Library Services

Getting a Library Card

Randall Library is a member of the Minuteman Library Network (MLN) of libraries.  Your MLN card can be used at more than 40 libraries in eastern Massachusetts.  Click here for a complete list of MLN libraries.

If you have never had a library card, you may register to get a digital 6-month Minuteman library card. Then visit a Minuteman public library convenient to you, within 6 months, to complete the library card application. When you pick up your card you must present a photo ID and proof of address.  You may sign up for a digital card here: https://www.minlib.net/ecard

Library cards are free for any Massachusetts resident. Adults (over 18) should bring a driver's license or Massachusetts State Identification Card with a current address OR one document from Section 1 AND one document from Section 2 below:

  1. Proof of identification – current or expired – (must include name and photo)
    Passport 
    Alien Resident Card
    Government issued cards, such as Military ID
    State issued photo ID including welfare, Medicaid or FID card
    University or school ID
    Senior/T.A.P. ID issued by the MBTA (added by Membership 01/18/2017)
  2. Proof of current local address (must include applicant’s name)  
    Utility bill or tax bill (dated within the last 60 days)
    Lease agreement
    Imprinted bank check or deposit slip
    Official school schedule with applicant’s name and address typed on it
    Official letter verifying residency and mailing address dated within last 30 days from a  social service provider, temporary employer that provides housing, or a short-term residence
    Postcard mailed to applicant from the library
    Personal letter mailed to the applicant, postmarked within 60 days
    eBills

NOTES:

  1. For patrons who cannot produce photo identification or proof of current local address, someone in an official capacity may attest to a person’s identification and/or address (e.g., someone who works in an official capacity at a shelter to attest to the identification and/or address of a person).
  2. Children: If applicant is under 13 years old, parent or legal guardian must provide proof of identification and address. A child must be present for a parent or legal guardian to get them a library card. 
  3. Teens: If applicant is between the ages of 13 and 17 and cannot meet the ID and address requirements, parent or guardian must provide proof of identification and address.  A teen must be present for a parent or legal guardian to get them a library card. 


Borrowing Periods  
Most items can be borrowed for three weeks except for Speed Reads, which can be borrowed for two weeks. Library of Things items may have different borrowing periods. 

Fines
We are fine free! See more information here.

Computers, Wi-Fi and Copying
The library has three computers for public use. All computers have Microsoft Office 2010 Pro. All computers have internet access, and two have printers. Printed pages cost $0.25 each. There is no time limit for computer use, but we ask patrons to be considerate of people who are waiting. Patrons who want to save created documents should be prepared to email the file to themselves. (Documents can't be downloaded or saved.) 

We also have wi-fi printer for any of your devices. Please note that printing will require downloading an application to your phone.  

The library is wired for free wi-fi access.  
There is a photocopier for public use. Each copy is $0.10.

Other Item Lending (The Library of Things)
The library lends out many non-traditional materials such as tools, arts & crafts equipment, STEM items, etc. See the full list and reservation system here: https://www.stow-ma.gov/randall-library/pages/library-things

Wall of Sound
Music CDs, books on MP3, CD, and Playaways are now shelved on the first floor.

Community Meeting Space 

There are two rooms available for public meetings for Stow non-profit groups. Please call or visit the Circulation Desk to reserve a room. 

Community Bulletin Board

The library lobby has a bulletin board for local non-profits to post free community events. Please check at the Circulation Desk before posting a flyer. 

Notary Services
Notary services are available free of charge by appointment only. Please contact tmcandrew@minlib.net to arrange.