Building Use Policy

The Musselman Library serves many constituencies in the University, community, and state.   With this building use policy, our goal is to promote responsible user behavior in order to meet everyone s need for service and comfort while protecting library materials, furniture, equipment, and the building.

Food and Drink
See the separate Food and Drink Policy for more information.

Alcohol and Tobacco Use
The use of alcohol and tobacco is not permitted on the Bluffton University campus.

Noise in Public Areas
All library staff and users should respect the rights of others to study and work in peace. In consideration of others, persons in the library are asked to conduct cell phone conversations quietly and away from other users for any extended conversations. Headphones/ear buds must be used when listening to personal audio devices. The Reading Room is reserved for quiet study space. Groups are encouraged to work together in the fourth floor Seminar Room when classes are not in session or in the Nord Room.

Cell Phones
The Musselman Library is committed to providing a welcoming environment that is conducive to study, research, consultation, and collaboration. When entering the library, please set cell phones and other electronic devices to the silent or vibrate mode. Conversations should be conducted quietly and with courtesy for other library users. Extended conversations should be taken outside the library or limited to library locations away from other users.

Destroying or Damaging Library Materials and Equipment
Individuals who deface, destroy, or attempt to steal library materials and equipment will be asked to give library staff their identification card for photocopying, and the incident will be reported to the appropriate college administrator.

Animals
No animals, except service dogs, are allowed in the Library.

Paging and Telephone Calls
The Library does not have a paging system, but staff will attempt to locate people in the building in the event of an emergency.  A public phone is available to users in the Library lobby.

Posting Notices
The only public location in the Musselman Library for the posting of notices (other than official library items) is the bulletin board located in the stairwell near the Musselman Library entrance. Anyone wishing to post an announcement must bring the item to the Circulation Desk for approval. The circulation supervisor or a reference librarian will date and initial the item before adding to the bulletin board. Unapproved postings will be removed.