Rules of Conduct
The Board of Directors believes that patrons of the Fargo Public Library have the right to use library materials and services without being disturbed or impeded by other library users; that patrons and staff have the right to a secure and comfortable environment; and that patrons and staff have the right to materials and facilities that are in good condition.
Rules
- Any behavior which is disruptive or which hinders use of the library is prohibited on library property. This includes, but is not limited to, loud or boisterous behavior, verbal or physical harassment, drunkenness, running, fighting, and congregating in large groups.
- Use of all tobacco products is strictly prohibited in the library.
- The consumption of food within reasonable limits at the discretion of library staff is allowed. Carry in meals are prohibited. Authorized groups, with permission from library administration, may serve refreshments in the meeting room.
- Engaging in any behavior which may unreasonably interfere with the rights of other patrons to use the library is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, sleeping and/or exhibiting offensive personal hygiene.
- Users of portable electronic devices may be asked to disable sounds so as not to create a disturbance for other customers. Use of camera phones and other hidden electronic recording devices on library property is prohibited.
- Telephones located at the public service desks are for business use only. Customers asking to use these phones are to be referred to the nearest public pay phone. Exceptions to this policy will be made for children needing a ride home and for emergency situations.
- Animals, except those used to aid persons with disabilities or used in conjunction with library programs, are not permitted in the library.
- Selling products or services and soliciting donations are not permitted on library property unless otherwise authorized by the library administration.
- Taking surveys, asking people to sign petitions, distributing leaflets, and other similar activities are not permitted on library property, unless authorized by the library administration.
- Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are on library property. Children under the age of 10 must be attended by a parent or other responsible caregiver age 14 or older in the same service area at all times while on library property.
- The violation of federal or state laws or local ordinances will not be permitted on library property. Theft, vandalism, and mutilation of library property are criminal offenses which will be prosecuted. The library reserves the right to inspect all bags, purses, briefcases, backpacks, and other such items when staff members have reason to believe that this rule has been violated. The library is not responsible for personal belongings which are left unattended.
- Photography and video recording within the library without the prior approval of library administration is prohibited. Individuals or businesses may contact the Library Director or Deputy Director to gain permission to photograph and or video within the library.
People whose actions violate these rules will be asked to stop such actions. The library has the legal right and authority to require anyone violating these Rules of Conduct to leave the library. Repeated violation of these rules may result in long-term expulsion from the library pursuant to the Board of Directors’ authority under Section 40-38-07 of the North Dakota Century Code.
#007-2001
Approved by the Library Board of Directors: 11-27-2001; revised 2-22-2005; revised 5-20-2008; revised 2-16-2010