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School Visits

In order to make sure that no child is disappointed by not being able to check out materials when their class visits the library, and to strive to make sure every child has a library card, we have recently updated our Registration Policy and Procedures for schools.

Class/Group Visits to the Library

  1. Please schedule your visit at least two (2) weeks in advance to avoid conflicts with other library programs or group visits.
  2. Once you have scheduled a visit, you will be provided with letters to parents and permission forms for any child up through completion of grade 5. The letters and permission slips need to be sent home to be signed by a parent or guardian if they wish their child to receive a library card.
  3. All permission slips must be returned to the library by the teacher at least five (5) working days (Mon-Sat) before the visit to the library. This will allow staff members time to prepare new cards. If a child already has a MCPL card, it is not necessary to have the permission slip signed. (Parents should check with the library to make sure the card is valid before the visit so the child is not embarrassed by not being able to check out materials.)
  4. No new cards can be issued without the signed permission form unless a child is in 6th grade or above.
  5. Only children who present a library card will be allowed to check out. Those receiving new cards will be limited to two (2) items at this initial checkout.

Library Visits to Schools

  1. When MCPL staff members schedule a visit to your facility, they will deliver the letters for parents and the permission slips to you at least two (2) weeks before their visit. These need to be sent home and signed by a parent or guardian if they wish their child to receive a library card during the staff's visit to the school.
  2. All permission slips need to be returned to the library by the teacher/caregiver at least five (5) working days (Mon-Sat) before the visit. This will allow MCPL staff time to prepare new cards and contact parents/guardians regarding problems with existing accounts. Staff will bring library cards with them to the visit and can distribute them to the children at that time.
  3. No cards will be issued without the signed permission form unless a child is in 6th grade or above.

We hope that a little advance planning will allow children to have a positive library experience, encouraging them to become life-long library patrons and enhancing their learning experience. If you have any questions regarding these procedures related to your facility, please contact your local branch.