The purpose of this policy is to define the guidelines for acceptable behavior while on library property. These guidelines serve to protect our library’s resources and maximize the safety and comfort of library visitors and staff.
In addition to these policies, all patrons and staff are expected to adhere to state and federal laws, public health guidelines, Town policies, and other library policies while on library property.
The following activities are allowed in the library:
- Filming library staff and patrons, except in bathrooms, designated “staff only” areas, and during library programs or sponsored events except with permission from the Library Director.
- Consuming snacks and covered beverages, except near computers, equipment, Local History collection, and inside the Teen Room. Waste or spills must be cleaned promptly.
- Bringing service animals, or service animals in training, into the library.
The following activities are prohibited on library property:
- Smoking, vaping, and consumption of marijuana or alcoholic beverages
. - Possession of weapons, unless authorized by law.
- Playing of audio equipment so that others can hear.
- Using the restrooms in ways that create safety hazards or prevent use of facilities by others, such as bathing, doing laundry, grooming, or flushing any materials other than waste and toilet paper.
- Leaving a child under the age of 10 unattended in the Library.
- Engaging in disruptive conduct including, but not limited to: talking loudly, making noise, running, pushing, shoving, throwing objects, moving furniture from one area to another, blocking walkways, or creating tripping hazards.
- Interfering with another person's use of the Library or with Library personnel's performance of their duties.
- Entering the library with any odor that poses a possible health risk (hazardous chemical, fecal matter, rotting food, smoke, communicable infection) or any substance that can damage the library or pose a risk to those in it. Patrons must address any such odor or substance, and if a risk is determined to be present, mitigate it immediately.
- Entering or using the library without proper clothing, including shoes.
- Posting flyers without permission.
- Bringing animals other than service animals, service animals in training, or animals supporting a library program into the library.
- Stalking, staring, touching, or using abusive language to library staff or other patrons.
Library staff will intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. Patrons will receive one reminder of the policy. Failure to comply a second time may result in removal from the building. Serious or repeated failures to comply with this policy may be denied access to the Library and issued a No Trespass Order. Any patron whose privileges have been denied may have the decision reviewed by the Board of Library Trustees. Requests for such review must be made in writing within 90 days of the denial. The denial shall be upheld while the request is under consideration. A written response will be sent via Certified Mail by the Board Chair once a determination is made.
Last Updated: January 2025
Approved by the Trustees on: February 11, 2025