Library Use Policies
The Southbury Public Library Board of Directors provides the following guidelines to ensure an atmosphere in which library patrons and staff can benefit from the library without disruption. All patrons and staff should be able to enjoy the Southbury Public Library while feeling comfortable and safe.
General Library Expectations and Usage Guidelines: Patrons shall treat one another and library staff with respect and civil behavior on library property. This includes conversational level vocal volume, adhering to common social space parameters, keeping one’s hands off of others’ property and being responsible for their own belongings.
Patrons are restricted from “Staff Only” areas.
Utilizing the Southbury Public Library is a benefit for community members and other patrons. Abuse of library expectations may result in one being asked to leave the library. Additional violations may result in one losing their library privileges.
Cell phone usage through phone calls is limited to the foyer area of the library. This is the space between the outside and inside doors. Otherwise audio from devices needs to be turned off or played through headphones.
Outside food is limited to consumption outside of the library. Water bottles, coffee, and tea with lids are welcome to be consumed inside the library.
Service animals, with appropriate documentation as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are welcome at the Southbury Public Library. All other pets including dogs are strictly prohibited from the library property.
The use of athletic equipment including roller shoes, skates, and skateboards are prohibited on library property to ensure the safety of all library users.
The restrooms are to benefit patrons and to be used in typical restroom fashion.
It is impractical to foresee and address every objectionable behavior that may occur in the library. Staff therefore has the responsibility to make decisions that are in the best interest of the library and all its patrons whenever this Policy does not specifically address a situation.
Expectations in usage for families with children:
The Southbury Public Library values our young patrons. We strive to create a welcoming environment and safe space for children and their caregivers.We want all of our patrons to enjoy their time in the library. Please be mindful of patrons who may be reading or studying, and avoid excessive noise above a conversational volume. Patrons should refrain from running or rough play in the library. For the safety of all, we ask that adults monitor their children during their library visit. Children under the age of 12 should be in the company of an adult caregiver and should not be left unattended*. Our library staff are here to assist in circulation and reference duties, but are not here to supervise children nor are they responsible for individual children. We also ask that adults use good judgment when leaving children age 12 and older unsupervised in the library. For their safety, children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult in the library elevator. We strive to provide a wide range of programming for all ages. For children under 12, please refer to the specific program listing on the website or check with the library staff to determine if an adult’s presence is required in the programming room. Parents, guardians and caregivers of children under 12 should remain in the library during all programs. We ask that adults use good judgment when leaving a child 12 and over attending a program. We want all of our patrons to enjoy their time in the library. Please be mindful of patrons who may be reading or studying, and avoid excessive noise above a conversational volume. Patrons should refrain from running or rough play in the library.
*Note: Parents, guardians, and caregivers are referred to Connecticut General Statute 53-21a which describes the legal consequences that may result from leaving children under the age of twelve (12) unattended in a public place.