Standards of Conduct

The library is a public entity established by the citizens of Walpole to meet a range of individual and group needs. The Walpole Public Library makes every effort to create and maintain a safe, comfortable and peaceful environment in which all patrons and staff may use, share and enjoy the Library’s resources. Behaviors that diminish or interfere with another person’s ability to use the library are unwelcome. The following behavior standards apply on the premises, including library grounds.

• Dress appropriately for a public place. At a minimum, proper attire covers the torso and feet. Obscenities emblazoned on clothing are inappropriate.

• Behave appropriately for a public place.  Activities such as sleeping, dining, and personal grooming are more appropriately done at home. Public bathrooms are not suitable places for time-consuming routines or for socializing. No excessive public displays of affection. No more than one person should be in a single-seat chair at one time. For safety reasons, please do not block access to stairwells and doorways.

• Conduct yourself in a manner that does not interfere with other people’s ability to use the library. Auditory and visual distractions are unwelcome. Cell phones, cameras, audio equipment and laser pointers are but a few of the devices that may annoy other people. Please use these items considerately so as not to disturb other patrons. Long cell phone conversations are best taken in the lobby area. Soliciting, campaigning, petitioning, conducting surveys and other such behaviors are prohibited.

• Treat other patrons and staff with courtesy.  Swearing is inappropriate. Vulgar language, gestures and pantomimes are inappropriate. Teasing, harassing, jostling, roughhousing, running or throwing things is inappropriate.However subtle, intruding on the privacy of other patrons also is inappropriate. Rude behavior to patrons or staff will not be tolerated. Parents are responsible for the supervision and behavior of their children.

• Treat public property with care. Do not jeopardize the condition and longevity of public property, especially computers, with food and beverages. The library does not tolerate harsh or negligent treatment of the property in its custody. Eating and drinking, if done responsibility, are allowed throughout the building. Patrons are responsible for properly disposing of the resulting trash. Sitting on tables or other furniture that is not designed specifically for sitting is not allowed.

• Take responsibility for personal possessions.  Secure bicycles in the bicycle rack.Skateboards, roller blades, scooters and similar equipment may not be used in the library or on the grounds and will be confiscated if not kept out of the way. Backpacks or other personal items should not be left in left in areas where they can constitute a tripping hazard. Keep valuable items with you.Library staff is not responsible for patron possessions. No animals are allowed with the exception of certified service animals.

• Report disturbing behaviors to a staff person.

This serves as notice. Anyone whose behavior is inappropriate will be asked to leave the building. Repeat offenders will be served a notice of no trespass. Failure to leave immediately, as requested, is regarded as trespassing.

Approved by the Board of Library Trustees March 19, 2013.