Patron Conduct Policy

Purpose:

The Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library (SPHML) is committed to serving all residents within the local community as well as those in the broader North Country Library System (NCLS) area. Library services are offered to everyone without discrimination. This means that service will not be denied or limited based on an individual’s religion, race, social or economic status, political beliefs, age, sexual orientation, or any mental, emotional, or physical condition.

The Library strives to ensure full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), making every effort to provide access and accommodation so that all community members may benefit from library resources and services.

Article 1 – Patron Conduct and Responsibilities

All individuals using the library are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful, considerate, and appropriate within a shared public environment. Library users must adhere to standards of behavior that ensure a safe, welcoming atmosphere for everyone and support the library’s mission to serve the community.

1.1 Patrons will not interfere with the use or enjoyment of the library of other patrons.

1.2 Smoking, tobacco, illegal drugs, and alcohol are prohibited under New York State law.

1.3 Appropriate attire, including both a shirt and shoes, must be worn while on the premises.

1.4 Prone sleeping is not allowed in the building.

1.5 Boisterous behavior, foul language, verbal and/or physical fighting are not allowed.

1.6 Cell phones are to be set to “vibrate only” mode or turned off while inside library. Patrons are asked to step outside the building to make or accept calls.

1.7 Animals, except for certified service animals and those involved in library sponsored programming, are not allowed in the building.

1.8 Food and uncovered drinks will not be allowed in the library except for organizations bringing refreshments for use in properly reserved meeting rooms, or as authorized by the director.

1.9 Library restrooms are intended for patron use and should not be used for bathing.

1.10 Weapons of any kind are not permitted in the library.

1.11 A patron who creates a public nuisance may be restricted from the library and/or from the use of library facilities, at the discretion of the Director. Those unwilling to comply with the direction to leave the library, after being instructed to do so, will be subject to law enforcement being called.

1.12 Individuals caught defacing library materials or property will be required to make full restitution, may be denied library privileges, or prosecuted under New York State law.

Article 2 – Library Visits by Children and Teens

The SPHML welcomes and encourages visits from children and teens. The library is committed to ensuring that these visits are both memorable and enjoyable, offering a positive experience for young patrons.

2.1 Parents or caregivers, not library staff, are responsible for children and teens in the library.

2.2 All children under the age of Nine (9) must be accompanied by an adult or responsible person while in the library.

2.3 Disruptive children or teens will receive a warning to follow the rules. If the behavior continues after a second warning, they will be asked to leave the library. Unaccompanied minors who need to contact a parent may do so under staff supervision until their parent arrives.

2.4 Parents are advised to collect their children 15 minutes prior to closing time.

2.5 The library staff is not responsible for supervising children left alone when the library closes. Attempts will be made to contact the responsible adult and if no contact is made within 15 minutes of closing time, the police department will be called to pick up the child. Staff members will not drive children/teens home.

2.6 At the discretion of the Director, parents of children who are unattended or violate library policies may be reported to civil authorities.

Article 3 – Denial of library usage

The SPHML welcomes everyone. The Director may deny use of this benefit at their discretion for certain behaviors:

3.1 Failure to return library materials.

3.2 Destruction of library property or materials.

3.3 Failure to pay for lost or damaged materials or property.

3.4 Disturbing other patrons because of objectionable language, odor, or behavior.

3.5 Illegal, disruptive, or objectionable conduct, including alcohol or drug use, sexually inappropriate, or violent behavior.

3.6 Violation of any policy.

Approved by Board of Trustees on: 26 May 2026