Mid-Columbia Libraries (MCL) is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment (both virtually and in-person), where all customers, presenters, and staff are treated with respect and courtesy, free from harassment or discrimination.
MCL upholds the principle of freedom of expression. Expressing opinions, presenting facts, or sharing experiences that differ from those of others does not constitute a violation of this policy, so long as such expression is relevant, conveyed respectfully, and does personally attack others.
All persons using the library are responsible for their safety, the safety of children in their care, and the security of personal belongings. MCL is not responsible for the safety of customers against their own acts or the acts of other library customers.
The following behaviors and activities are not allowed:
- Engaging in any activity in violation of federal, state, local, or other applicable law, mandate, order, health directive, or library policy.
- Disrupting or interfering with the normal operation of the library, or disturbing library staff or customers, including, but not limited to, using abusive or threatening language or gestures; creating unreasonable noise or other disturbances; or failing to follow posted signs and/or staff direction.
- Bringing animals inside the library, except for service animals or for a library-approved event.
- Entering or remaining in the library without shoes or a shirt; while wearing wet clothing or swimwear; or with offensive body odor, poor personal hygiene, or other conditions that disrupt the library environment.
- Sleeping in the library or on library property.
- Interfering with the free passage of library staff or customers, including placing objects in a manner that obstruct aisles, walkways, entrances, or exits. Large items, including bicycles, shopping carts, or similar bulky objects, may not be brought into the library. ADA-approved mobility or assistive devices and strollers (or similar devices for transporting children) are permitted.
- Misusing the restrooms (including, but not limited to using the restrooms for bathing, showering, grooming, or washing belongings).
- Soliciting, canvassing, distributing literature, selling, seeking donations, or asking for money inside the library.
- Leaving unsupervised or apparently unattended minor(s) anywhere on library premises if the child's safety, well-being, comfort, or behavior may be an issue.
- Possession of firearms and other weapons, with exemptions for law enforcement and people with concealed carry licenses.
Other restrictions may be imposed by the building owner as library buildings are owned by cities or private landlords.
Enforcement:
Library staff and local law enforcement have the right to intervene to stop prohibited activities and behaviors. Repeat or serious violations may result in formal trespass orders (for a period of time) or in arrest or prosecution. Trespasses issued apply to all MCL branches and administrative offices, including exterior areas (parking lot, lawn, etc). An individual who has been trespassed by the library may appeal the trespass by writing to the Director-Public Services.
Authority for this policy is supported by the following RCWs:
- RCW 27.12.290 [Excluding people from the library]
- RCW 27.12.330 [Property damage in a library]
- RCW 70.160 [Smoking in public places]
- RCW 9.41.300 [Weapons prohibited]
- RCW 70.84.021 [Service animals, definition]
- RCW 49.60.214 [Misrepresenting a service animal]
(01/20/2025; 03/15/2022; 03/03/2022; 05/25/2021; 12/15/2020; 11/17/2020; 09/25/2013; 11/19/2007; 07/16/2007; 10/15/2001; 01/22/2001; 02/26/1999; 11/18/1996; 6/21/1993; Adopted 03/17/1985)