Library Code of Conduct

GENERAL BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS

The policies and procedures of The Library at Durham College with respect to expected behaviour in the Library are developed in accordance with the Student Rights & Responsibilities Policy & Procedures of Durham College . Library patrons are required to show consideration for the rights of others and should behave in a manner which does not inconvenience, offend, or limit the rights of other patrons to have access to library materials, services and facilities. Similarly, patrons should behave in a manner which does not interfere with or otherwise prevent the library staff from providing library services.

Failure to observe the code of conduct described herein may result in disciplinary action being taken against the offender. The following minimum standards of conduct are to be observed in the Library.

1. Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the library.
2. Food is not permitted in the library.
3. Cell phones must be used in designated areas only (i.e. library vestibule, group study rooms, enclosed stairwells)
4. Only lidded beverages are permitted in the library.
5. All activities in the library will be conducted in a quiet manner to avoid disturbing other library patrons.
6. Headphones must be used on any device that emits sound.
7. Online gaming is not permitted on any computer in the library.
8. Patrons are required to show valid identification upon request from Library or Security staff.
9. Patrons are required to use library equipment and facilities for designated purposes only.

ENFORCEMENT

The Library is patrolled by on-site Security guards who share with the Library staff the responsibility of ensuring that the Code of Conduct expressed herein is respected.

SANCTIONS

Library and Security staff may invoke any of the following sanctions for individuals or groups who participate in any behaviour deemed to contravene this Code of Conduct or specific Library Policies . The sanctions imposed, determined by the nature, severity and frequency of the behaviour, include:

• Verbal warning
• Completion of a Library Policy Violation Report
• Completion of an Incident Report
• Eviction from the building

Completed Library Policy Violation Reports remain on file in the Library and may result in an interview with the Access Services Manager or designate. For students, completed Incident Reports are forwarded to the Director of Student Services . For all other patrons, completed Incident Reports will be reviewed by the Library Access Services Manager. Upon receipt of the report further sanctions may be imposed by their Program Dean for students and the Library Access Services Manager for all other patrons.

Patrons who contravene the Library Lending Policy are subject to sanctions set out in that policy.

APPEALS

Appeals concerning the invocation of verbal warnings and the Library Policy Violation Report should be presented to the Library Access Services Manager.

Appeals concerning the decision of the Library Access Services Manager should be presented to the Chief Librarian.

Appeals concerning the decision of Program Deans should follow the Formal Conduct Appeals Procedure of the Student Rights & Responsibilities Policy and Procedures .