Hastings District Libraries – Code of Conduct

Our Commitment

Hastings District Libraries are welcoming, inclusive, and safe spaces for everyone. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all visitors and staff. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behaviour within our libraries to ensure a positive experience for all.

Respect for People

• Treat all library users and staff with courtesy and respect.
• Use respectful language and behaviour at all times.
• Disruptive, abusive, threatening behaviour or intoxication will not be tolerated.
• Our library is a vibrant space with many activities, but we ask visitors to keep noise to a minimum in areas where people are reading or studying.
• If you wish to take photos or film in the libraries, please seek prior permission and respect the privacy of individuals and groups.
• We welcome accredited assistance animals in our libraries (with the appropriate identification). Other animals are only permitted onsite by prior arrangement as part of a planned event or programme (e.g. Korero with Kurī).

Respect for the Space

• Help us maintain a clean and safe environment.
• You're welcome to enjoy food and drink in the library - just keep it tidy, avoid strong smells, and be careful around books and equipment.

Respect for Library Property

• Handle books, equipment, and furniture with care.
• Do not remove library materials without checking them out.
• Library equipment must stay on site - please do not take items without permission.

Children and Young People 

• Children under 14 must be actively supervised by a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver at all times.
• Staff may contact Police or Oranga Tamariki if a child is found unattended or unsupervised.
• A “responsible caregiver” must be at least 14 years old and capable of acting in loco parentis.
• Truancy-free zone: School aged children are not permitted to use the public computers during school hours in term time. We acknowledge that some older, confident children may be able to use the library alone for short periods - especially when transiting home from school..

Definitions

• Child: A person under 14 years of age.
• Young Person: A person aged 14 to 16 years.
• Unattended: A child not under the care of a responsible person aged 14 or older.
• Unsupervised: A child whose caregiver is not within sight or sound and not actively ensuring their safety.
• In loco parentis: An individual who assumes parental status and responsibilities for another individual.
• Reasonable provision for supervision and care: Where the child is knowingly left in the care and under the supervision of a responsible guardian who can act in loco parentis.

Legal Responsibilities

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, Hastings District Libraries must ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of all people in our spaces.

Under the Summary Offences Act 1981, it is an offence to leave a child under 14 without making reasonable provision for their care and supervision.

Enforcement

Failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in:

• A verbal warning
• Being asked to leave the premises
• Suspension of library privileges
• Referral to appropriate authorities

Need Help?

If you have questions or concerns, please speak with a member of our library team. We’re here to help.

Online Conduct

Our commitment to respectful behaviour extends to our online spaces. Please refer to our Social Media Code of Conduct for guidelines on engaging with Hastings District Libraries on social platforms.