Policies & Procedures

The Boston Public Library has developed a series of policies and procedures to provide guidance around use of its materials, equipment, facilities, and grounds, and to inform the protection of the rights and safety of library patrons, volunteers, and staff.

Access to Materials Policy

Appropriate Library Use

Collection Development Policy (PDF)

• Request for Reconsideration Form

Collections Security Policy (PDF)

Exhibitions

Please note that Boston Public Library has made an institutional decision to display only internally generated exhibitions at the Central Library in Copley Square. If you are interested in proposing an exhibition or display for one of our neighborhood branch locations, please email exhibitions@bpl.org for a proposal form and more information.

• Exhibitions Policy (PDF)
• Exhibition Loan Policy (PDF)
• Exhibition Loan Procedures (PDF)

Food & Beverage Procedure (PDF)

Guidelines for Behavioral Performance (PDF)

Media Procedure

Meeting Room Use

• Meeting Rooms at the Central Library, Copley Square
• Meeting Spaces / Community Rooms at Branch Libraries
• Meeting Room Use Policy (PDF)
• Meeting Room Use Procedures (PDF)

Noise Level and Cell Phone Usage (PDF)

Photography and Filming

Privacy Policy

Private Events at the Central Library

• Private Event Policies (PDF)
• Private Event Procedures (PDF)

Reference Services Policy (PDF)

Safe Child

Technology Procedures and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Computers & Technology at the BPL
• Internet-related policies
• Internet Use Procedures & Guidelines

Web Links

• Administrative Policy
• Procedures for Linking To or From BPL Web Sites

The Boston Public Library does not discriminate in the provision of its services on the basis of mental or physical disability. If you would like help using the library, please ask any staff member for assistance.