Standards of Behavior

Metro State University Library maintains a work and public service environment free from discrimination, violence, harassment, and criminal or offensive behaviors.* Anyone who engages in such behavior in the Library or on library property is subject to consequences. We strive to provide safe and comfortable library spaces for all patrons and employees. The list of examples below is intended to guide staff decision making. It does not presume to be a complete list.

Disruptive behaviors can result in being removed from the Library and include:

  • Shouting or swearing.
  • Running, pushing, rough play, or other dangerous physical activity.
  • Interfering with others’ use of the library: blocking free passage, soliciting, panhandling, or excessive noisemaking.
  • Bringing in more than three (3) bags. All bags must have handles. No garbage bags permitted.
  • Bringing bicycles, scooters, or other similar items into the library.  Wheelchairs, walkers, rollators, and strollers are permitted for their intended use. Skateboards must be carried.
  • Bringing non-service animals into the library. Exception are made for animals that are part of university or library-approved events.
  • Talking loudly on mobile devices inside the library.
  • Filming or recording in public areas without prior permission from library personnel.
  • Sleeping or snoring in a public area.
  • Pervasive and persistent body odor or excessive fragrance that unreasonably interferes with other patrons’ ability to use the library and its services.
  • Not wearing shirts and shoes at all times.

Behaviors that are illegal will result in removal from the Library and further disciplinary action, depending on severity of infraction. These include:

  • Defacing, damaging, destroying, stealing or attempting theft of library property or the property of others.
  • Making threats against or abusing library patrons, including employees, faculty, students, and members of the community.
  • Verbal and nonverbal threats, intimidation or harassment including, but not limited to:
    • Stalking
    • Online, cell phone, or computer harassment
    • Behavior that is obscene or sexually harassing
  • Aggressive behaviors toward patrons or employees.
  • Assault of library patrons or employees including, but not limited to: grabbing, spitting, or hitting.
  • Using or brandishing a weapon.
  • Performing obscene acts in library or on library property.
  • Consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages or illegal substances. Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances in a manner that causes a public disturbance.
  • Failure to adhere to the Metropolitan State University Library Standards of Behavior, Metropolitan State University Library Computer Use Policy, or Minnesota State Board Policy 5.22 Acceptable Use of Computers and Information Technology Resources (and related procedures). This includes repeat offenses, inappropriate use of library resources and equipment, and using another’s library card or account.
  • Failure to observe trespass restrictions.

Children and vulnerable adults:

  • Patrons are expected to attend to children or vulnerable adults in their care and keep them safe. Parents and caregivers are responsible to supervise the activities and choices of their charges.
  • Parents with children may be offered alternative spaces to work when available.
  • If a young child or vulnerable adult is found unattended and parents or caregivers cannot be contacted, campus security will be consulted about an appropriate course of action.

*Metro State University Library will not tolerate discrimination or harassment by or toward any library employee or patron. This includes inappropriate remarks about or conduct related to an individual’s race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or familial status. Violent behavior includes the use of physical force, harassment, intimidation, or threat of the same. Harassment means verbal or physical conduct that is directed at an individual and is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile work or educational environment.  

For additional information about campus-wide policies, view Metropolitan State University Policies and Procedures.

Effective: 04/15/19