Code of Conduct

The Library Code of Conduct encourages behaviour that supports the Library’s mission and values. It applies everywhere the Library conducts its business, whether on Library property, in the community, over the phone or email, or through our website.

Our library is a unique gathering place for the promotion of literacy, life-long learning and the exchange of ideas where all are welcome. As a public library, we respect your individual rights, while recognizing that they must be balanced with the rights of others. Our goal is to deliver excellent service in a shared space that is welcoming and safe for our members and our employees.

The Policy

Everyone has the right to enjoy the services of the Library without disturbance. We ask your cooperation in maintaining this positive environment and that you respect the Library Code of Conduct and follow all Library policies. 

Be respectful and considerate of others

• Speak and work at a soft volume.
• Set your mobile device to vibrate or mute.
• Violent, threatening, foul, abusive, discriminatory, or harassing language or conduct of any kind will not be tolerated.
• Respect the sensibilities of others when viewing materials in the Library.
• Bring in only registered support or service animals.
• Respect others with sensitivities to scents, and limit the use of scented products.
• Clothing and footwear is required.
• Practice personal hygiene. 
• Napping is permitted. Staff will wake you if you are snoring, sprawling, or for a wellness check.  
• Report disruptive behaviour to a Library employee.
• Obtain permission from the Library to distribute literature or post materials on Library property. Solicitation is not permitted in the Library.
• Get permission of people in photos or videos you are taking.
  Parents or guardians must provide permission for children under the age of 18. Photos or videos can not be taken in children’s areas unless permitted by the parent/guardian. No photography or videography is permitted in washrooms

Be respectful of Library property

• Use the Library’s materials, computers, equipment, and furniture with care.
• Check with Library employees if there are restrictions on what and where you can eat.
• Tidy up after yourself. Recycle and throw out your garbage in the bins provided.
• Keep aisles, hallways, emergency exits, and spaces around you clear so that others can easily access them.
• Bicycles, scooters, and other small recreational motorized vehicles should be parked outside the Library.
• Use of sports equipment is not allowed on Library property. (e.g. rollerblades, skateboards, etc.). Small items may be brought in but can not be used inside the Library or near the entrances.
• Staff areas are designated for Library Staff use only.
• Smoking and/or vaping is not permitted anywhere on Library property, nor within three (3) meters of any entrance.  

Be safe

• Open possession or consumption of controlled and/or prohibited substances is not permitted. 
• Supervise those in your care at all times.
• Weapons, including anything designated or used for inflicting bodily harm or physical damage, are not permitted on Library property.
• Allow inspection of personal bags or cases when requested by Library or security staff.
• Keep your belongings with you. The Library is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
• Follow the instructions of Library employees or security staff.
• Leave the building in case of fire, fire drills, or other emergencies.
• Follow all municipal, provincial and federal laws, codes, rules, and regulations.
• Criminal activities are not tolerated and could result in legal action. 

Library employees make every effort to apply these policies in a fair, respectful, and positive manner for the benefit of everyone. Anyone choosing to disrespect the policies of the Library and refusing to modify their behaviour will be asked to leave. This could result in suspension of Library privileges, eviction from the Library, cost-recovery charges, and/or prosecution.

Authority: Public Libraries Act, Trespass to Property Act, Criminal Code of Canada