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Purpose
In an effort to provide a comfortable and safe environment for
all Library patrons, the Board of Trustees of the Darien Library has
established a Library Patron Behavior Policy (“The Policy”).
The Policy is designed to provide clear and reasonable guidelines governing
patron behavior within the Library and on the Library premises.
Unacceptable Behavior
Unacceptable behavior includes behavior within the Library or
on Library premises that interferes with the use of the Library by other
patrons, creates a risk of injury to other patrons or Library personnel,
interferes with the work of Library personnel, or creates a risk of damage
to Library property. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited
to:
- Use of profanity, abusive or threatening language
- Threatening gestures or unwanted physical contact
- Possession of weapons of any kind, except by law enforcement officers
- Damaging, defacing or theft of any Library property or materials;
the Library staff may ask to examine users’ handbags, briefcases,
or other packages to help assure compliance with checkout procedures;
the Library reserves the right to confiscate unattended backpacks,
duffle bags, etc.
- Possession or use of alcohol except at authorized Library functions
- Possession or use of illegal drugs, narcotics or controlled substances
- Use of tobacco products
- Roller blading, roller skating, or skate boarding on Library premises
- Unreasonable noise levels including shouting, loud talking or disruptive
conversation, allowing ringing cell phones or engaging in loud cell
phone conversation
- Consuming food except in designated areas or at authorized Library
functions
- Lack of personal hygiene that interferes with the use and enjoyment
of the Library by other patrons or interferes with the work of Library
personnel
- Bringing animals into the Library except those who are part of a
program or are registered service animals
Enforcement
Violation of the Policy may result in escalating responses ranging
from limitation or revocation of the patron’s Library privilege(s)
to removal from the premises or criminal prosecution if the conduct constitutes
a violation of local, state or federal law.
The Director or her authorized designee, upon staff recommendation,
may limit or revoke the patron’s Library privilege(s). Such limitation
or revocation shall be in writing and shall be effective upon being sent
to the patron’s address on file with the Library. A patron whose
privilege(s) has been limited or revoked may appeal the limitation or
revocation of the privilege(s) by filing a written appeal with the Director
within ten (10) days from the date of the issuance of the written revocation.
The appeal will be forwarded to the Board of Trustees whose decision
is final. The patron whose privilege(s) has been limited or revoked shall
attend a meeting with the Director to review this Library Patron Behavior
Policy before his privilege(s) may be reinstated.
Adopted by the Darien Library Board of Trustees on May 17, 2004.
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