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Libraries Policies

Use of Library Buildings

Approved March 29, 1999
Revised April 1, 2005

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The buildings of the VCU Libraries are intended for research and study, to support the mission of the University, and to preserve and protect the collections for future users. Members of the University community (faculty, administrators, staff and students, current VCUCard holders, and VCU affiliates) have first priority to use library property, resources, and services in support of their information, research, and reference needs. Persons who are not affiliated with the University community (guests, visitors, members of the general public) may enter library facilities only to use the collections and services of the VCU Libraries. Any other use of library facilities by non-affiliated users is not permitted and may be considered trespassing.

The VCU Libraries has adopted this regulation to protect the rights of both users and staff, to create an appropriate academic atmosphere, and to provide a safe, comfortable and convenient library environment. All library users are required to comply with the following rules and regulations pertaining to behavior in the VCU Libraries.

The following actions are prohibited in the Virginia Commonwealth University Libraries facilities.

  • Any acts or conduct in violation of library policies and guidelines.
  • Intentionally damaging, destroying, stealing, or concealing any library property or a user's or staff member's property.
  • Removing library materials from library premises without authorization.
  • Any behavior that is disruptive to library use, e.g., loud or disruptive noise, engaging in disorderly conduct, fighting or challenging to fight, or using offensive words likely to provoke violence; abusive acts and/or language; indecent exposure.
  • Disturbing noise on the third or fourth floors of Cabell Library, which are designated as "quiet floors" for the Library; loud noise in any other area of library buildings.
  • Using mobile phones in areas not specifically designated for use of cell phones. Users must set their mobile phones and pagers to a non-audible signal while in the buildings. Mobile phones may not be used in designated quiet study areas in either library. Users must be considerate toward and show respect for other users when using mobile telephones in designated areas in the Libraries.
  • Taking photographs, filming, or conducting interviews in a library building without prior approval from VCU Libraries.
  • Smoking or consuming any tobacco product (including chewing tobacco and snuff). Bringing animals or pets inside a library building, other than assisted-living trained animals.
  • Selling and/or soliciting for money, items, or services.
  • Using public pay phones for extended periods when the phone is needed by others.
  • Using library-owned telephones for non-library business.
  • Skateboarding, roller skating, in-line skating, and bringing bicycles into a library building.
  • Refusing to leave a library building when the building is closed.
  • Entering and leaving a library building through unauthorized exit doors, except during an emergency.
  • Use by children under fourteen years of age unaccompanied by a responsible adult.
  • Using library rest rooms for inappropriate behavior, such as bathing.
  • Any acts or conduct in violation of the Statutes of the Commonwealth of Virginia, city codes, or federal laws.
  • Any acts or conduct in violation of University rules, procedures, and policies that govern the conduct of all persons on University premises.

Additional Safety Precautions

The VCU Libraries is not responsible for either personal belongings left on library property or for lost or stolen personal property. Library users should not leave their personal belongings unattended in the library.

Enforcement

The VCU Libraries reserves the right to revoke or restrict library privileges of any user for behavior contrary to these regulations. Failure to comply with the VCU Libraries' established rules and regulations may result in exclusion from library facilities for the day or permanently. Individuals in violation of the Statutes of the Commonwealth of Virginia, city codes, or federal laws are subject to those provisions, in addition to the sanctions of library regulations. Library staff or campus police may request any user to provide identification. The VCU Libraries reserves the right to report inappropriate behavior to university officers.