Patron Code of Conduct

I. POLICY
In support of a major research institution, the University of Kentucky Libraries provide comprehensive information essential to teaching, research and service. This Patron Code of Conduct is established to ensure that library facilities are safe and provide an atmosphere conducive to research, reading and study.

II. PATRONS
Patrons of the UK Libraries include students, faculty, staff and visitors. Patrons shall conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the function of an educational institution. Therefore, patrons' continued presence on University property may be restricted if their conduct is in violation of this Code.

III. MINOR OFFENSES
The following are prohibited activities in the UK Libraries and are deemed to be "minor offenses."

• Failing to comply with circulation policies and procedures
• Preempting or limiting the availability of materials or facilities to other users in any unreasonable manner
• Being a part of excessive and/or disruptive conversations/discussions
• Using audible sound generating devices being a part of rowdy behavior or creating excessive noise
• Sleeping, other than brief naps
• Bringing in personal belongings not essential to the research undertaking (bedrolls, pillows, carts)
• Unauthorized soliciting of goods, services, or donations or engaging in any other commercial activity
• Bringing animals in the library other than those trained to assist persons with disabilities
• Exhibiting inappropriate or offensive personal hygiene
• Bathing in or misusing restrooms
• Using cell phones contrary to the following guidelines:
  • Cell phone ringer shall be turned off or put on a non-noise setting upon entering the building.
  • For areas allowing cell phone use, a patron shall be considerate of other patrons by lowering one's voice and keeping conversations brief.
• Committing or participating in other activities not listed that are inconsistent with library activities (reading, studying, research, use of library resources).

IV. RESPONSE TO MINOR OFFENSES
Library staff or security personnel shall intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. The Campus Police/UKPD may be called as needed.

Sanctions for minor offenses may include, but are not limited to the following:

A. Patron may receive an oral or a written warning.
B. Patron may be asked to leave the facility.
C. Student infractions may be reported to Dean of Students.
D. Repeated minor offenses or egregious minor offenses may result in more serious discipline; see "Response to Major Offenses" below.

V. MAJOR OFFENSES
The following are prohibited activities in the UK Libraries and are deemed to be "major offenses."

• Abusing, threatening, or intimidating Library staff or patrons through language or actions
• Fighting
• Being intoxicated or using any intoxicants
• Indecently exposing one's self
• Harassing others
• Damaging library property
• Stealing
• Refusing to leave a Library unit at closing time or an evacuation
• Repeated violation of minor offenses
• Violating any federal, state, or local law or University of Kentucky regulation
• Committing or participating in other activities not listed that are inconsistent with library activities (reading, studying, research, use of library resources)

VI. RESPONSE TO MAJOR OFFENSES
Library staff or security personnel shall intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. The Campus Police/UKPD may be called as needed.

Sanctions for violation of major offenses or repeated offenses may include, but not be limited to the following:

A. Campus Police/UKPD may be called, and, if appropriate, criminal charges may be filed.
B. Patron may be removed from the building.
C. Student infractions may be reported to Dean of Students.
D. Patron may be banned for a period up to one year or longer, depending on the nature and seriousness of the offense.

VII. ADDITIONAL POLICIES

• If a patron has been restricted from the University (campus) through court proceedings or through University regulations, the patron shall also be restricted from all UK Libraries. This restriction shall continue until the restriction is rescinded by the appropriate authority. Additionally, pursuant to KRS 511.080 and OAG 90-11, a non-student or non-employee who has been notified that s/he may not enter University grounds or facilities may be charged with criminal trespass in the third degree if s/he enters University grounds or facilities.
• Each library has its own policy concerning food and drink.