WFPL Code of ConductThe Code of Conduct purpose:
to protect the rights and safety of library users
to protect the rights and safety of staff members
to preserve and protect the library's materials, facilities, and property
Everyone is welcome at the Wichita Falls Public Library. Resources are made
available to all in an atmosphere of respect for knowledge, one another, community
property, and resources.
The library will uphold all state, federal, local laws, and ordinances with regard to
public behavior. Assistance from the Wichita Falls Police Department will be
requested as needed.
To maintain the Library as a place where the community feels welcome, please
observe the following:
CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Please silence cell phones and other electronic devices; extensive cell phone
conversations may be held in the lobby. Ear buds are required when using audio on
library computers.
CHILDREN
Children under age 7 must be in close proximity of adult parent/guardian, not an
older child (see Children in the Library Policy). Adult use of children’s areas is
limited to use by (1) parents or adult caregivers acting on behalf of children or (2)
vulnerable adults. The library assumes no responsibility for minors.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT
Library users should refrain from disrupting library services of other visitors & staff.
The following actions and forms of conduct are not permitted:
using abusive, indecent, profane, loud/disruptive, vulgar language, gestures,
or displays of vulgarity
harassing, stalking, or abusing another person
challenging to fight, initiating a fight, shoving, pushing, running, throwing
things
excessive public displays of affection
engaging in sexual misconduct, such as voyeurism, exhibitionism, exposure
using restrooms for bathing, shampooing, shaving, or washing clothes
leaving personal items unattended such as backpacks, luggage, purses, etc.
(the library assumes no responsibility for lost/stolen items)
littering, stealing, defacing, destroying, or damaging library materials,
furnishings, equipment, facilities, or other’s property.
DRINKS/FOOD
Alcoholic drinks are prohibited; non-alcoholic covered drinks are permitted at
tables. Drinks ARE NOT allowed at public computers. Food IS NOT permitted.
HYGIENE
Appropriate tops, bottoms, and footwear are required; wet clothing and disruptive
attire are not permitted; shirts must be buttoned. Those with disruptive odor will be
asked to leave.
MONOPOLIZING LIBRARY SPACE
Blocking or impeding access to equipment, materials, and/or facilities by sleeping,
dozing, napping, and/or lying down, which are not permitted.
SERVICE ANIMALS
Licensed service animals on leashes are welcome; pets not permitted. Under the
Americans with Disabilities Act, a public entity may ask an individual with a
disability to remove a service animal from the premises if the animal is out of
control and the animal's handler does not take effective action to control it, or the
animal is not housebroken.
SMOKING/VAPING/TOBACCO PRODUCTS/ILLEGAL DRUGS
The Wichita Falls Public Library is a tobacco-free campus. No tobacco products can
be used in the building, parking lot, or anywhere on library property. Prohibited:
using tobacco, electronic cigarettes, being under the influence of alcohol/illegal
drugs and/or selling, using, or possessing alcohol/illegal drugs.
SOLICITATION
Solicitation of any kind, including asking for money, is not permitted. Distribution or
posting of papers without library approval is not permitted; approval may be
obtained at the Service Desk.
TRANSPORTATION
Skateboards, bicycles, and roller blades cannot be used on library sidewalks or
inside the building. Bikes must be left in the bike rack outside. Smaller items may
be carried inside. A motorized scooter is available for use by library users.
WEAPONS
Those carrying handguns in an open or concealed manner must abide by the
provisions of Texas Penal Code sections 30.06 and 30.07. Long guns may not be
carried on the library campus. Discharging of weapons is not permitted.
Any person, without prior notice or warning, may be asked to leave or immediately
removed from the Library if presence or conduct poses an immediate and imminent
danger to any person or property. In addition, persons failing to comply with
reasonable staff requests will be educated about the Code of Conduct and may be
immediately removed from the Library if unacceptable behaviors continue.
VIOLATION(S) OF THE ABOVE CODE OF CONDUCT SUBJECT TO
FOLLOWING:
FIRST OFFENSE: EDUCATE
SECOND OFFENSE: WARN
THIRD OFFENSE: BAN; POLICE WILL BE CALLED, LIBRARY PRIVILEGES WILL BE
REVOKED FOR THREE MONTHS
SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE: LIBRARY PRIVILEGES WILL BE REVOKED FOR ONE YEAR
RIGHT TO APPEAL
Within 10 days, any action by a staff member may be appealed by contacting
Wichita Falls Public Library Administration. The appeal must be made to the Library
Advisory Board. The decision of the Library Board is final. Failure to file an appeal
within 10 days of the ban will be considered a waiver of the right to appeal.
The Code of Conduct is written in consultation with the City Attorney of Wichita
Falls and the Library Advisory Board.
APPROVED: OCTOBER 2017
REVISED: 11/1/17