Revised and affirmed by Library Cabinet, July 2023
The UC Berkeley Library strives to provide access to well-maintained collections, information resources, equipment, and associated research services. The Library also seeks to provide a safe and secure environment and facilities suitable for reading, learning, and other activities associated with scholarly teaching and research.
The following code of conduct is intended to ensure a respectful and productive environment for study and research for all users. These policies are applicable to all Library users and are enforceable by all Library staff.
General behavior
All Library users are expected to respect Library facilities, other users, and Library staff.
Individuals will:
- Comply with all Library and UC Berkeley policies.
- Use computers and online resources within the guidelines of the Library and campus computer-use policies.
- Adhere to policies governing appropriate use of University of California identification.
- Present identification upon request.
- Leave buildings at closing, and limit use of the Library to authorized areas only.
- Respond to security gate alarms, emergency alarms, and other situations as instructed by Library staff.
Individuals will not engage in prohibited activities, including, but not limited to:
- Exhibit any threatening or intimidating behaviors (e.g., abusive language, staring, threats of violence, any type of harassment).
- Engage in behavior that is potentially unsafe or harmful to self or others.
- Create any disturbances (e.g., disruptive noises, loud talking, audible electronic devices).
- Engage in any sexual activities including, but not limited to, unwanted or inappropriate touching, unwanted or inappropriate advances, harassment, or indecent exposure.
- Allow others to use their UC identification or CalNet network authentication.
- Violate copyright laws, including systematically downloading, printing, or disseminating content from UC Berkeley-licensed electronic resources in violation of copyright laws.
- Deface or damage Library materials including, but not limited to, underlining, highlighting, writing, or removing pages or security devices.
- Misuse, misappropriate, damage, or deface Library furniture, buildings, or equipment, including computer systems.
- Use Library areas for prolonged sleeping or as living quarters.
- Obstruct use of Library equipment or facilities, or deny access to Library materials through theft or deliberate misplacement.
- Vend, peddle, solicit, or petition in the libraries; post or distribute materials without permission.
- Leave young children unsupervised.
- Bring food or drink in areas where they are prohibited.
- Use alcohol, tobacco, or related nicotine products, or controlled substances.
- Fail to wear clothing, including footwear, while in the libraries.
- Bring firearms, weapons, fireworks, or other dangerous substance into the libraries.
- Bring animals, other than identified service animals, into the libraries.
- Bring, ride, or leave personal transportation devices (e.g., mopeds, bicycles, scooters, skateboards, skates, hoverboards) in Library buildings or on walkways where hazards, property damage, or personal injury could result. Skateboards and unpowered or electric scooters that can be collapsed may be brought into Library buildings but must be carried and attended to at all times. Gas-powered vehicles are never allowed in Library buildings. Accommodations are made for strollers and vehicles used by persons with disabilities.
- Photograph Library patrons or staff without permission.
- Leave personal belongings unattended.
Enforcement
Library use is a privilege. If an individual or group is not adhering to Library policies, individual users may point it out. Concerns, problems, or policy violations may also be reported at a Library service desk to any Library staff member.
Anyone violating these policies can be asked to leave the Library and refused future access. Library users found in violation of this code of conduct may be: asked to present identification to Library staff; subject to a search of backpacks or bags; directed to leave the premises; suspended from access to all Library facilities for a period of time; and reported to the University of California Police Department. Disciplinary or legal action may be taken in accordance with applicable federal, state, city, and campus laws and policies. Depending on the severity of the offense and the pattern of behavior, persons may be banned for extended periods such as one week, one year, or permanently; bans cover all campus Library locations and services.
Related policies
• Campus computer-use and IT policies
• UC system regulations about conduct in buildings