WINNETKA-NORTHFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

Patron Behavior Policy

JUSTIFICATION

The Library is a public institution. Its patrons and staff expect a comfortable and safe atmosphere. To accommodate the broadest spectrum of individuals, it is necessary for the Library to establish reasonable rules to maintain an appropriate atmosphere.

PRIORITIES FOR AN APPROPRIATE ATMOSPHERE

The priorities for the maintenance of an appropriate atmosphere are staff and public safety, protection of the premises, and expected standards of behavior.

1. Public Safety
   Any person who or condition which presents a threat to public and staff safety will be handled as an emergency situation and the provisions of the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District Emergency Procedures will be followed.


2. Protection of the Premises
   Any willful act by a person which causes harm or damage to the Library premises, building, furniture, equipment, or materials is unlawful. All persons engaging in such acts shall be subject to the penalties of applicable Library, Village, State, and Federal ordinances and statutes.


3. Expected Standards of Behavior
   Expected standards of behavior are defined as those which respect the rights of others, do not impede the work of users or staff, and which show care for Library property. No behavior is appropriate to the Library if it willfully disregards the rights of others, unnecessarily and unreasonably interferes with or distracts others, jeopardizes staff or public safety, or shows disregard for Library property.


4. Children
   If a child is being disruptive, the following steps will be taken:
   The child will be given a warning that the behavior is unacceptable and must stop immediately. If a child is eight (8) or over and does not correct the undesirable behavior, he/she will be asked to leave the Library. The child or a staff member will call the parent or caregiver to pick up the child. If the child is not picked up in thirty (30) minutes, a Juvenile Officer of the Winnetka or Northfield Police Department will be called to take responsibility for the child.

RULES OF BEHAVIOR

1. Any conduct that disturbs library users or staff, or hinders the use of the facilities or materials is prohibited. Such conduct might include but is not limited to, loud or boisterous behavior, playing radios, tape or CD players, making inappropriate use of library furniture and facilities, ignoring posted or designated restrictions, harassing or impeding access to others. Threatening or harassing behavior toward staff and/or patrons is unacceptable.


2. No smoking or use of chewing tobacco is permitted in the Library buildings.


3. Eating is prohibited, other than at special events sponsored by the Library.


4. Excessive, prolonged, or overly loud conversation for purely social purposes is not allowed. It is expected that normal and reasonable conversation among patrons and staff will occur.


5. Conducting of for-profit business between two or more persons (including but not limited to sales, interviews and tutoring) is prohibited on Library property.


6. Public distribution or posting of leaflets/flyers or the circulation of petitions for any purpose or cause on Library property is prohibited. Unauthorized posting of notices, conducting surveys, or circulating petitions will not be allowed.


7. Animals, except handicapped aide animals, are not permitted in the Library.


8. Shoes and shirts must be worn in the Library.


9. The Library reserves the right to limit the number of people who may sit together.


10. Library staff cannot be responsible for the safekeeping of any person's belongings.


11. The Library reserves the right to inspect all packages, bags, purses, briefcases, etc.


12. Use of cell phones is restricted to the vestibules or outside the Library.


13. Persons who have caused repeated disturbances will have library privileges restricted or revoked.


14. Using the parking lot for purposes unrelated to visiting the Library and using its services is prohibited.

IMPLEMENTATION

The Library Director is responsible for the public and staff safety, protection of the premises, and maintenance of an appropriate atmosphere. This responsibility is delegated to staff members.

All persons using the Library are expected to cooperate with Library staff. When the situation is beyond the control of staff or when individuals refuse to cooperate, appropriate agencies (police, fire, paramedics, and village) will be called to assist.

Persons who violate the provisions of this policy are subject to temporary or permanent expulsion, limited access, or prosecution under ordinances or statutes.

Expulsion or limited access will be imposed by the Library staff, according to Library Policies. Individuals thus penalized may appeal to the Board of Trustees by writing a letter to the President of the Board.

Approved: January 20, 2003
Revised: December 8, 2003

Page last updated on: August 6, 2008