The library is intended to be a place where its users can study, do research, browse books, use computers and generally go about their business in a non-threatening environment.  Patrons are expected to respect the rights of others who require a quiet environment in which to study, compute, research and write.

 1.      Users who, by their behavior, persist in harassing or annoying others and thereby disrupt their ability to concentrate on their work will be given one warning regarding the specific behavior.  Upon a second occurrence, the offender will be required to leave the library for the remainder of the day.  Upon a third occurrence, the offender will lose library privileges and must successfully petition the Director to regain access.  Petition is to be by letter to the Director of the East Central Georgia Regional Library system.

 Behavior which is considered disruptive to the normal use of the library is similar to the following:

·        Loud outbursts of speech or laughter; giggling, talking or singing to oneself.

·        Belligerent or threatening behavior towards staff or other users.

·        Repetitive noise making, such as tapping a pencil on the table, rapping fingers or knuckles.

·        Repeatedly slamming books down hard or slapping the covers shut repetitively.

·        Persistent staring at another person.

·        Following another person about the library or persistently asking another person questions.

·        Playing of audio equipment other than the library’s computers (with headsets).  Other library users should not be able to hear the audio being played on computers.

·        Other untypical behavior which could reasonably be expected to disturb other users or interfere with the library employees’ performance of their duties.

·        Indecent exposure.

·        Panhandling inside the library or in parking lot and library grounds.

·        Open displays of physical affection.

 2.     No backpacks or luggage are allowed in the library, though book bags are permitted.  No more than two bags of any type may be brought into the library.

3.      Users whose bodily hygiene is so offensive as to constitute a nuisance to other persons shall be required to leave the building for the remainder of the day.

4.      Users shall be engaged in normal activities associated with the use of a public library.  Persons not engaged in reading, studying or other use of library materials, or persons sleeping, will be required to leave the library for the remainder of the day.

5.      Bathing is not permitted in the restrooms.  A person using the restrooms for more than ordinary hand or face washing will be given a warning upon the first offense, required to leave the library for the remainder of the day for the second, and will lose library privileges and must successfully petition the Director to regain access upon the third offense.  Petition is by letter to the Director of the East Central Georgia Regional Library system.

6.      All wheeled devices (bicycles, shopping carts, handcarts) except those required by the disabled shall be left outside, and may not obstruct traffic entering or exiting the building.

7.      Patrons are expected to wear attire appropriate to a library setting.

8.      Cell Phone and Pager Use.  As a courtesy to others, we ask that cell phones and pagers be turned to silent (vibrate), and that telephone conversations be held outside the building.

9.                Skateboard and skate shoes are not allowed on library property.  This includes exterior walkways and parking areas. Their use can result in serious accidents as well as defacement of library property.

10.           The library does not allow solicitation of patrons or staff in public areas. This includes asking for money or any type of sales.

11.    Other activities which are not appropriate in the library include:

·        Eating and drinking.

·        Smoking

·        Bringing in animals (except seeing eye dogs or dogs to assist the hearing impaired)

·        Propping feet on furniture

·        Running

·        Playing or making noise on the elevator

·        Playing or sitting on the stairs

·        Running in and out of the building

·        Art work requiring paste, paint or a large work area

·        Working with personal materials such as business ledgers and forms which require a large work area at a time when the library is crowded.

 Those persons who disregard a request by a staff member and/or security guard to leave the building will be immediately reported to the local law enforcement agency.

Policy dated  8/27/01; approved by Regional Library Board 9/17/01; updated 02/19/2007