Library Policies

Behavioral Code of Conduct for Patrons and Staff

Villa Rica Public Library implements a set of specific guidelines for behavior and/or actions which are considered to be disruptive, potentially unsafe or are prohibited on library property. These guidelines apply to library patrons and staff.

The Villa Rica Public Library strives to provide an atmosphere conducive to use of library services and resources; including browsing, reading, studying, writing and using public computers. The public and staff of the library are required to comply with the library system use and behavior guidelines and specific behaviors outlined in its policy. All users and staff have the right to a safe and comfortable library environment, as well as to facilities and materials which are in good condition.

The library reserves the right to require anyone violating any of the behavioral codes of conduct to leave the library. Any person who disregards a request by a staff member or manager to leave the building will be immediately reported to the Villa Rica Police Department.

• Unattended Children Policy

For further information concerning this policy, call the library or inquire at the Circulation Desk.

Communication Devices in the Library

Villa Rica Public Library strives to create and maintain a quiet environment in the library conducive to quiet work, browsing, reading and studying.

The integrity of the library environment is violated by communication devices that make a noise to alert the receiver of an incoming call or voice mail and also by an individual holding a conversation.

All communication devices such as cell phone or pagers must be turned off upon entering the library. The exception is law enforcement officials or health service officials who visit the library.

Upon hearing a cell phone ring or hearing a conversation, a library staff member is to locate the source and advise the person to terminate the call and turn off the cell phone. The patron is told he will only receive on warning before he will be asked to leave the library.

More detailed information on this policy is available by calling the library or inquiring at the Circulation Desk.

Public Computer Use During Library Operating Hours

Villa Rica Public Library has a policy outlining fair use of public computers by all patrons regardless of age. The computer system is programmed to accept two uses a day per patron with a valid library card.

A patron must log onto a computer with his personal library card. The card must be valid and is subject to spot check by staff at any time. Any person found logging on to a computer with another person's card will have his session terminated immediately. The exception is a child under 16 using his parent's card with parental consent.

Computers are subject to being monitored if manager is advised that inappropriate content may be visible to other patrons. Monitoring is performed by the manager and only under reasonable suspicion.

More detailed information on this policy is available by calling the library or inquiring at the Circulation Desk.

Proctoring Distance Learning Exams (on-line or paper copies)

Villa Rica Public Library has developed a set of guidelines for students interested in having the library manager or a designated staff member to serve as a proctor for an exam. The library is a provider of support for life-long learning and is happy to provide a proctor for a student taking any type of course. However, with the increasing number of patrons requesting a proctor and the requirements each individual test may dictate, the library has found it necessary to implement a policy to be fair to all exam candidates.

More detailed information on this policy is available by calling the library or inquiring at the Circulation Desk.

Animals in the Library

Villa Rica Public Library patrons have a right to enjoy a safe, clean environment for browsing, reading, computer use and working while at the library. No animals of any kind may be brought into the library with the exception of guide dogs and for programs arranged by library staff.

Acceptable animals are those with training and certification as a guide dog for physically challenged patrons. When a guide dog does accompany a patron, he is considered "working" and is not to be disturbed or petted.

Patrons attempting to bring unauthorized animals into the library will be asked to leave.

More detailed information on this policy is available by calling the library or inquiring at the Circulation Desk.