"Green" Building
Library Services
- Who may use library services?
- Who is eligible for a library card?
- What services are available to nonresidents?
- Why are some services restricted?
- How much do these services cost?
- What materials may I borrow?
- What services do you provide for those visually/hearing impaired?
- What equipment is available for in-Library use?
- What other services do you provide?
Who may use library services?
Anyone may use the library, however, some services are only available or have priority for patrons who live or own property in the Library District service area--Clifton Park and Halfmoon.
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What services are available to nonresidents?
Nonresidents (patrons who live outside of the Library Districts's Clifton Park/Halfmoon service area) have access to most services. However, only residents may charge out new books (14-day loan items available in our new-book areas) or audiovisual materials (books on tape, videos, cassettes, music, and similar items). Additionally, only residents may place requests remotely through the online catalog. Finally, resident patrons may also have preference for some high-interest programs, such as computer classes.
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Why are some services restricted?
In 1995, over 22% of the items borrowed from the Library were charged out to individuals who do not support the Library through local district taxes or contractual agreements.
Property tax collected from Clifton Park residents and a contractual agreement with the Town of Halfmoon for its residents account for over 92% of the funding for the Library. Most of the balance cames from fines and fees. A small amount (less than 2%) is derived from State and Saratoga County aid.
The Library Board felt strongly that over-use of library resources by nonresidents placed an unfair burden on district taxpayers. The Board therefore petitioned the State Education Department for permission to apply those restrictions that are allowed in the New York State law and regulation. The Education Department agreed, and the petition was approved.
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How much do these services cost?
Our library services--funded through taxpayer support--are free, with the exception of several small cost-recovery charges: 10 cents a page for printing, 15 cents a page for photocopying, 25 cents per item for requests if an item is checked out or for items from another library, and the postage fees associated with requesting books from outside the Saratoga area.
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What services do you provide for those visually/hearing impaired?
The Library has Large Print Books and Books-On-Tape available for loan. Also, applications for the Talking Book Service are available in the Library.
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What equipment is available for in-Library use?
The Library has public access Pentium IBM-compatible computers available for accessing on-line databases, on-line catalogs, the Internet and Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Access and Powerpoint). Beginning Jan. 1, 2002, patrons will be required to enter a valid library card number to get access to the Internet. In addition, patrons under the age of 18 need to have a permission slip signed by their parent/guardian on file at the the library in order to gain access to the Internet. Also available are copy machines and microfilm copiers, a microfiche reader/printer & copier, multimedia computers with Educational software for children and a listening center.
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What other services do you provide?
The Library has a conference room for public use (please inquire about reserving), an Historical Collection Room featuring local historic documents and records, a program room for adult/children's programs, a computer lab for instruction and public access, reading stairs for children, a quiet room for studying, and barrier free access/parking for disabled visitors.
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