| Use of Collections |
The library is open for on-site use open to everyone. However, only current, permanent employees of Executive or Legislative branches of government in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can borrow materials or request materials through the State Library's inter-library loan service.
Due to the size, age and complexity of the collection, only library staff may access to the State Library stacks.
To request an item from the collection:
- Search the library catalogs
- Fill out a "call slip" with the pertinent information
- Submit it to staff at the reference desk or Special Collections desk.
A library staff member will retrieve the materials from the stacks and place them on the reference desk or Special Collections desk, where you may pick them up. Please return materials to the appropriate desk after you are done using them. |
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| Reserving Materials for Further Use |
| Patrons may ask the reference department to set aside materials on reserve if they expect to return later for further research. |
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| Eligibility Requirements for a Library Card |
| To qualify for a State Library of Massachusetts card, you must be a current, permanent employee of the legislative or executive branches of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and have a valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts identification card. |
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| Borrowing Materials |
Only State Library of Massachusetts card holders may borrow materials from the State Library's collections.
State Interns: Interns may borrow materials on a short term loan based on a phone call to the intern's supervisor authorizing loan activity, and at the discretion of State Library reference staff. Materials may also be borrowed using a supervisor's library card. Responsibility for loaned materials rests with the intern's supervisor.
Loan Period: The standard loan period for materials in our stacks is 30 days. Materials may be renewed twice; this can be done either in person or by phone. If a project necessitates keeping materials longer, please contact the head of reference for special arrangements. Special Collections Items do not circulate.
Reference Materals: Reference titles may be taken out on a short-term loan for a limited amount of time, for extensive photocopying, or for consultation. Please check with the reference desk before proceeding to the circulation desk when requesting a short-term loan.
Check-out/Check-in: Both standard and short-term loans should be charged out and returned at the circulation desk, at the third floor entrance of the library.
Recalls: Items may be recalled should another state employee require them for their work. |
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| Reserving Materials Currently Out on Loan |
| State employees may ask to be notified when titles are returned. |
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