Rules of Conduct

• 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 one year, 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 which interfere with others use of the library.
• Participating in group activities which are disruptive to the Library environment.
• Lying down or sleeping.
• Blocking aisles, exits, or entrances.
• Harassing or discriminating against users, volunteers, or staff based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, or any other protected class.
• Selling and/or soliciting for money or 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.
• Using restroom facilities for purposes other than which they are intended.
• Entering or being in the Library with inadequate clothing or hygiene, or being otherwise attired so as to be disruptive to the Library environment.
• Carrying firearms and dangerous weapons of any type, unless otherwise authorized by law. 
• 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.
• 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.
• Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, local, or other applicable law or Library policy.

Food and Beverages

Food and beverages in containers with lids are permitted in the Library, except in any area that is posted as being prohibited.

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 child care services.

When necessary, the Library will contact law enforcement to assist a child in need of adult supervision.

Library Children’s Areas

Children’s areas at Siouxland Libraries are intended for use by children, their parents or caregivers, and other adults accessing materials in the children’s collection.

Children’s areas may not be used by adults as a general reading room. Adults unaccompanied by children and not actively using children’s library materials or resources may be asked to use other areas of the Library.