Purpose
Chapel Hill Public Library is a public space that belongs to everyone. We welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and circumstances. Libraries are more than buildings—they are places to learn, connect, reflect, and grow.
To make this possible, we ask everyone to help create a safe environment. These expectations reflect our values as staff and patrons, and ensure that all community members feel included, supported, and welcome.
Policy
Follow the Law
Everyone is expected to follow all local, state, and federal laws.
Sexual activity, including inappropriate touching or public exposure, is not allowed.
Do not view, print, or share illegal materials.
Do not endanger the health and safety of others.
Do not damage or deface library materials or property.
In accordance with Town of Chapel Hill ordinances and North Carolina law, firearms and other weapons are not permitted inside the library or on library property, including Pritchard Park. This includes concealed weapons, even with a permit.
In accordance with state law, service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed inside the library. Please see our Service Animal Policy for additional information.
Personal Behavior
Hate speech or discriminatory behavior of any kind is not allowed.
Do not violate other people’s privacy and personal space.
Do not threaten or harass anyone.
Do not view pornography in the library.
Wear shoes and clothing while in the library.
Shared Spaces
Keep pathways, aisles, doorways, and stairs clear.
Keep access to library entrances and exits, resources, and staff clear.
Furniture, outlets, computers, and other equipment are for shared use.
Do not use more spaces or resources than necessary.
Keep your personal items and belongings with you at all times. The library is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.
Be careful with all library property, including computers and other equipment.
Keep volume of audio or video from personal devices or library computers at a low level. If you have headphones, please use them.
Food and drinks are permitted in the library.
Please dispose of all trash and keep library equipment and resources clean.
Kids’ and Teen Room
Our Kids’ and Teen Rooms are designed to be comfortable, fun, and safe places for young people to read, play, explore, and learn. These guidelines help ensure that these spaces remain welcoming and age-appropriate for the youth they’re meant for.
The Kids’ Room is intended for use by children from birth to 14 years of age, and the Teen Room is for tweens and teens from 11-17 years of age (middle/high school).
Teens and adults with special needs who prefer to use the kids’ room may do so with a parent or guardian. Please notify staff if special accommodations are needed.
Adults not accompanying a minor are welcome to browse/access the collections in these spaces but must otherwise use designated adult spaces for studying and working.
Please review our Safe Child Policy for additional information.
Solicitation and Selling
Unless advanced permission is given:
Soliciting for funds and signatures is prohibited.
Selling and distributing goods is prohibited.
Smoking and Substance Use
Smoking is not allowed - including e-cigarettes and vaporizers - inside the library or within Pritchard Park.
You may not have, use, or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs inside the library or within Pritchard Park.
Enforcement:
Library staff are here to support a safe and welcoming environment for everyone and will enforce these rules. We understand everyone makes mistakes. Our goal is to handle issues with fairness, compassion, and a focus on learning and accountability—not punishment. If the above policy is violated in general the enforcement will follow these steps.
For policy violations that do not break the law:
First time offenses will result in a conversation with staff about following the policy
2nd or 3rd offenses may lead to being asked to leave for the day
If the behavior persists, this may result in a period of suspended privileges from using the library or trespassing from the library
For illegal activity, criminal violations, situations involving safety risks, or repeated harmful behaviors
911 will be called
Violations will result in trespassing from the library
If you refuse to leave when asked, you may be trespassed permanently.
Restorative Options
If your access to the library has been restricted, you may request a conversation with the Library Director to discuss the situation. To set up a conversation, email or call the Director.