Library Policies

The Libraries are supported by the taxes of the people of Spokane who expect each of our facilities to be clean, comfortable, and safe places for selecting materials, reading, researching, studying, writing, and attending programs and meetings. To this end, the Library has policies to protect the rights and safety of Library patrons, volunteers, and staff, and for preserving and protecting the Library’s materials, equipment, facilities, and grounds. In addition, the Library has a strong commitment to intellectual freedom and to freedom of access to information.

Most policies are PDF documents.  You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documents.

Behavior Standards

Rules of Conduct - rules of behavior when using library facilities

Safe Child Policy - information on unaccompanied children and caregiver responsibilities

Smoking Policy - smoking prohibited in any library facility

Volunteering Policy - selection and behavior rules for volunteers

Using the Library

Fines and Fees Policy  

Fine and Fee Schedule

Internet Policy - rules on using our Internet computers at the library
Library Card Policy - rules for getting a library card

Public Service Parameters - definitions and limits of using our research services

Uncollectible Patron Accounts Policy - rules on the use of a collection agency for unreturned library materials

Library Materials

Collection Development Policy - our policy on adding, maintaining, and discarding library materials

Freedom to Read

Freedom to View

Fuller Collection Materials Use Policy - rules on accessing our rare books collection

Use of Public Spaces

Administration of Meeting Room Use Policy - meeting room rules and fees

Assistive Equipment Policy - use of equipment for handicapped individuals

Computer Laboratory Use Policy - rules for using our Gates Computer Lab at the Downtown Library

Display of Printed Materials in Public Display Areas Policy - rules on handouts that can be displayed in the library

In-Library Use of Audiovisual Materials and Equipment Policy - use of headphones and other audiovisual equipment in the library

Meeting Room Use Policy - what types of organizations and programs can use our meeting room facilities

Special Collection Seating Policy - seating rules in the Genealogy, Children's, and Northwest Room collections of the Downtown Library

Use of Exhibit Spaces Policy - using library exhibit areas for artwork and other displays

General Administration

Confidentiality of Customer Information - the library's privacy policies

Public Records: Inspection & Copying

Revised Code of Washington: How Libraries are Established

Revised Code of Washington: Library Trustees - their organization, bylaws, powers, and duties

Spokane Public Library Board of Trustees Bylaws
Spokane Public Library Code of Ethics

Mission and Values

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