Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

Patron Behavior Policy
March 28, 2007

Adults and children are expected to display appropriate behavior while using the library & music hall's resources, materials, and facilities. All conduct and behavior should be conducive to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in the library & music hall for all patrons.

These guidelines are intended to encourage behavior that supports the library & music hall's mission of providing the best possible resources in a warm, welcoming environment. Behavior becomes unacceptable when it interferes with others, compromises the rights of others, causes damage to buildings or equipment or causes injury to oneself or others. Those willing to modify unacceptable behavior are always welcome to stay. However, those unable to comply will be asked to leave. If necessary, proper authorities will be called. Parents or guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of persons under their care.

Persons of any age with mental, physical or emotional disabilities which affect their ability to use the library & music hall or render supervision otherwise necessary must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver at all times.

Examples of unacceptable library & music hall behavior include:

• Abandoning or leaving "vulnerable" children unattended (See Unattended Child Policy)
• Running, chasing
• Shouting, loud talking or conversation, arguing, crying, use of inappropriate language
• Abuse, misuse, vandalism or theft of library & music hall materials, equipment or property.
• Disruptive use of cell phones, headphones, radios, televisions or other electronic products
• Unruly or offensive behavior
• Verbal abuse, physical abuse or sexual harassment of library & music hall users or staff
• Refusal to leave at closing
• Selling, soliciting, or distributing unapproved materials
• Smoking or other uses of tobacco
• Consuming food or drink that are not obtained from the library & music hall
• Possessing weapons of any type
• Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Removal of shirt, pants, or shoes
• Being in unauthorized areas within the library & music hall facility
• Misuse of restrooms
• Display of sexually explicit materials or websites
• Illegal activity of any sort

Failure to comply with this policy will result in a warning and may also result in exclusion from the library & music hall for the day or a specified period of time or permanently. Those who are unwilling to leave or do not leave within a reasonable amount of time, after being instructed to do so by library & music hall staff, will be subject to the law.

Any patron whose privileges have been denied by library & music hall staff may appeal the decision to the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall Board of Trustees within 30 days of the decision.