About the Library > User Conduct Policies

Ensuring a pleasant and productive environment for study and research requires that each library user follow Sherrod Library's conduct policy.

1. General Library User Conduct

All library users have the obligation to:

• interact courteously with other users and library staff.
• maintain a quiet research and study environment, free of noise, distractions, and other offensive interpersonal behavior. Please see the library's Cell Phone Policy.
• preserve accessibility to library materials by providing ETSU IDs or Library Associate cards, as requested; checking out materials properly; returning materials on time and to the proper location.
• respond promptly to all library notices.
• keep library materials and property clean, unmarked, and intact.
• comply with the ETSU Information Technology Code of Ethics and maintain library computer systems by refraining from unauthorized accessing and altering of any library computer system, network computer program, or data.
• abide by copyright laws and/or ETSU's policies on copyright.
• maintain a clean environment by not smoking, by using only covered beverage containers, and by disposing of trash appropriately. Please see the library's Food and Drink Policy.
• use only authorized areas of the library during library hours; exit the building when requested, such as during emergency situations or drills
• ensure the safety of all persons in the library by abstaining from activities inside or outside the library that would endanger others, including bringing unauthorized weapons, vehicles or equipment, animals, and other items onto library premises.
2. Cell Phone Policy

Students have requested a quieter environment for study. Therefore, please be respectful of others and:

• text don't talk.
• set cell phones to vibrate or other silent mode.
• if you need to make/take a phone call, move to a cell phone zone: hallways, stairwells, or outside the building.
• keep your voice low.
3. Food and Drink Policy

The consumption of food and beverages is allowed throughout the library except where prohibited by this policy; beverages are allowed in spill proof containers only.

• Food and drink are prohibited in Archives of Appalachia.
• Eating and drinking are discouraged at computer and media equipment work stations. Anyone responsible for damaging computer and/or media equipment is liable for the full repairs or replacement cost of the equipment.
• Library users who consume food and beverages in the library are expected to clean up their own trash. Trash cans and recycling bins are provided throughout the building for waste disposal.
• Spills on floor/carpet, furniture and library materials should be reported immediately to library staff so that the spill may be cleaned up.
4. Personal Belongings
• Sherrod Library is not responsible for the security of personal items brought in to the building. Library users are expected to keep their belongings, especially valuables such as cell phones, tablets and laptops, within their sight at all times. We take no responsibility for materials lost, stolen or damaged.
• Owners are contacted via ETSU email on identifiable items. Unclaimed items are disposed of at the end of the semester.

Effective January 2013