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How to Act in a Library

In addition to housing thousands of books available for reading, libraries are also institutions that encourage studying and provide a wide variety of tools; such as computers and the Internet, films, microfilm, video tapes, cassettes, newspapers, archives and much more. To aid patrons with their studies and reading, libraries are known to encourage silence and quiet, respectable behavior. Visiting any type of library - whether it be public, academic, or other - requires a specific code of conduct. Here are some tips on how to properly behave and act in a library.

Method One of Four:
Practice silence; be quiet or speak in hushed tones.Edit

1
As a place of study, many people find libraries the ideal location for studying or completing business or academic work. Make sure to whisper or speak in extremely low tones at all times.
2
If you run into somebody you know, take your conversation into the lobby or outside of the library to avoid disrupting others.
3
Turn your cell phone off or put it on a silent or vibration setting. Under no circumstances should you ever have a cell phone conversation inside the library.
4
If you are listening to music or audio through headphones, make sure the volume is low enough to where it is inaudible to others.

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Method Two of Four:
Refrain from eating or drinking in the library.Edit

1
Eating can be a noisy process, especially if you are chewing loudly or eating from bags that crinkle or rustle. Make sure you eat snacks in a designated section of the library away from others who are studying or reading.
2
Eating and drinking in the library is also potentially risky because it may harm materials, especially books and computers. Food can also attract unwanted pests.

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Method Three of Four:
Treat library materials and property with respect.Edit

1
Refrain from highlighting passages in books or materials because not only is it considered defacing property, but highlighting passages also makes text hard to read when making copies.
2
Do not damage or deface library materials by writing on them with pen or pencil or tearing covers or pages out of books.

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Method Four of Four:
Avoid all other disruptive behavior.Edit

1
Always utilize library furniture for studying and reading; never rearrange library furniture or use it for napping or sleeping.
2
Library restrooms should be never be used for showering or washing your clothes.
3
Always refrain from entering the library if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4
Proper clothing should be worn at all times and you should never remove socks or shoes to make yourself more comfortable.
5
Be respectful of space; in other words, be modest with desk and seating space without widely scattering your study materials or belongings.

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TipsEdit

If you are studying with others in a group prone to making conversation, reserve a study room to avoid disturbing others.

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If you feel the need to write in library materials, use sticky notes instead because they can be easily removed and saved.

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WarningsEdit

Making pencil or pen markings in books and materials is also disrespectful in the sense that they may be divert attention from or be distracting for others in their own studies.

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