Acceptable Behavior in the University Libraries

It is the goal of the University of Southern Mississippi Libraries (Cook Library, McCain Library and Archives, the Gulf Coast Library, the Gulf Coast Student Service Center Library, Gunter Library at GCRL and libraries at university teaching sites) to maintain an atmosphere conducive to reading, study, and research. Users violating these requirements will be subject to the following guidelines:

1. Any individual identified by University Libraries faculty or staff as exhibiting unacceptable behavior will be asked to discontinue such behavior.
2. In some instances, University Police will be called to handle the situation.
3. Information on each incident will be documented on an “Incident Report” form and filed with the University Libraries Head of Access Services.

Examples of Unacceptable Behavior

1. Excessive noise, such as loud talking, loud or excessive cell phone use, singing, the use of loud electronic or noise making devices, or exhibiting a disregard of library quiet zones
2. Consumption of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs inside library buildings or immediately outside library entrances
3. Mutilation or theft of the property of University Libraries or of individuals
4. Disorderly, disruptive, or threatening behavior, such as engaging in unwanted or inappropriate interaction with patrons or staff, making threats to the personal safety of patrons or staff, or committing violent acts
5. Suspicious behavior, which may include a person who is not using library materials and seems to be out of place or a person who seems to be watching other patrons or library employees and their belongings
6. Sexual offenses, including indecent exposure, inappropriate sexual advances, or harassment (physical or verbal)
7. Leaving children unattended. University Libraries personnel are not responsible for unsupervised children.

Updated December 2007