Washburn Memorial Library   

Code of Conduct Policy

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The library offers a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone. The Board of Trustees has established the Library Code of Conduct to protect the right of library patrons and staff to enjoy a safe space conducive to the effective use of Library facilities, materials, resources and services. These rules are posted for the comfort and protection of all.

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Instances of irresponsible use of the Library and grounds and supporting examples include but are not limited to:

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•  Any illegal activity including stealing, damaging, or altering any Library property

 

Examples: Altering or damaging setup of computer equipment or software; writing in or damaging Library materials; damaging or using furniture in any manner for which it was not intended

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•  Disruptive, drunken, or threatening behavior that may jeopardize the personal safety of patrons, staff or facilities

 

Examples: Cursing, making obscene gestures; threatening the personal safety of patrons or staff; transmitting threatening, or abusive language or images, chronic sleeping; and conduct that alarms or harasses another patron or staff; any adult unaccompanied by a child in the Children’s area who is not engaged in library activity

 

•  Acts of sexual misconduct or stalking

 

Examples: Indecent exposure; offensive touching; sexual harassment; displaying pornography; stalking or staring; any conduct that alarms, annoys or harasses another patron or staff

 

•  Unacceptable personal hygiene

 

Examples: Body odor; not appropriately clothed; strong perfume

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• Possession of a weapon or exhibiting any item in a threatening manner

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Examples: carrying guns, knives or any weapons, except permitted by law

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• Consumption of alcohol, intoxicants or tobacco

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Examples: Consuming drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products inside the Library, including restrooms and library grounds

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•  Consuming food or beverages without permission of staff

•  Bringing animals into the building except properly identified service animals or animals used in library programs

•  Soliciting money, donations, signatures, or other activities that request assistance from the public

•  Entering before or after open hours; using the library when banned

•  Photographing other users of the library without their permission and permission of the library staff

•  Performing any illegal act or conduct in violation of federal, state and local law, ordinances or regulation

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We expect our patrons to:

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•  Check out all library materials using a valid library card before removing them from the building

•  Use library parking areas, sidewalks and lawns properly and safely. Vehicles parked improperly are subject to being towed at owner’s expense.

•  Promptly leave the building at closing time or in an emergency

•  Attend to personal belongings. The library is not responsible for personal belongings left in or on the property.

•  Adhere to all established library policies with specific attention to the Acceptable Internet Use Policy.

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The Code of Conduct will be enforced by staff and/or local law enforcement. Patron identification, including name, address, and telephone number may be requested. Any patron not abiding by the policies of the library will be required to leave library premises and may forfeit their library privileges. Any patron may appeal to the Library Board of Trustees in respect to any action taken under this Code of Conduct. Actions that violate local, state or federal law will be prosecuted.

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Violators of the Code of Conduct will be subject to the following penalties:

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•  For first infractions, violators will be asked to stop such action. If they do not desist, they will be required to leave the library for the   remainder of the day.

•  For repeat offenses, the Library Director or designee may withdraw library privileges for up to 30 days.

•  On a case-by-case basis because serious or repeated nature of the offense, the Library Board may extend the loss of library privileges to   90 days.

•  The police will be called in the case of illegal activity or when the safety of the staff or patrons is a concern.

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Approved by the Washburn Memorial Library Board

February 3, 2015