CODE OF CONDUCT
The Billerica Public Library has an obligation to its patrons to maintain a positive atmosphere for reading, studying, research, and the pursuit of lifelong learning. Library patrons are expected to use the library, including its facilities, grounds, resources and materials, in a responsible, appropriate, and courteous manner. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier at busy times. However, individuals who are continually disruptive will be dealt with firmly.
The Code of Conduct, available at any service desk, is for the comfort and protection of all. This policy will be courteously and firmly enforced by library staff. Persons who fail to follow the library's rules or who engage in unacceptable conduct shall be required to leave the facility. Repetitive violation could mean permanent exclusion from the library.
All bags and other articles are subject to inspection by authorized personnel. This is intended to discourage theft of materials. The library reserves the right to limit the size and number of items brought into the library. The Children's Department is reserved for use by children, their parents or guardians, and adults interested in children's literature.
In order to ensure that all those using the library may enjoy the
Library's services, please follow and respect the following rules:
Please no loud talking or laughing.
Use of obscene or abusive language will not be tolerated.
Please do not play audio equipment so that others can hear it.
Please only eat or drink in designated areas - the exception is bottled water which may be consumed anywhere in the library.
Please no cell phone use in the library. Phones should be turned off before entering the library.
Please make sure your young children are properly supervised.
Begging, panhandling, petitioning, soliciting, or loitering in or outside the library building is not allowed.
Please do not misuse the restrooms.
No excessive public displays of affection.
Playing in or on the elevator or playing with the elevator telephone is prohibited.
Running, horseplay, general rowdiness and throwing objects in the library are not allowed.
Interfering with the use of the library by other patrons or interfering with library staff performance will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment or misconduct will not be tolerated.
Use of computers to view obscene or pornographic internet sites is prohibited.
Animals except for assistance dogs are not allowed in the library.
Engaging in any activity prohibited by law is not allowed.
When the behavior of a patron is disruptive and interferes with the use of the
library by other patrons or with a staff member's ability to complete their duties,
the following progressive steps will be taken:
The staff member will issue a warning, with the statement that, if the behavior in question continues, the person(s) will be asked to leave.
If the disruptive behavior continues, the staff member will tell the person(s) to leave the building and the grounds and not to return until the next business day.
*Repeat offenders will be asked to leave for a longer period of time.
The police will be called for the following:
Intentionally destroying, damaging, or defacing library materials, furnishings, equipment, or any part of the facility or fixtures.
Any unlawful behavior and any other behavior that unreasonably interferes with the safe or reasonable use of the library by other persons.
Threatening or physically harming staff or users.
Refusal to leave the premises after being directed by a staff member to leave.
All evictions, and police notifications will be documented by the staff member in question.
Adopted by the Board of Trustee
September 22, 2003
