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Library Code of Conduct

   

The Duncanville Public Library strives to provide a welcoming environment for all Library patrons. The following Rules of Conduct are meant to ensure that the Library is a safe and enjoyable place. Library staff shall have the right to contact the proper authorities and ask individuals to leave the Library when individuals are in violation of these rules. Violation of Library policies or any unlawful behavior may result in the loss of Library privileges.

The following are prohibited in Library facilities and program spaces:

  1. Damage, destruction, or theft of Library or personal property.
  2. Abusive, threatening, or intimidating language.
  3. Conduct that disturbs or endangers Library patrons, staff, or volunteers.
  4. Conduct that hinders others from using Library space, equipment, or materials.
  5. Interference with an employee’s performance of his/her duties or a patron’s use of the Library.  Such behavior includes but is not limited to verbal abuse, intimidation, and harassment based on membership in a class protected by the U.S. Constitution (e.g., sex, race, religion) or in violation of other federal or Texas law.  Examples include sexual harassment and harassment or intimidation of individuals because of their group affiliation.
  6. Sleeping.
  7. Selling or solicitation, with the exception of certain Library-sponsored events.
  8. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, or tobacco use in any form.
  9. Open containers of alcoholic beverages.
  10. Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
  11. Consuming food or open drinks outside of designated areas. Covered drinks and small snacks are allowed throughout the library, patrons must dispose of any trash and clean up any mess prior to leaving the library.
  12. Leaving bags or personal items unattended.
  13. Any use of computers or Internet access that interferes with the activities of the Library or its network, or is in violation of federal, state, or local laws.

The following must be observed at all times:

  • Appropriate attire, including but not limited to shoes and a shirt, must be worn at all times.
  • Modes of transport (e.g., bicycles, scooters, etc.) must be left outside. The Library is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of such items.

    In addition, please be aware:

  • The Library is not responsible for personal items that are lost, stolen, or damaged on Library premises.
  • Animals are not permitted inside Library facilities with the exception of service animals on duty or in training, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, and animals that are part of library-approved events.
  • Library staff reserves the right to contact the appropriate authorities when children are left unattended, do not observe the Rules of Conduct, or are in distress (see Safe Children policy below).
  • Library staff may ask any patron to leave when he/she is in violation of the Rules of Conduct. Library staff may contact the appropriate authorities if a patron refuses to leave when asked.
  • Violation of any of these Rules of Conduct may result in the patron’s Library privileges being modified, suspended, or revoked, removal of the patron from the building, or criminal prosecution if the conduct constitutes a violation of federal law, state law, or local law.  Examples of actions taken for violations of these Rules of Procedure include but are not limited to:
    • Abusive, threatening, or intimidating language – being asked to leave for the day.
    • Repeatedly leaving personal items unattended in a study room for extended periods of time as to interfere with access to such room by other patrons – losing study room privileges.
    • Leaving library laptops unattended or losing library laptops – losing laptop privileges.
  • Severe violations, repeat or similar offenses, or disregard of instructions from Library staff may result in a trespass notice issued by the Duncanville Police Department.

Exceptions to these Rules of Conduct may be granted at the discretion of the Library Director or designee.

Updated 2026.

The Duncanville Public Library is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in access, education and employment. The Library does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.

The Duncanville Public Library is ADA compliant. Contact Hannah Olsen, Director, 201 James Collins Blvd., (972) 780-5053 with any questions.