Public Use of Library Facilities Policy

Halifax Public Libraries facilities are intended for the public use of library materials and services. In order to make the library and its property an enjoyable place for all, members of the public are expected to act in a manner respectful of other people and property.

This policy is intended to protect the safety of library customers and staff as well as to protect the library's materials, facilities and property. Staff make every effort to apply the policy in a fair, dignified and positive manner for the benefit of all.

Behaviour on Library Premises

Library users will be asked to cease any of the following activities in the library or on its surrounding property.

• Damaging misusing, defacing or stealing library materials, equipment or property. Interfering with the designated use of public computers and networks.
• Carrying weapons or objects which could pose a danger to others.
• Behaving in a disruptive, destructive, obstructive, intrusive or dangerous manner and/or using threatening or abusive language.
• Visiting websites which are inappropriate for viewing in a public setting. Library staff reserve the right to end Internet sessions when inappropriate material is displayed. (See also Public Use of Computers policy).
• Smoking or consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Disrupting others by using cell phones in meeting rooms or quiet study, reading, computer or stack areas or by playing music or other media at a level that interferes with other customers.
• Interfering with the enjoyment of the library by others through lack of personal hygiene, use of strong scents, not wearing shoes or shirts, use of sports and recreational. equipment, etc.
• Leaving children who require supervision unattended during open hours or at closing. (See Child Conduct and Safety in the Library Policy).
• Adults loitering in children's areas of the library - unless accompanying a child, waiting for a child who is attending a program or searching for materials in the children's collection.
• Posting notices without prior permission as well as soliciting, canvassing, selling or distributing circulars or petitions or other articles within the library premises.
• Photographing filming or recording on library property without prior approval of the library.
• Bringing animals into the library except to assist persons with a disability or in authorized programs.
• Eating except in library program/meeting rooms, as appropriate, or at the Keshen Goodman Library which has food services.
• Drinking beverages in the Spring Garden Library Reference Department.

Treatment and Security of Library Property

• Library users are responsible for any damage incurred to library materials, software, equipment or property. Parents and guardians are responsible for any damage done to materials or property by their children.
• Library materials which have not been checked out may not be taken into the washroom.
• Members of the public may be required to make available for inspection all bags and carrying cases leaving the library.

Treatment and Security of Customers' Property

• The Library is not responsible for the loss of, or damage to, customer's personal property.

Non-Compliance with Policy

• The Library reserves the right to suspend library privileges and /or bar someone from the Library for non-compliance with the Public Use of Library Facilities Policy.
• Illegal activity on Library premises and/or destruction of Library materials or property may result in prosecution.