Policy on Accepted Behavior

In order that library service to the community can be performed in the most effective and efficient manner possible, the Trustees of the Beaman Memorial Public Library set the following policy regarding appropriate behavior on library property. Those who fail to comply will be required to leave the premises.

1. Food and/or beverages are not allowed in the library, except at designated times or in designated rooms as approved by the Library Director and /or Board of Library Trustees.
2. The following activities are not allowed in the library:
   • Smoking (Massachusetts General Laws [MGL] Ch 270, Sec21 -22) and the use of tobacco products.
   • Creating a disturbance by making noise, talking loudly, or other conduct disruptive to library patrons, staff or general library service. (MGL, Ch. 272, Sec 41)
   • Interfering with another person's right to use the library or with the library staff's performance of their duties.
   • Threatening behavior, including, but not limited to, violence, threats of violence, and possession of weapons.
   • Bringing animals into the library except those needed to assist a disabled person.
   • Playing audio equipment so that others can hear it.
   • Misusing the rest rooms (i.e. using them as a laundry or washing facility).
   • Solicitation by means of personal contact with library patrons. Posting political notices or lobbying for a political initiative.
   • Entering "staff only" areas without express permission of a staff member.
   • Leaving a child 8 years old or younger unattended in the building (See "Policy on Unattended Children" for further information and clarification).
   • Running and jumping.
   • Sleeping, except for young children under parents' supervision.
3. Those who damage or deface library materials or property may be prosecuted (MGL, Ch. 266, Sec 100). Parents can be liable for damage done by a child under 18 (MGL, Ch. 231, Sec 85).
4. Theft of library materials, use of false identification to obtain a library card, or use of another person's library card without his/her permission is against state law and may be prosecuted (MGL, Ch. 266, Sec 99).
5. The use of bicycles, skateboards, and roller blades is prohibited on library property.
6. Persons without shoes or shirts will not be allowed in the library.
7. A patron may be required to leave athletic equipment, large parcels and bags, or other belongings deemed inappropriate, with the library staff until they are ready to leave the building.