User Behavior Policy

RPL established the following policies for library use. Failure to comply with staff directive (whether documented or not) may result in expulsion from the library.

Category A: Staff will address the issue with the patron in a discreet manner. Ask that the patron stops the behavior that goes against our policies and offer a copy of the policy to avoid future conflicts.  Multiple warnings by staff will result in the patron being asked to leave. Some examples include, but are not limited to:

• Disruptive behavior, such as creating loud noises, loud talking, screaming, or banging on computer keyboards.
• Entering the library barefooted, without a shirt, with offensive body odor or personal hygiene, or being otherwise attired so as to be disruptive to the library environment.
• Consuming food or beverages in the library
• Leaving packages, backpacks, luggage, or any other personal items unattended. Any unattended items are subject to immediate confiscation and disposal.
• Lying down or appearing to be sleeping in the library; having feet on furniture; or blocking aisles, exits or entrances.
• Bringing pets or animals, other than service animals necessary for assisting individuals with disabilities, into the library, except as authorized by the Director of Library Services or their delegate.
• Running, pushing, shoving, or throwing things on library property
• Using audible devices without headphones or with headphones set at a volume that disturbs others. Using cellphones, pagers, and other communication devices in a manner that disturbs others. Audible cell phone ringers must be turned off.
• No consumption of tobacco products, marijuana or e-cigarettes is allowed in library buildings or within 25 feet of any entrance or open window.
• Using restrooms for bathing, or doing laundry.
• Conduct yourself in a manner that does not interfere with other people’s ability to use the library.  Soliciting, selling, surveying, distributing material, panhandling, or canvassing for any political, charitable, or religious purpose is not permitted on library property. Personal hygiene should be sufficient so as not to offend others and/or leave stains/vermin on public property, e.g. furniture, books, keyboards, etc.
• Stealing, damaging, altering, or inappropriate use of library property, including computer hardware and software, printers, copiers, phones, and other equipment

Category B:  If a patron is believed to be in violation of ‘Category B’ it is under the discretion of the staff member if they wish to address the patron, or to call a supervisor to address the matter. No staff member is required to approach a patron they believe to be under the influence.  Supervisors reserve the right to call the non-emergency police line to have the patron removed from library grounds.  Some examples include but are not limited to:

• Being visibly intoxicated
• Possession, selling or use of alcohol
• Possession, selling or use of illegal drugs
• Selling marijuana, or tobacco products
• Has already been asked to leave library property that day

Category C: Staff will be required to call law enforcement if a patron is in violation ‘Category C’.  Staff should remain discreet whilst calling law enforcement to avoid further conflict. Some examples include but are not limited to:

• Carrying, exhibiting, displaying, or drawing any firearm in a manner that demonstrates intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other people.
• Possession of any other dangerous weapon.
• Assault, fighting, challenging to fight, or agitated/aggressive behavior
• Verbally or physically harassing other patrons, volunteers, or staff, including, but not limited to, stalking, staring or lurking, inappropriate comments on appearance, offensive touching, and obscene acts such as sex acts and indecent exposure.
• Damaging or stealing personal or library property in library facilities or on library grounds, including computer hardware and software, printers, copiers, phones, and other equipment.
• Threatening other patrons, volunteers, or staff – verbally, physically or in writing, including all forms of electronic media.
• Engaging in any other behavior that would constitute a misdemeanor felony under applicable law.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ONE OR MORE OF THE LIBRARIES ESTABLISHED POLICIES MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION OF LIBRARY PRIVILEGES OR BEING TRESPASSED FROM THE LIBRARY