Waltham Public Library Rules & Behavior Policy
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To ensure that the Library is a safe place, enjoyed by all patrons, the following behavior policies must be observed. The Library also enforces a Safe Youth Policy, available at all service desks, online and posted in youth spaces.
- Patrons shall not interfere with other patrons’ use of the library or with library employees’ performance of their duties.
- Creating a disturbance by making noise, talking loudly, or engaging in other disruptive conduct is forbidden. (MGL, CH.272, Sec. 41)
- Damage to library property and theft of library materials is a criminal offense. (MGL, Ch. 266, Sec. 100)
- Failure to promptly comply with staff directive will result in suspension of library privileges.
The Ground Floor accommodates volumes consistent with developmentally appropriate activities for youth and families. The First Floor accommodates moderate volumes consistent with conversational interactions. The Second Floor is reserved for quiet study.
In support of these basic rules, the following, while not an exhaustive list, are not permitted in the library:
⋅ Violence, unwanted physical touch , weapons of any kind ⋅ Illicit drugs ⋅ Smoking (MGL, Ch.270, Sec. 22), vaping or loose smoking material ⋅ Alcohol ⋅ Running ⋅ Pushing ⋅ Putting feet on furniture ⋅ Throwing any object ⋅ Using electronic equipment audible to others ⋅ Harassment of any kind ⋅ Outdoor/sports toys or gear ⋅
- Only service animals shall be allowed in the library. (MGL, CH.272, Sec. 98A)
- Please do not move furniture. No more than four people at a table, or more than one person in a chair. Adults should sit on chairs, and not on floors or other furniture.
- Intruding on any library patron’s privacy is forbidden. No campaigning, petitioning, or soliciting is permitted. Photos or recordings of patrons require written permission /see Photography/Filming Policy.
- Library patrons are responsible for their personal property. Items should not be left unattended. The Library is not responsible for any lost or stolen material.
- Shirts and shoes must be worn in the Library.
- Food & drink are permitted in designated areas, but never around computers or in the Waltham Room.
- Patrons must leave promptly at closing.
- Sleeping patrons will be woken up, so we know you are safe.
- Theft of library materials, use of false identification to obtain a library card, or use of another person’s library card without their permission, are against state law and will be prosecuted. (MGL, CH.266, Sec. 99) All material must be checked out before leaving.
- Children under 9 years of age must be attended and adequately supervised by a responsible caretaker who remains with them.
- Adults without a child present who are not actively using or searching the youth collections or seeking help from staff are not allowed in designated youth spaces or programs.
Approved by Library Trustees 3/14/19