Patron Behavior Policy

The Frank Carlson Library Board of Trustees has established certain standards of acceptable behavior on library property in order to maintain an atmosphere that promotes the use and enjoyment of the resources and services of the library, promotes the safety of the general public and the library staff, and protects the building, furniture, equipment, and materials of the library.

Any activity or behavior that hinders the use of the library, is disruptive, or jeopardizes the safety of patrons or employees, inside or outside, is prohibited.

1. General Restrictions
   • Shoes and shirts must be worn.
   • Privileges may be limited for the following reasons:
     1. Damaging library property
     2. Stealing library materials
     3. Physically threatening or harming staff or patrons.
2. Activities Not Allowed in the Library:
   1. Eating or drinking
   2. Playing of audio equipment so others can hear it
   3. Smoking
   4. Carrying a weapon into the library unless authorized by law. Any patron authorized to carry a weapon must notify library staff.
   5. Bringing animals into the library except those needed to assist patrons with disabilities or for use in a Library sponsored program that has been authorized by the Director.
   6. Misusing or defacing the restrooms
   7. Leaving a child under the age of 7 unattended in the library
   8. Talking loudly, making noise, or engaging in disruptive behavior
   9. Interfering with another person's use of the library or with Library personnel's performance of duties.
   10. Abusive or offensive language
   11. Loitering
   12. Body odor so offensive as to disturb others
   13. Personal displays of affection.

Patrons indulging in improper conduct may be asked to cease that conduct, to move to another location or activity, or to leave the library; severe or recurring problems may be dealt with by barring use of the library or individual involved, or by making library use conditional.

Unattended Children

Parents may not leave children under age seven unattended in the library. Parents or caregivers are responsible for their children's behavior in the library.

Disruptive children are defined as children who are violating library rules and regulations as defined in library policy. Disruptive children age seven or over will be asked to leave after receiving one warning.

The library shall adopt staff procedures that deal positively with issues of security and safety specifically related to minors.