Patron Code of Conduct

Resolution #12-15-09

The Library Board has the responsibility to provide a pleasant, orderly facility conducive to concentrated and effective use of library materials and services. Its responsibility does not extend to provision of space for work or study by groups or individuals not using library materials or services.

The administration has the responsibility for maintaining order in the Library to assure a pleasant experience for all users. To meet this responsibility, the staff will need to intervene in situations at the Library that present danger to the safety of persons or property, interfere with the rights of others, constitute disturbing or inappropriate uses of the Library and that involve the commission of illegal acts.

The following has been adopted and shall be posted at strategic places in the Library:

Worthington Libraries - Code of Conduct

The established rules are based on the powers granted to a public library board of trustees under the Ohio Revised Code, Section 3375.40(H).

These rules have been adopted for the comfort and protection of all those using library materials and services. They will be courteously, but firmly, enforced by the Library staff. We ask your cooperation in maintaining a pleasant atmosphere, conducive to the effective use of library materials and services.

  1. Disruptive behavior will not be permitted. This includes disorderly conduct, sleeping, odor, noise or activity, whether intentional or inadvertent, that interferes with the rights of others, physical abuse, abusive or threatening language and misuse of library furnishings. Expulsion from the Library and/or loss of library privileges may result from continued violations.

  2. Persons committing theft, vandalism or other illegal acts are subject to prosecution.

  3. Service animals are the only animals permitted in the building.

  4. Smoking and use of tobacco products are not permitted in the building.

  5. Covered drinks and food are permissible in public areas and shall be disposed of when finished.

  6. Cell phones and similar devices should be on vibrate while in the Library. Texting and other silent electronic messaging from cell phones and similar devices is permissible in the buildings. Talking on cell phones is limited to the building lobbies.

  7. Improper dress, including bare feet and no shirt, is not permitted.

  8. Persons cannot be under the influence and/or possessing alcohol or drugs, selling drugs or alcoholic beverages on library property.

  9. Petitioning, such as voting or ballot issues, is permitted on library sidewalks and in the lobbies. Petitioners cannot block building entrances/exits. Regulations for leased space take precedent over library policies.

  10. Gambling, panhandling and soliciting (including but not exclusive to money, handbills, coupons) are not permitted.

  11. Designated Teen areas are designed for patrons ages 12 to 18 years old. Adults and younger children are encouraged to use other areas of the Library.

  12. Monopolizing/obstructing space, seating, tables or equipment to the exclusion of others is not permitted.

  13. Children, aged 13 or under, who are left at the Library for 30 minutes past the library closing may be reported to the police.

  14. Bathing, shaving, washing clothes on the premises is prohibited.

  15. Other acts disruptive to customers and staff will be addressed.

If you are confronted with the violation of any of these rules, please inform a staff member immediately.

Library staff are required to bring to an individual's attention any act or omission which violates the Code of Conduct and related library policies. Such an individual will be asked to change his or her behavior to conform to the rules. If such a change is not evident or forthcoming, that individual will be asked to leave the library building and library property. Failure to leave, if asked, may result in the police being called and a possible charge of criminal trespass per Section 2911.21 of the Ohio Revised Code.

Depending on the severity of the violation, individuals who have been asked to leave the building may be evicted and barred from returning to the Library for varying periods of time. Individuals who have been evicted may be required to discuss the violation with the Library Manager, Deputy Director or Director before being readmitted. Juveniles may be required to bring a parent or guardian for such a conference.

Revised by the Board of Trustees 12-15-09, effective 12-16-09