RULES OF BEHAVIOR

The Alhambra Public Library welcomes everyone to use the Library and its resources of learning, reading, writing, studying, thinking and obtaining information. The Rules of Behavior are designed to ensure the safety and respect of all visitors, to maintain the facility and to encourage appropriate use of the Library.

 

The following conduct, behavior and acts are prohibited in the Library:

• Disturbing the peace including but not limited to talking loudly.

• Using personal equipment (such as computers, cell phones and audio players) that is disruptive, noisy or unsafe. Audio equipment may be used with headphones if it does not disturb others.
  
• Cell phones are to be turned off or to vibrate, and phone calls should be placed outside of the Library.
  
• Overcrowding in seating areas. This includes:
  
• No more than four people per table
  
• No more than one person per carrel or chair (This rule does not apply to infants under two years of age, which the exception of the Technology Center)
  
• Reserving carrels or tables
  
• Smoking
  
• Causing odors that lead to complaints or cause discomfort to others.
  
• Soliciting, panhandling or begging.
  
• Unauthorized distribution of materials or gathering of signatures for petitions.
  
• Running, boisterous behavior and fighting.
  
• Obstructing entrances, exits, aisles and passageways.
  
• Bringing excessive baggage into the Library including sleeping bags, bedrolls, luggage and shopping carts. Small backpacks, book bags, briefcases and purses are permitted.
  
• Bringing animals into the Library. This rule does not apply to service animals.
  
• Visiting the Library without shoes or shirt.
  
• Roller blading, inline skating, bike riding or skate boarding.
  
• Adults who are not related to supervising children shall not loiter in areas identified as Children’s Rooms or in the Children’s Room Restroom.
  
• Leaving children under the age of eleven unattended. Parents are responsible for their children’s supervision and appropriate behavior.
  
• Leaving personal belongings unattended. The Library is not responsible for lost damaged or stolen items. Unattended personal items may be discarded.
  
• Harassing Library visitors or staff.
  
• Engaging in exhibitionism, voyeurism, or physical, sexual or verbal abuse.
  
• Illegal behavior including threats; acts of violence; brandishing a weapon; theft; gambling; consumption of alcoholic beverages; being under the influence of, or using or selling alcohol or drugs; and possession of illegal drugs.
  
• Destroying, damaging, defacing or misusing Library materials, equipment, furniture, facilities or property. This includes, but is not limited to:
  • Writing in, highlighting or annotating Library materials;
    
  • Cutting, tearing or removing pages and parts of pages from Library materials;
    
  • Misusing, altering or tampering with computer hardware or software;
    
  • Applying graffiti;
    
  • Unauthorized rearranging of furniture;
    
  • Tipping back chair and or putting feet on furniture.
    
  • Misusing restrooms, including laundering personal belongings, bathing and not keeping the restroom clean.
    
• Urinating or defecating in anything other than in the toilet.
  
• Consuming food or beverages. Food or drink, including water bottles, must be stored inside backpacks, purses or briefcases.
  
• Leaving the Library without checking out Library materials. Patron who triggers the theft detection system may be required to open bags or purses for inspection.
  
• Engaging in conduct which is incompatible or inconsistent with the operation and purpose of the Library or which prevents others from using the Library for the purpose for which is designed.

Violation of any of the Rules of Behavior may result in exclusion from the Library premises for the remainder of the day. Repeated or severe incidents may result in a more extended loss of privileges. Individuals that have been excluded from the Library can appeal the suspension to the Board of Trustees. While a violation of these Rules of behavior may not constitute criminal court conduct, criminal charges may be filed against anyone who disobeys an order, which excludes or suspends them from the Library.

Additionally, the Alhambra Public Library will uphold all state, federal and local laws and ordinances with regard to public behavior. Assistance from the Alhambra Police Department will be requested as needed.

These Rules of Behavior were written in consultation with the Alhambra City Attorney and the Library Board of Trustees.