Rules of Conduct

Purpose

The Everett Public Library cultivates an inclusive environment that welcomes all community members to use and enjoy the facilities, collections, programs, and services. This policy aims to ensure safe, secure, and respectful use of the library and its grounds.

Statement of Policy

While the library is open to all, no one has the right to interfere with another patron’s use and enjoyment of the library. Behavior is unacceptable when it violates the law, impacts access and usage of others, endangers the health and safety of oneself or others, or results in damage to library facilities, resources, or equipment. 

Guidelines:

Treat library staff and patrons with respect and kindness. Hate crimes, discriminatory behavior, verbal hostility, and threatening behavior are not tolerated.

Accompany children. A parent or caregiver should accompany any child under twelve and supervise them during their visit. Adult use of children’s areas is limited to parents and caregivers with children or those utilizing the collections.

Prevent injury to oneself or others. Conduct must never endanger the health and safety of other library users or employees.

Wear appropriate attire for a public place including shoes, tops, and bottoms.

Minimize disruption to others. Keep voices and other noises at a level appropriate to the library space and activity.

Keep personal property nearby without obstructing walkways, stairways, elevators, or access to library resources and furnishings.

Respect library property. Use library facilities, resources, and equipment as intended.

Snacks and covered beverages are allowed except for in computer areas and the Northwest Room. Minimize disruption by limiting noisy and messy foods and dispose of any trash.

Service animals are welcome. Other animals are allowed only when authorized by the library director.

Adhere to library policies and federal, state, and local laws.
  • Selling, using, possessing, or being under the influence of illegal controlled substances or alcohol is prohibited.
  • Using tobacco, e-cigarettes, cannabis, or any vapor device on library property or within 25 feet of the library is prohibited.
  • Physically threatening behavior including carrying, exhibiting, or displaying any weapon in a manner that manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons is prohibited.
  • Sexual activities and misconduct are prohibited.

For the safety of yourself and others, bring safety and other concerns to the attention of library staff.

Accountability

It is Everett Public Library’s policy to lead with education and raise awareness to achieve compliance with established rules, regulations and policies. The library board of trustees formally delegates to library management and security guards the authority to enforce the Rules of Conduct, including the withdrawal of permission to remain on library property and the issuance of exclusion orders. The library director is authorized to develop procedures for the implementation of this policy.

Library staff and/or security guards may intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. Failure to comply may result in removal from the premises and exclusion from library property for a period of one day to two years. Illegal activities including acts of violence, physically threatening behaviors, hate crimes and sexual misconduct will result in exclusion from the library without warning and may also result in arrest and prosecution. Violations of laws and/or Rules of Conduct may also result in the restriction and/or termination of library privileges, including, but not limited to, the use of library computers and other equipment.

Exclusion orders issued to individuals for seven (7) days or more may be appealed in writing to the library director.

Related Policies and Laws

Unattended Child Policy

Unlawful carrying or handling of weapons RCW 9.41.270

Smoking in public places RCW 70.160.075

Controlled substances RCW 69.50

Hate crime offense RCW 9A.36.080

 

Approved by the Everett Public Library Board of Trustees, September 25, 2022