Rules Governing the Use of the Library
The Olean Public Library is to be used for library purposes only. Any behavior that interferes with such use or that is not consistent with such use is not permitted. Any person not abiding by these rules and regulations of the library may be required to leave the library premises and may forfeit their library privileges. Library employees will contact the Olean Police if deemed advisable. A patron whose privileges have been denied may have the decision reviewed by the Board of Trustees.
Patron identification, that is name, address and phone number may be requested.
Large bags, backpacks, suitcases or other containers are not permitted in the library unless the patron voluntarily agrees that these items may be searched.
Each patron is responsible for any fines, fees or other charges due in accordance with the library's standard schedules. Failure to pay these fines may result in the suspension of borrowing privileges.
All children are subject to the Rules Governing the Use of the Library. Children age ten (10) and under must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or someone over the age of eighteen (18) who acknowledges responsibility for the child during their entire stay in the library. School-age children are welcome to use the library at all times. However, the library is not a good substitute for supervised day-care or after-school activities.
The library telephone is to be used for library business only. Phone calls that are deemed to be an emergency will be made by staff.
The following behavior is not permitted because it interferes with the use of the library by others, is a health hazard, or is not consistent with the mission of the library.
Patrons under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The use of cell phones, pagers or other electronic devices in any area other than the entrance area of the library.
Blocking entrances, exits or library aisles so that access to library materials and services is prevented.
Entering employee workspaces or office areas without authorization.
Loitering.
Soliciting.
Carrying weapons of any kind in the library.
Displaying print or non-print materials of an offensive nature to others.
Singing, talking loudly or playing audio equipment so that others can hear it or behaving in a manner that can reasonably be expected to disturb others.
Presenting offensive and/or pervasive odors which are disturbing to others.
Consuming food or beverages.
Smoking or using tobacco or tobacco products.
Allowing pets or animals other than service animals in the library.
Entering the building without a shirt and shoes.
Using rollerblades, roller-skates, skateboards or other sports equipment in the library or on library property.
The following behavior is not allowed and will result in criminal charges.
Engaging in any illegal activity while in the library building.
Loud, abusive, aggressive, threatening, violent or obscene language and/or behavior (Disorderly Conduct-NYS Penal Law Section 240.20).
Destroying or damaging library books, library materials, furniture or other property (Criminal Mischief-NYS Penal Law Section 145.00).
Using or distributing drugs (Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance-NYS Penal Law 220.03, 220.06).
Theft of library materials or circumventing or attempting to circumvent the library security system (Petit Larceny-NYS Penal Law Section 155.25).
Tampering with, altering, editing or damaging computer hardware and/or software (Computer Tampering-NYS Penal Law Section 156.20).
adopted 10/15/2003