There are lots of resources in the libraries.It's great that you're taking advantage of them.It's a good idea to know the proper code of conduct before visiting a library.There is a universal code of conduct that applies to most libraries, even though individual libraries post rules to let visitors know what's expected of them.You can make the most of your time in the library if you know how to act in a library.
Step 1: Speak quietly or in hushed tones.
Quiet areas in libraries are used for reading, studying, and other activities that require concentration.whisper whenever you can and keep your voice down in the library.A loud voice can easily disturb others.Take the conversation outside if you run into someone you know.The lobbies and other designated areas of many libraries allow conversation.There are rooms and floors set aside for study groups in many libraries.If there is a space like this where your group can talk at a normal volume, ask the library.
Step 2: Turn your cellphone off.
vibrating phones can be just as distracting as ringing phones, so you may be tempted to switch your phone to vibrate.Step outside the library or into the lobby if you need to answer a phone call.There are cubbies in many libraries for talking on cellphones.If you're expecting a call, keep your phone on vibrate.When it starts buzzing, silence it immediately.
Step 3: If you're wearing headphones, keep the volume low.
Many people enjoy listening to music.If the volume is too high, the sound will escape, but using headphones will limit distraction.It's a good idea to turn the volume down so the music doesn't get in the way of your headphones.If you need to listen to audio files, use headphones.To make sure sound doesn't escape, check the volume first.
Step 4: You can eat your meals outside.
Food is not allowed in many libraries.Before you bring food into a library, check the rules.Don't eat in the library if you bring snacks.Loud munching is the most distracting thing.If you plan on being in the library for a long time and need to bring snacks, choose foods that aren't bad.It might be a good idea to have a snack with string cheese.You can leave the library for snack breaks.This will give you a break from snacking.Drinks are allowed in the library if they are in a covered container, such as a water bottle with a cap.If you bring snacks with you, try to eat them in a non-carpeted area, away from books and computers.crumbs will not get smashed into the carpet, books, or keyboards.
Step 5: Before entering the library, toss out your chewing gum.
If youmack on gum, leave it at home.If you don't throw your gum away, the library may ask you to spit it out.
Step 6: Treat the books the same as you would a friend.
Even with pencil, don't highlight or mark the pages.Don't dog-ear the pages, use a bookmark to mark the page you're on.Borrowing books is a privilege and should be treated with respect.Use sticky notes to make notes.They can be removed before you return your book.When you peel off the sticky note, be careful not to tear the pages.Most people forget to erase pencil markings when they return their books.The book can be damaged even if you remember.
Step 7: You can check out the books.
It's important to check your books out before you leave the library.If you don't check your book out before you leave, it may be seen as theft.There are self-checkout stations in some libraries.Follow the directions posted or ask a staff member for help to use these.You can still check out your books at most libraries.If you walk out with a book without checking it out, most libraries have anti-theft systems that can detect it.If the anti-theft system goes off, be nice and let the staff search your bag.You could get banned if you cause a scene.
Step 8: Don't put your feet on library furniture.
Don't sit on the tables.Don't sit in the provided chairs.If a staff member sees you disrespecting the furniture, you'll be asked to move.Taking naps on the library furniture is not acceptable.A staff member will wake you up if they see you sleeping.
Step 9: The furniture should be left where it is.
If you have a large group, you may be tempted to move chairs between tables.If you need more room for your party, ask for assistance from a staff member.They can tell you if it's okay to push tables together.If you need to, you can move the chair.Put it back where you found it.
Step 10: You can return books before the due date.
The staff member will tell you when your books are due back, and some even stamp the due date in the front cover of the book.You can either get a "receipt" with the return date or email it.You will owe a fine if you don't return your book before the due date.It's disrespectful to keep a book past its due date because it prevents other people from enjoying it.You owe a fine if you don't turn your books in on time.Don't be aggressive.Pay the fine and move on.
Step 11: There are designated smoking areas outside.
It's not okay to smoke in a library.The smell from the smoke will ruin the furniture, carpets, and books.You can burn a cigarette or cigar if it's too close to a book.Cigarettes, cigars, and e-cigs are included.Tobacco should be chewed outside as well.Move to the designated area before lighting up if you want to smoke in front of the library.You may need to stop smoking in some libraries.
Step 12: If you're in a library, wear a shirt, pants, and shoes.
Make sure that your undergarments are fully covered, and that you dress appropriately.If a staff member thinks you are dressed inappropriate, you will be asked to leave or change.Don't remove your shoes or socks in the library.
Step 13: When using library computers, visit appropriate websites.
Don't visit inappropriate websites.Adult or pornography sites, terrorist websites, or any other website that could be deemed dangerous to the public are inappropriate websites.If there are children in the library who can see your computer, you may be exposing them to pornography, which is against the law.The computer hardware and software settings should be left alone.Messing with the software could get you banned.
Step 14: Young children should be supervised at all times in the library.
If you are visiting the library with a child 7 years or younger, keep them by your side at all times.Children should not be left alone for more than an hour at a time.The staff won't be able to keep an eye on your kids because they are too busy.It's important to know where your children are at all times so they don't hurt themselves or others.Before you can visit the library alone, you need to be at least 18 years old.Children under the age of 11 must be supervised at all times.Check your library's age policy before you bring children with you.
Step 15: Refrain from showing affection in public.
If a staff member sees you kissing and cuddling, they will ask you to stop or leave.Children may be present in a library that is meant to be modest and comfortable.Don't let the kiss get out of control, it's not a big deal.People around you may be disturbed by your displays.
Step 16: Before going to the library, don't drink or use drugs.
If you show up to the library under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will be asked to leave.If you are in possession of alcohol or drugs, a staff member will call the law enforcement to take care of it.Use your common sense, staff members have the right to search bags and backpacks.Outside of the library, anything is illegal.
Step 17: Stick to the weapons posted at the library.
You can't bring a concealed weapon, such as a gun, into a library.Other weapons include knives with blades over 2 inches, explosives of any sort, and anything else that may be deemed dangerous to the public.You could be banned from the library if you are caught violating the concealed weapons law.
Step 18: Limit the time you spend in the library.
If you notice people waiting to use a computer, politely offer them your seat.Give everyone a chance to use the library equipment.Visitors to libraries can use media equipment for free.Some libraries have time limits on how long you can use a computer.If guidelines are not clearly posted, ask a staff member.
Step 19: Pets can be kept at home.
Pets are not allowed in the library.You can bring an animal with you if it is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Step 20: Return items to the correct location after you clean up.
You should put the book back on the shelf where you found it if you decided not to check it out.If you don't remember where you found it, put it in the designated area so a staff member can re-shelf it.It is disrespectful to leave your books on the table for the staff to clean up.Don't place books on a shelf if you want to return them to their proper place.The staff may think the book is lost or stolen because it will be hard to find.Personal items, such as bags and laptops, should never be left unattended.If it's against the rules, a staff member may collect them.
Step 21: Before closing time, leave the library.
It's a good idea to leave the library at least 30 minutes before it closes to give the staff time to calm down.It is inconsiderate to stay after business hours.