The effective operation of every public library is based upon policies that are adopted by the Board of Trustees to ensure that the library maintains an environment that is conducive to the security and enjoyment of its patrons. Every public library is encouraged to adopt, at a minimum, policies that address:
Below are further explanations as to what each policy should address and sample policies that can be found online on web sites hosted by a variety of public libraries throughout Ohio.
Patron Code of Conduct/Standards of Behavior
To ensure a secure and supportive environment in which patrons can use of library resources and services, the library should establish a Patron Code of Conduct or Standards of Behavior. The code or standards should be posted or published for patrons in order to maintain an atmosphere appropriate for work, study and enjoyment for all library users and staff. The policy should be adopted for the comfort and protection of all those using library materials and services, and should be enforced courteously but firmly.
Use the following links to view Patron Code of Conduct/ Standards of Behavior on selected Ohio public library web sites:
Unattended Youth Policies
Children should be encouraged to use the library as a place of study and inquiry. However, libraries should encourage parents, guardians, and caregivers to use the library with their children. Libraries should determine the age at which children must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or caregiver.
Use the following links to view Unattended Youth Policies on selected Ohio public library web sites:
Related Policies:
Closing Time – Children/Youth
Disruptive Youth
Guidelines for Progressive Discipline/Eviction
The right to access a public library is not absolute, and can be lost for engaging in conduct inconsistent with the purpose of the public library and prohibited under an applicable code of conduct. Most of the constitutional restrictions on enforcement revolve around expulsion or withdrawal of library access privileges. These penalties implicate the core constitutional right to access the library. Because of this, a protected liberty interest is implicated, and a constitutional requirement for procedural due process applies.
Procedural due process means that adequate procedures must be in place prior to library action which deprives a person of a “liberty interest” such as the right to access a public library. However, the concept of due process is flexible and can be adapted to the demands of a particular situation.
The OLC's legal counsel at Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease has provided a legal opinion regarding the
Library Codes of Conduct and Guidelines for Progressive Discipline.
Use the following links to view Guidelines for Progressive Discipline/Eviction Policies on selected Ohio public library web sites:
Internet and Computer Use Policy
The Internet provides a wealth of unique and valuable content that meets the varied interests and needs of library users. However, in addition the valuable information on the Internet, it provides relatively access to information and images that may be considered inappropriate for access and viewing in a public library. Library boards and administrators are encouraged to adopt policies on Internet use according to community and intellectual freedom standards.
Use the following links to view Internet Use Policies on selected Ohio public library web sites:
