Knowing The Policy Series - Loud conversation, or noise:

Do you know Rowan Public Library's

 Disruptive Behavior Policy Statement???

For the next coming weeks I will be highlighting them on the Security Tips Blog.

Any comments or questions you may have you can email me at:

 Greene, Tara J <Tara.Greene@rowancountync.gov>

1. Loud conversation, or noise, including use of cell phones, electronics devices, etc. which is disturbing to other library users;

Here are some examples on how to handle if someone is violating this policy:

1.  Loud conversation

If a patron is being loud and disruptive, walk over to the patron and politely ask them to lower their voice. 

Another approach is to say to the patron, "You probably didn't realize how loud your conversation is.  Do you mind lowering your voice?"

9 out of 10 times when you approach someone who is being disruptive, they will be apologetic and comply. Most of the time patrons are not aware of how loud they are talking, and some may have disabilities that may cause them to speak in a high tone. 

This policy also applies to staff. If you and coworker are speaking in a loud tone, you may also be disruptive to library users.

2.  Cell Phones

Cell phones are prohibited in the Computer Lab and History Room

If you see or hear someone using their phone in these areas, you should immediately walk up to the patron and say, "You probably didn't know that we have a no cell phone policy in the Computer Lab or History Room, so you will need to step out of the Computer Lab or History and finish your call."

If a patron's phone rings in either of these areas, you can ask them to silence their phone. 

Cell phones are allowed in all other parts of the library, but if a patron's phone conversation is or becomes disruptive, you can ask them to step outside with their phone.

Know this policy and be confident in enforcing it!

 Knowledge = Confidence