Patron Behavior and Safety Policy
All individuals are welcome at the Avon Public Library. This Patron Behavior and Safety Policy is intended to ensure orderly, appropriate, and equitable use of the library building and its collection. The following expectations need to be met for everyone to use the library safely and equitably:
- Patrons are required to always wear appropriate attire, including shirts and shoes.
- Noise levels should be kept at a minimum. Staff will let patrons know if their activity is above acceptable levels as well as advise them of areas that will best meet their needs.
- Patrons are expected to respect the property and use it appropriately. Behavior such as running in the library, throwing things, obstructing the use of any space, and using the computer in rough or careless manner will not be tolerated.
- Physical or verbal harassment will not be tolerated on our premises.
- Snacks and covered beverages are allowed to be eaten in the library so long as individuals dispose of all food and containers. Failure to dispose of food materials will result in this privilege being revoked. Hot food and meals are not allowed inside the building. Patrons may not have food delivered inside the library. Food that is delivered inside the library will be thrown out if the owner is not located promptly.
- Patrons may be required to leave the library premises if their personal hygiene interferes with the orderly operations of the library or with the ability of other patrons to use and enjoy the facility. Using the library’s bathrooms for personal hygiene is prohibited.
- For the safety of everyone, sleeping is prohibited in the library. Library staff will attempt to wake a sleeping patron once, to give warning. If the patron does not wake or fails to stay awake the library staff will alert emergency personnel.
- Parents/caregivers are responsible for the behavior of their children while on library property. Children aged ten and younger may not be left unattended. If such an incident occurs and a parent/caregiver cannot be found, it will be reported to the local police department. For more information, please review our Visiting Minors Policy.
- Patrons’ personal belongings are their own responsibility. Personal property should not be left unattended. Unattended personal property may be reported to the police.
- We do not allow anyone to canvass, solicit, or distribute leaflets on library property. Approved materials from non-profit organizations are afforded space on our community bulletin board and at our community information areas.
- For everyone’s health and safety, we do not allow the use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or any cigarette like product on library property. Such activity will be reported to the police when noticed.
- Animals who are not service dogs or visiting the library for an approved program are prohibited from being inside the building.
- All bicycles, skateboards, scooters, or wheeled devices that are not ADA assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers must be kept out of the common access areas. A bicycle rack is provided on Library property and locks are available for check out to those with a library card in good standing.
Violations of the Patron Behavior and Safety Policy may result in removal from the facility and/or suspension of library privileges. It is not our policy to determine the extent of the violation but to allow the proper authorities to do so.
Amended on December 21, 2023