Visitor Guidelines

Western Libraries seeks to provide a welcoming and safe environment for visitors to its virtual and physical (e.g. Wilson, Haggard Hall, and Goltz-Murray Archives buildings) spaces. This includes access to well-managed and diverse library collections and the assistance and expertise of its knowledgeable staff. The following expectations are intended to ensure a safe and secure environment for all users. Students must also comply with the Student Conduct Code. 

Individuals will:

  • Use computers and online resources within the guidelines of Western Libraries Computer Use Policy and Western Washington University’s Academic Technology and User Services Ethical Conduct with WWU Network And Computing Resources policy.
  • Adhere to policies governing appropriate use of University identification and present University identification or alternate ID upon request.
  • Limit use of the Libraries to authorized areas only.
  • Respond to security gate alarms, emergency alarms, and other situations as instructed by Libraries staff.
  • Dispose of waste appropriately and leave their work area clean of food or drink debris. Food and drink are permitted in most areas of the library complex.
  • Comply with all Federal, State, and local laws, in addition to University, Libraries, and State Archives policies.

Individuals will not engage in prohibited activities, including but not limited to:

  • Entering or remaining in the library after hours.
  • Altering or damaging personal property or Libraries buildings, furniture, materials or equipment, including computer systems, networks, programs, or data.
  • Removal of library property without proper checkout or authorization.
  • Disrupting, disturbing, or interfering with the ability of students to learn or university officials to perform their assigned duties, such as but not limited to: classroom activities or other educational pursuits; or official University activities or functions including, but not limited to, ceremonies, meetings, office functions, or performances.
  • Sexual offenses including, but not limited to harassment, indecent exposure, unwanted touching, and inappropriate sexual advances.
  • Use of alcohol, tobacco or related nicotine products including e-cigarettes, or controlled substances.
  • Possessing firearms and other dangerous weapons, except as stipulated in Washington Administrative Code 516-52-020.
  • Bringing pets, emotional support animals, or any animals that are not service animals into Libraries facilities.
  • Bringing bicycles into the buildings.
  • Violation of U.S. Copyright Law, and the use or dissemination of content from licensed electronic resources in ways that violate licensing agreements.
  • Any other activity or conduct in violation of federal, state, or local law or ordinance, or university regulation, including those established in Title 516 of the Washington Administrative Code.

Enforcement

  • Libraries users found in violation of these expectations may be:
  • Asked to present identification to Libraries staff.
  • Subject to a search of backpacks or bags.
  • Directed to leave the premises.
  • Suspended from access to all Libraries facilities for a period of time.


Western Libraries staff may contact University Police to report violations of policy when warranted. Disciplinary or legal action may be taken in accordance with applicable federal, state, city, and University laws and policies.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Western Washington University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and parenting status), disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or genetic information in its programs or activities. Inquiries may be directed to the Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity & Employment Diversity, Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Equal Opportunity Office, WWU, Old Main 345, MS 9021, 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360.650.3307 (voice) or 711 (Washington Relay); eoo@wwu.edu.