Public Service Policies
Patron Code of Conduct
In order to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for reading, learning and
other library activities, the Ticonderoga Black Watch Memorial Library requires all
visitors to comply with the patron code of conduct.
Rules of conduct apply to both patron conduct with other patrons and patron conduct
with library staff and program presenters. The rules apply whether the patron is
interacting with the library in person, on the telephone, via e-mail, chat or in any other
capacity.
1. Patrons shall respect the rights of other patrons and library staff at all times.
Patrons shall not interfere with the staff or the performance of their duties and
shall comply with reasonable staff directives.
2. Any behavior that disturbs the normal functioning of the library and/or creates
a disruptive and unsafe environment is not permitted including, but not limited
to:
• Offensive or abusive language or engaging in offensive or abusive
behavior.
• Engaging in any behavior or activity that creates an intimidating or
hostile environment for others.
• Touching staff or patrons in an inappropriate or unwelcome manner.
• Compromising the health and safety of other patrons and library staff.
• Approaching other patrons or library staff with the intent to convince
them of their personal views: religious, political or otherwise.
• Using the restroom for unintended purposes including bathing and
shaving.
Note: For reasons of safety and hygiene, shoes must be worn at all times.
Library materials may not be taken into the restroom.
3. Patrons shall not engage in any illegal activity on library premises including, but
not limited to:
• Possessing, consuming or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal
substances.
• Carrying weapons of any type is prohibited.
• Smoking, vaping, using tobacco, tobacco products or e-cigarettes within
50’ of the library’s entrance.
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Public Service Policies
4. Solicitation of funds, distribution of literature or promotional material, or sale
of goods is forbidden by any person or agency other than the library except by
permission of the library manager.
5. Materials or equipment removed from the library must be checked out with a
valid library card.
6. Patrons shall not deface or mar any materials from the library collection; nor
shall the patron deface, mar or in any way destroy or damage library
furnishings, walls, equipment or other library property.
7. Patrons using any electronic devices in the library including their own electronic
devices must comply with the library’s Internet Use Policy.
8. Children and/or vulnerable individuals are the responsibility of their parents or
caregivers and may not be left unattended in the library or on the premises.
Vulnerable individual means an individual with physical or cognitive impairment
who may be unable to protect themselves from abuse or exploitation and may
not comprehend or be able to comply with library policies. In the event that an
unattended child is disruptive, the parent or caregiver will be asked to remove
the child or individual from the library.
9. Only service animals are allowed in the building. Animals that are used in a
library program, are allowed with prior permission of the library manager.
10. Loitering on library property is not permitted.
11. The library is not responsible for personal property. Personal property must
remain within the owner’s sight and control and may not create a safety hazard.
12. Bicycles, skates, skateboards, scooters or similar items are prohibited on library
sidewalks and near entryways. A bike rack is available for use.
13. Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, local or other applicable
law or library policy.
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Public Service Policies
Patrons who violate these rules and regulations may be temporarily denied service
and/or be required to leave the library premises and be denied the privilege of future
access to the library.
Revised by the Board of Trustees
Date
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
12/14/2023