Code of Conduct

The Rye Free Reading Room and its staff are committed to providing a safe and pleasant atmosphere in which people can use the library and its resources. This Code of Conduct outlines acceptable behavior for users of the Library, with respect to the rights of all other users and the staff which will not interfere with the functioning of the Library or disturb others.

1.  Property belonging to the Library shall not be destroyed, injured or defaced; nor shall any furniture, fixture or equipment be moved from its proper place. Misuse of the rest rooms is not permitted. Library materials must be checked out to a library user before being removed from the library.

2.  Interference with or the harassment or intimidation of other users, Library staff or Library volunteers is unacceptable.

3.  Loud talking and the use of cell phones, radios, personal audio equipment and other electronic devices without earphones are to be limited to the lobby area. Quiet must be maintained in the designated study areas. Sleeping in the library is not allowed. Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times.

4.  The use of skateboards, roller blades or bicycles is not permitted on library property.

5.  The consumption of food is restricted to programs and events held in the Meeting Room and Lobby only; food may not be consumed anywhere else in the building. Beverages may be consumed in the library in covered containers only and away from all computers. Smoking is not permitted.

6.  Illegal use of the Internet is strictly prohibited. Attempts to add to, remove or in any way alter the hardware and software configurations on any computer or the library network are not allowed and will result in suspension of Internet use privileges. If all computers are in use, online time will be limited according to the signs posted.

7.  Children under the age of seven must be accompanied by a responsible adult or teenager.

8.  Except for events and sales conducted by the Library, solicitations for charitable, religious or other purpose, selling of tickets or merchandise of any kind or obtaining signatures on petitions and surveying Library patrons are only permitted on Library premises with prior approval of the Director.

The Rye Free Reading Room staff has been authorized to administer this policy and to modify and/or adapt the Code of Conduct to special circumstances. Users who do not comply with any reasonable request of the staff may be asked to leave the Library premises. Continued noncompliance may result in action ranging from suspension to termination of Library privileges and denial of access to the Library premises.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees on September 14, 2005