Library Community Standards and Expectations

The George Mason University Libraries seek to provide all patrons with a welcoming, comfortable, and safe environment that promotes free intellectual exploration, research, and learning. The University Libraries offer well-managed, diverse collections of library resources and a knowledgeable and professional staff to serve George Mason University students, faculty, and staff, as well as researchers and alumni. Members of the community are also welcome to use library facilities, consistent with George Mason University Libraries’ Circulation and Off Campus Access Policies.

Use of the George Mason University Libraries is a privilege, not a right. All Library patrons are expected to follow all Library policies, including the Libraries’ commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Failure to comply may be grounds for removal from the Libraries on a temporary or permanent basis.

Library Users:

  • Contribute to a space conducive to learning by following library noise policies and using the spaces best suited for their needs.
  • Respect other library users, library resources and property, and library staff.
  • Take care of any library computer, furniture, equipment, or materials, borrow them properly through the Information Desk, and do not maliciously access, alter, damage, or destroy library property.
  • Follow library staff direction regarding the library’s resources, policies, equipment, and spaces.
  • Silence their phones and move to appropriate spaces amenable to the noise level when they need to make or take a call.
  • Do not engage in disruptive activity that interferes with normal library use and operations or unacceptable behavior, which includes, but is not limited to, verbal abuse, intimidation, or harassment of other library users, staff, and faculty.

In the Libraries:

  • Users are responsible for personal property. Do not leave your belongings unattended (see the Lost Items Policy). The University Libraries is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal property.
  • Food and covered beverages, within reason, are generally permitted, however:
    • Please check with the location you are visiting for site-specific policies.
    • Please do not bring food or beverages into Special Collections Research Center, or near any computer workstations or other easily damaged library equipment.
    • Please be considerate of others regarding mess, smells, or noise in the food or beverages you bring.
  • Individuals under the age of 16 must be supervised by a responsible adult, such as a parent or guardian. Proof of age may be requested by library staff as deemed appropriate.
  • Users are expected to clean up after themselves - disposing of trash and recycling appropriately and notifying library staff of any spills or other damage found.
  • Smoking, vaping, etc., are strictly prohibited.
  • Animals, other than service animals, individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, are not allowed.
  • Users are expected to follow university and library policies regarding the use of technology, including appropriate online usage, specifically regarding viewing sexually explicit materials.