Law Library Policies, Rules and Regulations
Noise
Conversations should be kept to a quiet level in order to avoid disturbing fellow students and other users. The tables and chairs in the Reference and Circulation areas of the library are for group study; however, conversation should reflect that it is still a library and study area. Your fellow students expect that the carrel/stack areas of the library be quiet; therefore, please refrain from extended conversations in those areas.
Smoking
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products is prohibited in all areas of the library.
Drinks/Food
Beverages are permitted in approved spill-proof containers only. "Snack-type" foods are permitted.
Small Appliances
Small appliances such as coffee makers are not permitted in library carrels.
Re-shelving
Library users are expected to re-shelve their own books before leaving the library.
Telephones
Telephones located at the Circulation Desk, Reference Desk, the Computer Help Desk and in library offices are not for public or student use. An intercom phone is available in the basement from which patrons can call the Circulation Desk for assistance.
Cell Phones and Pagers
Cell phones and pagers may not be used in the Law Library. All patrons should turn off the ring feature on their cellular phones and pagers when entering the library so the noise does not disturb other patrons. If a call is received, it must be taken outside the library immediately.
Paging and Messages
The library does not page patrons. Brief telephone messages will be posted on the bulletin board at the right side of the Circulation Desk. Messages left elsewhere in the library will be removed.
Exit Alarms
The only authorized exit from the library is located on the first floor adjacent to the Circulation Desk. All other exits are to be used in emergencies only. Opening an emergency exit or stepping on the warning mats in front of these doors will activate the alarm system. Intentionally exiting through an unauthorized door is a violation of the University's Code of Conduct and may be a violation of the Law School Honor Code.
Security System
The Law Library uses an electronic security system to prevent unauthorized removal of library materials. Patrons in possession of materials not charged out properly when exiting will set off an alarm. The library entrance is also monitored by surveillance cameras. Attempts to circumvent the security systems are violations of the University's Code of Conduct and may be a violation of the Law School Honor Code.
Fines
Fines for overdue materials are assessed on the following schedules:
- Reserve Materials- $0.50 per hour while the library is open.
- Non-Reserve Materials- $0.50 per book for each day overdue. Maximum fine is $25.00 per book.
- Lost Book- Circulating materials more than four months overdue will be declared lost and the patron will be charged the cost of the book and a $5.00 processing fee plus all accrued fines.
Vandalism
The unauthorized removal, mutilation or abuse of library equipment and materials is prohibited. Such acts are a violation of law under Title 42.1 of the Code of Virginia.
Violations
Violations of the rules may result in suspension of the user's library privileges and could subject law students to sanctions under the Law School Honor Code or the University's Code of Conduct. Copies of these Codes are kept on reserve at the Circulation Desk for students' convenience. The Law School Honor Code is also available online.
Parking
University Parking Services will ticket unregistered vehicles in the Law School parking lot. If you are here to use library materials for a short time period, you may obtain a temporary parking permit from the library staff. For a more extended time, visitors may obtain passes, free of charge, by contacting Parking Services in the University's Special Programs Building by calling (804) 289-8703 or via e-mail at parkingservices@richmond.edu.
Pets
Animals are not allowed in the library.