Library Patron Code of Conduct

The purpose of the Library Patron Code of Conduct is to maintain a safe and pleasant environment for all library patrons. It also ensures access to library facilities, the safety of users and staff, and the protection of the library collection, equipment and facility.
Patrons have the responsibility to use the library in a manner that a) does not interfere with the rights of other individuals to use library materials, resources, and services; b) does not limit the ability of library staff to conduct library business; and c) does not threaten the secure and comfortable environment of the library.  Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Prohibited conduct includes any illegal activity and may include, but is not limited to, the following:
1.    Willfully annoying, harassing, or threatening another person.
2.    Consuming alcohol or controlled substances, being intoxicated, smoking, or using tobacco products.
3.    Using or defacing the library building, furniture or equipment in a manner that could cause harm to self, patrons, or staff, or personal or public property.
4.    Soliciting, posting notices, fundraising, or selling, unless authorized by the State Librarian or designee.
5.    Behaving in a loud, boisterous or disruptive manner. Fighting or threatening to fight, running, pushing, shoving or throwing things. 
6.    Staring at or following another patron or library staff member in a manner which is intimidating or can reasonably be expected to disturb.
7.    Using a cell phone, pager, audio player or other electronic device in a manner that is disruptive.
8.    Impeding access to the building or an area of the building or blocking book stack aisles for extended periods of time.
9.    Bringing animals into the library, except service animals, unless authorized by the State Librarian or designee.
10.    Leaving unattended personal items in the building. The Library assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen, or unattended personal items. Items left longer than 30 minutes may be removed.
11.    Leaving suspicious packages that, in the opinion of staff, are of potential threat. These items may be removed from the premises without notice.
12.    Entering non-public areas unless accompanied by a staff member or through prior authorization from a staff member.
13.    Having offensive hygiene, odor or scent that constitutes a nuisance to other persons.
14.    Failing to exit the building at closing or not following directions from staff during an emergency.
15.    Relocating or tampering with tables, chairs, equipment or other furniture without staff permission.
Patrons whose actions violate any of these rules may be asked to leave the library or they may be removed from the library by the Iowa State Patrol. Serious or repeated violation of the rules may result in a patron being banned from the library and/or be permanently denied services. Bans may be appealed to the State Librarian.