The use of the Library shall be consistent with the policy statement herein and shall in no event conflict with library sponsored programs. Monopolizing library space, seating, tables, computers, or any equipment to the exclusion of other patrons and staff shall not be permitted.

These rules are for the protection of all who use the Library. If you observe patron behavior that does not meet this Code of Conduct, please contact a staff member. The Library staff may take the following action when patrons are in noncompliance with this Code of Conduct:

• Give a verbal warning
• Ask patrons to leave the premises
• Deactivate and/or restrict patron's access to computers from 24 hours to six-months depending on the severity of the violation.
• Ban a patron from the Library for a period of time that a patron is banned can range from 24 hours to six months depending on the severity of the violation.
• Call the police

Alcohol or illegal drugs may not be brought into the Library. Persons under the influence of either may not use the Library's facilities.

Service animals trained to assist disabled individuals are permitted in the Library. All others are prohibited.

Checkout of items must be completed in time to leave the Library promptly at closing time.

A maximum of two persons may use any computer simultaneously. Please sign off the equipment promptly at the end of your time period. Refer to the Policy on Public Use of the Internet for more information.

Disorderly conduct is not acceptable. Disorderly conduct includes, but is not limited to, (1) engaging in offensive, obscene, abusive, boisterous, harassing, or noisy actions or using offensive, obscene, or abusive language which may harass or arouse alarm, anger, or resentment in others; (2) disturbing an assembly; or (3) brawling or fighting.

Shoes or sandals and shirts are required and must be worn in the Library at all times.

Staff directions must be followed promptly when the alarm sounds.

Food and covered (capped) beverages are allowed in designated areas only.

Furnishings shall be used only for their intended purposes.

No gang activity or colors/symbols are allowed in the Library.

Offensive or abusive language is not acceptable.

Entrances, doorways and stairs must be kept clear at all times. Panhandling or soliciting on Library property is prohibited.

No media or commercial photography or filming will be allowed without prior permission of the City Librarian. Film/photos of adult patrons require their consent. Film/photos of minor patrons require the consent of a parent or legal guardian.

Use the meeting room appropriately and as scheduled. Refer to the Meeting Room Policy for more information.

The Library is a quiet environment. Loud talking or other loud sources of noise are not allowed. Audible use of radios, CD players, or any other electronic devices is not permissible in the Library. Typewriters may be used in designated areas only.

Cell phones must be set to silent or vibrate mode if turned on inside the Library. Talking loudly on cell phones and ringing cell phones are not allowed.

The Library is not responsible for personal belongings left in or on Library property. Please attend to personal items as you would in any public place.

Use restrooms for their intended purpose. Bathing and laundering are prohibited.

For the safety of all patrons, please do not run in the Library.

The use of skateboards/skates is prohibited on the Library property. If skateboards/skates are on the Library property, they must be carried at all times. Use Library parking areas, sidewalks, and lawns properly and safely. These areas are not intended for recreational activities. Scooters and bicycles must be left in the bike rack.

The use of all forms of tobacco is prohibited in the Library. In accordance with Chapter 42, Article III of the Code of Ordinances, City of Baytown, Texas smoking is prohibited within 15 feet of all entrances to the Library.

Non-public areas, such as offices, workrooms, and storage areas are for staff only. Do not enter unless authorized by staff.

A telephone is available for patron use near the Circulation Desk. All calls are limited to three-minutes.

Intentional damage and/or defacement of materials, furnishings, equipment or premises, or attempts at theft will be prosecuted. Intentional damage and/or defacement as used in this policy includes, but is not limited to, clipping coupons, cutting articles out of magazines, removing pages from any books or magazines, hacking or altering computer settings, writing on, scratching or in any way damaging materials, furniture, or premises. The Library and its contents and collection are public property and any damages incurred will be reported to the police and compensation required.

If the security gates sound an alarm as you exit, you must return to the Circulation Desk to verify that the materials were checked-out properly.

Minors under the age of seven (7) must have a parent/guardian/caregiver in the immediate vicinity and in visual contact at all times while in the Library. Minors between the ages of seven (7) and thirteen (13) must have a parent/guardian/caregiver present in the Library at all times. Please refer to the Unattended Minors Policy for more information.

Unattended persons who seek or need personal assistance for other than Library-related services, or where staff has a reasonable basis to be concerned for the safety of the unattended person, must have a caregiver present. (Examples include persons needing supervision because of physical or mental conditions).

Weapons of any kind are prohibited on Library property.