Patron Rights and Responsibilities

The Reading Public Library supports the right of all individuals to:

• Receive friendly, courteous, and respectful service
• Have free and equal access to information
• Have a clean, comfortable, and pleasant environment
• Use the library without discrimination
• Use the library undisturbed without threat of harm, invasion of property, or interference

To allow for the safety of all patrons:

• Sidewalks, entries, and passageways must remain free of obstacles.
• Use of skateboards, rollerblades, roller-skates, or scooters are not allowed on library premises.
• Library patrons should not bring animals or vehicles into the library except as required by persons with disabilities.
• Patrons must not deface or improperly remove library materials, furnishings, or equipment.
• Library patrons should not consume food or beverages in unauthorized areas such as the Local History Room or the Business Center. Trash, wrappers, and empty containers should be disposed of properly.
• Library patrons are prohibited from staff or other restricted areas.
• Children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by a caregiver while in the library. (RPL Safe Child Policy 6/03).

Many patrons use the library as a place for quiet study or reading. Patrons should respect the rights of other and not engage in loud conversation or noisy activities.

• No talking is allowed in the sections of the library reserved for quiet study.
• Cell phone and pagers should be used in designated areas only. Patrons should speak in low tones and keep conversations brief.
• A pay phone is provided for public use next to the book drop on the side of the building. Library telephones are not for public use except in an emergency.
• Loud or boisterous conduct, including shouting, pushing, hitting, fighting, throwing things, or playing audio equipment so that others can hear it, is prohibited.

To ensure individuals’ right to use the library free of disruption, library patrons must refrain from:

• Verbally or physically harassing, threatening, or bullying any staff member or patron, or displaying unwanted attention toward another person
• Smoking or using alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs
• Loitering or soliciting on Library property
• Carrying a weapon or a facsimile of a weapon

Patrons should abide by library guidelines for time limitations, computer use, and restrictions on the numbers of people using computers and tables.

The Reading Public Library is for everyone’s enjoyment. We appreciate your cooperation with these guidelines in keeping the library a pleasant place to visit for everyone and ensuring respectful treatment for all individuals who use this public facility.

First reading 8/15/05; Public Hearing & Approved, Board or Trustees 9/19/05