Using SEOLS
To show respect for others and to keep the building and property safe, the following activities are
not allowed:
• Unruly, or offensive behavior, and excessive noise including loud cellphone conversations,
ringtones, or any personal listening device
• Disrupting or interfering with library users or staff
• Use of tobacco in any form, Electronic Vapor, and/or e-cigarettes
• Intoxicated behavior, possession of alcoholic beverages, or illegal drugs
• Using or being under the influence of marijuana or other products containing THC, even
in conjunction with the possession of a medical marijuana license
• Possession of marijuana or other products containing THC without possession of a medical
marijuana license or in excess of the legal limit for possession thereof
• Running, jumping, skating, or improper use of stairs
• Sleeping, lying down, or loitering unless under 5 years’ old
• Soliciting or panhandling
• Abusive, obscene, or threatening language to staff or library users
• Inappropriate display of affection
• Failure to wear shoes, shirt, or attire that provides appropriate covering.
• Failure to maintain personal hygiene to the point that is intolerable to others
• Use of restrooms for purposes other than normal toilet or lavatory needs
• Animals, with the exception of service animals
• Having or consuming food or drink, except in designated areas
• Carrying a handgun or any other weapon, whether openly or concealed, except when
carried by designated law enforcement
• Causing actual or imminent damage and/or theft of library materials, equipment, or
property
• Any behavior violating the law
• Leaving children unattended (note the following guidelines)
• Any other behavior that disrupts normal library use for either staff or customers
Violators may be asked to leave the library. If a person told to leave by a staff member refuses, or
in the event of behavior violating the law, staff is expected to promptly request assistance from
local law enforcement. Failure to comply with the request to leave the premises will result in the
filing of trespassing charges against the offender. Repeated or exceptionally serious violations may
cause the offender to be barred from future library access.
If a staff member bars a repeat violator or person whose violation was of an exceptionally serious
nature from future library use, the action is subject to investigation and ratification at the earliest
convenient time by the head librarian and the Executive Director, who will see that the action is
presented to the SEOLS Board, which has the final authority to act in the matter.
Unattended Children
To ensure a safe and positive environment, children under the age of 10 must have a parent or
responsible caregiver within the immediate vicinity. If children are involved in library programs,
the parent/caregiver must remain in the building if not attending the same program. A responsible
caregiver must be of at least 17 years of age with valid identification. Parents and caregivers are
responsible for the actions and behavior of the child. Should the child become disruptive to others
or library operations, we ask that they be taken quietly away until the child can compose
themselves.
This policy shall be clearly posted in each library.
App. 9/8/92; rev. 6/11/96, 2/8/2000, 3/11/03, 6/8/04, 5/9/06, 1/14/14, 3/11/14, 6/13/17, 6/18/19