Patron Behavior

It is incumbent upon the library to provide a suitable environment in which patrons of all ages can enjoy and benefit from the resources offered. Patrons shall be engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library while in the building. Patrons not engaged in reading, studying, or using library materials shall be required to leave the building.

Patrons shall respect the rights of other patrons and shall not harass, annoy, or intimidate others through noisy, boisterous, or threatening activities; or by behaving in any other manner which reasonably can be expected to disturb other persons.

Disruptive behavior is any action which infringes on the privileges of others using the library or which damages library property.  In the case of children, parents are responsible for the behavior of their children in the library, whether or not the parents are present.

Disruptive behavior includes but is not limited to the following actions:

  1. Loud conversation, yelling, shrieking, or other disturbing noise.
  2. Sitting or climbing on tables or shelves.
  3. Loitering with no intent to use library services.
  4. Playing personal audio equipment at a level which disturbs others.
  5. Using cell phones or other personal communication devices in areas other than the lobby or meeting room.
  6. Wearing swimsuits or other inappropriate clothing.
  7. Smoking or the use of tobacco products and e-cigarettes.

Dresss/ Hygiene:

Patrons shall not be permitted to enter the building without a shirt or other covering of their upper bodies or without shoes or other footwear. Patrons whose bodily hygiene is offensive so as to constitute a nuisance to other persons shall be required to leave the building.

Process for Removal and Appeal:

  • Violators will receive a warning and an opportunity to cease.
  • Repeat violations may result in suspension of Library privileges.
  • Appeal requests may be made in writing to the Library Director.
  • Further appeals may be made to the Library Board

Parents assume responsibility for children under age eighteen using the Library by signing a statement on the library card application which claims responsibility for the child’s selection of reading materials and for the child’s adherence to Library rules.

Unattended Children

                 The Winfield Public Library welcomes children of all ages to use its facilities and services and strives to provide a safe and suitable environment for all library users.

The library is a public building with staff trained to provide public library services to our patrons.  The library is not equipped – nor is it the library’s role – to provide long or short-term daycare for children of any age.

With the exception of library-planned programs, activities and services, the library staff is not responsible for supervising or tending to the needs of individual children or groups of children. The library staff cannot assume responsibility for children’s safety and comfort.

Accordingly, children ages six and under must always be supervised by a parent, guardian or responsible childcare provider while in the library.  Children ages seven and older may use the library unattended subject to other library policies and procedures concerning behavior, conduct and demeanor.

In general, parents of any minor children should not leave them unattended for long periods at the library, especially in the evening.  Children should be picked up no later than five minutes before closing time.  Police will be notified concerning any children left alone at the library after closing time.