Library Conduct Policy

Library Conduct

Revised May 2019

Acceptable Behavior Standards

All persons have free access to the Library during the open hours and the right to the reasonable use of its facilities and services. The Library seeks to provide a positive, nurturing, and welcoming community space where patrons of all ages can learn and explore their interests through educational/recreational programs, reading materials, online resources, and by independent study.

Patrons should be able to enjoy the Library’s buildings and grounds in a relatively calm atmosphere that encompasses the needs of children, teenagers, and adults. The Library, however, expects reasonable behavior from its users. Anti-social or problem behavior is an unacceptable infringement of the rights of others in the use of the Library including the staff members and volunteers who provide services. It is the policy of the Library to maintain a safe facility, free from any threat of physical violence, emotional abuse, disruptive behavior, or any form of intimidation.

In utilizing the resources of Boyd County Public Library, users are expected to be both law-abiding and civil.

The Library can restrict or prohibit the use of its facilities and grounds.

The following guidelines apply:

• Respect for other Library users and staff shall prevail at all times;
• Talking shall be limited to quiet tones and low voices;
• No tobacco use is allowed inside the Library including the use of electronic cigarettes/vapor devices and no smoking is allowed on the Library’s property;
• Obscene, vulgar, abusive, or harassing language will not be permitted, whether used verbally, written, or displayed in such a way as to be audible or visible to others in the Library;
• Shoes and shirts are required at all times while using the Library; no wet clothing will be allowed in the library.
• Sleeping is prohibited;
• Public restrooms may not be used for bathing;
• Animals are not permitted, with the following exceptions
  • Those assisting persons with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act;
  • Animals that are part of library programming;
  • Owners out walking their dogs are welcome to briefly stop in to use library facilities and collections

The behavior of any animal is the responsibility of the owner or person bringing it into the library.  Anyone bringing an animal may be asked to leave or remove his/her animal if that animal misbehaves in any way.

• Use and possession of controlled substances, drugs or alcohol is prohibited on Library property;
• Criminal mischief to Library property is not permitted;
• Begging, soliciting, or gambling is not permitted.

The Library maintains the right to inspect all packages of visitors entering or leaving the Library.  The Library has the right to restrict visitors from entering the Library with large bundles, carts, bicycles, or similar items.

Anyone who refuses to leave the Library at the request of a staff member is guilty of criminal trespass and is subject to arrest and prosecution.

The Library may take appropriate legal measures to enforce these behaviors or to prevent access to individuals who refuse to comply.

The Director, or designee, will determine if an individual is to be denied the use of the Library or any of its services. Notice of this action will then be provided to the patron. The notice will include the reasons for the ban and its duration. Library staff will be notified of this decision. Where necessary, conditions may be placed upon the patron before use of the Library is resumed. Limited use of the Library’s resources will be determined by the Library Director.