Policies
Library Program Policy | Rules of Conduct
BARTOW COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM
RULES OF BEHAVIOR / CONDUCT
Adopted 7/20/06
Library Board of Trustees
The Bartow County Library System strives to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to the appropriate use of library services and
resources. The public is required to comply with the library system use and behavior guidelines. All users and staff have the right to
a safe and comfortable environment, as well as facilities and materials which are in good condition.
BEHAVIOR AND/OR ACTIONS WHICH ARE CONSIDERED TO BE DISRUPTIVE AND/OR UNSAFE ARE
PROHIBITED ON LIBRARY PROPERTY. THESE MAY INCLUDE:
• Cell phone use in all service areas.
• Any loud, unreasonable, repetitive and/or disruptive noises created by persons, sound devices and other equipment.
• Engaging in disorderly conduct, fighting or challenging a fight, or using offensive language that is likely to provoke violence.
• Running in or around the library.
• Playing on the elevator.
• Exhibiting offensive personal hygiene; Bringing in large bundles or personal possessions (for example: items too large to fit under a study chair), failure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes or the failure to secure clothes with buttons, zippers or other devices. Skateshoes are not allowed inside building.
• Misusing or abusing furniture including placing your feet or legs on furniture. Feet must be on floor at all times.
• Bringing animals or pets in the library (except guide dogs for the physically impaired).
• Following a person around the library, staring at a person, or persistently asking a person questions.
• Distributing or posting printed material / literature that has not been approved by the library system.
• Soliciting for money or items or services.
• Panhandling or loitering inside the library or in parking lot or on library grounds.
• Leaving children unattended who are under the age of ten or who require supervision.
• Leaving a child or young adult (up to the age of 17) on library property after closing time.
• Misuse of public restrooms. Restrooms are for library patron use only. Changing of clothes and bathing in restrooms is not permitted.
• Carrying weapons of any type.
• Entering non-public areas such as staff workrooms, break room, offices, and storage areas.
• Skateboarding, rollerblading, or bicycling in the parking lot, garden or around the perimeter of the library building at all times. Bicycles are to be parked in the bike racks provided.
• Certain acts involving computer fraud or abuse of library system network computers or display of obscene materials on computer equipment (covered under the Georgia Computer Services Protection Act and punishable by fine, imprisonment or both).
• Library materials must be properly checked. Certain materials, such as reference items, may not be removed from the library. Willful concealment and/or unauthorized removal of library property are violations of Georgia Law. (GA Code 20- 5-54)
• Bringing food or beverages into the library (permitted in the community wing only). Intoxication and/or use of tobacco, alcohol or illegal substances. (GA Code 16-12-2, 16-11-41)
• Damage, destruction, theft or improper use of library property or facilities, including tampering with fire alarms. (GA Code 20-5-52).
The library reserves the right to inspect all bags, briefcases, backpacks, containers, books and any similar items. Patrons should return
to the desk if alarm sounds when exiting the library.
The library reserves the right to require anyone violating these rules of conduct to leave the library. The library may withdraw
permission to re-enter library facilities for serious or repeated misconduct.
Communication of threats, physical violence or sexual misconduct (indecent exposure, unwelcome touching, or sexual harassment
toward staff or patrons) will result in permanent exclusion from the library and notification of law enforcement authorities.
Engaging in any other illegal acts or conduct in violation of Federal, State or local law, ordinance or regulation will result in
notification to law enforcement authorities.
Any person who disregards a request by a staff member and/or security guard to leave the building will
be immediately reported to the local law enforcement agency.
