Patron Behavior

PATRON BEHAVIOR POLICY

I. Introduction

The Pere Marquette District Library (“Library”) is open for specific and designated civic, educational, and cultural uses, including reading, studying, writing, participating in scheduled Library programs, and using Library materials. In order to provide resources and services to all people who visit the Library facilities in an atmosphere of courtesy, respect, and excellent service, the Library Board has adopted this Patron Behavior Policy. The purpose of the Patron Behavior Policy (“Policy”) is to assist the Library in fulfilling its mission as a community resource enriching life, stimulating intellectual curiosity, fostering literacy, and encouraging an informed citizenry.

The following rules of conduct apply to all buildings (interior and exterior) and all grounds controlled and operated by the Library (“Library Property”), and to all persons entering Library Property, unless otherwise specified.

II. Rules for a Safe Environment

A. Violations of Law

Committing or attempting to commit an activity in violation of federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation (including but not limited to assault, indecent exposure, larceny, removing Library material without authorization, vandalism, or copyright infringement) is prohibited.

B. Weapons

Carrying guns, pistols, or other weapons—except as permitted by law—is prohibited.

C. Alcohol; Drugs

Possessing, selling, distributing, or consuming alcohol, intoxicating beverages, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia is prohibited. Alcohol may be permitted at certain Library-sponsored events if specifically approved. Persons noticeably under the influence of controlled substances or alcohol are not allowed on Library Property.

E. Recreational Equipment and Personal Transport Devices

Use of skateboards, rollerblades, roller skates, or other wheeled recreational equipment (including ride-on toys or wagons) is not allowed. Bicycles and similar items must be parked in designated areas. Wheelchairs, scooters, and other power-driven mobility devices are permitted for individuals with disabilities unless a specific device cannot be accommodated due to legitimate safety concerns.

F. No Blocking of Doors, Aisles, or Entrances

All doors, aisles, and entrances must remain clear. Running power cords across walkways is prohibited.

G. Animals

Animals are not permitted except service animals, law-enforcement animals, or animals used for Library programming. Animals may not be left unattended or off-leash.

H. Incendiary Devices

Candles, matches, lighters, or other incendiary devices may not be used inside the Library.

I. Staff Only Areas

Patrons may not enter “staff only” areas unless permitted by the Library Director.

J. School Groups

School groups require approval from the Library Director and must have appropriate supervision to ensure compliance with Library rules.

III. Rules for Personal Behavior

A. Personal Property

  1. Staff may limit the number or size of items brought into the Library. Large items such as suitcases or large bags are prohibited. Items must fit under a chair.
  2. The Library is not responsible for unattended belongings, and staff may not watch them.
  3. The Library does not guarantee storage for personal items.
  4. Personal possessions must not be left unattended or occupy space needed by others.

B. Food and Beverages

Permitted only in designated areas.

C. Unauthorized Use

Patrons must leave promptly at closing. Patrons whose privileges have been denied may not enter Library Property. Patrons with restricted privileges may not use the Library in ways that violate those restrictions.

D. Engaging in Proper Library Activities

Patrons must be engaged in reading, studying, writing, participating in Library programs, or using Library materials. Those not engaged in Library-appropriate activities may be asked to leave. Sleeping is not permitted.

E. Considerate Use

The following behaviors are prohibited:

  1. Spitting
  2. Running, pushing, shoving, fighting, throwing items, or unsafe physical behavior
  3. Climbing on furniture
  4. Obscene or threatening language or gestures
  5. Sexual behavior that is unlawful, disturbing to others, or interferes with staff or patron use of the Library

F. Panhandling or Soliciting

Panhandling or soliciting money, products, or services is prohibited. Sales incidental to Library programming may be permitted with prior approval.

G. Interference with Staff

Patrons may not interfere with staff duties, monopolize staff attention, make inappropriate comments or advances, or engage in physical or verbal harassment.

H. Campaigning, Petitioning, Interviewing, Protesting, and Similar Activities

  1. These activities are prohibited inside the Library.
  2. Outside on Library Property, they are allowed under these conditions:
    a. Individuals/groups are requested to sign in at the Checkout Desk.
    b. Use of Library property does not imply endorsement or opposition by the Library.
    c. Activities must occur 25 feet from all entrances.
    d. No blocking of entrances or exits.
    e. Activities limited to Library operating hours.
    f. Campaign materials may not be brought inside, posted, or left on Library Property.

I. Sales

Selling merchandise without prior permission is prohibited.

J. Distributions; Postings

Posting or distributing printed materials not in accordance with Library policy is prohibited.

K. Restrooms

Misuse of restrooms is prohibited, including:

  1. Laundering or changing clothes
  2. Sleeping
  3. Excessive grooming (shaving, hair cutting, bathing, brushing teeth)
  4. Sexual activity
  5. Entering when “Do Not Enter” is posted
  6. Bringing Library materials or prohibited items into restrooms
  7. Damaging facilities or engaging in malicious behavior
  8. Intentionally not flushing toilets

Only one person per stall unless assisting a child or a person with a disability. Library materials may not be taken into restrooms.

L. Harassment

Harassing, stalking, following, photographing, recording, arguing with, threatening, or behaving in a disturbing or hostile manner toward patrons or staff is prohibited.

M. Loud Noise

Creating loud, unreasonable, or disturbing noise—including from voices or electronic devices—is prohibited. Headphones may be used only at volumes not audible to others.

Adults may read aloud to children in the Youth Area if done quietly.

N. Odor

Offensive odors (body odor, perfumes, smells from belongings, etc.) that interfere with Library use are prohibited.

O. Phones

Calls must be quiet and taken in the lobby or outside. Devices must be on silent or vibrate.

P. Library Policies

Patrons must follow all Library policies.

Q. Identification; Masks

Patrons must provide identification when requested. Masks or face coverings that conceal identity are prohibited except for religious reasons.

R. Tables or Structures

Setting up tables, stands, signs, or similar structures is not allowed unless part of Library-sponsored events.

S. Smoking; Tobacco or Marijuana Use

Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or using marijuana is prohibited on Library Property.

T. Attire

Patrons must be fully dressed (shoes and shirts required). Uncovered swimwear, sports bras worn as shirts, or exposed undergarments are not permitted.

U. Patron Use of Children’s Area and Computers

The Youth Area is for children age 7 or younger and their accompanying adult. Computers in the Youth Area are for children and accompanying adults. Unaccompanied adults may browse but may not remain or be seated in the area.

IV. Rules for the Use and Preservation of Library Materials and Property

A. Care of Library Property

Patrons must not deface, damage, or improperly use Library materials, equipment, furniture, or buildings. Installing software on Library computers is prohibited. Patrons are responsible for costs associated with damage, including pest infestations from returned materials.

B. Internet Use

Patrons must follow time limits and provisions in the Library Internet Use Policy.

C. Equipment

Staff computers are for staff use only.

D. Authorized Lending

Library materials may only be removed through established lending procedures.

E. Use of Tables and Computers

No more than four (4) people may sit at a table; no additional standing patrons may gather around a table.

V. Violations and Appeal

The Library Director or designee may restrict access to Library facilities in accordance with the Library Violations and Appeal Policy.