Approved By:                                             Larry Sall, Dean of Libraries

 

Purpose

 

The purpose of this policy is to offer a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for the patrons at the McDermott Library, University of Texas at Dallas. The following policy ensures that we keep the library clean, making it a pleasant, inviting location for everyone.

 

Policy

 

Drink

             

  • Approved containers are reusable, sturdy, leak-free (travel mugs, or sports bottles) re-closable (screw top), sized for individual use, and inoffensive to fellow patrons.

 

  • Unacceptable containers are aluminum cans, glass bottles, leaking containers, uncovered containers, and temporary containers (paper cups, styrofoam containers).

 

  • Beverages such as water, sodas, fruit juices, coffee, etc. are allowed in approved containers in designated areas.

 

 

  • Alcoholic beverages of any kind are prohibited.

 

  • Drinks may not be consumed by patrons in any posted areas of the library.  They may not be consumed in the Special Collections Department (except for library functions), and in areas where electronic equipment (computers, microform readers, copy machines, etc.) is in use.

 

  • Drinks should be disposed of in the restroom sinks.

 

  • Empty containers are to be discarded in trash receptacles located throughout the library.  There should be no evidence of drink consumption when an area is vacated by the patron.

 

  • The responsibility for spills rests with the patron.  For the safety of other patrons, we ask patrons to clean up any spills that may occur. Please clean up any spill immediately.  If the extent of the spill exceeds your ability, a spill kit will be available at the Circulation Desk.  If the Circulation Desk has resources available, they may be enlisted to help in removing the spill.  Housekeeping will be notified of any spills of this nature. 

 

  • Patrons are responsible for any damage they cause. 

 

  • Patrons violating this policy will be asked to remove their drinks or food from the library.

 

  • The library is not responsible for unattended drinks; they may be discarded.

 

 

 

Food

 

  • Snack foods, such as chips, nuts, pretzels, cookies, and candy are allowed in most areas in the library, if consumed responsibly.

 

  • Please be considerate of others when bringing drinks and food into the library; avoid foods with strong aromas.

 

  • Hot foods, fast food, or meals must be consumed in the lobby or the lower level of the library.

 

  • Library patrons are responsible for the disposal of their own trash.

 

  • Food deliveries for offices in the library will be picked up at the Information Desk by a representative of that office.

 

  • Sticky items such as gum and lollipops are not allowed.

 

Compliance

 

  • McDermott Library needs users to be responsible in their consumption of drinks and food and to be careful and protective of library materials.

 

  • Keep in mind that drinks and food can damage books, equipment, and furniture.

 

  • Be considerate; avoid messy foods or foods with strong aromas.

 

  • Unacceptable drinks and food must be consumed in the lobby or the lower level of the library.

 

  • Unattended drinks or food will be removed and discarded.

 

  • Properly dispose of leftovers, empty containers, and wrappers in the nearest trash receptacle.

 

  • ”Group/party foods” are inappropriate in the library (pizzas, cakes, etc.).

 

  • Food deliveries for offices in the library will be picked up at the Information Desk by a representative of that office.

 

  • Alcoholic beverages of any kind are prohibited.

 

  • In the event of damage to library materials or facilities by drinks or food, the person causing the damage may be charged for repair or replacement.

 

  • Patrons violating this policy will be asked to remove drinks and food from the library.

 

  • In the event of inappropriate behavior, UT-Dallas Police will be called to intervene.