LIBRARY BEHAVIOR AND CONDUCT POLICY

The Library Board of Trustees is responsible for determining the rules for public behavior in the library necessary to:
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Ensure the safety of library patrons, employees and volunteers.
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Protect the rights of individuals using library materials and services.
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Protect the rights of library employees and volunteers to conduct library business without interference.
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Ensure the use of the building, materials and services by the greatest number of individuals.
 · 
Preserve materials and facilities from harm.

The Board authorizes the Director (or his designee) to revoke or restrict library privileges of any individual who behaves contrary to these rules. The Board also authorizes the Director to file charges against individuals who continually transgress these rules.

Should a patron fail to comply with the Librarian’s request, that individual will be asked to leave the library building and property. The police may be called for assistance, if the patron fails to comply with request.

Depending on the severity of the misbehavior, individuals who have been asked to leave the property may be barred from returning to the library. Individuals who have been barred may be asked to speak to the Director. Juveniles may be asked to bring a parent or guardian to such a conference.

Misconduct might include but is not limited to:

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Loud or boisterous behavior or intruding on others.
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Profanity or abusive or threatening language toward other individuals or employees.
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Abusing library furniture, equipment or materials.
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Harassing others, either verbally or through actions.
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Fighting on library property.
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Using tobacco in any form.
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Possession, sale or use of alcoholic beverages or illegal substances.
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Sleeping in the library.
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Willfully exposing their private parts.
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Having bodily hygiene so offensive as to constitute a nuisance to others.
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Buying or selling of any kind, or soliciting for personal gain.
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Using personal listening equipment at a level that can be heard by others.
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Distributing literature, taking surveys, or asking individuals or employees to sign petitions or similar activities.
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Interfering with staff performance of duties.
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Bringing animals other than guide/assistance dogs in to the building.
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Not wearing a shirt or shoes.
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Athletic equipment may not be used within the library.
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Any illegal behavior.
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Leaving a child or children -age 8 or under- unattended in the library without the supervision of an adult. (See Unattended Children Policy.)

Patrons who disagree may request a hearing with the Library Director.

All infringements must be followed with completion of an “Incident Report.” (See attachment.)

Last updated: 12-02

Cell Phone Policy
The Tiverton Library Services reserves the right to restrict the use of cell phones while in the library. All cell phones must be turned off or the ringer set to vibrate (silent) and if a call is to be answered, move to the front foyer so others will not be disturbed.

Approved 5/14/03.