Policy Changes starting January 2026

To Our Valued Patrons – As the year winds down and we look ahead to what’s next, we have been reviewing our policies for consistency and confidentiality. We have some library updates to share with you so you can be prepared for changes in the new year.

Beginning Monday, January 5, 2026, we will be making the following changes to the process of library account management and borrowing:

  • When borrowing materials, all patrons will be asked to provide their library card in order to check out.
    • If you’ve lost your card or don’t know your number, you can get a new card in person with a photo ID.
    • You can either use your physical card, or the MVLC app (available in the Apple App store and the Google Play store) can be downloaded to any smart device so you can have a digital version of your card always at your fingertips!

    • Library staff are happy to assist you with downloading, logging in, and navigating the app.

  • If you do not have your physical or digital card with you, you will be asked to provide a photo ID in order to check out materials.

    • Teens and older children who do not yet have a photo ID may provide a school ID or are welcome to use a digital card through the MVLC app.

  • Any individual looking to pick up holds or check out any materials with an account that is not in their name will need to have explicit permission via a note on the owning patron’s account. The person listed in that note will need to provide a photo ID.
    • Having the card of another patron will be interpreted by staff as that individual having the necessary permission.
    • The MVLC app allows multiple card accounts to be added if you would like to ensure someone else has access to your account.
    • We will ask patrons if they would like to add or remove authorized users when new accounts are created and when accounts are being renewed, but you may make this change at any time by coming in person or giving us a call.
  • Patron birth date will be part of account registration and renewal information. This information will be for library staff reference only and will not change our existing privacy policies.

These changes are intended to offer consistency for both patrons and staff, and they will also aid us in ensuring the integrity and confidentiality guaranteed for all library patrons. If you have any questions about these updates, please reach out to us at 978-352-5728 or speak with a librarian. We appreciate your cooperation as we implement these improvements.