LIBRARY USE POLICIES

Cellphone Use Policy: The Cannon Free Library allows the use of cell phones in compliance with the following policy.

  1. When patrons enter the library, Cannon Free Library asks that they turn the ringer on their cell phones to vibrate or off.
  2. If using a cellphone in the library, patrons are asked to be considerate of those around them, and keep their conversations short and their voices lowered.
  3. If a patron needs to have an extended conversation, the Cannon Free Library asks that they please exit the building to do so.
  4. The Cannon Free Library reserves the right to ask patrons to exit the building if continued use of a cellphone disturbs other patrons.

 

Meeting Area Use Policy: The Cannon Free Library does not have a private meeting room, but from time-to-time will approve of public meetings for groups in the children’s room. These public meetings must comply with the following policy.

  1. All applications for meeting area use must be made in person by an adult, age 18 or over, at the Cannon Free Library.
  2. Meetings cannot inhibit the general function of the juvenile room for extended periods of time.
  3. Meeting areas are available to community, non-profit, educational, cultural, social, civic, and recreational groups for meetings and other uses pertaining to the welfare and benefit of the community.  Library-sponsored events shall have priority.
  4. The meeting areas are available only during library-staffed hours. Meetings should end fifteen minutes before the library closes unless special arrangements are made.
  5. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis. Two-weeks’ notice is required.
  6. Groups using meeting areas may not charge admission fees, exceeding a fee for materials used, solicit non-charitable contributions, or take up collections; therefore may not sell or take orders of any kind.
  7. It is the responsibility of the group/organization to insure compliance with the fire code restrictions as to meeting room occupancy limits.
  8. Smoking and open flames (candles, lanterns, etc.) of any kind are not allowed in the building.
  9. The library is not responsible for the loss, theft or damage to any equipment or materials owned or rented by an organization.
  10. The library reserves the right to close the meeting areas for reasons beyond its control (inclement weather, power failure, etc.). The library will attempt to notify the responsible individual.  Emergency library closings will also be announced on the local radio station.
  11. Library programs take precedence over all other uses of the meeting areas. If a library-related program arises, which in the judgment of the library director has priority; the library reserves the right to ask groups to choose an alternate meeting date.

Tutor Policy: Tutoring is an activity that relates to the library’s role as a community educational support center. Space for tutoring activities is subject to availability.

  1. Tutors are individuals who provide instruction to others either on a paid or volunteer basis.
  2. Tutors shall work with a maximum of three students per tutor per session. The library is not to be used as classroom or office space, but as a safe workspace for students to receive instruction.
  3. Tutors and students must bring their own supplies, such as paper, pens, pencils, etc. Tutors may use Library materials in accordance with library policies.
  4. Tutors may not solicit Library patrons in the Library.
  5. Public space in the library will be available for use by tutors on a first-come, first-served basis during Library operating hours.
  6. Table and chairs may not be available if being used by others or are needed for library programs or activities.
  7. Students must be under the tutor’s supervision at all times. The Library reserves the right to ask tutoring or study groups that become too disruptive to leave the Library.

 

Unattended Children and Minors: All children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult or adult caregiver when present in the Library. No child under the age of 10 may be in the Cannon Free Library without parental supervision. All parents will be responsible for the actions of their children while in the Library.

  1. Responsibility for the welfare and the behavior of children under the age of 18, using the Cannon Free Library rests with the parent, guardian or an assigned chaperone.  Though staff will always respond with care and concern, they cannot assume responsibility for children’s safety.
  2. We recognize that many young adults under the age of 18 are responsible enough to be in the library without adult supervision. However, if library staff identifies behavioral issues or recognizes that a young adult cannot use the library responsibly on their own, staff may ask young adults to leave the premises. Additionally, staff will attempt to contact parents/guardians, and if behavioral issues occur, a young adult may be required to have a parent/guardian present while using the library.
  3. If a crisis occurs, staff may need to contact authorities to ensure the safety of a child under the age of 18.

 

Problem Patron Policy
Patrons that are unruly, disturbing, offensive or abusive to other patrons and/or staff may have their library privileges suspended for a period of time. All disciplinary action will be handled by the Director as outlined in the Patron Code of Conduct.

  • 1st Offense – Verbal warning by the Director
  • 2nd Offense – Suspension of library privileges until patron amends offensive behavior

 

Any suspension may be appealed to the Cannon Free Library Board of Trustees, and their decision is final.

 
Adopted by the Board of Trustees
August 17, 2018