Code of Conduct

Users of the library are participants in a shared public space and are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and considerate manner.   

Together we are responsible for ensuring the library is a welcoming space for everyone.  When accessing Annapolis Valley Regional Library services, at a branch, in a community space, or online, we ask that you:

Respect others

• Everyone has the right to equal treatment without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, immigration status, socio-economic status, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, culture, ethnicity, language, religious affiliation, beliefs, age, or any other prohibited grounds under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act. 
• Disruptive conduct that interferes with others’ enjoyment of the Library, or with Library operations, is not permitted.
• Abusive, harassing, and violent conduct is not permitted.
  
• You are welcome to record your library visit, provided you respect the privacy of others by asking permission before including them in photos or videos. Contact library staff if you are interested in photographing or filming inside a Library branch for professional or commercial purposes.  
• Don’t leave children requiring supervision unattended on library premises. Parents or guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of their children while they are using the library, and ensuring they comply with this policy and all library policies. 

Respect library spaces and materials

• Enjoy library property and materials as intended, without destruction, damage, or defacement.
• Refrain from soliciting, canvassing, or unauthorized selling.
• Ensure personal items are kept safe, as the Library is not responsible for lost or damaged personal property.
• Don’t bring your pet to the library.  Service animals are always welcome at the Library. 

Applying the Code of Conduct

To maintain a welcoming and enjoyable environment for Library users and staff, the Library has the right and obligation to enforce the Code of Conduct in a fair and consistent manner.  When a violation of the Code of Conduct occurs, Library staff have discretion in determining whether a person’s access to library space and services will be suspended, the duration of the suspension, and will take into consideration the severity of the misconduct, the circumstances surrounding the incident and any mitigating factors. Suspensions from one day to one year are possible. 

Appealing a Suspension 

Any person who has been given a suspension, can appeal in writing to the Library using the following process. 

How to Appeal 

The designated library staff contact information for submitting an appeal will be included in the suspension letter. 

The person may appeal by using the Suspension Appeal/Reinstatement form or by writing a letter with the following information:

• Name
• Address where they can be contacted/phone number/Library card number (if available)
• Space(s) from which they were suspended and date of suspension
• Reason for appeal 

The decision of the designated library staff is final and there are no further steps in the appeals process.

Please review our Code of Conduct Policy for additional information.

Requesting Reinstatement of Library Privileges

Any person who has been given a one year suspension must request reinstatement of library privileges.

How to Request Reinstatement

Requests for reinstatement of library privileges are submitted to the Regional Branch Manager. 

The person may request reinstatement of library privileges by using the Suspension Appeal/Reinstatement form or by writing a letter with the following information:

• Name
• Address where they can be contacted/phone number/Library card number (if available)
• Space(s) from which they were suspended and date of suspension
• Reason for request 

The decision of the Regional Branch Manager is final and there are no further steps in the request for reinstatement process.