PURPOSE:
In order to maintain a safe and welcoming environment, OPL requires patrons to comply with the following rules regarding food and drink in or on library premises.
POLICY:
Eating food or consuming beverages in the library is permitted in all areas except where prohibited. Prohibited areas include designated areas where food or drink might damage OPL property, such as public computer stations, around library equipment, and in the Genealogy and Local History Room.
Drinking non-alcoholic beverages and other liquids from spill-proof cups, cans, or screw-top containers is allowed. Open containers are not allowed.
Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in or on OPL premises. Exceptions may be made for authorized library functions only.
Tobacco products of any kind and smoking in any form are not allowed inside OPL premises. They are only allowed in designated outdoor areas. Tobacco products should be disposed of in the receptacles provided.
Patrons are expected to “leave no trace” of food or beverages and take responsibility for maintaining a clean and pleasant environment by removing crumbs, wiping off sticky surfaces, and cleaning up after themselves. Properly disposing of trash in proper receptacles or removing trash from the building is required.
Patrons who cannot adequately remove the food or drink spills should report incidents to library staff so that prompt action can be taken to minimize the damages.
Unattended food or drink may be removed and discarded at staff discretion.
IMPLEMENTATION
OPL staff reserves the right to ask anyone who disregards the above conditions to immediately remove their food or drink from the OPL building or to leave the building.
Approved by the Board of Trustees
of the Omaha Public Library October 20, 2010
Re-approved July 18, 2019
Updated June 26, 2023
