Policies


Made@NPL Makerspace User Agreement


Thank you for your interest in the Made@NPL Makerspace at the Newark Public Library! Made@NPL is a community resource that provides all Newarkers access to in-demand equipment, technology, and software, to use at no cost.

Made@NPL supports creative entrepreneurs with business reference services and
programming related to creativity, entrepreneurship, and making things. Made@NPL
was funded by a generous grant from the PNC Foundation.

Please carefully review the Makerspace User Agreement that follows.

Eligibility: To be eligible to use the space, you must have a library card in good
standing, a form of photo ID, and sign a usage agreement.

Age Requirement: Minors under the age of 18 must have the Usage Agreement
completed by a parent or guardian. Children under the age of 12 will currently not
be allowed in the Makerspace.

Waiver Requirement: NPL cardholders and guests must fill out a waiver before
using the Makerspace. For minors 17 years and younger, a parent or legal guardian
must fill out the waiver. Waivers will be kept on file.

Proper Use of Space: The Made@NPL Makerspace may be used only for lawful
purposes. The public is prohibited from using the Makerspace equipment to create
material that is:


Makerspace User Agreement

a. Prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
b. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of
others (such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer).
c. Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for a public library environment.
d. In violation of another’s intellectual property rights.
For example, the equipment may not be used to reproduce material that is
subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.

Hardware and Software: Makers may not modify the Makerspace’s hardware or
software, or install new programs onto the computers. The Library reserves the
right to deny Makerspace access if a maker violates any part of the Makerspace
policy, or for any other misuse of the space, as determined by Library staff.

Storing Digital Work: When creating digital content with the library’s equipment,
please remember to bring your own storage device (flash drive), purchase one in
the Victoria Technology Center (VTC) on the 3rd Floor, or store your work via an
online cloud service. The library’s computers do not store individual work or
projects. Makers are responsible for properly saving digital works, and the Library
and its staff are not responsible for any loss of data that may occur.

Recording Studio in Use: Please be quiet when the recording studio is in use. The
sign on the outside of the studio that says “Recording Studio In Use” will be lit up
when the booth is occupied.

Staff Assistance: Once a maker is trained in how to use Makerspace equipment,
they may use it independently. Library staff will be happy to assist users of the
Makerspace as time permits. The Library staff has limited availability to provide this
assistance on demand. Makerspace tools and devices are free to use.

Attention to Equipment: Makerspace equipment may not be left unattended
while it is in use; a patron aged 12 and older must stay with it at all times.

Consumable Materials / Supplies: Consumable materials such as fabric, vinyl,
wood, acrylic, etc. must be provided by the maker. Please consult with staff prior to
purchasing / bringing your own materials, as some are not allowed. The
Makerspace will stock a limited supply of materials for purchase. Contact staff for
more information on materials availability and costs. Makers will not access
consumables without the assistance of Library staff or volunteer Trainers.

No food or drinks will be allowed near the equipment.

No large bags will be allowed in the workspace. Backpacks and Totes may be hung
near your work station. No bags will be allowed in the recording studio.

Library equipment cannot be removed from the Makerspace area. Library
equipment should be used in a manner consistent with the proper use of each
device. Equipment should not be mishandled or used in a way that can cause
damage. Staff have the right to end the use of equipment if deemed necessary.

Walk-ins: Walk-in use will only be permitted at the discretion of staff.

Reservations:

  • Scheduling multiple pieces of equipment at the same time is not allowed

  • Reservations may not be made more than 2 weeks in advance.

  • Based on availability, applicants are limited to no more than three (3) reservations per week.

  • 15 minutes prior to the end of a reservation time, work on the equipment should conclude and the user should clean and reset the workstation.

  • More than two cancellations in a month may result in the denial of future reservations. Cancellations may be made by phone: 973-733-3608 and email: made@npl.org or by using the online scheduling system.

  • Failure to arrive for a reservation within 30 minutes of the reservation time may result in a cancellation of the reservation and the equipment will be made available to other users.

    Financial Liability: Makers will be held financially responsible for the Makerspace
    equipment that is reserved, checked out, or used. If any piece of equipment is lost
    or damaged during a session, the maker will pay the replacement cost of the item.

    Special Accommodations: The Newark Public Library will make every effort to
    accommodate Makers’ needs. Please let us know at least one week in advance if
    you will need a translator or interpreter.

    No Refunds: The Newark Public Library will not offer refunds for consumables
    purchased and used.

    Project Quality: The Maker agrees that Library is not responsible for any
    manufacturing defects, or the quality or workmanship of any of the tools, materials
    or equipment supplied by the Library, or for the quality or condition of a user’s
    project. The Library cannot guarantee project quality, satisfaction, equipment
    availability or stability, confidentiality of design, or specific delivery times.

    Damage to Personal Property: The Library is not responsible for any damages or
    destruction of a user’s personal equipment used with any Makerspace equipment
    or tools. The Library and its staff are not liable for any loss, damage, or expenses
    sustained by users due to the utilization of services, equipment, software, advice, or information.

    Library Rules Apply: All of the Newark Public Library’s policies (e.g. Internet Use,
    space use, and behavior in the library) also cover the Makerspace. Users of the
    Makerspace must adhere to Newark Public Library policies, waiver forms, and obey
    all local, state, and federal laws. The Library reserves the right to terminate the
    Makerspace privileges of any person in violation of these policies.

    Safety: Issues, accidents, or injuries must be reported immediately to Makerspace
    staff.

    Availability: The Makerspace is available to the public during Open hours, as listedon the Session Request form. Hours are subject to change. Library-sponsored
    activities, classes, and programs have priority use of the Makerspace. The
    Makerspace is not available for group reservations, group projects, or meeting
    room bookings.

    User Information: Library staff will enter the names, phone numbers, and email
    addresses of all authorized makers into a database.

    I am fully aware that participation in Made@NPL Makerspace activities and programs may result in risk of personal injury or harm to myself / a minor child. I hereby agree to release and hold harmless Newark Public Library, its officers, employees, volunteers, committees, and Board of Trustees, from and against any and all liability, loss, damages, claims, or actions (including attorney’s fees and court costs) for bodily injury and/or property damage, to the extent permissible by law.

    I understand I shall be financially responsible for any equipment damages resulting from negligent, reckless, or wrongful use.

    This indemnification and hold harmless agreement shall include indemnity against all costs (including, without limitation, attorney's fees and court costs), expenses, and liabilities incurred in connection with any such claim or proceeding brought thereon and in defense thereof, or other claims brought by third parties (including other participating patrons) if related to my actions.