About
ABOUT THE LIBRARY
Mission Statement
The Ulysses Philomathic Library is an educational and cultural resource center which strives to meet the informational, creative and leisure needs of all community residents. To that end, the library will provide a broad collection of materials and access to a wide network of contemporary resources and media.
History
The original Ulysses Philomathic (which means “love of learning”) Library, a private association, was formed in 1811. Members’ books were kept in Hermon Camp’s store. The Library was re-established in 1935 when the north wing of the Masonic Temple was deeded to the Library. In October of 2001 the Library moved to its present location.
The Collection
The Library owns over 20,000 books, magazines, newspapers, including The New York Times, books-on-tape and CD, and videos. In 2010, over 60,000 items were circulated.
Who May Use the Library
Anyone may use the library free of charge and may borrow materials after registering for borrower’s privileges. Children under age 12 need a parent’s/guardian’s permission to get a library card. Please present your card to borrow books or to ask about your record.
Library Funding
In addition to support from the county, town, school district, and village, our annual operating funds come from such sources Finger Lakes Library System, Friends of the Tompkins County Public Library, Gemm Shoppe, United Way (Ulysses Community Council), Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County the Ulysses/Trumansburg Joint Youth Commission, and Association Membership.
Who Works Here?
The director with the help of the reference librarian and three assistants oversees the operation of the Library. We also have two summer reading program coordinators. Teens hired through the county and town youth programs help us out year round. All other workers volunteer their services at the main desk and assist with shelving, maintenance, programs and special events, such as the book sale.
Borrowing Materials
Books, Books on CD, Books on Tape, CDs- 3 weeks (renewable)
DVDs/Videos/Video Games- 1 week (no renewals)
New fiction and non-fiction may be reserved by UPL patrons only and cannot be renewed. With a few exceptions, other items can be renewed for an additional two weeks. Materials may be borrowed from other libraries both inside and outside of the Finger Lakes Library System.
Returning Items
Items may be returned after hours by placing books in the boxes at the front and rear entrances. Lateness incurs a fine of 25 cents per item per day. Patrons who lose or badly damage items will be charged the full replacement cost. Borrowing privileges will be suspended if a patron owes more than $10.
Library Association
Anyone may join the Association by paying annual dues starting at $10. Membership is tax deductible and voluntary. Please ask for details. The members of the Library Association are essential for our success!
Computer Services
Patrons can search the online catalog for a listing of the holdings of each of the Finger Lakes Library System’s member libraries. You can also search for books out of system using World Cat.
We have free e-books and downloadable audiobooks as well! Use your e-reader or MP3 player and click here to find a great book!
In addition you may search electronic databases for information from newspapers, magazines and college catalogs. Databases covering health issues and literary criticism are also available. We also offer free Internet access and wireless. Ask at the main desk regarding our Internet policy.
Gifts
Memorials and honorariums are a wonderful way to honor a special occasion or a person in your life. Please contact Annette Birdsall for further details.
Programs & Special Needs
The Library provides special programs for people of all ages. The Melvin Community Room is available upon request for area groups and agencies. Information is available regarding the Mail-It and the NYS Talking Book & Braille Library services that are offered to the homebound and to the blind and visually handicapped.
Newsletters
Annual Reports
