Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Purpose: The Stratford Library Association (the “Library”) welcomes everyone to use its collections, services and facilities. The Library is a public building open to people of all ages and abilities. The Library offers opportunities for reading, study, cultural activities and access to information and technology. Use of the Library facility and its services are subject to its policies and procedures. This Code of Conduct provides the standards of behavior which ensure a welcoming, safe and secure environment and positive experience for everyone in the Library.

Scope: This policy applies to the Library staff, and members of the public. The Library courtyard and grounds are considered an extension of the Library, and these rules apply to those areas as well.

Roles and Responsibilities: Respect for Library patrons and staff shall prevail at all times. Visitors are asked to respect the rights of other users of the Library and to cooperate with staff in maintaining a safe, comfortable and reasonably quiet environment. Interfering with another person’s ability to use the Library or with the Library staff’s performance of their duties is not allowed. Parents or caregivers are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their children. This is in accordance with the Library’s Unattended Child Policy, a copy of which shall be provided on request.

Procedures:

1. QUIET: Intermittent conversation at a low level is permitted but must not disturb others.  The Lower Level is maintained as a quiet study space.  Cell Phone Conversations are limited to the Library Lobby and outdoor spaces, although exceptions may be made for those using public computers in need of technical support.
2. SIZE OF GROUPS: There is a limit of 4 persons per table and one person per chair.
3. ATTIRE: Library patrons are required to wear appropriate clothing including shoes and shirts.
4. SAFETY: Children under age 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.  The Library does not permit articles which represent a safety or fire hazard.  Bicycles, skateboards, scooters and similar vehicles are not permitted in the building, including the vestibules.
5. ADULT ACCESS TO YOUTH SPACES: Adults in the Children’s and Teen sections of the building who are unaccompanied by a child or teen and do not require immediate access to materials from the children or teen collections will be asked to relocate to another area of the Library.
6. FOOD: Eating in the Library is permitted, however, beverages must have a lid and foods with a strong odor are prohibited.
7. ODOR: Library patrons whose body, clothing, or property are exhibiting excessive odors which constitute a nuisance to (or unduly impede or interfere with the use by) others using the space may be asked to leave the building.
8. INSECTS: Library patrons whose person or belongings are infested with insects as to constitute a nuisance to other persons shall be required to leave the building.
9. PACKAGES: The Library reserves the right to open and inspect any packages, briefcases, etc. at any time while on the premises.
10. Prohibited Activities:
    1. Verbal or physical abuse toward any individual(s).
    2. Roaming, running, shouting, and unnecessary use of elevators.
    3. Smoking or vaping inside the building or outdoors within 20 feet of entrances.
    4. Sitting or lying on the floor, unless in a designated play area.
    5. Littering or defacing of property.
    6. Possessing or being under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
    7. Bringing animals into the Library, except for service animals or animals used as part of a library sponsored program.
    8. Disorderly actions which interfere with the functioning and/or purpose of the Library.
    9. Canvassing, petitioning, soliciting, selling or distributing materials without prior approval of the Library.
    10. Skateboarding, bicycling, rollerblading and roller-skating, especially on sidewalks leading to entryways.

Failure to comply with a reasonable request from Library Staff to follow this Code of Conduct constitutes a violation. Individuals who have been asked to comply and fail to do so will be asked to leave the premises and may be banned from returning. If necessary, the Stratford Police will be called to enforce the Code of Conduct.

Approved by the Stratford Library Board November 21, 202