Library staff is committed to providing the best possible customer service in an open and inviting atmosphere, and the Tom Green County Library Code of Conduct is designed to ensure this atmosphere is maintained at all times. 

Violations of the Code of Conduct or procedures may result in the expulsion of individuals from county premises and/or criminal prosecution. 

In keeping with the county's commitment to customer service and the provision of a safe and inviting atmosphere, the following guidelines are set forth to define those activities that are inappropriate for our users and prohibited.  Library staff will enforce these guidelines in a consistent and impartial manner. 
The following behaviors, conduct and activities are expressly prohibited: 

Prohibited behaviors under the Texas Penal Code: 

• Recklessly damaging or destroying county materials or property. 
• Gambling in any form on county property. (Texas Penal Code § 47.02)  
• Making offensive gestures, cursing or using obscene, abusive, profane or threatening language. (Texas Penal Code § 42.01)   
•  Displaying or distributing obscene material. (Texas Penal Code § 43.22 and § 43.24)  
• Engaging in acts of sexual misconduct, including, but not limited to, indecent exposure, sexual contact and sexual intercourse. (Texas Penal Code § 21.07 and 21.08)  
• Stalking other customers or staff including looking into an area, such as a restroom, that is designed to provide privacy to a person using the area. (Texas Penal Code § 42.01 and § 42.072) 
• Exhibiting signs of being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. (Texas Penal Code § 49.02)  
• Displaying firearms or other deadly weapons on county property in a manner calculated to alarm.  Exemptions from this prohibition are recognized for Law Enforcement Officers and individuals licensed to carry handguns in accordance with state law. (Texas Penal Code § 42.01 and § 30.06e)  
• Engaging in physical altercations, including assaults and fighting. (Texas Penal Code § 22.01)  

Behaviors expressly prohibited by library policy: 

• Entering or remaining in a county building before or after posted hours of operation without the express permission of the Department Director’s designee.  
• Smoking or using tobacco products in county buildings.
• Entering into staff work areas not open to the public.  
• Littering.  
• Consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages on library premises.