To be more consistent in enforcing library rules and expectations; we have made some small changes to how staff handle library suspensions. We are hoping these changes will help tighten up some of the loopholes that we have found in our procedures and help patrons be more successful while using the library. We have also updated the verbiage in the conduct report to better reflect the progression of suspensions.
Patrons will continue to be given 2 reminders (warnings) for the following behaviors:
- Creating unreasonable noise or engaging in boisterous activity
- Disruptive behavior including: running or throwing things
- Interfering with access to or use of the library
- Selling, soliciting, surveying, distributing written materials for political, charitable, or religious purposes
On the 3rd reminder (warning), the patron will be asked to leave and a conduct report should be created. In the conduct report, make sure to explain the situation in detail and include any reminders that were given.
Patrons will be asking to leave for the day without reminders (warnings) for the following behaviors:
- Swearing or using foul language
- Pushing, hitting, or play fighting
- Making out or inappropriate displays of affection
- Bullying (verbal or physical)
Our behavior system is cumulative, meaning consequences in a given month (30-day time period) escalate. During a 30-day period, if a patron gets 2, one-day suspensions (being asked to leave for the remainder of the day), and is then asked to leave for the day for a third time, the suspension length is increased to a week.
Computer access will be suspended if a suspension is a week or longer. When the suspension is over, the patron will have a conversation with a department head and their computer access will be reinstated.
There will be incidents that require an immediate week or longer suspension. These situations will be discussed with staff and department heads and then communicated to the patron when a suspension length has been determined.
Thank you all for your hard work in making the library an enjoyable place for ALL patrons 🙂