Patron Code of Conduct Policy

The Dover Public Library welcomes all patrons, young and old alike, who by their presence acknowledge their responsibility to maintain an atmosphere conducive to the best use of the library and its services. Patrons must be considerate of others while they browse, read, aspire, ponder, research, do homework, discover, photocopy, use computers, and/or attend programs.

Behavior of persons, regardless of age, which is disruptive or detracts from that use, will not be tolerated. Some examples of inappropriate behavior include, but are not limited to:

Disrespect or harassment of patrons and staff
Abusive/vulgar language
Disorderly conduct, fighting, horseplay, or assault
Use of tobacco, electronic vaping devices, alcohol, or illegal drugs
Selling drugs, alcohol, or other illegal items
Engaging in or soliciting a sexual act
Loud talking or crying
Creating unreasonable noise, including electronic devices
Vandalism
Sleeping in the library or on library grounds
Aimless/restless roaming in the library or on library grounds
Improper dress (no shirt, shoes)
Loitering
Littering
Theft & other criminal offenses
Destruction of library property
Monopolizing equipment, materials, or furnishings
Offensive hygiene that disrupts the use of the Library for patrons and staff
Using public restrooms to bathe or wash clothes
Violation of a public health order
Violation of the Library’s Tobacco Free Policy
Violation of the Library’s Internet Access Policy
Violation of the Library’s Unattended Minor Policy
Panhandling or gambling
Taking photographs and/or recording videos of Library staff or patrons without their permission
Trespassing in non-public areas
Eating or drinking around library computers
Moving furniture and/or equipment with the Library’s permission
Failing to return Library materials on time
Blocking aisles, exits, and/or entrances
Leaving packages or any other personal items unattended
Bringing luggage, bed rolls, blankets, or large plastic bags into the library or leaving them on library grounds
Damaging library materials and returning library materials with insects that can result in pest infestations to library materials or facilities
Falsifying information to obtain a library card

Seating at library tables and chairs is limited to the number of persons for whom the furniture was designed.
The Library permits light snacks and beverages. Snacks and beverages should be enjoyed responsibly and should not disrupt other patrons. Patrons are expected to recycle or discard wrappers, bottles, and trash and to leave a clean area for other patrons. Eating is not permitted at any computer or in the Maker Lounge. All beverages must have a no-spill lid.
Bicycles are to be parked in provided racks, and are not permitted in the library public area or entryway. Roller skating, rollerblading and skateboarding are not permitted in the library or its grounds. Wagons and strollers may not be left obstructing a corridor, hallway, aisle, entry or exit.
Selling products or services, or soliciting donations is not permitted in the library, except as part of a library-sponsored program, or when authorized by library administration.
Taking surveys, circulating petitions, distributing leaflets, and other similar activities are not permitted in the library. See Petitions & Solicitations Policy.
Animals, except those used to aid persons with disabilities, are not permitted in the library unless they are part of a library-sponsored program.
Patrons are responsible for their personal belongings.
Patrons are not permitted to loiter in large groups on library property. Library staff can ask loiterers to disperse. Police will be contacted for assistance if need be.
Patrons must leave the library promptly at closing.
Under the Ohio Revised Code no person shall possess a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance.
Patrons who are asked to leave by library staff and who refuse to do so will be considered trespassing. Being on library property while on suspension is likewise considered to be trespassing. Library staff reserves the right to contact law enforcement.

Patrons who violate any of the guidelines will be promptly notified of the infraction(s). Depending on the severity, police may be called. A violation may be result in a verbal warning, a patron’s expulsion from the Library, temporary or permanent suspension of Library privileges, criminal prosecution, or other legal action, as appropriate. Patrons have the right to request an administrative review of a suspension order.

Staff members are well-trained, good natured library professionals who strive to provide excellent service to every patron. However, the staff has authority to ask patrons whose behavior monopolizes their attention and/or restricts others’ use of the library to leave. Security officers and/or off-duty policemen may be present during business hours to aid in maintaining an orderly atmosphere. Patrons involved in criminal behavior against the library will be prosecuted. Chronic offenders will be denied use of the library. Return to the library and reinstatement of privileges are by Director’s permission only.

Adopted by the Dover Public Library

Board of Trustees

July 15, 2010

December 10, 2020

October 12, 2023