Patron Behavior Policy
Patrons using the Genesee Area Library and its resources expect a safe, comfortable environment that supports appropriate library services.
No disruptive behavior.
The use of tobacco products, including electronic and vapor cigarettes is not allowed in the building or on library property.
The use of illegal drugs and unapproved use of alcohol is not permitted.
The use of profanity or abusive language will not be tolerated.
Children under the age of 5 must be within arms reach of their parent/guardian/caregiver.
Children under the age of 10 may not be left unattended in the library without a parent/guardian/caregiver (at least 16 years of age) present in the building.
No solicitation is to be conducted on library property.
No commercial/for-profit activities is to be conducted on library property other than those activities sponsored by the Genesee Area Library.
Disruptive behavior may include loud talking, running, and jumping, playing inappropriate games, throwing objects, horseplay, pushing and shoving that may result in disturbing other users, injury to patrons or staff, damage to library property, abusive language, and behavior towards other patrons or staff, inappropriate use of personal electronic devices or any other behavior that, in the view of library staff, hinders or precludes the legitimate use of the library and its resources.
Staff members will follow a 3-step process outlined below unless the behavior is physically endangering, abusive to staff or other patrons.
Step 1 Individual will be warned about the disruptive behavior and asked to stop.
Step 2 Individual will be warned again, with the additional message that if a third warning is needed, they will be asked to leave the building.
Step 3 Individual is asked to leave the building. If the individual refuses to leave, inform them that the police will be called, and they will be charged with trespassing and/or disturbing the peace and/or any other appropriate statute.
Any person expelled shall forfeit all library privileges for a period of up to one (1) year per occurrence at the discretion of the Executive Director, subject to review by the Board of Directors upon application by the Appellant. The period of loss of library privileges may be adjusted by the Executive Director depending on the nature of the disturbance. Repeated violations will be dealt with by the Board of Directors on an individual basis.
If in the judgment of a library staff member, an individual’s behavior is unmanageable, abusive, or indicates a threat of physical harm to library employees, customers, or property, the staff should execute Step 3 immediately or call the police immediately. Under no circumstances is a staff member to lay hands upon the subject except to prevent injury to staff or patrons. If an individual is under 18 years of age and cannot safely leave the library to return home on his or her own, staff should permit the child to contact a parent or guardian.
Approved 2/21/2022