Public Library FAQs

How do I get a library card?

The library staff will issue a library card to any Massachusetts resident from a city or town with a state-accredited library.  Proof of current address is required at time of registration.  Children age 5 and older who are accompanied by their parent or guardian may register for a library card in the Marjorie Hattersley Children’s Room. Your Bancroft Memorial Library Card is valid at all C/W Mars member libraries.

What types of materials are included in the Library’s collections?

The Library's collections include physical as well as digital content. The library purchases materials in multiple formats, including large print, audio (books on CD or downloadable audiobooks); DVDs (and downloadable video), music CDs, local newspapers, magazines (including 148 digital magazines available through Overdrive), and museum passes.

What is the loan period?

DVDs and magazines circulate for seven days.  Hot Spots circulate for two weeks.  All other materials circulate for three weeks.  Museum passes vary.  Newspapers, current print magazines and reference materials do not circulate.

What are the overdue fines?

In order to provide equitable access to the public library, the Trustees of the Bancroft Memorial Library adopted a "Fine Free" Policy in April 2021, waiving overdue fees for books, DVDs and audio book CDs. They felt that these fees had been a barrier to many of the populations we serve and wished to remove that barrier.  Please note that fees will still be charged for lost items and overdue hotspots and museum passes.

  • Hotspots - $10.00 per day
  • Fines are calculated on a per day basis only for days that the library is open.

Can borrowed materials be renewed?

All materials may be renewed by telephone, in person or online for one additional loan period.  The due date, author and title are needed in order to renew an item by telephone.  C/W Mars now also provides "auto-renewal" for eligible items.

Can items be reserved?

Yes, all circulating items may be reserved by telephone, in person or online.

When can the book drops be used?

There are two book drops; one at the front of the building, and one at the rear entry.  The book drops are always open. Returning DVDs, CDs and Museum Passes in the book drop is discouraged.  If absolutely necessary, these items should  be placed in a large padded envelope.  Hotspots must be returned to circulation staff in person.

Does the Library offer computers for public use?

Yes, there are several options for computer use.  In the upstairs Reading Room, there are two computers with Internet access and word processing software that patrons may use. Two additional computers are located in the Children's Room. There is a color printer connected to the computers.  Four laptops are also available for use inside the Library.  Computers are available on a first come, first served basis.  Patrons may use a computer for 30 minutes with the possibility of an additional 30 minutes if no one else is waiting to use it.  Patrons who are in the library may sign up for a waiting list if necessary. Patrons may also access the Library's free Wi-Fi using their personal computers and devices.  The Library's Wi-Fi network is LibraryPublicHotspot.

Does the Library offer printing or fax services?

Printing costs are 10 cents per page for black/white prints or copies, and 25 cents per page for color prints or copies.  Fax service is $1 per page.  You may also scan to email or to your own USB device at no charge. 

Does the Library offer Museum and Park Passes?

Yes, the library offers passes to several area museums to Hopedale residents.  Passes may be reserved up to 30 days in advance on the Library's EventKeeper site. Many of the museums charge a fee at time of entry. Available passes are subject to change without notice. We are grateful to the Friends of the Library and the Hopedale Foundation for their generous support.

Passes sponsored by the Friends of the Library

  • Ecotarium (Worcester)
  • Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (Boston)
  • Massachusetts State Parks (parking pass)
  • Tower Hill Botanic Garden (Boylston)
  • USS Constitution Museum (Charlestown)

Passes sponsored by the Hopedale Foundation (available to Hopedale residents only)

  • Museum of Science (Boston)
  • New England Aquarium (Boston) 

Does the Library offer special programs for children?

Yes, the Library offers regular Story Hour sessions, a Summer Reading Program and other special events for children.  Check the Library's web site, local newspaper or local cable channel for upcoming programs.

Does the Library take book donations?

At this time, the Library is not accepting any book donations.

Is the Library’s collection available on-line?

Yes, the Library’s collection can be accessed online. With a CW Mars library card patrons may view the catalog, place requests and renew items online from the convenience of home.  Click HERE to access Overdrive digital content. 

What is the Library Board of Trustees?

The Library Board of Trustees is a group of citizen volunteers to whom the governing of the public library is entrusted. The Board of Trustees is the Library’s oversight board and is responsible for setting library policy.  The Bancroft Memorial Library Board of Trustee consists of three elected members with three-year terms.The Board typically meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. at the Library, and members of the public are always welcome to attend.  At the present time, all Trustee meetings are currently being held via Zoom.  Agendas and meeting information can be found on the Town of Hopedale Calendar.

Current Members of the Library Board of Trustees (2022): 

  • Frederick G. Oldfield III, Chair
  • Christine Seaver, Secretary
  • Marie Riddell

What is the history of the Library building (or, did it used to be a church?)

The Bancroft Memorial Library was built in 1898 by Joseph Bubier Bancroft in memory of his wife, Sylvia W. Thwing Bancroft. The building is constructed of pink Milford granite with a slate shingled roof. It was designed by C. Howard Walker of the Boston architectural firm Walker & Kimball. The Library was fashioned after the Merton College Chapel at Oxford. The Library was dedicated and opened to the public on December 14, 1899, at which time Joseph Bancroft transferred ownership of the Library to the Town of Hopedale for one dollar. It has served as a public library without interruption since that time. The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the Hopedale Village National Historic District.

What is the Statue of Hope?

The Statue of Hope was a gift from Susan P. Draper to the Town of Hopedale. The statue includes a fountain, and was originally used as a drinking fountain until the State Board of Health outlawed shared drinking glasses. The statue was sculpted by the American sculptor Waldo Story in Rome of Carrara marble.

Is the Library Handicap Accessible?

Yes, there is a handicap parking space in the rear of the building, with elevator access to both levels inside.