Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to:

• Any activity in violation of federal, state, or local law
• Destroying, damaging, or theft of library materials or property.
• Carrying firearms or dangerous weapons (except by law enforcement).
• Disruptive behavior such as: talking loudly, yelling, loud noises, running, pushing, throwing objects, fighting.
• Using tobacco, being under the influence and/or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Use of profane or abusive language.
• Verbally or physically threatening or harassing other patrons or library staff.
• Eating or drinking.
• Sleeping or lying on library furniture.
• Soliciting, selling, surveying, distributing material, pan handling, or canvassing for any political, charitable, or religious purpose on library property.
• Using the restroom for bathing, shaving, shampooing, laundry, or changing clothes.
• Engaging in any sexual contact, activities, or conduct.
• Using cell phone or other personal electronic equipment that disturbs patrons or staff. Cell phone ringers should be turned off while in the library.
• Bringing in pets or animals other than service animals.
• Entering the library inappropriately clothed, barefoot, without a shirt, with offensive body odor as to be disruptive to the library environment.
• Neglecting to provide proper supervision for children (see Unattended Children’s Policy)
• Blocking entrances, exits, staircases, or aisles.

Procedures:

Staff is instructed to call police immediately in response to any behavior that is deemed dangerous or in violation of any federal, state, or local laws.

Any person who violates the behavior policy will be handled in a reasonable and professional manner. The degree of violation will determine the response.

• Upon first violation of this policy, staff will provide a copy of the behavior policy along with a verbal warning to stop such behavior
• Continued violations may result in a patron being asked to leave for the remainder of the day with a second warning. Staff will call the police if a person is asked to leave the library and refuses to do so.
• For serious or repeated violations, or a violation where the police are called, may result in loss of library privileges and/or being banned from the library at the discretion of the library director.

Notice of suspension of library privileges will be made in writing, whenever possible, and sent by certified mail to the last known address of the patron. In instances where a minor is involved, a notice will be sent to the parent/guardian. A copy of the notice will be sent to the Lynn Police Department. An individual who is banned from the library may be criminally charged with trespassing if they return to the library during the term of the ban.

An individual who is banned from the library and/or loses library privileges may request an appeal. Appeals must be made in writing and sent to the Library Director and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Lynn Public Library, 5 N Common Street, Lynn, MA 01902, within 30 days of alleged violation.