Patron Behavior Policy

The David and Joyce Milne Public Library welcomes everyone who wishes to participate in its cultural, recreational, and learning activities. We seek to provide an inclusive environment that cultivates both diversity as well as equity of information.

The Board of Trustees of the David & Joyce Milne Public Library has established the following Patron Behavior Policy so that we may protect our patrons’ right of access to and use of library facilities to the maximum extent possible. We also wish to ensure the safety of our patrons and staff, as well as safeguard our resources and facilities from damage.

The Library staff reserves the right to ask any person to leave the Library when, in the staff’s judgment, that person is exhibiting unlawful, abusive, harassing, threatening or inappropriate behavior or creating a disturbance which interferes with other patrons. Library users who violate this Policy may also be subject to the suspension or revocation of their library privileges, exclusion from the Library and/or legal action. For the comfort and safety of patrons, volunteers, and staff, and the protection of library property, disruptive behavior will not be allowed.

In this effort, we have established the following guidelines:

Tobacco use, smoking, vaping or using e-cigarettes, consuming alcoholic beverages, or using illegal drugs is strictly prohibited in the library.
Possessing or carrying weapons is not permitted, unless authorized by law.
Patrons cannot play audio equipment so that others can hear.
Patrons cannot bring animals into the library, except those needed to assist the patron with a disability, or animals in service training. See the Service Animal Policy.
Patrons may not talk loudly, make noise, or engage in other disruptive conduct. Patrons should not interfere with another person’s use of the library or with library personnel’s performance of their duties.
Patrons and visitors may not verbally or physically threaten or harass other visitors, library staff or volunteers, including stalking, staring, touching, or using offensive language, and including, but not limited to violence and threats of violence.
Filming of library staff or patrons in restricted non-public areas is strictly prohibited.
Verbal or physical harassment, or assault of patrons or staff, is prohibited.
Destruction or theft of library property or personal property of patrons or staff is not permitted.
Sleeping in the library is prohibited.
Patrons must wear shirts and shoes, and their personal hygiene, body odor, or fragrance must not interfere with the ability of others to use or enjoy the library.
Misusing the restrooms, including using them as a laundry or washing facility, is not allowed.
Parents or caregivers are responsible for the behavior and direct supervision of their children and may not leave children under the age of ten unattended in the library. See the policy for Unattended Children.
No commercial solicitation or canvassing of any kind is permitted at the Library. Also see the Fundraising Policy.
Only covered beverages and neat food consumption are permitted.

The Library Director and staff will act to maintain our patrons’ right of access to and use of library facilities and have the right and authority to address any activity in violation of this policy.

Any patron violating any of the above rules may be denied access to the Library by the Library Director or Director’s designee. Patrons whose privileges have been revoked may apply in writing to have the decision reviewed by the Library Director or the Board of Trustees.

At the discretion of the Library Director and staff, law enforcement personnel may be called upon to ensure public safety in the enforcement of this policy.

Patrons are encouraged to bring any concerns about possible violations of this policy to the attention of Library staff. If a patron feels they have not been treated fairly, they may appeal to the Library Director or the Board of Library Trustees.

Updated by the Board of Trustees
8-Feb-2023