Rules of Conduct Policy

It is the mission of the King County Library System to provide free, open and equal access to ideas and information to all members of the community.

These Rules of Conduct guide staff in creating and enforcing an environment that encourages all patrons to use KCLS libraries in a safe and respectful manner. Please inform a staff member if you feel another’s behavior or activity is unreasonably interfering with your enjoyment of the library.

The following behaviors and activities are not allowed:

• Behavior that is prohibited by law.
• Activity that unreasonably interferes with others’ use and enjoyment of the library or with the functioning of library staff.
• Talking on cell phones or through other electronic devices.
• Behavior that is unsafe.
• Activity that can reasonably be expected to damage library property or the property of others.
• Unlawful possession of weapons.
• Sexual misconduct.
• Any conduct intended to offend others.
• Bodily hygiene so offensive as to constitute a nuisance to others.
• Using library facilities for purposes other than those normally associated with a library (e.g., sleeping, bathing, washing clothes).
• Smoking within the Library or within 25 feet of the Library entrance.
• Soliciting (e.g., sales, canvassing).
• Animals other than working animals.
• Trespassing in non-public areas of the Library.

Libraries are public places where each person is responsible for his/her safety, the safety of children in their care, and the security of personal belongings.

Enforcement of these rules will be conducted in a fair and reasonable manner. Library staff and/or local law enforcement officers will intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. Failure to comply with the Library’s established rules and policies could result in removal from the premises and expulsion from the Library for a period of one day to one year, or in arrest or prosecution. Violations could also result in the restriction or termination of Library privileges.

APPROVED BY THE KCLS BOARD OF TRUSTEES APRIL 30, 2003

"A board of library trustees may exclude from the use of the library under its charge any person who willfully and persistently violates any rule or regulation prescribed for the use of the library or its facilities or any person whose physical condition is deemed dangerous or offensive to other library users."
(RCW 27.12.290)

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Last Updated: July 22, 2007