ALACHUA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT POLICY STATEMENT
Approved by: Board of Trustees 1/16/91; Revised 6/15/94; 11/19/97; 3/14/07; 1/16/08
Approved by: Governing Board 1/24/91; Revised7/14/94; 12/11/97; 5/10/07; 1/24/08
Policy
The Alachua County Library District is a public, tax-supported facility with the specific and limited purpose of providing the community with resources for: information access; self-education; recreational reading, viewing, listening; supplemental support for formal education; and space for quiet study, reading, and thinking. All members of the community are welcome in the library regardless of their age, sex, race, religion, ethnic origin, disability, appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, as long as they do not disrupt or interfere with another individual's ability to use the library for its intended purposes. To this end, the Alachua County Library District has set up the following rules to ensure the comfort and safety of all patrons and staff.
Regulations
Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following at all Library Districts outlets (buildings, grounds, or property) including the Headquarters, Branches, bookmobiles, vehicles, deposit collections, or programs operated by the Library District.
1. Violation of any federal, state, county, or municipal law or ordinance.
2. Disruptive, unsafe or threatening behavior, including harassment of Library staff or patrons.
3. Sleeping, loud talking or running.
4. Bathing in restrooms.
5. Panhandling or solicitation.
6. Eating or drinking in Library buildings, including restrooms and any enclosed porches, except in areas designated by Library District Administration or in meeting rooms in compliance with the Meeting Room Policy.
7. Smoking is prohibited in Library District buildings and vehicles. Smoking is prohibited on Library District property within 50 feet of building entrances.
8. Bringing animals inside buildings, other than “helper animals” such as Seeing Eye dogs.
9. Theft or vandalism of library property
Depending on the nature, seriousness, or recurrence of the offense(s), persons may be asked to leave the library facility or property subject to the provisions of Section 810.08, Florida Statutes, or staff may contact law enforcement.
