The Amherst College Library is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, pleasant, and productive environment for our community.

The Library does not regulate or restrict what patrons read or view. It resists all efforts to censor library resources. (See section II of the American Library Association Code of Ethics.)

We ask that the community respect and honor communal expectations for use of the Library's shared resources. These expectations include, but are not limited to:

  • Leaving at closing time
  • Refraining from verbal abuse or harassment
  • Respecting the privacy of others, in particular with phone cameras and social media
  • Keeping an eye on one’s personal belongings
  • Respecting the outlined noise levels in designated zones:
    • In Frost Library:
      • 1st and 2nd Floors are Social Zones: collaborative work and conversations (headphones are available at the front desk for computer audio in public spaces)
      • 3rd Floor and A Level are Quiet Zones: individual study and low, brief conversation
      • Levels B and C are Silent Zones: self-monitored silence and individual study
    • The Morgan Music Library and the Keefe Science Library have variable noise levels

The following are examples of behaviors that, because they are illegal or not allowed by college policy, are not permitted:

  • Smoking in or within 25 feet of the building (includes all forms of e-cigarettes)
  • Using substances that are illegal or prohibited by College policy
  • Consuming alcohol, unless it is part of an approved College function
  • Damaging library property, including computers
  • Stealing library materials
  • Exhibitionism
  • Soliciting or canvassing of any kind unless authorized by the College
  • Disregarding the college’s policy around animals in public spaces (no animals except service animals) and policy around animals in designated staff offices (no animals except service animals and dogs registered by Amherst College staff).

Anyone who is experiencing or witnessing a medical or safety emergency should make an immediate report to the Amherst College Police, by calling (413) 542-2111, before notifying library staff. Non-urgent concerns related to library space can be reported directly to available library staff.

Depending on the nature of the infraction, staff response may range from a verbal warning to removal from the building. Community members could also be banned from future use. Additional action may be taken if one does not cooperate with library staff.

 

If you have feedback on this policy, please fill out this form and include the policy name in your comments.

11/2023