Library Use Policy

Library Use Policy:

The Gustavus Public Library encourages all residents and visitors of Gustavus to utilize and enjoy the library. All patrons, regardless of their library account status, are welcome in the library to use computers, attend programs, and access materials while in the library. We expect all library users to comply with the following: 

• All patrons must engage in acceptable and legal behavior while using the library. Persons engaging in unacceptable behavior, as determined by library staff and volunteers, will be asked to leave. 
• Patrons are expected to behave in a way that respects other patrons' privacy, does not impede others' ability to use and enjoy the library, and which does not interfere with the ability of the staff/volunteers to perform their duties. 
• Patrons, staff, and volunteers are expected to communicate with others in a way that is respectful. Verbally abusive language, threatening behavior, discriminatory behavior, and/or harassment of any sort will not be tolerated in the library, and those engaging in these behaviors will be asked to leave the library. 
• Patrons are asked to remove outdoor footwear before entering the library. 
• Patrons are expected to help preserve the cleanliness and integrity of library materials and property. 
• Patrons are only allowed to consume foods in designated areas of the library or under special circumstances as approved by library staff. Beverages should have a secure lid. 
• Cell phone conversations and other loud conversation should be limited, when possible, to the front entry or the meeting room so as not to disturb other library patrons. 
• Animals, apart from service animals, must remain outside the library unless pre-approved by library staff. Animals which interfere with patrons' safety, comfort, or ability to access the library must be kept off library property. 
• Library staff and volunteers are not responsible for the supervision of minors in the library (see Children’s Use Policy). 
• The Library assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen property. After 30 days all items left in the library will be donated or disposed of. 
• Patrons and group members may only store items at the library as approved by Library Directors. Directors will make reasonable attempts to return items which are stored at the library without approval. Items not claimed after 30 days will be donated or disposed of. The City of Gustavus is not responsible for lost or damaged items left at the library.
• A person who has concerns related to unacceptable patron behavior may fill out a Comment Form, available at the Front Desk. Comment forms will be reviewed by the Library Directors and/or City Council. 
• Failure to follow the Library Use Policy will result in immediate and/or future services being refused. If necessary, the Gustavus City Council and/or law enforcement may be called upon to assist in non-compliance of the Library Use Policy.
• The library does not allow solicitation on the library property, including for religious, political, or business purposes. Visitors soliciting others for these purposes will be asked to cease the behavior or leave the property.
• In the event a patron violates Gustavus Public Library Policies and Procedures, a course of restitution and/or a 30-day suspension of library privileges may be imposed.