Library Use and Conduct Policy
Rutgers University Libraries provide access to shared resources that support thousands of students, faculty, staff, and community members each day. Our priority is to provide services and materials for current Rutgers students, faculty, and staff. We also take pride in serving the broader community, and this policy is intended to foster a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for all our patrons.
As members of an academic community, both library users and employees share the responsibility of sustaining a scholarly environment. In situations where the scholarly nature of an activity is in question, library employees will make thoughtful, policy-based decisions.
As a library user, you have the responsibility to:
- Comply with library and university policies, and with employees' directions and requests related to those policies.
- Maintain a scholarly environment free from discrimination, intimidation, and harassment. This includes but is not limited to:
- Treating other library users and employees with dignity and respect.
- Respecting the privacy and confidentiality of other library users and employees.
- Abiding by the Libraries’ and the university’s acceptable computer use policies.
- Refraining from bringing animals into library spaces unless they are Service Animals or they are specifically allowed under Rutgers University Policy 30.1.5: Pets at the University.
- Using only designated locations to consume food and drink. Please see the links below for food and drink policies at each location:
- Using only designated locations to secure bicycles and scooters outside library spaces.
- Refraining from soliciting in library spaces, which is prohibited.
- Posting signs, notices, and flyers only in accordance with Rutgers University Libraries Bulletin Board Policy.
- Entering non-public areas only with library employee permission.
- Checking out library materials before removing them from library spaces.
- Maintaining library spaces and furniture free from hazards and debris and returning furniture and equipment to original configurations.
- Never consuming alcohol, using drugs, smoking, or using any tobacco products or electronic cigarettes in any library location. These behaviors are strictly prohibited in accordance with Rutgers University Policy 60.1.11 Alcohol and Other Drugs and Rutgers University Policy 20.1.22: Tobacco Free Policy.
- Use library spaces in a way that does not disrupt the scholarly environment. This includes but is not limited to:
- Using library spaces for their designated purposes.
- Not using library facilities for residential purposes (e.g., sleeping, bathing, cooking, camping).
- Not detracting from the scholarly environment with disruptive noise, odors, and behaviors.
- Not using language or action that is intimidating or disrespectful to users and employees.
- Overseeing and maintaining control of your personal belongings.
- Taking photographs and videotaping only in accordance with Rutgers University Libraries guidelines.
Procedures for maintaining a scholarly environment
Policies and expectations may vary among and within library building spaces. Rutgers University Libraries employees will identify themselves when asking that users comply with library and university policy. If users do not comply with an initial request or if they violate the policy repeatedly, library employees may take additional measures. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Asking to see a photo ID.
- Issuing a verbal or written warning.
- Requesting assistance from university police and, if necessary, asking the user to leave library spaces.
- Reporting problems to the appropriate university office or official.
In all cases, library employees will be respectful of the rights of all users in working to maintain a scholarly environment. Users who engage in serious violations may lose the privilege of using Rutgers University Libraries, be subject to university-imposed discipline, charged for damage to materials or equipment, and/or be subject to arrest and criminal prosecution. The Libraries follow all relevant and applicable Rutgers University policies.
Text adapted with permission of the University of Oregon Libraries. Approved by the Rutgers University Libraries Library Leadership Team, August 2025.