The Library is a place for learning, discovery, creativity, and civil discourse, and it belongs to everyone in our community. Patrons who visit the Library are expected to treat others with courtesy and respect and to contribute to a calm and safe atmosphere for all. Library facilities and services include the Downtown Library, the Ellettsville Branch, the Southwest Branch, the Bookmobile, and the Library’s internet and telephone support services. To ensure the safety and comfort of all who visit and use our facilities and services, the following Code of Conduct outlines basic expectations for patron behavior. Conduct that does not align with these expectations is not permitted and may result in dismissal from the Library and the loss of Library privileges. 

 

Prohibited behaviors include but are not limited to:

  • Abusive, threatening, or harassing language and/or behavior in any form including voyeurism, intrusive inquiries, unsolicited physical and/or verbal advances, indecent exposure, or any other overt behavior which negatively targets other patrons and/or staff
  • Intoxication or impairment while on Library property
  • Use of tobacco, tobacco products (including e-cigarettes), or vaping devices while on   Library property
  • Possession of alcohol, illegal substances, or weapons while on Library property (except as permitted under Indiana Code 35-47-11.1)
  • Mutilation or defacement of Library materials and/or equipment
  • Misuse of Library furniture, equipment, or facilities
  • Noise levels and/or odors that disrupt others' use of the Library
  • Selling goods or services, polling, soliciting, panhandling, or loitering on Library property
  • Trespassing by entering or remaining on Library premises or using Library services during the period in which an individual has been banned
  • Refusing to follow the directions of Library staff
  • Any other activity prohibited by law 
     

 

Additional rules to ensure the comfort and safety of all patrons include but are not limited to: 

  • All patrons, including unattended children and/or vulnerable individuals of any age, must demonstrate responsible use of Library spaces and resources.
  • Some areas of the Library are designed for specific use. Patrons not using those spaces for their intended purposes may be asked to use another area of the Library. Spaces intended for children or teens are designed specifically for those age groups and/or their caregivers.  
  • Food is allowed in the Library in non-carpeted spaces and meeting rooms, except at computers. Drink containers must have secure lids. Leftover food and containers must be disposed of promptly and properly.
  • Only service animals or animals involved in Library programs are allowed in the Library. Service animals deemed disruptive or threatening may be asked to leave. No unattended animals are allowed on Library property.
  • Patrons may not enter non-public areas, including behind service desks, unless accompanied by Library staff. Patron use of Library office equipment and/or telephones is not permitted.
  • Patrons who wish to photograph or record activities at the Library must obtain permission from the individuals involved. Please see the Library’s Media Relations Policy for details.
  • All patrons must wear shoes and clothing considered suitable for a public space and which cover the upper and lower torso.
  • No roller blades, scooters, heelys, or skateboards may be used on Library property.
  • Bicycles, scooters, and shopping carts are not permitted inside Library buildings and should be secured to bike racks provided outside of the building.
  • Blocking aisles, doorways, elevators, ramps, and walkways is a safety concern and is not permitted. Patrons are responsible for keeping personal items under their own control at all times. Personal items such as briefcases, luggage, handbags, packages, overcoats, and shopping bags may be inspected by Library security staff at any time. Staff may ask patrons to remove items that could present a public safety issue such as a pest infestation.
  • Library parking lots are for patron use only.
  • The Library does not serve in loco parentis with regard to minors.

 

Patron Bans and Ban Appeal Procedure: 

If Library staff determine that a patron has engaged in severe and/or repeated misconduct with regard to the code of conduct, they may issue a temporary ban. The following steps will be taken in implementing a patron ban:

  1. Library staff will issue a written ban notice to the patron in question notifying them that they are banned from all Monroe County Public Library locations for a specific period of time. The letter will specify the reason for the ban, the length of time of the ban, and the process for appealing the ban.
  2. If a patron disagrees with the ban decision, they may request that the ban be reconsidered, shortened, or terminated altogether by submitting a written request addressed to the Library Director. The Library Director or their designee will review written ban appeals on a case-by-case basis and will consider these requests along with the information presented in the original ban. The ban remains in place while the appeal is under review.
  3. Patrons banned for more than 30 days will need to meet with the Building Services and Security Director or their designee to review the Code of Conduct before being allowed to resume using the Library.

These expectations for use and examples of prohibited behaviors are designed to maintain the safety and comfort of all patrons who visit the Library. MCPL employs professional security staff to ensure these rules are followed and regularly partners with local law enforcement for additional support as needed. 

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees March 26, 2025

Updated May 12, 2025