Customer Code of Conduct

Welcome to Broward County Library. This Customer Code of Conduct is intended to encourage behavior that supports the library's mission to provide the best possible resources in an environment that is conducive to library use.  Any person who violates these rules or engages in any activity prohibited by law will be asked to leave the library and could be subject to suspension. Those refusing to leave will be subject to arrest under Trespass Laws, Chapter 810, Florida Statutes.

The library is a public building where the well-being and safety of unattended children is a serious concern. Therefore, library staff cannot assume the responsibility for the care or supervision of unattended children left in or on the grounds of the library.

The following behavior, as well as any other behavior that disrupts public use of the library, is unacceptable and prohibited.

• Abusive, boisterous, disruptive, loud, obscene, or threatening language or behavior.
• Adults not requiring immediate access to youth materials shall be required to relocate to other areas of the library.  Youth Services areas are intended for use by youth and their parents or caregivers.
• Bringing animals, except service animals, into the library.
• Bringing personal items into the library that will not fit comfortably under one chair or leaving items unattended.  Items may not obstruct aisles and walkways.
• Cell phones must be set to silent or vibrate and may only be used in designated "cell phone zones," if available, or outside the library.  Customers may not operate electronic devices that are audible to others.
• Creating a nuisance to customers or staff through offensive bodily hygiene.
• Defacing, cutting, destroying, or stealing library property or materials.
• Eating or drinking, except in authorized areas.  Containers must have lids.
• Entering and using the library without appropriate attire, including shirts and shoes.
• Entering non-public areas such as staff workrooms, offices, etc.
• Inappropriate use of computers, including, but not limited to: viewing inappropriate websites, using the Internet for illegal purposes, or displaying, sending, printing obscene materials; or damaging, altering, or tampering with equipment or software; manipulating or interfering with the time management software.
• Inappropriate use of equipment or furniture such as rearranging, jumping, standing, or placing feet on the furniture.
• Leaving persons unattended who require personal assistance. 
• Sleeping or smoking.
• Taking library materials into the restrooms.  Bathing or loitering in restrooms.
• Use of bicycles, skates, or skateboards on library premises.
• Use of library facilities or equipment for other than library purposes, including loitering, solicitation, or distribution of materials without prior written authorization.
• Use of photographic, sound recording, video, or other recording equipment, including camera telephones, on Library property without prior authorization.

Failure to comply with the Library's established rules/practice may result in suspension from the library for the day, 30 days, 90 days, permanently, and/or arrest.

(Revised May 2008)