Do's and Don'ts of Library Use
Everyone has the right to enjoy the services of the library without disturbance. This policy describes the behavior that is expected of those who visit the Ottawa Public Library, in order to allow all users to benefit equally from the library’s resources, and describes measures that staff may take to prevent disruption to library customers or to maintain security.
Please help us at the Ottawa Public Library meet our two main objectives:
- Provide efficient, effective and equitable public library service.
- Deliver public library service for Ottawa residents of all ages in accordance with community needs for lifelong learning, education, culture and leisure.
We want everyone to enjoy using the library without being distracted by others. Courtesy and Respect are a two way street. Our commitment to employees and customers is a safe and harassment-free environment. Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts you can follow to make sure you’re not disturbing anyone around you:
Please Do:
- Read or work quietly.
- Share the computer terminals – they are for all library users.
- Keep an eye on any children you bring to visit us. We welcome youngsters, but we cannot take responsibility for their supervision.
- Use our materials, equipment and furniture with care.
- Make sure your hands and clothes are clean before visiting the library. This will help us keep our materials and furniture clean.
- Turn off or mute all pagers and cell phones. These devices are very distracting to others.
- Leave pets at home. Guide and/or service dogs, of course, are permitted.
- Offer for inspection any bags or cases you’re carrying when you are leaving the library. This is important for security reasons.
- Request permission from library staff before doing any canvassing, posting, photography, filming, or video or audio recording on the library premises.
- Use only authorized entrances, exits and library space.
- Leave sports equipment outside or at home.
- Follow the instructions of the library staff in an emergency.
- Use abusive, obscene or threatening language.
- Engage in illegal or aggressive behaviour.
- Block entrances and exits.
- Eat or drink in the library, except in designated areas.
Anyone choosing to disrespect these guidelines may be asked to leave the library. This could result in cost-recovery charges, suspension of library privileges or prosecution.
Approved by the Board of the Ottawa Public Library, October 2001, revised July 27, 2006