On behalf of the Mahwah Public Library, we welcome your child to a new school year! We’re excited to support your child’s learning and growth, both in and out of the classroom.
The Library offers and a wide range of age-appropriate books, media, programs, homework help, study spaces, and other resources curated to help them succeed. We are proud to be a place where young people can explore, connect, and thrive.
Finding the Right Space for You
The Inbetween, on the Library’s lower level, is a popular place for teens to relax, meet up with friends, play games, enjoy programs and more in a lively, high-energy setting. But the Inbetween may not the right choice for every child. The children’s room is the perfect spot for younger children who want to read or socialize with peers in a quieter environment. Older students who want to read, study or work on homework are welcome to use the main concourse.
Access to Resources That Help You Succeed
We all need a little help from time to time. The Library has your back with a wide range of after-school programs for children and teens, computers and printers, and resources for live tutoring and homework help, language learning services, even in-depth courses led by experts in the field. They’re all available, free, with your Mahwah library card.
Making Good Decisions About Behavior
Over the last several years, we have experienced disruptive behavior from unsupervised students after school that negatively impacted other patrons.
We want to be clear—inappropriate conduct including loud, disruptive conversation, disrespectful or offensive language, disorderly or violent conduct, inappropriate physical or sexual contact, and misuse of library spaces will not be tolerated.
The use of athletic equipment, including sports balls, is not permitted in the Library, or on Library grounds.
We take the following steps in response to violations of the Code of Conduct:
- We have informal, non-punitive conversations with disruptive children and teens, asking them to find a seat and settle down.
- We instruct individuals who repeatedly engage in inappropriate or disruptive behavior to leave the Library and grounds for the day. This is also non-punitive, and individuals are free to return the next day.
- When necessary, we work closely with the Mahwah police and school officials to identify disruptive students so that we may communicate with their parents to resolve ongoing problems.
- We may temporarily ban individuals who either seriously or repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct.
We also remind you that all minors must be picked up promptly at closing, including 5 PM on Fridays.
We need your help. Please speak with your child about the importance of respecting Library spaces, staff, and fellow visitors. Remind them that different areas—the Children’s Room, Teen Room (The Inbetween), and main concourse—are designed for different levels of activity and noise and must be used appropriately.
With your assistance, we can ensure the Library remains a safe, welcoming space for everyone.