The Okefenokee Regional Library Board Of Trustees has revised the Library Patron Policy. The last revision was May 7, 2018.
The revisions are in reaction to the nation wide crisis affecting thousands of libraries across the country, including the Waycross library.
Libraries have become safe havens for the homeless and housing insecure as well as a safe, free option for families without affordable childcare.
Libraries offer a clean indoor, climate controlled environment with public restrooms. Many libraries have also become resource centers, supplying everything from hot meals to socks.
The Waycross library also features a Department of Human Services kiosk where visitors can sign up for state benefits.
“While library staff must be committed to serving patrons regardless of socioeconomic status, many of them don’t have training on how to deal with an unsheltered person suffering from untreated mental illness, drug addiction or other problems,” writes journalist MacKenzie Ryan in the Guardian.
Often times inappropriate language, erratic behavior, and even physical threats can be witnessed in the library.
To help the staff better navigate the challenges at the Waycross library, the following additions have made to the Patron Policy.
No loitering/lounging at any library entry points Pertaining to animals: no animals at the front entry; no unleashed animals on the premises; only service animals meeting criteria under Title II and III of the ADA are allowed inside; limited to dogs or miniature horses; must be trained to perform a task directly related to a persons disability.
Disruptive and/or unsafe behavior now includes: Pan handling selling, or soliciting for services money or items.
Remaining in the library building or on the grounds after operating hours.
Offensive language, including cursing, sexually explicit or violent in nature.
The policy enforces the staff’s prerogative to ban any patron who refuses to comply with the policy. The revised policy also supports a staff members decision to call police if the warrants it.
To view the policy in its entirety, visit www.okrls.org, click about us, then library policies.
