Patron Code of Conduct
The Marshall Public Library is delighted to welcome everyone to the library and we strive to make a visit to the library a positive experience for all. Therefore the library Board of Trustees has established a Code of Conduct for library visitors. These rules are set in place to protect the right of library patrons to enjoy a safe environment, conducive to the use and enjoyment of library materials and services. The library staff will enforce this code of conduct courteously but firmly. We ask your cooperation in maintaining a pleasant, accommodating atmosphere. See the Code of Conduct policy below.
Code of Conduct Policy:
The Board of Trustees has established this Code of Conduct in order to make using the library a pleasant and productive experience. The Board and staff enthusiastically support the library’s role as a public institution open to all people. We strive to offer high quality service free of bias and favoritism. These rules and guidelines are for the protection of all who use the Marshall Public Library. Adherence to these guidelines will enable everyone to use the library building, services, and materials in a safe and enjoyable environment.
The following are required of everyone using the library:
- Civility and respect for the rights and feelings of others
- Adherence to library policies, procedures, rules, and guidelines
- Cooperation with reasonable requests by library employees and volunteers.
The rules of the Code of Conduct Policy are as follows:
1. No drinks, food, tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs are permitted in the Marshall Public Library.
2. No weapons of any kind are permitted in the Marshall Public Library.
3. Patrons must adhere to the Marshall Public Library’s Internet and Computer Use Policy.
4. Patrons must adhere to the Marshall Public Library’s Unattended Child Policy. Young children should be attended and adequately supervised by a parent, guardian, or caregiver who is a responsible person of at least twelve years of age.
5. Cell phone use is not permitted in the library. Cell phones should be placed on silent or vibrate mode.
6. Appropriate clothing is required while in the library. This means shirts and shoes must be worn in the library.
7. Noise levels: The Board of Trustees and library staff are committed to providing an atmosphere where people of all ages may come to read, browse, do research, study, or engaging in library sponsored activities. This policy does not prohibit quiet conversation between customers and/or staff members or conversations required to carry on library programs or business. The Library Staff may require a patron to leave the premises, may call the police or ultimately bar a patron from the Library for noncompliance with this code of conduct.
8. Inappropriate behavior includes any activity that disturbs others, interferes with library operations, damages the building or its furnishings, as well as rudeness, profanity, or any other behavior generally considered unacceptable in a public place. This includes abusive behavior directed at library staff members or volunteers.
9. Theft/Damage to property: Intentional damage and/or defacement of materials, furnishings, equipment or premises, or attempts at theft will be prosecuted according to Missouri Revised Statutes 570.210 (Library theft, penalty). Clipping coupons, cutting articles out of magazines, removing pages from any books or magazines, hacking or altering computer settings, writing on, scratching or in any way damaging materials, furniture, or premises are included in this policy.
10. All bicycles must be placed in the bike rack before entering the library. Skateboard use is not permitted on library property.