Reading Room

Use and Reservation Policy 

The Town of Ulster Library Reading Room is available during regular hours for patron use as a quiet space, for library related groups and meetings, and for gatherings of community groups by reservation.

Use by Patrons

Patrons using the room should respect the space and needs of others by wearing headphones and limiting phone and video calls. Windows may be opened/closed as desired, and lighting may be adjusted.

Use by Reservation

Use of Library meeting spaces are limited to organizations engaged in educational, cultural, intellectual, charitable, advocacy, civic, religious, or political activities. A reservation refused by the director may be appealed to the Board of Trustees. We ask that you provide a minimum of 72 hours notice for reservation requests. Cancellation of reservations is required 24 hours in advance. Failure to notify the Library of a cancellation may result in denial of future requests. Reservations are limited to 2 hour sessions; anything longer requires Library Director approval.

Groups and individuals (sponsors) seeking a reservation for the Reading Room should apply
using this form which requests the following information:

  • Description of the event/meeting, including the purpose of the event/meeting.
  • Name of group/individual making request
  • Contact person name, email and phone
  • Date of the event/meeting
  • Start and end time of the event/meeting
  • Expected attendance/group size

Patrons using the Reading Room may not charge admission or make monetary collections, regardless of whether these collections are designated as voluntary. Exceptions may be made for library sponsored groups, programs or events.

Room capacity: 18 people

House Rules for Meeting Spaces

  • Town of Ulster Library events will be given preference.
  • Except as a designation of location, the name of the library may not be used in any publicity relating to the use of a meeting space.
  • Use of a meeting space does not imply an endorsement, support, or co-sponsorship by the Town of Ulster Public Library. Sponsors may not imply the meeting/event is sponsored, co-sponsored or endorsed by the Library in any advertising, publicity or during the meeting/event itself.
  • Use of a meeting space must be conducted in such a way as not to disturb Library operations.
  • The person or group (sponsor) reserving the meeting space are responsible for any set up.
  • No food or beverage may be served without approval of the Library Director.
  • No smoking or burning of any materials is permitted.
  • The Library does not have storage space and assumes no responsibility for equipment or personal articles belonging to sponsor or attendees.
  • Sponsor assumes responsibility for any injury to attendees.
  • Meeting spaces will not be available when the Library is closed due to emergency conditions or inclement weather. Library staff will attempt to notify the event/meeting sponsor of any closures.
  • Political meetings that are open to the general public are acceptable for the discussion of issues but not for campaign purposes, party caucuses, etc.
  • No admission fee may be charged for events/meetings in the Library. No selling, taking of orders, or marketing of products or services is permitted.
  • Events/meetings involving children under eighteen must have an adult sponsor present who is personally responsible.
  • Library personnel shall have free access to the meeting space at all times.
  • Patrons using a meeting space may not charge admission or make monetary collections, regardless of whether these collections are designated as voluntary. Exceptions may be made for library sponsored groups, programs or events.
  • After the event/meeting, all furniture and equipment must be returned to its original location and the room must be left in clean and good condition. Any damage to the Library facilities will be charged to the sponsor.
  • Additional trash bags are available from the Library staff, if needed.
  • All meeting spaces must be vacated at least 10 minutes before the Library closes.

Updated February 2026