Rules governing the use of the Bemis Public Library

We welcome you to the Bemis Public Library and want you to enjoy our facility! The following policies are strictly enforced by library staff so that we may provide an atmosphere conducive to the appropriate use of its services and facilities.

The following behavior is prohibited on Bemis Public Library property:

• Engaging in conduct which is disruptive to the operation of the library or threatening to patrons, staff or library property.
• Preventing patrons from entering or leaving the building freely.
• Eating, other than in Teen Central and Sophie’s Place Lounge. Any beverages carried into the rest of the library must have a lid.
• Smoking or other uses of tobacco. Smoking outside is not permitted within 15 feet of the entrance.
• Leaving a child under eight years of age unattended by an adult or designated caregiver who is twelve years old or older.
• Intentionally damaging, destroying, or stealing library property, or a patron’s or employee’s property.
• Removing library materials from the premises without authorization through established lending procedures.
• Making any loud, unreasonable, and/or disturbing noises.
• Using obscene language or committing abusive acts toward patrons or staff.
• Engaging in disorderly conduct; running; fighting or challenging to fight; or using offensive words likely to provoke violence.
• Exceeding the limit of four persons per study table, two persons per study carrel, or two persons per computer workstation.
• Exceeding the posted time limits at computer workstations.
• Not wearing shoes or shirt.
• Carrying weapons of any type.
• Loitering, including refusal to leave at closing.
• Soliciting, petitioning, campaigning, or survey-taking within the library building.
• Misusing restrooms.
• Bringing in bedrolls, blankets, or packages that do not fit under a chair.
• Bringing in animals or pets (except guide dogs, guide dogs in training or reading assistance dogs).
• Possessing or consuming illegal drugs or being under the influence of illegal drugs.
• Possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages (except at authorized events) or being under the influence of alcohol.
• Wearing shoes or boots with wheels, or riding a skateboard inside the building.
• Bringing bicycles inside the building.
• Sleeping.
• Distributing or posting printed materials or literature that has not been approved by library administration.
• Engaging in sustained inappropriate public displays of affection.
• Engaging in any other illegal acts or conduct in violation of Federal, state, and/or local law, ordinance, or regulation.

Failure to comply with the library’s established Rules and Regulations may result in exclusion from library property and/or, if a criminal act is involved, being subject to arrest and prosecution. Persons who fail to leave the library building or grounds when directed to do so may be subject to arrest and prosecution for trespass.