Patron Conduct in the Library and on Library Grounds

In order to maintain a safe, pleasant, and productive environment on Library property for patrons and staff, the Minerva Public Library Board of Trustees has approved the following policies.

General Conduct

The library reserves the right to cause to be evicted from the library or library grounds and to refuse further admission to those individuals who may violate the rights of the library users or library staff, or who create disorder in the library in any of the following situations:

  • When the actions of a person present an imminent danger to the life or safety of others in the library.
  • When a person willfully and purposefully disturbs the staff or other library users, or whose behavior is in any way disruptive to the legitimate use of the library facilities by others.
  • When a person's behavior is inappropriate to the use of the library’s building, equipment, and materials for the purposes for which it is legally constituted.
  • When a person has offensive body odor or poor hygiene or other excessive odors to such a degree that it creates a nuisance to others or disrupts library service.

Inappropriate Behavior

Inappropriate behavior may include, but is not limited to: loitering, sleeping, gambling, voyeurism (peeping Toms), theft, vandalism, molestation, using obscene or profane language, solicitation, public intoxication, or the use of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, or vaping devices. Persons who willfully violate these rules may be asked to leave the library, or, when appropriate, will be subject to arrest.

Refusal to Leave the Library

Library staff may ask a patron who violates the policies regarding patron conduct to leave the library. Any patron refusing to leave the library at the request of library staff or after the hours of business set by the library Board of Trustees for closing is considered in violation of Ohio Revised Code 2911.21 regarding trespass. Staff may ask police officers to assist them if the situation warrants.

Dress and Attire

Patrons are required to wear shoes and a shirt at all times.