Library Conduct Policy
Introduction:
The primary mission of the Library is to fulfill the information needs of students, faculty, and staff as they relate to the educational role of the University. The Library also provides limited access to collections, facilities, and services for the general public. As an informational resource, the Library is committed to share this resource with other institutions as well as with the citizens of Washington.
Policies:
The following policies have been adopted in order to provide a safe, secure, and welcoming atmosphere, conducive to the appropriate use of facilities, staff, services, and materials.
The following activities are prohibited within the Library and Library staff members reserve the right to determine prohibited conduct:
- Eating or drinking (capped water bottles excepted) in any of the areas open to public use
- Smoking, chewing, or other uses of tobacco
- Disorderly, disruptive, or threatening behavior, including, but not limited to, loud talking, noisemaking, threats of violence, violence, abusive language, profanity, and possession of weapons
- Sexual offenses, including, but not limited to, indecent exposure, inappropriate sexual advances, and physical/verbal harassment
- Blocking entrances, exits, or aisles
- Activities that could cause personal injury
- Intentionally damaging, destroying, or stealing library property, or the property of others.
- Using audio equipment so that it disturbs others
- Interfering with the privacy of library users
- Interfering with another person's rights to use the library
- Interfering with the library staff's performance of their duties
- Soliciting or canvassing of any kind
- Posting materials anywhere in the library other than on the bulletin boards [All items must be stamped and dated by the Scheduling Office and the Library Dean's Office]
- Using computer workstations to gain unauthorized access to any network or computer system.
- Attempting to change, damage or disrupt library computer equipment or software.
- Intentionally violating copyright laws or software licensing agreements.
- Any other activity or conduct in violation of federal, state, or local law or ordinance, or university regulation
People who trigger library theft detection systems may be required to open any bags or pocketbooks for inspection.
Violators of library policies may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, including assessment of service charges, revocation of library privileges and/or reporting to campus police.
Exceptions to Policy
Exceptions to the policies may only be granted by the Dean of Libraries or the Acting Dean of Libraries. Certain rules are mandated by state law such that exceptions cannot be granted. The policies in this document were established by the Library to optimize services to all our users. We understand that unusual circumstances require flexibility. We will respond to these requests by balancing the individual need against the best interests of the University.
[Refer to WAC Chapter 106-168]
Approved August 1999: Library Conduct Policy Committee and Dean of Library Services