Client Code of Conduct
The State Library is committed to providing a welcoming and safe environment for research, study and learning. For your safety, a number of surveillance cameras have been placed in public areas.
This code outlines the conduct we expect from clients. It is based on Library Regulation 2010 made under the Library Act 1939 (NSW).
Your responsibilities
- Treat other clients and Library staff with courtesy and respect showing regard for their needs, sensitivities and rights. Unsociable behaviour, including harassing clients or staff, is not acceptable.
- Children under the age of 12 must be in the company of an adult or Library staff member at all times.
- Leave the Library when requested at closing time and during emergency procedures.
- Inform Library staff immediately if you become aware of any risk or potential risk to people or property.
Bags and belongings
- Bags larger than 25 x 35 x 10 cm cannot be taken into the reading rooms and must be stored in a locker.
- Library staff have the right to inspect your equipment, folders, bags or property as you enter or leave the reading rooms.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended. Any items left unattended will be removed by Security staff.
- The Library is not responsible for any loss or damage that may occur to your belongings.
- Do not place your bags or power cords where they may put clients or staff at risk of injury.
Food and drinks, smoking
- Food and drinks, including bottled water, are not permitted in the reading rooms. You can take covered drinks into the Verandah.
- No smoking on Library premises.
Dress
- Meet acceptable levels of dress and personal cleanliness, in the interests of other clients using the Library.
- Footwear must be worn.
Quiet environment
- Maintain a quiet environment for study. Disruptive behaviour and excessive noise are not acceptable.
- Switch your mobile phone to silent when in the reading rooms. Talking on your mobile phone is not permitted in these areas.
- Headphones are to be used when listening to music or other multimedia. The volume must be at a level that cannot be heard by other clients or staff.
Equipment and Library material
- Do not damage equipment, facilities or furniture. This includes disconnecting Library equipment.
- Damaging Library material in any way, such as marking, cutting or tampering with security tags, is not permitted. Special collection material must be handled according to our guidelines(PDF 35.55KB)
- Do not hide or remove Library material from the reading rooms.
Internet usage
- You are not permitted to access, download or print pornographic or offensive material. You must comply with the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 (NSW).
- Check our Internet usage policy for conditions of use.
Photography and filming
- Permission from Library staff is required before taking photographs or filming in the reading rooms or exhibition areas.
- Flash photography is not permitted.
- Identifiable images of people cannot be included in your photographs or films, without their permission.
The Library also has a Staff Code of Conduct (PDF 69KB).
Clients who do not comply with Library Regulation 2010 and the Client Code of Conduct may be asked to leave the Library or may be refused access to the building.
Download the pdf version (80KB).
Feedback
Comments on this policy are welcome. Please complete a Feedback form, available at the Foyer Inquiry Desk on the Ground Floor, Macquarie St Wing.
Comments on this policy are welcome. Please complete a Feedback form, available at the Foyer Inquiry Desk on the Ground Floor, Macquarie St Wing.
