Library Code of Conduct

Lakeland Public Library / Larry R Jackson Branch Library / Kelly Branch Library

Lakeland’s taxpayer-supported libraries are clean, attractive and inviting spaces to visit.

To maintain a safe and welcoming environment for reading, learning, and other Library activities, The Lakeland Public Libraries require all visitors to comply with the following General Rules and Regulations:

This Code of Conduct is intended to protect the right of library customers.

All library staff members are authorized to take action to correct violations listed below.

Policy: 

1. Users should be engaged in activities associated with public library use. Acceptable library behaviors include Reading, studying, viewing, listening, writing, selecting materials, borrowing or returning library materials; using computer resources or attending programs/meetings.
2. The Library reserves the right to limit the size or type of personal belongings that may be brought onto library property. Staff may dispose of unattended items. The City of Lakeland and the library are not responsible for customer’s belongings.
3. Parents or Guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of persons in their care. 
4. The following activities disrupt public use of the library and are prohibited:

• Abuse, vandalism or theft of library materials, equipment or property
• Illegal activity
• Loud, boisterous or disruptive behavior
• Harassing, intimidating, bullying, stalking or prolonged staring at customers or staff
• Eating food in the library
• Drinking beverages in open containers; drinks with lids are welcome
• Inappropriate attire; shirts and shoes are required
• Possessing, consuming, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Abandoning or leaving individuals, minors or adults, requiring care or supervision unattended for long periods or at closing
• Physical violence
• Bathing, shaving or washing clothes or other inappropriate use of restrooms
• Horseplay – shoving, running, jumping, fighting
• Disruptive use of cell phones, radios, or other electronic devices
• Loitering on property
• Bringing in or using bicycles, recreational scooters, skates, shopping carts, or items of a similar nature in the library
• Blocking entrances, exits, aisles, hallways, doors, or seats with personal property
• Possession of a weapon one is not legally authorized to carry
• Sleeping
• Lying on the floor, tables, or seats, or sitting or reclining on the floor unless part of a Library program or in an area designated for children
• Sexual activity
• Use of tobacco products or smokeless cigarettes inside the building, to include vaping
• Verbal or physical threats against library users or staff
• Inappropriate use of library’s computer resources or wireless access– to include, accessing, displaying or distributing illegal images and/or bypassing daily use restrictions
• Soliciting others or selling items on property
• Actions that contribute to unsafe or unsanitary conditions.
• Bodily hygiene that is offensive as to constitute a nuisance or health risk to others.
• Bringing animals/reptiles in the library, except for service dogs as defined by Florida Statute 413.08.

Trespasses: 

Library users who participate in unacceptable behaviors may be warned or immediately asked to leave the property. Staff may call the Lakeland Police Department and request that a trespass be issued to the person/s in violation. Staff will report the incident in writing to Library Administration.

Life-threatening or emergency situations will result in a call for assistance to 911.

Trespasses issued to adults will result in suspension of library use at the location in which the trespass was issued.

Adults who have been trespassed must make a request to the City Librarian by phone (863.834.4271) or in writing to return to the library after a minimum of one year has passed. Depending on the severity of the incident on property and the documented behavior by law enforcement of unlawful activities by the person since the date the trespass was issued, the City Librarian can deny the request to return.

Adults can appeal any denial to the Parks & Recreation Director (863.834.6089) for final review.

Unattended Minors at Closing: 

Staff begins making closing announcements to customers thirty (30) minutes prior to closing. Any child should be asked if he/she has transportation. Staff can offer the use of a phone to call for a ride.

Two staff members should stay with the child until a ride comes. Twenty minutes after closing, staff can call law enforcement to request that they assist in locating the parents. 

Download a PDF version of the Library Code of Conduct.

Updated 10/25/2023