Policies & Rules

Library Behavior

E. M. Gilliam Memorial Public Library strives to provide a welcoming environment for all Library patrons. The following rules of conduct are meant to ensure that the library is a safe and enjoyable place. Library staff shall have the right to contact the proper authorities and ask individuals to leave the library when individuals are in violation of these rules. Violation of Library policies or any unlawful behavior may result in the loss of Library privileges. 

The following are prohibited in Library facilities, and program spaces:

• Damage, destruction, or theft of Library or personal property. 
• Abusive, threatening, or intimidating language. 
• Conduct that disturbs or endangers Library patrons, staff, or volunteers. 
• Conduct that hinders others from using Library space, equipment, or materials. 
• Interference with an employee’s performance of his/her duties. Such behavior includes but is not limited to verbal abuse, intimidation, sexual harassment, or harassment on account of race, religion, ethnic background, gender, or sexual orientation. 
• Sleeping.
• Selling or solicitation, with the exception of certain Library-sponsored events. 
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, or use of tobacco in any form. 
• Open containers of alcoholic beverages. 
• Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. 
• Consuming food or drink outside of designated areas. 
• Leaving bags or personal items unattended. 
• Any use of computers or Internet access that interferes with the activities of the library or its network, or is in violation of federal, state, or local laws, is prohibited.

The following must be observed at all times:

• Appropriate attire, including but not limited to shoes and a shirt, must be worn at all times. 
• Modes of transport (e.g., bicycles, scooters, etc.) must be left outside. The Library is not responsible for the loss of such items. 

In addition, please be aware:

• The Library is not responsible for personal items that are lost, stolen, or damaged on Library premises. 
• With the exception of service animals, animals are not permitted inside Library facilities.
• Library staff reserves the right to contact the appropriate authorities when children are left unattended, do not observe the Rules of Conduct, or are in distress (see Safe Children policy below). 

• Library staff may ask any patron to leave when he/she is in violation of the Rules of Conduct. Library staff may contact the appropriate authorities if a patron refuses to leave when asked. 

Exceptions to these Rules of Conduct may be granted at the discretion of the Library Director or designee.

Children

E. M. Gilliam Memorial Public Library is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment that encourages children to visit the Library, attend programs, and use Library collections and spaces. Library staff is available to assist and support children in using the Library. However, Library staff cannot provide childcare or assume responsibility for children’s safety. Parents, guardians, teachers, and caregivers are responsible for the behavior and safety of children on Library premises.

Children nine years of age or younger must be attended and directly supervised at all times by a parent/guardian or caregiver aged 14 or older. Parents/guardians/caregivers are to remain in the immediate vicinity of their children using the Library.

If children nine years of age or younger are left unattended, staff will attempt to reach their parents/guardians. If they cannot be reached, staff will contact the appropriate authorities.

Like all Library users, children are expected to abide by the Library Rules of Conduct (see policy 9). Library staff reserves the right to contact parents/guardians or the appropriate authorities if a child of any age is disruptive or is in distress.

Minors under age 18, left at the Library without transportation at closing time may be referred to the appropriate authorities for his/her/their safety and well-being. Library staff may not transport minors.