Library Rules of Conduct

Pursuant to Section 2.88 of the Signal Hill Municipal Code, these Rules of Conduct have been established in order to maintain the Library’s peaceful atmosphere, facilitate Library usage, preserve easy access to Library materials, and protect Library property, we ask that you observe the Library’s Rules of Conduct.

If you have a question regarding these Rules of Conduct, please ask at the Reference Desk or call 562-989-7322.

The following is a list of prohibited actions and behaviors.

Dangerous, Destructive, or Illegal Behaviors

Violation of any federal, state, or local law while on Library grounds
Engaging in or threatening physical assault or abuse
Threatening or harassing behavior, including but not limited to: verbal threats, stalking, offensive staring or touching, or abusive or racially-charged language
Carrying or displaying a weapon of any type, including a firearm, knife, sword, or similar item (except by security or law enforcement officers)
Brandishing any object in a threatening manner
Engaging in sexual activity or lewd conduct as defined by Penal Code 647a
Fighting or challenging to fight, running, pushing, or shoving, or engaging in any activity or behavior that results or may result in injury or harm
Stealing, damaging, defacing, or destroying Library property

Misuse of Library Facilities, Services, or Materials

Failing to timely return any borrowed materials
Blocking or obstructing aisles, stairways, doorways, or access to Library facilities, furnishings or equipment
Sleeping in the Library or on Library grounds unless the person sleeping is an infant or toddler sleeping in a car seat, stroller or infant carrier worn by a caregiver
Using restrooms for bathing, shaving or washing of hair or clothing
Loitering in the Library parking lot or on Library grounds (“Loiter” means to delay or linger without a lawful purpose for being on the property and for the purpose of committing a crime as opportunity may be discovered) or soliciting money
Distributing or posting printed material in the Library
Misusing Library property (e.g., using books as a footstool or pillow)
Damaging, removing, altering or bypassing Library software or hardware
Using another person’s internet or Library card to obtain services
Failing to observe internet and/or computer use guidelines, including but not limited to using the Library’s computers for unauthorized copying or downloading of copyrighted material
Littering within the Library or on Library grounds
Plugging in or using more than two Library electrical outlets or charging stations
Placing feet on tables, chairs, or against walls
Persons over the age of 17 sitting or lying on the floor

Eating, Drinking & Smoking

Smoking of any kind, or using tobacco products, including vaping, in the Library or within 20 feet of the Library building
Possession or consumption of controlled substances, unless lawfully and medically necessary
Being under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or illegal drugs
Possession of food or drinks without caps or lids inside the Library

Disruptive Behavior and Hygiene

Disturbing, disruptive, or unsafe behavior, including loud talking, noisy or disorderly conduct, lurking, or any invasion of personal space
Using the Library while shirtless, barefoot, or without shoes
Using the Library with offensive body odor and/or lack of personal hygiene
Using electronic devices or other personal equipment that is disruptive, noisy, or unsafe, including, but not limited to, the use of cell phones, pagers, headphones, audio, electronic, and other communication devices (cell phones must have the ringers turned off and all cell phone conversations must be held outside)
Selling, soliciting, or any other commercial activity on Library grounds (Any individual or group wishing to use Library grounds to gather signatures or for similar purposes may request permission from Library staff. Such activities must be outside the facility and at least 20 feet from the entrance to the building.)
Photographing, audio recording, or filming without permission from Library staff or administration

Youth and Youth Areas

Bringing any child under 8 years of age into the Library and leaving such child unattended without a caregiver age 14 or older
Adult unaccompanied by a child or teen under the age of 18 being present in the Youth Services’ areas or the Youth Services’ restrooms
Leaving persons needing supervision because of physical or mental conditions

Personal Belongings

Note: All personal belongings are subject to inspection. By entering the Library, users are agreeing to pass through a security system at the entrance/exit and to have items visually inspected before leaving the Library (Penal Code § 490.5).

Items that are collectively too large to fit under a table with dimensions that exceed 26” x 16” x 15” are not allowed, however, musical instruments are allowed
Possession and placement of items that block aisles, block access to library furniture, or prevent others from reasonable use of the Library
Bringing any pet or animal into the Library, except a trained service animal (service animals must be under the control of the owner and leashed at all times)
Bringing any bicycle, shopping cart, or other wheeled devices to carry personal property into the Library or leaving such items in any place on Library grounds except for a bicycle rack
Riding on bicycles, skates, skateboards, or scooters (except for ADA assistive/mobility devices) on Library grounds
Bringing sleeping bags, tarps, bed rolls, mats, or blankets into the Library. Blankets and mats may be brought into the Library for use by children
Leaving any belongings unattended, including packages, luggage, or any personal items. The Library is not responsible for personal property that is lost, stolen or damaged in or on the grounds of the Library

Enforcement

The enumerated Rules are not intended to be a complete list of violations, but are intended for guidance only. Library staff and/or local law enforcement officers are authorized to expel persons who, advised of the regulations above, fail to comply with them. Such personnel also reserve the right to take appropriate action(s) against any other behavior which can reasonably be deemed to be disruptive or offensive to Library patrons or staff.

Any violation of these Library Rules of Conduct or violation of local, state or federal law in the Library may be addressed by Library staff or security officer(s) in the following manner:

Verbal warning (e.g., Notification of violation and reference to these Rules of Conduct).
Suspension of borrowing privileges with respect to any item in the Library.
Suspension of Library privileges including removal from, and denial of access to, all Library services and facilities for up to one year depending on the severity and/or number of the violation(s).
Criminal sanctions including arrest or prosecution.
Every person who injures or fails to return any book taken is liable for three times its value.

The above remedies may be cumulatively applied.

Appeal of Suspension

Anyone who has been suspended from Library use may challenge the suspension. To appeal or request a review of the suspension, obtain a copy of the Request for Appeal of Library Suspension Form from the City Clerk’s office. Complete it and deliver it to the City Clerk’s office, 2175 Cherry Avenue, Signal Hill, CA 90755, within seven (7) days of the start of the suspension. The written appeal will be reviewed by the Hearing Officer within thirty (30) business days of the receipt of the request for an appeal. The suspension will remain in effect during the appeal process. The Hearing Officer’s decision is final. Please refer to Signal Hill Municipal Code §2.88 for further information.