Library Patron Behavior

UNCW Library patrons have the right to expect a pleasant library environment, conducive to study and research; free of preventable and/or excessive interruption and disruptive activity, with reasonable access to library materials. The library expects all of its patrons to conduct themselves in a manner respectful of library staff, other patrons, library materials, and library facilities.

Library staff members are responsible for and charged with enforcing library and University policies, procedures, and guidelines. Additionally, we abide by and enforce all applicable Federal, State, and local laws. The following categories of behavior, disruptive and criminal, are ones that will result in staff response. Anyone engaging in these behaviors may be removed from the library and/or denied future library access. See the UNCW Facilties Use Policy.

Disruptive behavior

The library takes all complaints from its patrons seriously and will seek support from the University Police whenever needed. Examples of disruptive behavior include but aren't limited to the following:

  • Violating University or library policy
  • Using audible devices without head phones or using cell phones at a level that disturbs others.
  • Exhibiting behavior or language that is threatening, abusive, intimidating, or offensive
  • Loud and disruptive behavior
  • Harassing, intimidating, or abusing other patrons and/or library staff, physically or verbally
  • Fighting, challenging to fight
  • Loitering
  • Using the bathrooms for bathing or laundering clothes
  • Selling or soliciting
  • Using tobacco in any form including e-cigarettes
  • Using skateboards or skates
  • Running, pushing, or shoving
Criminal behavior

Violation of Federal, State, or local laws is not tolerated. Examples of this behavior include but are not limited to the following:

  • Bringing weapons into the building
  • Vandalism or defacing library materials or property (e.g., graffiti)
  • Assault
  • Stealing
  • Being in unauthorized areas; failure to leave at closing time or when asked to leave the building
  • Bringing animals into the library except officially - designated service animals
  • Using alcohol or illegal drugs