[Michlib-l] Library code of conduct- digest of responses

[Kennedy,Bethany]

Sincerest thanks to all the libraries who shared their best practices and advice. Below please find a condensed digest of responses regarding the placement, implementation, communication and enforcement of codes of conduct in libraries. The responses received were from public and academic libraries.

Library Code of Conduct placement:

-        On library website

-        In lobby or near entrance

-        Display case with other library information

-        Several points around library

-        Sections of code broken out on smaller signs (no cell phones, no food/drink, etc...)

-        Available for check out

-        Poster size

-        8.5x11


Code enforcement:
There were several models for code enforcement. The "three strikes" rule seemed to be a common theme.

Step 1: Provide copy of code to patron
Step 2: If behavior continues, ask the patron to leave.
Step 3: If still non-compliant, inform patron that their library privileges will be revoked for set period of time
Step 4: Call security/police if all other steps do not remediate issue.

Three strikes rule- for smaller issues two warnings given and then asked to leave. For severe issues, such as safety issues, patrons asked to leave immediately.

Case by case review of violation.

Violation forms 1st, 2nd and 3rd with instructions on how to appeal.

Code enforcement follow up:

-        Short, specific notes placed in patron record

Challenges:
-Hygiene issues or other issues that need to be reviewed on case by case basis

Advice:
"Enforcement is always a challenge. It requires constant work. My recommendation would be to keep at it, and expect if you are trying to change a particular behavior, it will take many months, even years depending on the issue in question."
"Cameras are particularly helpful in many cases. Do not underestimate the problems they can solve. If you get them, make sure patrons know to what degree they are being monitored or recorded. For instance our signs say- 'Some areas of the library may under recorded video surveillance.' "

Thank you again. I hope that this information will be of use to the group.

Bethany Kennedy, MLIS
Director, Access Services
Washtenaw Community College
Bailey Library, GM 111
4800 East Huron River Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-4800

ph: 734.477.8723
fax:734.677.2220
email: bakennedy at wccnet.edu<mailto:bakennedy at wccnet.edu>

From: Kennedy,Bethany
Sent: Wednesday, October 16, 2013 3:09 PM
To: 'michlib-l at lists.mcls.org'
Subject: Library code of conduct- implementation questions

Hello all!

I am working on a draft for a Library Code of Conduct. I have found lots of information to generate a draft for our library. However, I do have some questions regarding implementation for those libraries that have posted codes.


-        How is the code of conduct communicated to patrons? Is it somewhere visible or only available online?

-        How are violations handled?

-        Any other best practice recommendations as we begin the process of implementing a formal code of conduct? Is there something you wish you could change about your current code, or something you feel is a challenge?

You can reply to me on or off list, and if others are interested I would be happy to digest and report my findings.


Thanks so much,

Bethany Kennedy, MLIS
Director, Access Services
Washtenaw Community College
Bailey Library, GM 111
4800 East Huron River Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-4800

ph: 734.477.8723
fax:734.677.2220
email: bakennedy at wccnet.edu<mailto:bakennedy at wccnet.edu>

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