It is the policy of the Cedar Rapids Public Library to provide a safe, comfortable environment that is conducive to the use of library materials either by individuals or small groups. The library is designed for the use of all members of the public. Patrons are expected to observe the rights of other patrons and staff members and to use the library for its intended purposes.

The following kinds of behavior will not be allowed in the library:

1. Any behavior that endangers the safety or health of others
2. Violation, while in the library, of any local, state, or federal law
3. Vandalism or deliberate destruction of library materials
4. Theft of library materials or the personal property of other patrons or staff members
5. Deliberate disruption of library procedures
6. Use of abusive language
7. Loud talking, laughing, or other behavior that disturbs or could disturb other patrons
8. Smoking, inside the building; eating, or drinking in areas not designated for these activities
9. Inappropriate dress

In most cases, patrons who are behaving inappropriately in the library will be given one warning by either the library supervisor of the day or the security guard and asked to behave in an appropriate manner. Patrons who refuse to behave more appropriately after one warning will be asked to leave the library.

In cases in which a patron poses a clear danger to her/himself or others, deliberately violates the law, or refuses to leave the library after being asked to leave by the supervisor of the day or the security guard, the police will be called to handle the situation.

Minors who are being disruptive will be asked to leave after one warning. If they are accompanied by an adult who cannot or will not control them, the adult will be asked to remove the minor from the building. The policy on unattended minors outlined on page 3.03 of this manual will be used for those persons under the age of ten who appear to be unattended and/or are causing a disturbance.

Adopted 01/25/90; revised 10/07/99, 08/04/05