George Hail Free Library
Library Policies and Frequently Asked Questions
GEORGE HAIL FREE LIBRARY
RULES OF PATRON CONDUCT IN THE LIBRARY POLICY
Approved by the
Board of Trustees of the George Hail Free Library November 10, 2004
PURPOSE:
Every individual has the right to use the Library undisturbed and every
library employee has the right to work without undue interference. All library
users and employees should be free of any threat of harm, invasion of property,
or gross indignity. Failure to observe these rules may lead to the loss of
library privileges, including the right to visit the buildings and grounds.
For the comfort and safety of patrons, staff, and volunteers, and the protection
of Library property, the following actions are examples of conduct not allowed
on Library property.
Language or action that results
in annoying, harassing, and threatening a patron or staff member in a physical
or sexual manner. ***
Being under the influence of alcohol/illegal drugs in the library
and the selling, using, or possessing alcohol/illegal drugs in the library. ***
Being in the possession of
firearms and dangerous weapons of any type (except by law enforcement officers).
***
Stealing, damaging, altering, or
inappropriate use of any Library property/materials in Library facilities or on
Library grounds, including computer hardware and software, printers, copiers,
phones, and other equipment. ***
Engaging in any activity in violation of Federal, State,
local or other applicable law, or Library policy. ***
Eating, drinking, or smoking in
the Library.
Loitering or sleeping.
Remaining in the Library after its regular closing hours. (without
permission)
Soliciting funds or panhandling. (from patrons and/or employees)
Interfering with patrons use of the Library through poor personal
hygiene.
Bringing animals or vehicles into the Library, except ADA guide
animals.
Using wheeled devices in Library property or on Library grounds,
except in designated areas, including skateboarding, roller-skating,
bicycling, scooters, (exceptions are wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers).
Playing audio equipment without the use of headphones.
Headphones must be used at a volume that does not disturb other patrons. No
cell phones, pagers, and other communication devices are to be used inside the
library.
.
*** Indicates illegal activities for which police will be called.
These rules apply regardless of age. If necessary, a staff member first
warns anyone violating these rules at the time of the offense. If the conduct
continues the patron will be asked to leave the premises. If there is no
cooperation, the police will be called immediately. Depending upon the severity
of the offense, the offender will be banned from the library for time to be
determined by the Director. If the offender is a minor, the parent and/or
guardian will be notified by the Director.
Staff may expel the offender(s) without warning at the discretion of staff in
situations of serious, threatening, or willfully malicious behavior.
Circulation Policies
Patrons are required to have their library cards when checking out books.
Books
Books are checked out for three weeks and may be
renewed for three more weeks. One renewal is allowed per item. You may renew
books by calling the library at 245-7686. There is no
limit on the number of books you may check out.
Videos, Magazines and CDs
Videos, magazines and CDs
are checked out for one week. A maximum of 4 videos is allowed per card.
Overdue Fines
Book fines are 10 cents per day with a
cap of $3.00 per card. Videos are $1.00 per day with a cap of $10.00 per card.
There are four computers available to the public, two upstairs in the Reference Room and two downstairs in the Children's Room. Each computer has Internet access through Internet Explorer, as well as Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and Access programs. The OSL library catalog can also be accessed from each terminal. There is also one computer for catalog access only.
To use a computer, please sign in at the sign up sheet where you are using the computer.
Children's Use Policy
Children using the internet
must first have permission from a parent by filling out a permission slip.
Children with permission to use the Internet must show their library
cards before signing in.
Patrons may FAX from the library at $2.00 for the first page and $1.00 each additional page not including the cover page. Ask the Circulation staff.
Sign up for a library card at either the circulation desk on the main floor or downstairs in the Children's Room. You will need some form of identification that shows your current address, such as a license, in order to get a card.
Lost cards may be replaced for $1.00.
Having a OSL card means that you can visit, request and borrow from 48 libraries within Rhode Island.
Ocean State Libraries is a consortium of public libraries in Rhode Island linked through a state-wide communications network and a Millenium computer system. This system offers access to 4.1 million items owned by the 48 member libraries. It circulates over 6.3 million items per year and sends and receives more than 1.2 million items annually in the interlibrary loan system. There are over 450,000 registered library card holders in the system. It also provides high-speed Internet access to all member libraries.