Behavior Policy

M.G.L Chapter 272 Section 41 “Whoever willfully disturbs persons assembled in a public library, or a reading room connected therewith, by making a noise or in any other manner during the time when such library or reading room is open to the public shall be punished as provided in the preceding section.”

The right to use the Stevens Memorial Library is extended to every person. To guarantee this right, no patron shall engage in behaviors that are prohibited by the following rules.

The following activities are not allowed on Library property:

  • Smoking.
  • Damaging, defacing, destroying, or misusing Library property (including building, grounds and collection).
  • Any conduct that interferes with the use or enjoyment of the library by other patrons.
  • Loud, boisterous, abusive, or improper speech or behavior including but not limited to loud talking, raucous laughter, or offensive language.
  • Running, hitting, kicking, or playing in the library building.
  • Loitering in entryways, either inside or outside of the building.
  • Unattended Children under the age of eight.

When in the Library, every person shall abide by the following:

  • Be considerate of others. Behavior appropriate to public areas is expected at all times.
  • Keep the entry to the Library safe and unimpeded.
  • Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children in the Library whether the parent is present or not. Be aware that Library staff cannot be responsible for minors who are unsupervised. Disruptive children, attended or unattended, will be given a verbal warning. If the child refuses to comply with a staff request, the police will be called.

In situations where a Library patron ignores staff requests to comply, staff will take the following steps:

  1. Issue a verbal warning and inform the patron(s) that they will be asked to leave Library grounds if the problem behavior continues
  2. If the patron(s) fails to comply, order them to leave Library grounds immediately.
  3. Call the police if they refuse to leave Library grounds or they continue with their disruptive behavior.

Patrons who continue to violate the behavior policy or pose a threat to the comfort and safety of other patrons and staff may have their library privileges suspended for a time period specified by the Library Director.

Patrons who have been asked to leave the Library three times are banned from returning until they have made an appointment and met with the Director and/or the Assistant Director. Flagrant violations of library rules may warrant banishment from the library after fewer than three incidents at the discretion of the Director and/or Assistant Director. Patrons who are banned from the library will be notified in writing.