part of his Eagle Scout project. The Reading Garden was created with donations given in memory of Rochester resident Steven G. Santos. The leaf sculpture and marker for the Meetinghouse Stone were donated by Peter Gross of Rochester’s “Taken for Granite”. The “Little 100 Acre Woods” was installed in the spring of 2019 as part of Colin Mackin’s Eagle Scout project.
A Use of Library Outdoor Space Form is required for scheduled group activities, such as private events as well as informational, educational, cultural, and civic events that may benefit the community as a whole. Photo sessions do not require a form, but it is advised to call ahead to avoid scheduling conflicts. It is to be expected that, on occasion, large scheduled events might affect spontaneous casual use of the area.
It is important to note, any pre-planned library event takes precedence over any individual or group event.
In order to ensure the enjoyment of library grounds for the entire community, please observe the following rules:
- No skateboarding.
- No smoking.
- No alcoholic beverages.
- Please leave the grounds as you found them: free of trash, debris, or decoration. All trash must be removed from the property.
- Decorations must not be permanently installed or in such a way that library property is damaged. No nails, duct tape, or other fastenings that cause holes in the wood, or paint to be removed may be used.
- Permanent decorations are considered a “gift” and fall under the requirements of the applicable policy.
- Enjoy the flowers and trees; do not pick, alter, or climb them.
- Clean up after your pet.
- In the event of a scheduling conflict, Rochester residents have priority on a “first-come-first-serve” basis.
- Be aware that parking may be limited if the library is open for business.
- Please also be aware that, when the library is closed, bathroom facilities are not available.
- A refundable deposit of $75 will confirm your reservation. Checks may be made out to “Town of Rochester – Plumb Library” with “Library Outdoor Space Use” in the memo line, and will be returned based upon satisfactory inspection of the premises after the event.
- Donations will be accepted toward the upkeep of the Gazebo, Garden, and Little 100 Acre Woods area(s).
- The Library Director reserves the right to final approval of all activities.
The request form is on the following page. Please submit it at least one week prior to your event, with a deposit of $75. The form can be dropped off at the library, mailed to PO Box 69, Rochester, MA, 02770; or emailed to info@plumblibrary.com
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on July 12, 2008
Revised April 9, 2024
The Plumb Memorial Library supports and encourages the use of volunteers to supplement the work done by regular library staff members. Volunteers do not replace regular staff, rather, they allow paid staff members to use their time more effectively and efficiently. Volunteers are accepted at the discretion of the Library Director as needed and appropriate tasks allow.
The library has many tasks appropriate for volunteer staff, which include, without limitation:
- Shelving library materials and putting them in order
- Photocopying, collating, stapling, folding, and laminating
- Helping to maintain the library’s collection by covering and repairing books
- Assisting with youth projects and activities
- Assisting with adult library programs
- Weeding, raking, and general grounds maintenance
- Special projects as available
Volunteers should be aware that while most library tasks do not require any specialized skills, or physical requirements, shelving of books requires very good filing and alphabetizing skills, and is also physically challenging. Volunteers are asked to make us aware of any tasks you do not feel comfortable performing.
Basic guidelines for volunteers to follow:
- The library welcomes volunteers of all ages.
- Volunteers may work only during regular library hours, when the building is open to the public, except at the discretion of the Library Director. Volunteers are not to be alone in the building without staff oversight.
- Volunteers must complete and submit to the Library Director or his/her designee the Volunteer Application and Release and have parent/guardian consent by signing the same if under 18.
- Volunteers are required to attend an orientation with the Library Director.
- Volunteers should be reliable, dependable, and prompt, and give adequate notice of illness or vacation to the Library Director.
- Volunteers over 17 are required to complete a CORI and provide a copy of their driver’s license or state ID or other forms of acceptable identification.
- Volunteers must comply with the rules of the library and reflect positive customer service to the public.
- Volunteers should report any safety hazards or injuries immediately to a staff member.
- Volunteers sign in and out each week and wear identification badges indicating they are library volunteers.
- It is expected that a volunteer’s dress and grooming be appropriate for representing the library in a public environment and in keeping with his or her work assignment. Socializing with friends during scheduled volunteer time is discouraged.
- Volunteers are reminded that, by law, all patron and computer information in the library is strictly confidential.
- By law, a government agency cannot practice any form of discrimination. All library staff and volunteers must treat all people with dignity and respect. Volunteers should refer all policy questions from the public to a staff member.
- Volunteers must, at all times, comply with the applicable Town and Library policies, as well as all applicable federal, state, and local laws, policies, and regulations.
Adopted by the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library Board of Trustees on January 1998
Revised on October 16, 2004, October 15, 2024, July 7, 2025
