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Code of Conduct

Statement of Intent

The Cariboo Regional District Library (CRDL) encourages the public to use its library branches and services to the fullest. The Library’s Code of Conduct has been established to foster a welcoming and positive experience for everyone.  Behaviour which is disruptive, impeding, abusive, insulting, harassing, or threatening to other Library users or Library staff will not be tolerated.  Library users will not be allowed to remain on Library premises when they are threatening the health and safety of others or impeding their enjoyment of the space.

General Library User Conduct

  •  The use of alcohol and illegal drugs, and their associated paraphernalia, is not permitted on Library property.
  • Smoking (including vaping) is not permitted inside the Library.  In addition, the BC Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act prohibits the use of tobacco or vapour products within a six-metre (20-foot) area around any doorway, air intake or open window.
  • Threatening or intimidating behaviours, e.g. abusive language, threats of violence, or any type of harassment, will not be tolerated in the library.
  • Behaviours that are disruptive or intrusive to the enjoyment of the library by others are prohibited.
  • Animals are not permitted in the Library.  This does not apply to registered service animals assisting individuals with disabilities and/or medical conditions.
  • Firearms and other dangerous objects intended to be used as weapons are not permitted on Library property.
  • Food and beverages are not permitted in the Library.
  • Clothing appropriate for indoor public spaces must be worn while visiting the Library.
  • Posting notices on Library property must have prior authorization from Library staff.
  • Soliciting, advertising, or engaging in any commercial activity inside the Library or on Library property is prohibited except for library-sponsored events that have the prior authorization of Library management.
  • Anyone wishing to use cell phones, audio, or multimedia devices should keep the volume at a low level or use headphones/earbuds so as not to disturb other Library users.
  • Individuals are responsible for their own personal property when visiting the Library.  Personal items should not be left unattended.  The Library is not responsible for the loss of or damage to personal items.
  • Photos and video recordings of library users or staff are prohibited without prior authorization from Library staff.
  • Strong or intrusive scents that may disturb other library users are discouraged within the Library.

Children in the Library

  • Parents/guardians/caregivers are responsible for the welfare and behaviour of children under their care when using the Library.
  • The Library is a public place visited by a wide variety of people.  For their safety, parents/guardians/caregivers should not leave children unattended in the Library.
  • Library staff are trained to help with the use of Library resources, but will not assume child-minding responsibilities for children visiting the library.

Library Property Use

  • Library users are expected to treat Library property, including collections, computers, furniture, equipment, and facilities with respect and care.  It is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada to steal or vandalise Library property.
  • Library users shall use the authorized entrance to the facility.  Emergency exits shall only be used in the event of an emergency.
  • Library users may borrow materials in accordance with the Library’s borrowing policies and shall return them on time and in good condition.
  • When using public computers, Library users must follow the Criminal Code of Canada, specifically Part V pertaining to sexual offences, public morals, and disorderly conduct, and Part VIII pertaining to offences against the person, including hate propaganda.
  • It is unacceptable to use public computers, or personal electronic devices in the Library to view content that is sexually explicit, violent, disturbing, or deemed inappropriate by staff or the library community.

Printing and Photocopying (Copyright)

  • Library users are expected to abide by the provisions of the Canadian Copyright Act, the Public Library Copying License Agreement with Access Copyright and other intellectual property rights.  All reproduction of material is the sole responsibility of the individual.
  • Library users are responsible for fees charged by the Library for printing and photocopying.

Consequences for violating the Code of Conduct

  • Anyone who violates the Library Code of Conduct risks consequences up to and including prosecution by the RCMP and other relevant authorities.  Consequences will increase in relation to the behaviour exhibited.
  • Library staff will advise Library users of inappropriate conduct, as required, and state the consequences should the unacceptable behaviour continue or be repeated.
  • Loss of or damage to Library property will result in a fine for the replacement cost of the item plus a service charge. The Library does not accept replacement copies as a substitution for lost fees. Damaged items need to be returned to their home branch for assessment, however, patrons may request to keep damaged items once they have paid all fines and charges. The damaged item will be returned to the patron’s branch for pickup.
  • If unattended children are causing a disturbance in the Library, staff will attempt to contact parents to come to the Library to pick up their child.  Staff will remind parents of the dangers of leaving unattended children in a public place such as the Library.  Repeated offenses may result in a suspension of library privileges.
  • If unattended children are in the Library at closing, staff will attempt to contact parents.  If no contact can be made within 10 minutes of closing, children will be placed in the care of the RCMP.
  • Library staff may request assistance from the RCMP in situations where there is verbal abuse or a real or perceived threat of bodily harm.
  • Library users who participate in illegal behaviour or are found in violation of Library rules and have been notified by Library staff may have some, or all, of their Library privileges suspended.  When necessary, Library staff may contact the RCMP for support and assistance.
  • Library users who have had their Library privileges suspended may not have access to any Cariboo Regional District Library facilities, properties or services.
  • Library administration will assign a suspension based on the severity of the offence, taking into account any unique or mitigating circumstances.  In general, length of suspension guidelines are as follows:
    1. A minor breach (e.g. excessive noise, foul language, disrespect, disruptive behaviour) of library rules, will result in a person being asked to leave the library immediately, for the rest of the day.
    2. Major or repeated breaches of library rules may result in progressively longer periods of suspension, up to 1 year.  A Notice of Trespass will be served at each incident resulting in suspension of 1 month or longer.  When a Notice of Trespass is issued, it can be served verbally, in person, or by mail.  It may be served by Library staff, by a Bylaw Officer, or by the RCMP.  It will specify the reason, the length of suspension, and the appeal process.  A copy of the notice will be kept on file at the Library.
    3. Verbal or physical abuse of Library staff or other Library users, or the willful damage of Library property, will result in a ban of at least six months in addition to possible prosecution.
    4. Subsequent violations of the Code of Conduct may result in a suspension of 1 year.

 

Appeals Process

All appeals to suspensions must be directed in writing to the Manager of Library Services.

The Manager of Library Services will reply in writing. This decision will be final.

 

December 2021