Check-Out

• • Students may check out up to 4 books at a time.

  • The standard loan period is 4 weeks. NEW books are loaned for 2 weeks. 

Check-In

• • Return materials using the book drop.

  • Students may renew books if needed, and returned items are checked back into the system promptly.

Overdue and Lost Books

• • Students with overdue materials may only check out 1 book; they may not check out NEW titles until they have returned overdue materials. 

• Students are responsible for the books and digital resources checked out to them.

• There are no late fines, but lost or damaged items may require parent/guardian notification. At the end of the year, lost or damaged books will need to be replaced by the borrower.

Respect for Ideas: Just as we protect our own work, we honor the work of others. Students learn to cite sources, avoid plagiarism, and use digital content legally and ethically.

Fair Use & Access: Our library provides access to high-quality, licensed databases and open educational resources. Students learn when and how they can use information under fair use for projects and research.

Freedom to Read: Guided by New Jersey law, Sussex Middle School upholds students’ right to read diverse viewpoints. We do not remove books or resources based solely on personal or political disagreements.

The library is a safe space for everyone. All students are expected to treat one another with kindness, both in person and online. Use polite, constructive language.

There is zero tolerance for harassment, intimidation, or bullying in any form—including via email, chat, social media, or shared documents. Students are encouraged to report cyberbullying incidents to library staff, school counselors, or administration.

Through lessons and resources, we help students understand how their words and actions affect others in digital spaces. The SMS Library aims to help students develop into respectful and responsible digital citizens.

Protecting Students: Student privacy is a top priority. Personal information and library records are kept confidential and secure.

Safe Technology Use: All students agree to our school’s Internet Terms and Conditions before using digital resources. This ensures responsible browsing and safe engagement online.

Digital Awareness: We guide students on protecting their accounts, creating strong passwords, and recognizing unsafe online practices.