USE-1: Library User Conduct
The Library provides access to Library materials, information, and equipment, and serves as a locationfor general studies and cultural activities. For the Library to be enjoyed by all patrons, the following rulesand regulations should be observed. Patrons who exhibit behavior inconsistent with the following rulesmay be asked to leave the Library or otherwise have their privileges suspended or limited.
- Patrons should respect the rights of other library users and staff, and must refrain from harassing, annoying or threatening conduct or other behavior that reasonably could be expected to disrupt the library atmosphere.
- Patrons may not interfere with Library employees’ performance of their duties or make or threaten inappropriate physical contact with staff members or other patrons.
- Patrons should treat library materials with care and refrain from any action that could damage destroy any library property.
- Patrons must comply with all rules regarding usage of library materials and resources. All materials must be checked out before leaving the building. Bags may be inspected at the doors.
- Patrons may not engage in illegal activity on library premises.
- Parents are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their children. Children under the age of eight should not be left unattended in any part of the building.
- Mobile devices may be used in the library for silent functions only. Cell phone calls/conversations are prohibited in the library, although calls may be conducted quietly in the lobby. Texting is permitted provided that sent/incoming notification sounds are silenced.
- Drinks are permitted in the library only in spill-proof containers. Food is not permitted unless authorized by the Library Director or his/her designee.
- Shirts and shoes must be worn on library property.
- Smoking is prohibited in the library and within twenty five-feet (25’) of all library entrances, windows that open, or ventilation intakes.
- Campaigning, soliciting, or petitioning is not permitted on library premises.
- Animals, other than service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are not allowed in the building without the approval of the Library Director or his/her designee.
- Patrons are responsible for their personal property. Property left unattended for longer than 30 minutes may be moved to the Library’s “Lost and Found” area. Any unattended personal property left in a location that obstructs patron or staff use of the library will be moved immediately.
- Bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, or similar equipment may not be used in the building or the parking lot. Bicycles should be left in the racks outside the building.
- Patrons must exit the library at or before the designated closing time or as otherwise directed by library staff.
Patrons are asked to cooperate with the Library staff members who interpret and enforce these rulesand regulations, which will help promote excellence in Library service for everyone.
USE-2: Suspension or Limitation of Library Privileges
Suspension or limitation of Library privileges of patrons may occur for (i) violation of the Library User Conduct policy, or (ii) excessive fines, lost or damaged items on a patron’s record greater than the blocking threshold decided by the Library Director and approved by the Trustees.
The nature of the limitation or suspension of Library privileges may include: (i) loss of borrowing rights;(ii) prohibition from using items of equipment if such equipment was being abused; and (iii) physicalremoval from the Library premises if the person involved engages in behavior that damages Libraryproperty, intimidates or threatens other patrons or staff, or refuses to act in accordance with the otherprovisions of the Library User Conduct policy. The suspension will last for a period of time designated bythe Library Director, which will be communicated to the patron by written notice if possible.
In the event of a suspension greater than three days, the patron may appeal the decision to the LibraryBoard of Trustees at a regularly scheduled meeting, provided that the appeal is submitted in writing atleast 48hours prior to the meeting, according to the Open Meetings Act of Illinois.
USE-3: Safe Child Policy
While visiting the Library, children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian whois at least 14 years old. Parents/guardians are responsible for children in their care and are expected toprovide appropriate supervision.
If a child under the age of 8 is attending a program, the parent/guardian must remain in the buildingwhile the child is in the program and collect them at the end of the program.
Children over the age of 8 can be in the library independently but are expected to follow the LibraryUser Conduct Policy. If they are not behaving appropriately, they may be asked to leave and theirparent/guardian will be contacted.
The library reserves the right to contact the Lake Bluff Police Department if a child under the age of 14has not been picked up within 15 minutes of library closing.
Approved by the Lake Bluff Library Board of Trustees. Revised July 19, 2022.