PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT

The Colusa County Free Library Patron Code of Conduct is meant to ensure a clean, respectful, comfortable and safe library environment for all library patrons and Staff.

Individuals using library facilities and attending library programs are expected to comply with all library policies and directions from Staff. Conduct is unacceptable if it impedes other patrons from enjoyment of library resources or threatens injury to other library patrons or resources.

Please observe the Code of Conduct:

• Enjoy and learn from your visit to the library.
• Help us protect all public property in our library.
• Respect the rights of all patrons to privacy and a quiet place to read and study.
• Help us protect and maintain the safety and comfort of library patrons.

Observing the Code of Conduct helps make the library a safe, clean and friendly place for the entire community. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Those in violation of library policies may be required to leave the premises.

Dangerous, destructive, illegal, or threatening conduct, is prohibited, including, but not limited to:

• Engaging in any activity prohibited by local, state or federal law.
• Bringing firearms, weapons, fireworks, or other dangerous substances into libraries.
• Threatening or harassing other patrons or Staff, including but not limited to; assault, battery, verbal threats, stalking, offensive staring, or offensive touching.
• Engaging in or soliciting any sexual activities, including, but not limited to, unwanted or inappropriate touching, unwanted or inappropriate advances, harassment, or indecent exposure.
• Defacing, damaging, or soiling library materials.
• Misusing, damaging, soiling or defacing library furniture, buildings, or equipment, including computer systems.

Conduct that disrupts the normal function of the library is prohibited, including, but not limited to:

• Engaging in activity that is disruptive to other patrons or Staff. This includes using electronic devices, or other personal equipment that are noisy or distracting, running in the building, or speaking loudly.
• Petitioning, soliciting or selling merchandise or services without written permission from the Library Director.
• Fraudulent use of another's library card and/or number for any purpose.
• Using the library while barefoot, shirtless or without outer clothing and footwear.
• Excusing offensive, pervasive and persistent odors, so as to constitute a nuisance that unreasonably interferes with others' enjoyment of the library.

Misuse of library buildings, facilities, or equipment is prohibited, including, but not limited to:

• Sleeping in the library or on library grounds.
• Using alcohol, tobacco or related nicotine products or controlled substances.
• Bringing bikes, skateboards or motorized carts into library buildings.
• Other than strollers and vehicles used by persons with disabilities, wheeled vehicles are not permitted in the library.
• Skateboards and smaller wheeled items may be carried as personal items, or placed behind the circulation desk.
• Leaving personal items unattended.
• Personally monopolizing Library space, seating, tables, or equipment to the exclusion of other patrons or Staff.

Children in the Library:

Persons 17 years old or younger are defined as "children" for the purposes of this Policy. Parents or legal guardians, whether present in the library or not, are solely responsible for their children's behavior, safety and welfare, at all times while the children are on the Library premises.

• All children younger than 9 years old shall be at all times accompanied by a parent or caregiver who is at least 14 years of age. Adequate supervision requires that the responsible person be in close proximity or in sight of the child.
• Children 10–13 years old should be accompanied in the library by a responsible caregiver who remains in the building and maintains a responsibility for the children.
• Children 14 years and older may use the library unattended, subject to the general rules set forth for all patrons of the Colusa County Free Library.
• Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers responsibilities:
• Parents or Legal Guardians are responsible for any damages to library property caused, in whole or in part, by their children, regardless of the children's age.
• Parents, Legal Guardians or Caregivers are responsible for maintaining control over their children's behavior in the library, at all times.
• Parents, Legal Guardians or Caregivers accompanying children (9 years or younger) must stay within a reasonable distance (within eyesight) of their children, at all times.
• Parents, Legal Guardians or Caregivers are responsible for having their children, 16 years of age or younger, picked up from the Library by the time the Library closes.
  • If children in this age group are not picked up from the Library by closing, the Library Staff will contact the proper law enforcement agency and ask that an officer be dispatched to the Library to stay with the child until their ride arrives. Neither the County, the Police/Sheriff Department, nor the Library is responsible for or liable for the safety or welfare of children who are left on the Library premises after closing.