The Library recognizes that its users are in fact its owners. As user-owners, the public has certain expectations of the Library. These include an adequate collection of library materials; pleasant, attractive, clean surroundings; and courteous, efficient service from the staff.

Library users have a right to assume that visits to the Library will be free from harassment, free from physical discomfort and danger, and free from externally caused psychological and emotional stress. Library staff members have basically the same rights. All members of the staff should be able to do their work free of harassment, abuse, discomfort and undue stress. Unfortunately, the attitudes and behavior of a small minority of persons sometimes violate the rights of both the public and the staff.

It shall therefore be the policy of the Board of Trustees of Tracy Memorial Library to maintain, as far as the facility permits, a quiet and pleasant environment conducive to reading and study as well as to casual use.

To assure the successful implementation of the policy, the following shall be considered unacceptable behavior in the Library:

• Any conversation, laughter, noise or action that is disturbing to other users or to Library staff.
• Any obscene or abusive language or gesture heard or observed by other patrons or staff members.
• Use of audible electronic devices in any manner such that they can be heard by other persons. Conversations via cell phone, Skype, etc. may be conducted in the foyer or outside.
• Blocking or in any way interfering with the free movement of any person or persons.
• Removal of any Library property from the building or grounds without authorization through established lending procedures.
• Rearranging or relocating any Library furniture, materials or equipment from one location to another.
• Soliciting of any kind, selling of any kind, or distribution of leaflets or any other materials not specifically approved by the Library Director.
• Use of Library telephones by any person other than Library personnel unless approved.
• Consumption of drugs.
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages, except with prior permission from the Board of Trustees (see Meeting Room policy) and in accordance with the Town of New London’s policy on alcoholic beverages (see Appendix III).
• No beverages near Library computers. Otherwise, covered beverages are permitted. No eating in Library. When approved by staff, eating is permitted in main-floor Meeting Room and Children’s Room.
• Smoking in the building.
• Willful destruction of or damage to any Library property or to the property of others.
• Tampering with safety equipment, such as fire alarms and extinguishers, smoke detectors, security system, elevator alarm.
• Carrying unauthorized weapons of any sort.
• Pets or animals inside the Library, with the exception of service animals.
• Poor personal hygiene that interferes with others’ ability to use the Library comfortably.
• Persons conducting any of the above actions may be asked either to desist from such action or may be asked to leave the Library building and its surrounding grounds, whichever is more appropriate to the offense. If necessary, police will be called.

If the patron is a child with a parent or guardian in the Library:

• The staff will warn the child to correct her or his behavior.
• If the disruptive behavior continues, a staff member will inform a parent or guardian that the child is disturbing others.a

If the parent or guardian refuses or is unable to correct the behavior, the child may be asked to leave for the day.

If the patron is child ten years or older, without a parent or guardian in the Library:

• The staff will warn the child to correct her or his behavior.
• If the child persists in her/his behavior, she or he may be asked to leave for the day. Staff may call a parent or guardian about what transpired.