Library Values

Our Expectations of Library Users

The Libraries are committed to providing quality service through our staff, resources, and facilities.  This Code of Conduct is for the benefit of all users of the Libraries and applicable to all.

The Libraries expect that users will respect the rights of others to a safe, pleasant, and productive environment for study and research. 

The Libraries expect that users will adhere to the Ohio University Student Code of Conduct, the policies and procedures of the Libraries and the university, and to local, state, and federal laws.

Some of the guidelines and/or policies defining appropriate behaviors within the Libraries are these:

Respect for others

• Disruptive behavior, including excessive noise and harassment of other users and library staff, is prohibited.  
• Groups working together should use spaces designated for groups or in areas away from other users.  Conversations should be conducted in low voices.
• The concealment of library materials in order to gain exclusive access is not allowed.
• Using computers for leisure purposes is permitted only when computers are not needed by others for academic purposes. 

Respect for property

• Damaging and defacing library materials or equipment is prohibited. (Ohio Revised Code, 2902.05) 
• Use of library materials is governed by the Library Circulation Policy (University Policy 14.100). Theft of library property is a criminal offense (Ohio Revised Code, 2913).
• Those using publicly available computers are expected to take proper care of the equipment.  University computer use regulations (University Policy & Procedure 91.003) apply in the Libraries.

Use of copyrighted and licensed materials (University Policy & Procedure 91.003)

• The responsibility for the appropriate use of copyrighted and licensed material lies with the user. The misuse or unauthorized use of copyrighted or licensed information may lead to loss of privileges and legal actions.  

Responsibility for children (Library Policy 20.05)

• Minor children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian or other adult (18 years or older) who is solely responsible for the safety and behavior of the minor children.

Use of cell phones (Library Policy 20.06)

• Cell phones should be switched off or set to a silent mode.  
• Use of cell phones is limited to entries or lobbies.

Use of food, drink, and tobacco

• Food is not permitted, except in designated areas. 
• Beverages are permitted so long as they are in containers that seal tightly. (Library Policy 20.04)
• Smoking or use of any tobacco products is prohibited. (University Policy & Procedure 44.113)

• Solicitations within libraries facilities or outside its entrances are prohibited. 
• Signs may be posted in designated areas and limited distribution of materials may be allowed. Permission from Library Administration is required to post signs or distribute materials.

Filming and taking photographs

• Individuals who wish to film or photograph within a library facility must obtain permission from Library Administration.

Library Users’ Expectations of Us

The Libraries as an organization and the Libraries’ staff members as individual information professionals aspire to fulfill the following values in our daily activities:

Excellence in Service

• Be available, approachable, courteous and patient and give priority to the needs of users
• Provide accurate, complete, and appropriate answers to users’ questions
• Provide a comfortable and safe environment
• Build balanced collections representing diverse viewpoints
• Organize and maintain resources effectively and efficiently; maximize accessibility and ease of use
• Cooperate with other libraries to extend resources and services

Collegiality

• Foster cooperation within the Libraries and with other university units
• Recognize the contributions of others
• Empower others
• Maintain a sense of humor

Integrity

• Protect free speech and intellectual freedom
• Use funds and resources responsibly
• Keep promises and commitments
• Approach every endeavor with the willingness to go the extra mile

Open Communication

• Inform the university community about resources and services
• Ask questions and listen with attentiveness and focus
• Represent the views and ideas of others accurately and fairly
• Seek feedback to insure understanding

Respect

• Maintain confidentiality and protect privacy
• Display fairness and honesty
• Appreciate the differences in the backgrounds and in points of view of others

Leadership and Planning

• Encourage and be responsive to suggestions
• Seek improvements to existing policies and services
• Be responsive to changes in the university community and beyond
• Find creative and innovative ways to adapt to changes and solve problems
• Participate in university governance and professional activities

Education and Lifelong Learning

• Inform and teach about available resources and services
• Assist users in gaining skills and self-reliance in their use of resources