Some places require American hostellers to prove their international traveller status by showing travel documents, passport, etc. They are all different. So it's impossible to generalize about any one place. Services and hours are limited to keep costs down. As you speak with other hostellers you will find that they might change a lot of things, but not if it raised the price.
Many hostels are small places and the staff is limited.
Be aware that going to a hotel's desk at 1 AM would be ok. Knocking on the manager's door at 1AM is not. Be considerate and remember the hours. Many are located in minority communities for the lower rents. These communities are usually very safe and have their own special things to offer you.