In order for everyone to enjoy the use of the Public Library, the Library Board of Trustees has established the following rules to protect the premises and the interests of library users.

  • Library patrons are required to show identification to any member of the WBPL library staff upon request.  Only quiet conversation is permitted in the Library.  Quiet conversation is that conversation which does not disturb other patrons or library staff.
  • Inappropriate and disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.  Inappropriate behavior is defined as roughhousing and horseplay inside and outside the building.  It is also defined as a rude, crude, disrespectful, and boisterous manner.
  • The first consequence of unacceptable behavior is a verbal request by the staff to correct the behavior.
  • Should the behavior continue the library user will be asked to leave the premises.  Should the library user be a minor the parents/legal guardians will be notified of the inappropriate behavior and an appropriate length of suspension of library privileges and exclusion from library premises will be imposed.  Should the inappropriate behavior result in damage to library property, restitution is required.
  • Should inappropriate behavior continue public library privileges may be revoked for an indefinite period of time and the offender will be excluded from library premises.
  • It is a violation of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to cause interruption or disturbance within a public library.  In this respect, Sections 40 and 41 Chapter 272 of the General Laws provide that whoever willfully disturbs persons assembled in a public library, or a reading room connected therewith, by making a noise or in any other manner during the time when such library or reading room is open to the public shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than one month or by a fine of not more than fifty dollars.
  • Children who are requested by their parents/legal guardians to use the Public Library as a waiting place for their ride home after school are expected to do so quietly and are invited to use the resources of the Library.
  • Children (under the age of nine) unsupervised at closing time will be referred to the Police Department for the safety of the child.
  • Proper attire including tops and footwear must be worn in the Public Library.
  • Smoking and consumption of food and drink are not permitted inside the building.

Adopted unanimously by the Library Board of Trustees at the special meeting of Dec. 29, 2003. Amended at the regular meeting of April 14, 2010. Effective date:  April 14, 2010