Patron Use of Library Spaces Policy

Hennepin County Library Board Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to express the roles and responsibilities patrons have to ensure the library's physical and virtual spaces are welcoming, safe, and secure.

Principles

  • The library's mission to "nourish minds, transform lives, and build community together" is achieved in part by the willingness of its patrons to respect one another and coexist in library spaces.
  • Physical and virtual library spaces are designed to be used for multiple purposes and are intended to be used by a diverse community of patrons.
  • Public library spaces are precious community assets that rely on the stewardship, mutual support, and goodwill of all.

Roles and Responsibilities

Patrons are participants in a shared, public use environment and must conduct themselves accordingly. They will be courteous, considerate, and understanding of library patrons and staff.

Parents and caregivers are responsible to supervise the activities and choices of their charges.

Patrons are stewards of the library and its resources. They will value and respect library resources and conduct themselves in a safe and orderly way.

Patrons will comply with federal, state, and local laws and policies.

Library staff will work in partnership with security staff to ensure that library spaces are safe and welcoming to all. Staff will work with individuals or groups to ensure compliance with the policy. Failure to comply may result in loss of library use privileges. Illegal conduct may be referred to the proper authorities for legal action in accordance with the Minnesota Statutes cited below.

Associated Policies and Laws

This policy is subject to all federal, state, and local laws and policies including but not limited to:

Process

This policy is reviewed by the Library Director (or designee) every four (4) years, who then makes recommendations to the Library Board Program/Policy Committee. The Committee reviews and revises as necessary and advances to the full Library Board for approval.

The Library Director (or designee) will maintain an associated administrative policy that further defines the patron conduct that is necessary to ensure the equitable and consistent application of this policy.

Policy History

Next Review Date: 2025
Date Approved: 9/21/2021 
Previous Policy Named: Customer Use of Libraries