Rules of Conduct
The Library is intended to be an inviting, comfortable, clean, and safe place for reading, selecting materials, studying, writing, using computers and Wi-Fi, and attending Library-authorized programs and meetings. Library users should conduct themselves in a manner that respects other users. Behaviors that infringe upon the rights of Library users or staff are prohibited.
- These rules are intended to ensure that all Library users may enjoy good service in pleasant surroundings.
- Enforcement of these rules will be conducted in a fair and reasonable manner. Library staff, security officers, and/or law enforcement are authorized to enforce these rules. Failure to comply with the Library’s established rules and policies could result in removal from the premises and exclusion from the Library for a period of one day to a lifetime ban, or in arrest or prosecution. Violations could also result in the restriction and/or termination of Library privileges, including the use of Library computers and other equipment.
- Individual users have the right to request an administrative review of an exclusion order that is for a period greater than two weeks.
The following actions are examples, but not a complete list, of conduct not allowed on Library property:
- Failing to comply with a reasonable staff request.
- Possessing, using, or being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
- Using tobacco or vapor products.
- Verbally, physically, or sexually threatening or harassing other users, volunteers, or staff, including stalking, staring, lurking, bullying, obscene language, offensive touching, and obscene acts such as sex acts and indecent exposure.
- Stealing, damaging, altering, or inappropriate use of property, furniture, or equipment.
- Fighting or challenging to fight, running, roughhousing, pushing, shoving, or throwing things.
- Creating disruptive noises and/or disturbances that interfere with others’ use of the Library.
- Participating in group activities that are disruptive to the Library environment.
- Sleeping, or appearing to be sleeping.
- Lying on the floor or furniture or otherwise using Library furniture, fixtures, or space not as intended.
- Loitering or blocking high-traffic areas, such as doorways, stairways, window wells, or entrances/exits.
- Harassing or discriminating against Library users, volunteers, or staff based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, or any other protected class.
- Selling items or services, except as authorized by the Library Director.
- Trespassing in non-public areas, being in the Library without permission of an authorized Library employee before or after Library operating hours or, camping on Library grounds.
- Soliciting, panhandling, or behavior that disturbs or intimidates others.
- Personal grooming, including bathing, shaving, shampooing, doing laundry, or tending to other hygiene practices in or outside the Library’s restroom.
- Being inappropriately dressed when entering or being in the Library. (A top, bottoms, and shoes are required).
- Having untreated open sores and/or wound care.
- Collection of bodily fluids.
- Entering the Library with personal hygiene/odor that is a nuisance to others.
- Wearing accessories and clothing that conceal a person’s identity, unless worn for religious or health purposes. Refusal to remove these items will result in being asked to leave the property.
- Leaving packages, backpacks, luggage, or any other personal items unattended. Library staff will not store these items for Library users. Unattended items are subject to immediate confiscation.
- Personal items exceeding 26" x 24" x 14" are not permitted inside the Library. Items left unattended on Library property or any City property will be confiscated. Confiscated items will be held in the lost and found for seven (7) days. Items contaminated with bodily fluids or pests (including bed bugs or lice) will be disposed of immediately. Exceptions are made for medical equipment, items used to transport Library books and materials, or as authorized by Library staff.
- Bringing more than three (3) items of baggage per person when entering the Library. Exceptions are made for medical equipment, items used to transport Library books and materials, or as authorized by Library staff.
- Using wheeled devices in the Library or in prohibited areas on Library grounds, except as authorized by law.
- Bringing pets or animals, other than service animals necessary for disabilities, into the Library, except as authorized by the Library Director. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals and are therefore not permitted.
- Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, local, or other applicable law or Library policy.
Food and Beverage
The consumption of food, within reasonable limits, at the discretion of Library staff, is allowed in the café (Downtown Library) or designated areas, as approved by staff. Beverages in containers with lids are permitted in the Library, except in areas posted as prohibited, such as the Caille Room at the Downtown Library.
Children in the Library
Children using the Library on their own must follow the Library Rules of Conduct. Children behaving inappropriately may be required to leave. Children must be able to self-manage while using the Library. For the safety and comfort of children, parents or responsible caregivers should be with their child/children while in the Library. Parents are responsible for supervising their children in the Library. The Library is not a substitute for childcare services. When necessary, the Library will contact law enforcement to assist a child who needs adult supervision.
Library Children’s Areas
Children’s and teen areas at Siouxland Libraries are intended for use by children and teens, their parents or caregivers, and other adults accessing materials in the children’s and teen collections. Adults may not use the children’s or teen areas as a general reading space. Adults who are unaccompanied by children and not actively using children’s or teen library materials or resources will be asked to use other areas of the Library.
Effective on January 16, 2026.
Approved by the Library Board of Trustees on January 14, 2026