library policy #13: Problem Behavior Policy

The purpose of the Problem Behavior Policy is to assist staff and students who encounter problem behavior which is potentially disruptive to the routine of the library.

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It is the responsibility of all employees including student assistants to endorse this policy.

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3.1 The library permits patrons to have a covered drink container (i.e. coffee with lid, soda in can or with bottle cap).

3.2 The library prohibits eating in all public areas. Staff should make every effort possible to stop patrons from eating. Staff should explain this rule and notify supervisor if the situation warrants. .

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4.1 Immediately dial 3-5611 for Public Safety assistance whenever the behavior of a person is threatening or potentially dangerous. Report these problems with speed to Public Safety so they can be effective.

4.2 Examples of threatening behavior include verbal or physical abuse, sexual harassment, drug use or carrying weapons. When in doubt, always seek help from Public Safety and notify your supervisor.

4.3 If you observe threatening behavior, it is important to try to get another witness. If two or more people can witness the same problem, it makes it easier to verify the facts later.

4.4 Examples of unacceptable behavior include public drinking of alcoholic beverages or intoxication (alcohol or drugs), stalking, staring, smoking, intentional viewing of sexual materials, sleeping, displaying signs of mental imbalance, and bringing animals into the building (exception—service animals). Staff members who observe behaviors such as these should use common sense and judgment when deciding whether to call upon Public Safety or to approach the person directly.

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5.1 Patrons may use the main floor of the library for collaborative work and quiet conversation. Students may also use one of the many group study rooms for these activities. (Some of the other areas of the library - the second and third floors - are designated quiet areas. With the cooperation of everyone, these areas should be kept free of excessive noise.

5.2 Use of cellular phones is prohibited throughout the interior of building, except in the cafe. Please read Policy #33 regarding the use of cellular phones.

5.3 Audio equipment may only be used with headsets and should not be audible by others.

5.4 If a patron reports a noise or disturbance to a staff member, the staff member will ask the person(s)involved to move or be quiet. If a staff member receives a second complaint, the person(s) making the noise will be asked to leave the building.

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Anyone who willfully damages or defaces the books, equipment, materials (from any of the collections), building or furnishings will be held accountable. The incident will be reported immediately to Public Safety.

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Draft: Sheila Seaman November 29, 1984
Approved: Administrative Group December 4, 1984
Reviewed: Librarians December 6, 1984
Approved: Director December 6, 1984
Revised: Sheila Seaman, Tom Gilson, David Cohen February 16, 2001
Reviewed: Administrative Group February 21, 2001
Reviewed: Librarians February 21, 2001
Approved: Director February 21, 2001
Revised: Sheila Seaman February 10,2005

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