Library

The rules for using the Estonian National Museum Library regulate the granting of reader rights and the rights and obligations of readers.

1. General Provisions
1.1. The Estonian National Museum Library is a specialist library that provides access to information resources in ethnology and museology for museum employees and other interested users. Anyone aged 16 or over may register as a reader.

1.2. 1.2. To protect library property, video surveillance and an electronic security system for library materials are in use.

2. Reader Registration
2.1. Readers are registered on the basis of a valid photo ID. The reader fills in a registration form and, by signing it, undertakes to comply with the library rules and consents to the use of personal data to the extent set out in the rules.

2.2. When registering, the reader must provide the following information:
2.2.1. first and last name
2.2.2. personal identification code, or if unavailable, date of birth
2.2.3. workplace/educational institution
2.2.4. position/field of study
2.2.5. home address
2.2.6. email address
2.2.7. phone number

2.3. 2.3. Based on the submitted information, an ID card or residence permit card is registered as the library card. If the reader has neither of the above-mentioned documents, the library will issue a library card on the basis of another valid photo ID.

2.4. The library card is personal and may not be transferred to another person.

2.5. The library card is valid for three years for ERM employees and one year for other readers. The reader’s details are checked when the card is renewed.

2.6. Readers are required to notify the library of any changes in their details or update their details via their personal My ESTER user account.

3. Use of Readers’ Data
3.1. The readers’ database is for internal library use only. Access is granted only to library staff providing services, and they are required to maintain the confidentiality of readers’ data. When registering, the reader receives a personal password to view contact details, loans, due dates, and notifications in the database, and to renew loan periods. Other persons may access the data only in cases provided for by law.

3.2. 3.2. The data in the readers’ database are used to identify readers and provide library services, including sending reminders and other notifications, as well as for statistical analysis without linking the data to an individual.

3.3. 3.3. Reader data are stored for up to 2 years after the expiry of the library card, except in the case of readers with outstanding obligations, whose data are stored until the obligation has been settled.

4. Borrowing Rules
4.1. All library readers have the right to use materials on site, which allows them to order materials from storage to the reading room and to use the open-access collection. Materials may be borrowed for home use by ERM employees.

4.2. Materials on the library’s open shelves may be used in the reading room without the assistance of a librarian.

4.3. Requests to borrow an item from storage or place a hold may be submitted in person, by email, or via the ESTER e-catalogue.

4.4. Readers are required to return borrowed materials by the due date or renew the loan period. Renewals are possible only if there is no hold on the item.

4.5. For items not returned on time, the library has the right to charge overdue fees in accordance with the loan rules and loan periods established for the publication.

4.6. If an item is lost or damaged, it must be replaced with the same item, or if that is not possible, its value must be reimbursed in an amount determined by the library.
 

5. Library Services
5.1. The library provides on-site use of materials and home loans, access to the ESTER e-catalogue (www.ester.ee) and databases, reference services, basic user instruction, and interlibrary loan for ERM employees.

5.2. 5.2. Computer workstations are available in the library for information searches and the use of electronic information sources. It is also possible to order paper and digital copies and to print materials.

5.3. 5.3. Use of library services is free of charge, except for copying and printing.
 

6. Internal Rules
6.1. Service in the library is provided on the basis of a valid ID card or library card.

6.2. Entering the library in outdoor clothing or with large bags is not permitted.

6.3. Readers are prohibited from disturbing public order in any way, including acting contrary to generally accepted norms and good manners.

6.4. Order and quiet must be maintained in the library, and readers must not disturb others by their behaviour.

6.5. To prevent damage to library materials, eating and drinking are not permitted in the reading rooms. Talking on a mobile phone is also not permitted.

6.6. Readers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or wearing visibly dirty clothing, are not permitted to enter the library.

6.7. If the security gate alarm sounds, the reader must comply with the instructions of library staff. Staff have the right to inspect items carried by the reader.

6.8. The library is not responsible for items left unattended in the library premises.

7. Reader Liability
7.1. In the event of a serious violation of the library rules, the Director of the Estonian National Museum has the right to prohibit the reader from visiting the reading room for a fixed period.

7.2. Readers bear material responsibility for the library materials, equipment, or other property in their use. Any damage caused must be compensated to the museum.