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Library Services seek to provide a safe, secure and appropriate study environment for the benefit of all service users.

The Code of Conduct details the rules in place and is a general statement of the conduct we expect from users of our library facilities and services. Acceptance of this Code is confirmed when you agree to the University's regulations as part of your online registration, in particular Senate Regulation 12 (Library Services and Information Technology Services).

It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the code and to observe it.

The library community

You are expected to treat Library Services staff and fellow users with dignity and respect. The University will not tolerate antisocial behaviour. This includes:

  • Demeaning, abusive, indecent or offensive language or comments
  • Shouting and/or use of aggressive or inappropriate gestures
  • Threatening behaviour or physical harassment
  • Comments that discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexuality, disability, religion or any other grounds.

Such behaviour will result in an immediate ban from all services and will be referred under the Student Disciplinary procedures.

The library environment

Noise

  • Silence must be observed in all silent study spaces. Where group study space is provided, conversations must be kept at a quiet level
  • Mobile phones must be set to silent mode before entering any Library Services area
  • Mobile phone calls are permitted in group study spaces if they do not cause disturbance to other library users. Calls are not permitted in any other areas.

Eating and drinking

  • Cold snacks and hot or cold drinks are permitted, but hot food must not be consumed in any area
  • All litter should be disposed of in the bins provided and study spaces should be kept in a tidy condition.

Photography and filming

  • The taking of photographs and filming are not permitted in any Library Services area, except with written permission from the Head of User Services and/or Assistant Vice-President for Library Services.

Your library account and resources

Library transactions

  • No transactions may be undertaken without your City card (ID card)
  • Use of your City card is non-transferable
  • You are liable for any transactions on your card and items on loan to you.

Use of resources

  • Your account is for your sole use only and other people must not use it.
  • Online resources (e-journals, e-books and databases) must only be accessed through your own City username and password or other login credentials provided by Library Services.  Access details must not be shared with any other parties.
  • Use of online resources (e-journals, e-books and databases) must conform to the Copyright Regulations indicated by each publisher or supplier
  • Copies of print material can only be made in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act (1988)
  • The Library Services Online Resources Access and Use Policy gives full details of use access level rights and the acceptable use of subscribed online resources.

Your safety and security

City card (your ID card)

  • Your City card must be in your possession at all times when on City premises and shown when requested by members of City staff or library security staff.

It is unacceptable to:

  • Gain access to library facilities by means other than the designated entrance
  • Gain access to library facilities by means of a City card other than your own or allow someone else to use your City card.

To ensure your safety and security whilst using the library spaces, we operate closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras and engage staff to undertake routine patrols.

To ensure your own security and that of your belongings, please follow these guidelines:

  • Do not leave your property and valuables unattended. Keep them with you always. Unattended bags will be considered a security risk and may be removed
  • Be vigilant and report anybody acting suspiciously
  • Ensure that you pack up your belongings and leave the library before closing time
  • Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes and, in the event of an emergency, follow any instructions given to you by staff. It is your responsibility to follow City’s Health and Safety procedures.

Theft and vandalism

  • When you leave the library, make sure that all the books or other materials you are carrying have been checked out to your library account.
  • If the exit alarm sounds, you may be required to allow staff to search your bag and / or person
  • If you discover that property belonging to City has been vandalised, report it to a member of staff immediately
  • Vandalism of any university property or premises is subject to disciplinary action.

The University community

We expect that your conduct whilst visiting other libraries meets the local policies and regulations in place, and, if relevant, any or all of the issues highlighted above. This includes membership of SCONUL Access and any reciprocal arrangements at other University of London institutions.

Action taken after a breach of the code

Serious or persistent breaches of the Library Services Code of Conduct may result in suspension from the use of and access to library services and resources and will be dealt with under the University disciplinary procedures.