Library Use
Please select from the topics below.
Library Cards
Library cards are available at no charge to the following:
- Residents of Union County
- Property or business owners in Union County
- Employees of schools in Union County
- Employees of Union County government or city government agencies in Union County
- Students, faculty, and staff of USC Union
- Newberry County residents through a reciprocal agreement
To get a library card you will need to provide proof of residency, such as a valid driver’s license, utility bill, lease or rental agreement. Non-residents will need to provide both proof of current address and proof of eligibility for a free card, such as a student/faculty/staff ID.
Non-Resident library card
Anyone who does not meet one of the criteria listed above may obtain a card for an annual fee based on the amount a Union County resident contributes towards public library service, currently $10.
Parent/guardian is responsible for registering any minors (under 18) for a library card.
You can sign up for a library card using this link but you will need to come into the library, with your ID, to pick up your card.
Borrowing Materials
- 30 items may be checked out at a time per patron
- 10 DVDs, new books, magazines, and audiobooks may be checked out at one time per patron
- 2 special collection items (kits and equipment, video games, etc.) may be checked out at one time
- Books, audiobooks, music CDs, periodicals, and paperbacks will check out for 3 weeks
- Special collection items and DVDs may be checked out for 1 week
- Items may be renewed up to 2 time
Computer Use
The Library provides public computers and wireless internet access free of charge to anyone visiting the library. Printing and faxing services are also available and may have a small fee.
Policies Governing Internet Use in the Library
- Internet use is managed in a manner consistent with the Library Code of Conduct and Internet Safety Policy that has been adopted by the Union County Carnegie Library Board of Trustees. The Code of Conduct and Internet Safety Policy is posted in the library and available below.
- Signatures on library cards indicate acceptance of the Library Code of Conduct.
- Failure to use computer stations and internet responsibly and appropriately as defined in the Library Code of Conduct and Internet Safety Policy may result in immediate revocation of internet privileges and/or library privileges. Unacceptable use that is illegal can result in criminal prosecution.
Internet Safety Policy
- An individual user takes full responsibility for complying with copyright laws and software licensing agreements.
- Computers are not used to gain access to the library network or the computer systems and networks of others. Users may not damage or attempt to damage or alter equipment or software. Patrons may not install personal software on library computers.
- All public use computers are filtered with web filtering software in compliance with Section 16-15-305, South Carolina Code of Laws and the Children’s Internet Protection Act, in order to block access to inappropriate matter. Filters are removed by the library director upon request by an adult conducting bona fide research.
- To the extent practical, steps are taken to promote safety and security of users of the Union County Carnegie Library online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and discrimination of personal identification information regarding minors. To the extent practical, measures are designed to restrict access to materials harmful to minors.
- Internet access through the library may not be used for financial gain, or for any commercial activities. Use of credit cards and disclosure of private information on library computers is not recommended.
- Gambling and dating sites are not permitted.
- A copy of this policy is provided with explanation to each Internet user. This policy is posted near all public workstations.
- Failure to follow the rules and policies of Union County Carnegie Library as outlined results in the revocation of library privileges.
Code of Conduct
In order to provide a pleasant environment for all of the residents of Union County, the following forms of conduct are prohibited in the Union County Library System facilities and spaces:
- Disruptive, disturbing, or overly loud conversations
- Listening to audio equipment without earphones
- Smoking, tobacco products or use or possession of alcoholic beverages or drugs on the premises
- Use of restrooms for meetings, loitering or other inappropriate purposes
- Use of library telephones without permission
- Soliciting, selling of any kind, political campaigning, or distribution of leaflets not specifically approved by the library director
- Presence in a non-public area without permission
- Theft, destruction or defacement of library property, books, or other materials
- Loud, rude or disorderly conduct as determined by staff
- Improper dress (shoes and shirts are required)
- Refusal to leave the library at the designated closing time
- Disregard of fire regulations
- Possession of concealable weapons, whether concealed or openly carried
- Violation of local, state, or federal laws
Adults should not be in the children’s area unless accompanying a child or browsing for materials. Adults considered to be loitering in the children’s area will be asked to move to another portion of the library.
The slide is restricted to children ages 2 – 12 and with a maximum weight of 140 lbs.
The library reserves the right to expel any person whose behavior is disruptive or whose actions interfere with the use of the library by other patrons.