Public libraries in Massachusetts that do not meet the minimum standards for funding and service necessary for certification by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners are “decertified” by the Board. As such they are not eligible to receive state aid to public libraries funding, apply for LSTA grants or contract with a region to provide supplemental services.
Massachusetts state law (605CMR 4.01) states that certified public libraries are not required to lend materials to residents of municipalities with decertified libraries.
The T.O.H.P. Burnham Library supports the importance of libraries maintaining at least the minimum standards of public library service required for certification by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. Therefore, The T.O.H.P. Burnham Library will not lend materials to residents of municipalities with decertified libraries.
Public libraries that receive waivers from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners are considered certified. Residents of communities where the library has received a waiver will be allowed to borrow materials from the T.O.H.P. Burnham Library.
Massachusetts General Law(605CMR4.01) states “all residents of the Commonwealth shall have access to reading and reference rooms under the same conditions as residents of the community”. Residents of communities with decertified libraries are therefore welcome to use the T.O.H.P. Burnham Library resources within the library building.
Approved by the T.O.H.P. Burnham Library Trustees 2/27/2015