Purpose and Scope

1.1. Purpose. The North South University Libraries are committed to providing a quiet and suitable environment that fosters study and learning across all units of the University Library system. Library patrons are expected to adhere to the rules established by the University Libraries, conducting themselves responsibly and respectfully. This includes avoiding harassment of other users and library staff, as well as refraining from causing damage to the library facilities or collections. By ensuring respectful and considerate behavior, we maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to the academic pursuits of all our patrons.

Guidelines

2.1.Patrons found in violation of these policies may face revocation of their access to the University Libraries, be subject to disciplinary measures imposed by the University, and/or face criminal prosecution or other legal consequences as necessary. Rules have been implemented to ensure the safety of both library patrons and staff, to deter activities that could pose a risk to the library’s facilities, equipment, or collections, and to preserve an environment that supports the library’s intended purposes.

2.1.1. These rules are subject to periodic revisions.

2.1.2. The rules listed are not exhaustive and include the following:

2.2. Consumption of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco:

2.2.1. Eating is prohibited within the University Library.

2.2.2. The NSU Library does not allow food or beverages except water.

2.2.3. Following University policy, the use of any form of tobacco, including vaping and e-cigarettes, is banned throughout the University Libraries.

2.3. Animals:

2.3.1.  Animals are not allowed in University Libraries facilities.

2.4. Personal Property

2.4.1.   The University Libraries have no facilities for secure storage of personal property of library users, and will not under any circumstances take responsibility for such property.  We will not take responsibility for theft of personal property in the University Libraries.

2.5. Disruptive Behavior:

2.5.1.   The University Libraries do not permit behavior which is incompatible with the use of the Libraries by its patrons or staff. The University Libraries prohibit the following conduct on its premises. Behaviors not permitted include, but are not limited to, the following:

2.5.1.1. Soliciting library patrons or staff for donations, purchases, etc.

2.5.1.2. Buying or selling goods or services of any kind

2.5.1.3. Passing petitions to library patrons, conducting unauthorized surveys, distributing pamphlets or other materials directly to library patrons or staff

2.5.1.4. Creating excessive noise

2.5.1.5. Using threatening, intimidating, or abusive language

2.5.1.6. Abusing or intimidating library staff or patrons

2.5.1.7. Sexual harassment

2.5.1.8. Overt signs of substance abuse, including drunkenness

2.5.1.9. Overt sexual behavior

2.5.1.10. Bringing weapons, simulated or real, into any library facility

2.5.1.11. Entering areas of the library marked “Staff Area”, unless by appointment or invitation

2.5.1.12. Using skateboards or skates

2.5.1.13. Fighting or other rowdy behavior

2.6. Damage to Library Property

2.6.1. The University Libraries prohibit behavior which will damage University Libraries equipment or collections or library facilities.  The types of behavior which are not permitted include, but are not limited to, the following:

2.6.1.1. Defacing University Libraries buildings, equipment, or collections

2.6.1.2. Deliberate misuse of University Libraries equipment or collections

2.6.1.3. Destruction or mutilation of library books or other materials

2.7. Criminal Behavior:

2.7.1. The University Libraries will notify law enforcement authorities concerning any criminal behavior in the University Libraries. Among the areas in which the University Libraries will be particularly vigilant and pursue legal remedies are:

2.7.1.1. Theft of University Libraries equipment or collections

2.7.1.2. Theft of patron’s personal property

2.7.1.3. Vandalism

2.7.1.4. Deliberate misuse or damage to University Libraries equipment or collections    

2.7.1.5. Exhibitionism

2.7.1.6. Assault, including verbal threats

2.8. Unattended Children:

2.8.1. Children may not be left unattended for any period of time.

2.8.2. The University Libraries are not responsible for the safety of children left unattended in any part of the University Libraries. Children should be accompanied at all times by a parent or adult for their own safety and well-being. 

2.8.3. Parents, not the NSU Library, are responsible for children’s use of the Library, including access to online electronic resources.  The NSU Library provides complete, non-filtered access to the Internet. 

2.8.4. In situations where these policies are abused, library staff will take appropriate action. This action may include contacting parents, campus security, and/or juvenile authorities.

2.9. Paging Library Patrons:

2.9.1. Library patrons will be paged only in case of emergency.