Conduct in the Libraries: Basic Policy Governing Public Use
The University of Iowa Libraries encourages scholarly research by maintaining an environment conducive to study in all units of the libraries system. Library users are expected to act responsibly, appropriately, and courteously to preserve the libraries' facilities, environment, and collections.
Persons who violate any of these policies may lose their privileges to use the UI Libraries, be
subject to University-imposed discipline, and/or be subject to criminal prosecution or other
legal action, as appropriate.
This policy is intended to supplement and clarify policies set forth in the University of Iowa
Operations Manual.
Animals
Animals (with the exception of assistance animals) are not permitted in any of the library
facilities.
Cell Phones and Pagers
The Libraries is considered a research environment where users expect to work
undisturbed; therefore the audible use of cell phones and pagers must be limited to
designated areas and cell phones and pagers should be set to non-audible signals while in the
libraries. Library users should be aware of the cell phone guidelines for specific libraries.
Copyright and Licenses
The University of Iowa Copyright Policy is available in section 30.4 of the University of Iowa Operations Manual.
Criminal Behavior
The Libraries will notify law enforcement authorities concerning any suspected criminal
behavior by library users. Areas in which the Libraries will be particularly vigilant
and pursue legal remedies are:
- Theft or destruction of library materials and equipment ;
- Property damage, including, but is not limited to, defacing or deliberate misuse of buildings, materials, or equipment;
- Disorderly conduct;
- Vandalism;
- Indecent exposure;
- Illegal pornography; and
- Assault and harassment, including verbal threats.
Disruptive Behavior
Staff will take appropriate action to remedy disruptive behavior and to maintain a quiet,
pleasant environment conducive to serious study as well as casual use. Disruptive behavior is
any activity which endangers the perpetrator or others, interferes with the library business of
other patrons or staff, or is illegal. This may include any activity which results in harm to
library equipment or services.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets are intended to be used only for mobile computing devices and other
electronic equipment having a legitimate library use. They may not be used for small
appliances, e.g., coffee pots, or any other electrical device that poses a hazard to the
Libraries or its collections. Electrical cords must not be draped in aisles or in any manner that
creates a tripping hazard.
Food and Drink
For information regarding food and beverage consumption, please review the Libraries' Food and Drink Policy.
Paging Library Users
Staff will page library users only in case of emergency. Note: Some libraries have no paging
capability.
Personal Property
The Libraries is not responsible for theft, damage, or loss of personal property, including
property stored in lockers, carrels, or offices. Library users should take every precaution to
ensure the security of personal belongings, especially purses, wallets, backpacks, books,
portable computers, and other electronic devices.
The Libraries has limited locker, carrel, and office space available for students and faculty
members but is not responsible for theft, damage, or loss of property from the lockers,
carrels or offices.
Telephones
Staff telephones are not available for public use except in emergencies.
Unattended Children
The Libraries is not responsible for the safety of children left unattended in any part of the
Libraries. If necessary, Libraries staff will take appropriate action upon discovering
unattended children. Actions may include contacting parents and/or the Department of Public
Safety.
11/30/2006
