Notary Services

 Middletown Public Library will provide notary services free of charge, available by appointment or walk-in. Please call ahead to confirm notary availability at 401-846-1573 ext. 2. We can assist with oaths and affirmations, jurats, and signature witnessing. Please note that we do not offer copy certifications.

What to bring:

• A VALID government-issued photo ID
• The document to be notarized, completed but unsigned
• All signers of the document and their valid government-issued photo IDs
• Any necessary witnesses must be present

Please be aware that the notaries at Middletown Public Library are not licensed attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. If any issues arise with the authenticity or clarity of a document, or if the circumstances are unclear, the notary may, at their discretion, decline to provide the service.

Jurats
A jurat is used when a signer swears or affirms that the information in a document is true. In some cases, it may be referred to as an affidavit or verification under oath or affirmation, depending on the jurisdiction.

Oaths/Affirmations
An oath is a solemn promise made to a Supreme Being, while an affirmation is a pledge made on the individual's personal honor. The signer has the option to choose which form to use.

Signature Witnessing
In signature witnessing, the notary observes the signer as they sign the document. The key distinction from an acknowledgment is that the notary is present during the signing. Unlike a jurat, affidavit, or verification, a signature witnessing does not involve the notary administering an oath.