Library Policies

BEHAVIOR IN THE LAW LIBRARY: the law library is intended for the use of those doing legal research. Users are expected to respect the rights of others who require a quiet environment in which to research and write.

1. Users who, by their behavior, persist in harassing or annoying patrons or staff and thereby disrupt their ability to concentrate on research or perform their duties will be given one warning regarding the specific behavior. Upon a second occurrence, the offender will be required to leave the library for the remainder of the day. Upon a third occurrence, the offender will lose library privileges and must successfully petition the Court to regain access. Petition is by letter to the chief justice, with copies to all justices and the law librarian.

Behavior which is considered disruptive to the normal use of the library is similar to the following:

• Sexual harassment (unsolicited words, gestures or other unwelcome contact that has sexual overtones).
• Loud outbursts of speech or laughter, talking or singing to oneself.
• Belligerent or threatening behavior towards staff or other users.
• Repetitive noise making, such as tapping a pencil on the table, rapping fingers or knuckles.
• Repeatedly slamming books down hard or slapping the covers shut repetitively.
• Persistent staring at another person.
• Following another person about the library or persistently asking another person questions.
• Playing of audio equipment.
• Other untypical behavior which could reasonably be expected to disturb other users or interfere with the library employee's performance of their duties.

2. Users whose bodily hygiene is so offensive as to constitute a nuisance to other persons shall be required to leave the building for the remainder of the day.

3. Users shall be engaged in normal activities associated with the use of a public library. Persons not engaged in reading, studying, or other use of library materials, or persons sleeping, will be required to leave the library for the remainder of the day.

4. Bathing is not permitted in the restrooms. A person using the restrooms for more than ordinary hand or face washing will be given a warning on the first offense, required to leave the library for the remainder of the day upon the second, and will lose library privileges and must successfully petition the court to regain access upon the third offense. Petition is by letter to the chief justice, with copies to all justices and the law librarian.

5. All wheeled devices (bicycles, shopping carts, handcarts) except those required by the disabled shall be left in the west foyer or outside, and may not obstruct the traffic entering or exiting.