Patron Policy

Patrons are expected to: 

• Understand that the library is a public space intended to be shared by many. Violations include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Discrimination based on an individual's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, age, disability status, marital status, sexual orientation, or public assistance status. ​

  • Harassment, including sexual and racial harassment. 

  • Behavior that is abusive, bullying, intimidating or disrespectful including obscene, racially charged or abusive language

  • Activities or conversations that are disruptive to other patrons including personal phone calls. 

  • Disruptive behavior such as fighting, running, or excessive noisemaking

  • Offensive body odor, including excessive scent, which unreasonably interferes with other patrons' ability to enjoy use of the library and its services. 

  • Sleeping that impedes others from using library spaces or resources. 

• Avoid disruptive behaviors that may hinder other library patrons. ​

• Be courteous and respect other library patrons and staff. 

• Conduct themselves in a safe and orderly way; allowing others to do the same . 

• Attend to children in their care. Violations include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Leaving vulnerable individuals or children under eight years old unattended or alone in the library. ​

• Respect library property. Violations include (but are not limited to) the following: ​

  • Defacing, damaging, or destroying library property. ​

  • Bringing beverages in uncovered containers or food in to the library. 

  • Use of library furniture, power cords, personal electronic devices, or other equipment in a way that creates a hazard for others. 

• Safeguard personal items. ​

• Comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Violations include (but are not limited to) the following: 

  • Panhandling or soliciting on library property. ​

  • Bringing weapons on library property. 

  • Use of controlled substances or being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances in a manner that causes a public disturbance. 

  • Smoking, chewing tobacco, or use of e-cigarettes. 

  • Infringement of copyright laws including illegal downloads of copyrighted materials. ​

​

Failure to follow this policy may result in eviction from the library and may include a trespass or arrest. Inappropriate conduct will be referred to the proper authorities for legal action in accordance with Illinois statutes.