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PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT
The Safety Harbor Public Library welcomes everyone to use the library facility and materials. Patrons are encouraged to enjoy the library surroundings. To make your visit a positive experience, patrons are asked to be aware of others using the library and to observe the "Code of Conduct", which is designed to provide a hospitable environment for all. Behavior becomes unacceptable when it may cause injury to one's self or others, cause damage to the building or equipment, or if it impinges on the rights of others.
• The Safety Harbor Public Library supports all state laws and local ordinances regarding public behavior.
• Library customers shall engage in activities associated with the use of a public library while they are in the building. Examples of such activities are reading, studying, using library resources, or attending authorized meetings and programs.
Patrons are asked to observe the following :
• Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times.
• Only assistance animals are allowed in the library.
• Rollerblades, skateboards, and roller skates constitute a safety issue and may not be worn or used on the library premises.
• Beverages in spill-proof or small closed lid containers are allowed inside the library. Food is allowed in designated areas outside the library.
• While in the library, children age 7 and under shall be in the immediate vicinity of an adult caregiver. Responsibility for children using the library rests with parents or assigned caregivers, not library staff.
• Adult patrons who are not actively seeking materials from the youth room shall be asked to relocate to other areas of the library.
• Running, loud conversation, disruptive behavior, substance abuse, public display of affection, and other conduct which disrupts library operations or the rights of others to use the library are prohibited.
• No loitering or congregating that disrupts others entrance to or use of the library.
• Library restrooms may not be used for bathing, shaving, brushing teeth, or washing clothes.
• Library materials must be checked out before leaving the library.
• Posting of advertisements, selling, or solicitation are prohibited.
• Patrons are not allowed in staff areas without permission.
• No one shall threaten harm, endanger, or harass with intent to annoy staff, volunteers, or library patrons. This includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate touching, repeated derogatory comments, or questions of a personal nature directed at staff or others.
• Smoking and tobacco products are limited to specified areas outside of the building.
• Alcoholic beverages or other intoxicants are prohibited in the building or on the premise, as is intoxication. 1
• No weapons of any kind may be carried into the library except those authorized by law.
• Library equipment and furnishings must be used properly. Patrons are asked to comply with directions of staff for the proper use of such equipment.
• Inappropriate use of library computers is prohibited (see Computer Use Policy). This includes sending threatening messages, displaying or printing illegal material such as obscene 2 or threatening material on a library computer, and altering, downloading or installing any program on library computers. Intentional disruption of the operation of the computer systems and networks is a violation of Florida Law. 3
Individuals willing to modify unacceptable behavior are welcome to stay in the Library. Those unwilling or unable to comply will be asked to leave.
• First, a verbal warning will be issued and the patron will be asked to correct the behavior in question.
• Second warning, the person(s) will be asked to leave the library.
If a person refuses to leave and continues to display behavior that threatens or endangers others, damages property, interferes with staff's ability to complete their duties, or disrupts library operations, the police will be called. An appeal process is available to persons placed on trespass notice.
*Any display of physical aggression is cause for immediate expulsion from the Library.
1 Florida Statute 856.011 Disorderly Intoxication
2 Florida Statute 847.0133 Protection of Minors
3 Florida Statute 815.06 Offense against computer users