Code of Conduct

Frederick County Public Libraries is committed to serving everyone equitably regardless of origin, age, background, or views.
These guidelines ensure that everyone may access the library’s resources, services, and opportunities. Visitors and staff alike have the right to a safe and respectful experience, free from discrimination, intimidation, threat of harm or invasion of privacy. The below applies to anyone sharing physical or virtual spaces offered by the library. Staff may make requests regarding behaviors not outlined in this document if actions are detracting from this vision.

BE SAFE

The role of FCPL is to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all. Examples of requested behaviors include but are not limited to:
  • Remain awake and alert
  • Wear footwear as well as clothing that covers the upper and lower body
  • Stay with all personal items as the library cannot be liable for any loss or damage of property
  • Refrain from using, handling, or selling alcohol, tobacco, vapes, or other controlled substances
  • Do not enter with personal items that are leaking or that have pests
  • Follow all local, state, and federal laws

RESPECT THE SPACE

The role of FCPL is to maintain a clean and comfortable shared environment. Examples of requested behaviors include but are not limited to:

  • Use bathrooms for intended purposes only
  • Be mindful of others and refrain from monopolizing space or obstructing access
  • Leave non-service animals at home and keep service dogs in your control
  • Do not consume food or beverages that contributes to an unclean environment, attracts pests, disrupts others, or harms resources
  • Maintain a reasonable volume including that of personal devices

RESPECT EACH OTHER

The role of FCPL is to create a respectful environment where the diverse needs and expectations of all can be met. Examples of requested behaviors include but are not limited to:

  • Keep speech free of obscene, abusive, or hateful language
  • Do not assault, wield anything as a weapon, or challenge to fight
  • Do not verbally or physically harass, intimidate, or threaten other individuals
  • Refrain from solicitation of money, signatures, sales, or actions
  • Do not interfere with the rights of others to use the library as a limited public forum
 SUPERVISE THOSE IN YOUR CARE

The role of FCPL is to support and empower parents, guardians, and caregivers who serve as responsible parties for the safety and behavior of individuals requiring care while visiting the library.

Children must not be left alone. In Maryland, a child under the age of 8 years may not be left unattended. If a parent or guardian needs to leave a child who is younger than 8 years old, they must ensure that a reliable person, who is at least 13 years old, will stay to supervise the child.

If unsupervised children and other patrons who require care are unable to provide necessary information or the guardian cannot be reached, the police will be notified.
 ENFORCEMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Please seek staff assistance if these guidelines are not being followed. Staff will respond in a timely, respectful, and direct manner that is consistent and fair. Our enforcement is designed to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for staff and customers while preserving access to library resources, services, and opportunities. Consideration will be given to age, ability, and other individual circumstances.
Failure to comply with the Library’s Code of Conduct could result in being asked to leave, emergency services being contacted, and/or suspension from the library’s spaces.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees of Frederick County Public Libraries on 10/2/2024.