Acceptable Library Behaviors
Rationale
The library exists for the use, enjoyment and benefit of its patrons. In order to provide an environment in which all patrons can make productive use of the libraries, the library has established a set of rules which constitute minimum standards of behavior for individuals and groups using the facility and the materials held there.
Process for enforcing policy
- Staff will give warning of inappropriate behavior.
- Staff will explain rules to patron and may offer alternatives.
- In case of minor disruption, and after explanation and warning, patron may be asked to leave the premises for the rest of the day.
- If offending patron refuses to follow the requests of the staff, or the staff feels there is potential danger to patrons or staff, staff may call the police.
- If patron repeatedly ignores the warnings issued by the staff and/or the police, the staff has the right to remove the patron for specified periods of time. A specific date and time will be attached to the restriction, and it will be posted for the information of the entire staff.
Rules
No smoking (or use of tobacco in any form) or use of controlled substances in the library.
No eating or drinking in public-service areas of the library.
No soliciting or distributing of leaflets within the library.
No animals, other than guide dogs or other assist animals, are permitted in the library. Animals tied up outside the library should be secured in a manner that will not obstruct stairways or walkways.
Appropriate attire, including shirt and shoes, must be worn by all library users.
Roller skates, rollerblades, scooters, and the like are not allowed in the library.
Bicycles ridden to the library should be locked to the bike rack in front of the library. Bikes may not be parked inside the library or on the sidewalks or walkways leading up to the library.
Any sports equipment (e.g., balls, skateboards, tennis racquets) brought into the library must be deposited in the entry foyer of the library.
Radios and/or tape players, with or without headphones may not be used in the library. Educational tapes and computers may be used with permission of the staff on duty.
The library is not responsible for personal belongings left unattended. If a library user must leave briefly and wishes to leave library materials for further use, he or she should notify staff on duty.
The library staff reserves the right to inspect any bags, purses, briefcases, backpacks, etc., for library materials that may have been inadvertently packed with patron’s other materials.
The materials and equipment in the library are here for patron and staff use. Any intentional damage to materials, equipment, furniture, building, or other library property is against the law and may be reported to the police.
The telephone at the circulation desks may be used for patrons (with permission of the staff) in cases of emergency or to call home for rides. Patrons may not use the library phone for casual personal conversations.
Loud or boisterous behavior is prohibited.
Physical or verbal harassment of staff or patrons is prohibited.
LIBRARY POLICIES
Materials Selection and
Collection Maintenance
Policies for the Use of
Computers
Closed and Decertified Libraries