Bring in two proofs of address showing residency in Richland Township. This could include a current piece of mail and a valid I.D.

There are many ways you could volunteer at your local library. Please talk to a librarian if you are interested.

Occassionally we have open positions on our Board of Trustees. Trustees are appointed by the County Commissioners (2 members), Benton Central School Corporation (3 members),  the Richland Township Advisory Board(1 member) and the Board of the Town of Earl Park 1 member).  These appointments are for a 4 year term. Board meetings are held monthly on the second Tuesday of the month.

Information Coming Soon!

The purpose of the Earl Park Public Library is to make available to the residents of the Earl Park/Richland Township community: library services, programs, materials and media information which are necessary to fulfill their needs. These services are open to all community citizens regardless of race, creed, or occupation. The Earl Park Public Library will strive to fulfill these obligations to its patrons in a most efficient and cost-effective manner.

The library will operate in compliance with Indiana laws, including public library law, Indiana Library Department Law and other Indiana laws that affect municipal units. The library will comply with federal laws affecting employment practices and facilities management.

The library shall be a member of ILF, ILTA, and MCLS.

President: LuAnne Gross

Vice President: Cherilynn Mundell

Secretary: Jane Smith

Treasurer: Mike Pavuk

Member: Eric Strasburger

Member: Lorie Mills

Member: Sara Wallpe

Library Services

Miscellaneous Services –
• Interlibrary loan
• Scanner – no charge
• Photocopies/Computer copies – $0.20 for black & white copies, $0.50 for color copies
• Fax – outgoing/Incoming  – $1.00 for the 1st page & $.50 each additional page.

• Scan – $1.00 for the 1st page & $.50 each additional page.
• Residents of surrounding areas can get a library card with the reciprocal borrowers plan
• PLAC Library Card – $70.00 for Indiana residents to use any Indiana Public Library.

Wireless Internet Connection –
Earl Park – Richland Township Library offers free wireless internet access throughout the library building. It is available on an ongoing basis.

Services for Those Unable to Visit the Library  –  If you are unable to come to the library due to physical needs, we would be happy to bring items to you at your residence. If you have something you would like, call the library and ask for the item to be checked out on your account and we will drop it off at your home. If you do not have a card and would like to get one, we can bring information to you and make a library card available to you. When you are finished with your items, we will stop and be happy to pick them up and return them to the library for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How can I use the wireless internet at the library?
A. Bring your wireless-enabled device to the library and turn it on. The Username is EPPL and the password is donkey13.

Q. Is my information safe while using wireless?
a. The wireless network is not secure. Information sent to and from your wireless device may be captured by anyone else with a wireless device and the appropriate software. Your information in not protected while using wireless, unless you are connected to a webpage that uses encryption.

Q. Is the content filtered?
A. The Children’s Internet Protection Act requires the library to provide a minimum of content filtering. An explanation page appears if a web page has been blocked by this filter. If you need access to that web page for bona fide research or other lawful purposes, please ask at the circulation desk.

Q. Can I print while using wireless?
A. Yes, you may print from any wireless device but you will be charge the regular printing fees listed above.

Q. May I use the library’s electrical outlets?
A. Yes, so long as any cords do not pose a hazard to others. Do not unplug anything from outlets in use.

Q. Can the library staff help me configure my computer?
A. Sorry, we cannot. You are responsible for knowing how to operate your own equipment. No guarantee can be made that you will be able to make a wireless connection.

The library assumes no responsibility for the safety of equipment or for laptop computer or other wireless device configurations, security, or data files resulting from connection to the library’s wireless access.

The Board of Trustees meet the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are held on the main floor of the library.  Meetings are open to the public.

Director: Dana Leonard
Clerk: Liz Pavuk 

1. Residents and property owners of Earl Park/Richland Township that are 5 years old or older may hold an Earl Park Library Card.  A proof of residency and proper application are required to hold a library card.

2. Earl Park patrons may borrow books free from other area libraries through our membership in the Statewide Reciprocal Agreement Program.

3. Books are loaned for 2 week periods, periodicals for 1 week. Inter-library loan books are loaned for a 3 week period.  No overdue fees are collected.

4. Children are limited to 3 books, except during the summer reading program.

5. The librarian is to determine the age appropriateness of juvenile library materials. When in question the parent is to decide.  Age appropriate messages are attached to all YA materials. Staff is to consult with librarian or parent.

6. The books in the YA section of the library are clearly marked with age appropriateness on top front inside cover and have a computerized message attached to the book upon check out.

7. Books on the reserved list cannot be renewed. Special renewal circumstances will be left to the discretion of the Librarian.

8. Certain books and materials, designated as NON-CIRCULATING or KEY REFERENCE, may not be removed from the Library on loan.

9. Children under l6 wishing to check out books from the adult section of the Library must have a signed Adult Permission Slip on file.

10. Preschool children must be accompanied by another person l3 or older, except for planned library activities. Minimum age for children attending special activities is 4 years.

11. Patrons will be notified 30 days after the due date if a book has not been returned, and will be given an additional 30 days to locate the book before being required to pay replacement cost for the book.

12. Library service will be suspended if books are not returned in 60 days. Patrons will be reinstated when the book is returned or paid for.  Membership will also be suspended for willful destruction of Library property or improper language or conduct within the Library or on Library property.

1. An Earl Park-Richland Twp. Public Library card holder is in good standing with the library, he or she may have access to the complete set of DVDs and video cassettes.

2. Limit: 1 DVD per person under the age of 1 and  4 DVD’s per person over the age of 18, if in good lending standards.

3. Ratings: Rated G can be loaned to any age.  Rated PG can be loaned to any age.  Rated PG-13 can be loaned to anyone age 13 and over.  Rated R can be loaned to anyone age 18 and over

***   DVD has to be checked out by the physical age appropriated person on their  own account.

4. Loan Period: 1 week

5. If the DVD has not been returned within 3 weeks, which is 2 weeks overdue, the patron will be charged a Non-Return Fee of $15 or replacement cost and the patron will lose DVD privileges until fee is paid.

6. All DVDs on a library card remain the responsibility of the card holder. A patron will be charged replacement cost if the DVD is damaged or cannot be returned.

7.  Patrons may not loan a DVD to anyone else for any reason whatsoever.

8. All DVDs copyrighted. DVDs are for private home viewing; no duplication can be made.

9. The library assumes no liability whatsoever which could result from the use of its DVDs

10. Patron is responsible for the proper care of the DVD which includes:

A.  Only touching the corners of the DVD.

B. Keeping the DVD at room temperature (never play a cold DVD.)

C. Keeping the DVD away from strong sunlight, heat, and anything that generates a magnetic field (vacuum cleaners, stereo equipment, motors, etc.)

D. Store DVDs in their dust jackets, vertically, and not on top of DVD player.

11. This DVD Lending Policy Sheet must be signed at the circulation desk in the presence of a library employee.  By signing the DVD Lending Policy Sheet, you are acknowledging that you understand and agree to adhere to the above regulations.

Patrons must agree to terms of the Earl Park Library Acceptable Use Policy in order to use Internet workstations or computers.

Computers may be used by anyone with an Earl Park Public Library card or valid identification.  Personal identification for non-patrons will be copied by staff and attached to the log-in sheet.  Limits and age restrictions are detailed below.

Since the Internet is a global electronic network, the Internet and the World Wide Web may contain material of a controversial nature.  Although filters have been installed, we cannot ensure offensive information will not be available to users.  Also, the library cannot ensure that information found on the Internet is accurate, complete, or current.  Users need to question the accuracy of information found on-line.

Primary use of the Internet will be for educational information and research.  All licensing agreements and copyright laws will be obeyed. Social networking will be allowed subject to the discretion of parents and the staff of the Earl Park Public Library.

No information shall be downloaded to the library hard drive.  Patrons’ personal flash drives may be used for storing information or information may be printed for patron use.  Printed copies are 10 cents for black and white or 50 cents for color per page.

Time Limits:

In order to maximize the availability of the computers to all users, time limits will be imposed on the use of computer resources.  An adult patron those 18 and older may have four 30 minute sessions for a total of 120 minutes if there are available computers.  Juvenile patrons ages 10-17 may have two thirty minute sessions for a total of 60 minutes.  All Juvenile scheduling sessions on the Internet will be for 30 minutes if another patron is waiting to use the computer.  Patrons can reserve the Internet for 30 minute sessions.  Reservations will be accepted by phone or in person for up to a week in advance.  If a patron is more than 10 minutes late, the reservation will be cancelled and waiting patrons may use the computer.  In addition, the late patron’s name will be added to a NO-SHOW list kept in back of the sign-in sheets.  After two no-shows that patron may not place further reservations.  Unless a reservation was made for Internet use, a patron has 10 minutes to complete his/her use if someone has notified the desk that he/she is waiting to go on-line.  Only 2 people may be present at the workstations at one time.

Use of the computers and Internet at the Library is a privilege that requires users to be civil, courteous and lawful.  The privilege may be revoked by the Library staff for abusive or disruptive behavior.  Such behavior includes, but is not limited to, disrupting the system, posting illegal information, using obscene, demeaning or threatening language verbally or electronically, or using Internet functions not permitted by this policy. Email accounts may be accessed for nationally recognized email providers.  No attempts to hack other computers or any other illegal activity are allowed.  If a patron is observed intentionally violating Internet/computer privileges:

1. Verbal warning will be given and patron will be asked to cease using the workstation for the remainder of the day
2. Second warning will result in loss of computer/internet privileges for one week
3. Third warning will result in loss of computer/internet privileges for six months
4. Fourth warning will result in permanent loss of computer/internet privileges

Minors may not enter any personal information that can be used to identify themselves unless approved and signed off on by parents or guardian.  Permission forms must be signed in person at the library.

Children 17 and under need to have a waiver signed by parent/guardian for the library to keep on file.

The Earl Park Public Library assumes no responsibility for any damages – direct or indirect – arising from use of its connection to Internet services.  Patrons must sign a Limitation of Liability agreement before use of computers or Internet is allowed.

All Internet access is monitored and logged.

 Patrons cannot install software on Library computers.

Patrons are on there own when using the software.  Library staff is not required to assist with word processing or spreadsheet problems.

Hardware problems should be reported to the staff at the circulation desk.  Staff only will reboot the system if necessary.  Problems cannot always be addressed at the time the problem occurs.

The Library accepts no responsibility for damage to a patron’s files or computers form viruses that may have come from this public computer.

Patrons must sign-in and sign-out on provided sheets.

A copy of these guidelines will be given to first time computer users.

A copy of these guidelines will be posted near the computer.

Overdue Movie                                          

If a movie is 3 Weeks overdue the patron will pay a non–returnFee of $15 or replacement cost of DVD

Overdue Books         

No overdue fines

Lost/Damaged Library Materials                

  Any item lost or damaged will be charged to the patron based on the replacement cost of the item and any additional processing expense.

1. The meeting rooms are available free of charge. Donations are accepted. However, if library staff is required, there will be a fee of $10 per hour. There will also be a fee of $300 for unreturned keys. There will be a deposit of $50, which will be returned if the rooms are cleaned and returned back to their original state.
2. The meeting room is available for use during normal library hours. Meetings at other times require special arrangements with the Director and/or Library Board of Trustees.
3. The room will accommodate (53) people when using tables and (70) people when using only chairs. Renters are responsible for setting up chairs and tables and restoring the room to its original condition.
4. Tentative reservations for the room may be made by phone or in person, however, within (2) days, a responsible adult must come to the library with the required proof of Insurance. And to read the meeting room policy and fill out and sign a Meeting Room Request Form.
5. Confirmation of a reservation will be given when all of the above is completed.
6. The person who signs the reservation form shall be held financially responsible for any damage or loss to the library building, its contents and library grounds. Abuse of the facilities will be sufficient cause to deny further use of the building.
7. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis. Meetings may be scheduled up to 12 months in advance. Generally, groups may not use a meeting room more than once a week. Exceptions may be granted for a two or three-day workshop with the approval of the Library Director.
8. The number of people in attendance at each meeting shall be recorded on the attendance sheet provided by the library. It is the responsibility of those using the room to see that this is recorded on the sheet.
9. When using the meeting room after hours, a basement key must be obtained during regular library hours one day in advance of the meeting. Doors must be locked after the meeting, and the keys deposited in the book drop immediately after lock up.
10. Any renter using the meeting room may also reserve any of the following audio/visual equipment: television, VCR and DVD player. These media items need to be requested at least 48 hours in advance to be sure of availability, however, Library programs will have priority.
Kitchen and Food Rules
1. The kitchen will be available for use but must be cleaned and left in the original condition or the group may be subject to the $50 Damage/Disorder fee.
2. All trash is to be bagged and removed.
3. Renters accept full responsibility for any food or beverage damage to library property.
4. Food and drinks are only allowed in the meeting room and kitchen.
5. All food and beverages brought in are to be taken at the end of the event.
6. Renter must provide their own paper products, utensils, condiments, and trash bags.
7. The library does not provide supplies for non-library sponsored events.
8. No alcoholic beverages are permitted
Meeting Room Rules
1. There will be no playing on steps inside or outside the library.
2. There will be no one allowed upstairs. If you are here to attend an activity held in the meeting room you are to stay in the basement.
3. No exhibit of a product or service to potential buyers or users may take place on library property without prior approval of the Library Director.
4. An admission fee may not be charged for any meeting or program held in the rooms. However, a fee may be charged to cover the actual cost of materials used during the meeting.
5. The library reserves the right to approve any advertising or publicity for an event taking place on library property.
6. Items may not be affixed to walls, ceilings, or any library property.
7. Glitter is not allowed in the meeting room.
8. Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the library, including the restrooms. Open flames such as candles are also not allowed.
9. Children and teens using a meeting room must be supervised by the adults supervising the activity. If children are brought to adult meetings, the accompanying adult is responsible for the children’s behavior throughout the building. If children create a disturbance in the library, they will be required to stay with the adult in the meeting room.
10. Excessive noise and rowdiness are strictly prohibited.
11. Meeting room use must not disrupt other library patrons.
12. The library assumes no responsibility for the personal belongings of those attending meetings. Personal items may not be left in meeting rooms between reservations
13. An individual reserving the room for an organization shall accept financial responsibility for any damage to the library property incurred during a meeting or in connection with their use of the facilities.
14. After each meeting, the users shall restore the room to its original, clean, and orderly condition. No storage is available in the meeting room. All food and drink items must be removed after each meeting.
15. Renters are responsible for the arrangement of furniture and the return to its former position. This includes turning off all lights and equipment, including those used in the restrooms.
16. Renters using the rooms will be charged for extraordinary needs (e.g. extra janitorial services, extra library personnel, or security) associated with an event to be held on library property. The cost will be the same as that incurred by the library.
17. We will have a Clean up Check List for your convenience.
Disclaimer

Granting permission for the use of the meeting rooms does not imply library approval of the group or the ideas presented at the meeting. Any publicity promoting a meeting shall not imply that the library is a sponsor of the event.