Welcome to the Worcester Public Library!

We value our patrons and strive to treat them with courtesy and respect. Libraries reflect community, and people use them for many different reasons. We hope you find the library a comfortable and welcoming place. Please be considerate of the rights of others as you use our public facilities.

You are welcome to...

• Use our materials gently. Use your Library card to enjoy materials at home.
• Speak in conversational tones
• Use cell phones in designated areas.
• Use tables and chairs during your library visit.
• Use free library computers after registering.
• Participate in library activities.
• Ask the library staff if you have any questions or need any assistance.

We require that you:

• Set cell phones to vibrate.
• Limit groups at tables to four people per table.
• Attend to personal items at all times.
• Dispose of trash as you leave.
• Wear shirts and shoes at all times.

The Patron Behavior Policy enables library users and staff to have a clean, pleasant and safe environment. We need your cooperation to reach this goal.

The following are prohibited at all Worcester Public Library facilities:

• Any activity prohibited by law.
• Disruptive or unsafe behavior including any conduct that interferes with the use of the library by others or with the functioning of the library staff.
• Loud, abusive, threatening or insulting language.
• Consuming food other than that purchased and consumed in the café in the Main Library.
• Sexual harassment or misconduct.
• Activities that may result in damage to library property.
• Sleeping, smoking and offensive bodily hygiene.
• Misuse of the rest rooms.
• Animals, except for assistance dogs.
• Petitioning, soliciting or selling merchandise.
• Remaining in the Library without being engaged in purposes for which the Library was opened, such as studying, reading, engaging in programs, and researching.

The Worcester Public Library reserves the right to restrict the use of its facilities and premises to persons who do not abide by the library's Patron Behavior Policy. Library personnel may ask persons who are exhibiting inappropriate behavior to modify their behavior. Noncompliance may result in the individual being banned from the library premises or in arrest and prosecution.

*This is a summary of the Worcester Public Library’s Patron Behavior Policy. For the full policy please visit our website at www.mywpl.org or you may ask a library staff member for a print copy.

APPROVED LIBRARY BOARD OF DIRECTORS MARCH 10, 2015