You might think that everyone knows how to use a library, but that is not the case.Maintaining discipline is part of the job when you work at a library, and we have listed several useful suggestions for handling rule breakers in a helpful, equitable and effective manner.You don't have to act like a drill sergeant to get the job done!
Step 1: Gain respect for your authority with enthusiasm.
When patrons walk in, ask if there is anything you can do to help.Making it clear that your primary responsibility is to help every visitor has a positive library experience is an important part of your job.Allow them to see that you enjoy what you do.Make it clear that you are not intimidating.Before problems arise, patrons may seek you out.
Step 2: The code of conduct should be easy to find.
Post the rules prominently in the library and make them easy to find on the website.The first time you meet with a group of students in a school library, make sure you understand the rules.If you greet a visitor and ask if they need help, you might say: "Are you a first-timer at our library?"If so, please take a look at the library rules posted right here and please feel free to ask me any questions.
Step 3: Rules need to be updated so they make sense today.
Without losing what makes them special, libraries cannot be stuck in the past and need to change with the times.20 years ago, a blanket "no cell phone" policy may have made sense, but it may not have been the best idea.You can make reasonable changes to the code of conduct if you have the power.It is important that you enforce the rules that are currently in place, even if you can make them fair, timely, and reasonable.Ignore a clearly-posted rule if you think it is outdated or silly.
Step 4: Don't be an authoritarian if you take your responsibilities seriously.
Establishing your authority doesn't mean walking around with your arms crossed and scowling.You can demonstrate that you accept the responsibility of your position by using your words and actions.Make it clear that you will ensure they are followed once you make sure everyone knows the rules.You can tell a group of students that librarians are helpers and that their job is to help library visitors get the most out of their experience here.I have to stop disruptive behavior in the library.
Step 5: Act in a positive way instead of reacting late.
Don't wait for problems to arise and respond to them if you anticipate that a visiting group of young kids is going to be a disruption to the other library patrons.If you engage with the group from the beginning, you can find ways to keep them occupied.In the kids section of the library, you can pass out activity sheets or lead an impromptu story time.
Step 6: You can maintain your authority if you treat patrons fairly.
If you enforce the library's code of conduct differently, you will not have your authority respected.Make it clear that everyone has to follow the rules.It is true that no two situations are the same, so do your best to approach disruptions and rule-breaking in a consistent manner and to dole out equitable consequences.If your library has a policy of three strikes and you're out, don't give one patron an advantage over the other.If you approach disruptions by a 5-year old and a 15- year old differently, don't treat two teenagers who are causing the same disruptions differently.
Step 7: If you offer a chance for improvement, you should state the consequences.
When you see a violation of the library's rules, respond calmly, positively, and immediately.If the problem continues, identify what they are doing that is against the rules, offer a positive solution, and warn them what will have to happen.Be a problem-solver and a helpers.You could say the following: "I'm sorry, but food and drink is not allowed in this area because we're worried about possible damage and distraction."I will reserve the computer so you can have a snack on the patio and come back to it.You need to put the snack away.
Step 8: If possible, have a second library when possible.
Teaming up with another librarian increases your authority.It offers protection from the rule breaker's allegations that you targeted them unfairly.Discipline can be maintained even if you don't have a "wingman" available to assist you.
Step 9: If the problem continues, you need to enforce the consequences.
It is easy to tell a disruptive patron what will happen, but it can be difficult to follow through.Remember that your job is to ensure that all the other library visitors have a positive experience, even if you are the bad guy.If you don't follow through, you'll lose authority and respect.If you told a patron they would have to leave if they continued to talk loudly on their phone and bother other patrons, do exactly that.For the sake of the other people in the library, I have to tell you to leave and stay away.
Step 10: If a person is threatening you or others, you should get help.
When a potentially dangerous situation arises, follow your library's security protocols.If you are threatened by a disgruntled patron, immediately contact security or the police.Library discipline can be maintained if you don't risk your own safety.