LOPEZ ISLAND LIBRARY CODE OF CONDUCT
Adopted by the Lopez Island Library District Board of Trustees on January 16, 2024
This Code of Conduct is intended to support the library as a resource for the whole community, consistent with the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read Statement of the ALA (the American Library Association). Curious about the ALA’s Statement? Just ask – we love to share!
- ENJOY.
Explore, learn, have fun! Our materials, facility, and staff are here for you. If you need help, just ask.
- ACT RESPONSIBLY.
Take reasonable care with library materials and the facility. Our budget is limited and replacing damaged books, computers, and furniture is difficult. We do not prohibit food and drink in the library (and for some events that is part of the activity), but we do ask that patrons enjoy food and drink responsibly so as to avoid damaging library property, and help younger children do the same.
- COMPLY WITH THE LAW.
Illegal activity is prohibited inside the library building and everywhere on library grounds, which includes the parking lot. Illegal activity includes but is not limited to: smoking; harassment; assault; unlawful discrimination; unauthorized destruction of property; and the use, sale, and/or purchase of illegal drugs.
- BE COURTEOUS.
Treat library staff, volunteers, and each other with respect. Avoid interfering with other people’s ability to enjoy the library. This may include, but is not limited to, avoiding excessive noise, respecting the privacy of individuals using the library, and a person’s ability to use the library without disturbance.
- USE COMMON SENSE.
The principles in this Code of Conduct should be taken in context. Examples: Children’s story hour may be intentionally noisy, respectful disagreement is not necessarily harassment, wear and tear on library materials due to normal use is not being irresponsible.
Library staff will make every effort to resolve any conflicts or problems. The Library reserves the right to ask any patron to leave who is interfering with others’ ability to enjoy the library, or who refuses to follow the guidelines in this Code of Conduct.
If you need help accessing the library’s materials and services, or if you feel someone or something is interfering with your ability to use and enjoy the library, please feel free to ask library staff for help.