University Library Patron Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct Overview

The University Library supports the teaching, research, and outreach mission of the university by providing access to and delivery of information. To that end the library acquires, organizes, makes accessible, and preserves sources of knowledge in all formats. Instruction is also provided on how to find and evaluate knowledge resources. The library provides safe, respectful environments for individual and collaborative study and learning.

In order to provide safe, respectful environments for individual and collaborative study and learning, patrons who enter the UW-Stout University Library agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

Expectations

Individuals are expected to:

  • Obey all laws of the local, state and federal government. 
  • Abide by Chapter UWS 18, Wisconsin Administrative Code, which governs all conduct on University Lands.
  • Use email or Internet resources within the Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy
  • Adhere to policies governing appropriate use of university identification.
  • Present photo identification to library staff upon request.
  • Patrons are expected to comply with all other library policies not explicitly stated here, including the general library circulation policies. Refer to Circulation for more information.
  • Respond to emergency and security gate alarms and other situations as instructed by staff, leave buildings at closing, and limit use of the library to authorized areas only.
  • Respect library policies regarding noise.

Violations

Certain behaviors, detailed below, are in conflict with the mission of the University Library. Behaviors that infringe upon the rights of library users or staff are prohibited. Prohibited activities and behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following.
Individuals will not:

  • Exhibit any threatening or intimidating behaviors, e.g., abusive language, threats of violence, or harassment.
  • Engage in behavior that is potentially unsafe or harmful to self or others.
  • Create disturbances, disruptions, or behave in any manner that is inconsistent with the University Library's mission.
  • Engage in any sexual activities outside the limits of applicable laws.
  • Vend, peddle, solicit, or petition in the University Library; post or distribute materials without permission.
  • Possess, use, or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
  • Misuse, misappropriate, damage, steal, or obstruct use of library equipment, resources or facilities.
  • Allow others to use their nontransferable UW-Stout identification card. Fraudulent use or reproduction of a UW-Stout ID is a violation of Wisconsin Criminal Statutes, Sec. 943.38. Expired and fraudulent IDs may be confiscated.
  • Allow others to use their UW-Stout email account.
  • Use restroom facilities for purposes other than which they are intended.
  • Leave children under the age of fifteen (15) unattended while using the library.
  • Be younger than eighteen (18) years of age to use a computer workstation.

General Building Rules

Noise

  • We work to maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to research and study.
  • Throughout the building, please keep your voice low and conversations brief.
  • The Quiet Study Area, on 5th Floor, is designated for people who want to study undisturbed.

Cell Phones

In an attempt to alleviate problems caused by the disruptive use of cell phones in the library, we need to ask for the cooperation and assistance of patrons.

  • Please set your phone to vibrate upon entering the library so as not to disturb others with incoming calls.
  • Please limit your use of cell phones to the lobby or outside.
  • Please cooperate with staff should they ask you to leave an area due to inappropriate cell phone use. Our objective in asking you to move is simply to maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to research and study.

Sanctions

Any patron who commits or attempts to commit any of the offenses listed as Violations - or any other behaviors illegal under the laws of the state or federal government - is subject to sanctions, which may include:

  • Being asked to leave the library premises.
  • Being reported to the Dean of Students.
  • Having library privileges suspended or revoked.
  • Being banned from the UW-Stout University Library.
  • Being reported to the police.
  • Legal prosecution.

Incidents which result in a ban may be appealed to the Library Director in writing. Written Appeals are to be sent to the University Library Administration Office, 220 Robert S. Swanson Learning Center. Appeals for sanctions will be considered in consultation with the Dean of Students Office and the University Police. Appeals are to be considered and responded to in a timely fashion.

Questions or comments regarding this policy are to be directed to the Library Director.

Approved and adopted October 1, 2008