USEK Library strives to provide an environment that is pleasant and conducive to study and research for all members of the University; and it is staffed by individuals who respond to service requests with courtesy and respect.
To ensure this setting is maintained, the Library has put in place the following rules and regulations to be observed by all users.
1. General Policies:
- Library users are expected to help keep the Library clean and tidy by using the bins and recycling facilities provided;
- Library users are expected to behave in a courteous and considerate manner towards other users and Library staff and comply with any instructions issued by them;
- Library users are not permitted to reserve seats in public reading areas; items on unoccupied seats will be removed by Library staff.
2. Identification:
- Library users must have their USEK ID card at hand while in the Library and present it at the request of Library staff;
- Library users have to present their USEK ID card at the Circulation Desk in order to borrow any item;
- Library users are not permitted to lend their cards to other individuals for personal use or to borrow books on their behalf.
3. Inspection of Possessions:
- The Library reserves the right to inspect possessions at entrances/exits;
- Library users may be requested to submit all bags and folders to be inspected by Library staff, especially upon the activation of the security barrier alarm.
4. Priority Use:
- USEK Library gives priority to faculty, students, and staff who are using library resources for research, instructional, and informational purposes. Thus, at peak times, individuals using the Library for casual or recreational purposes may be asked to relinquish their place to other users;
- Library users with a valid USEK ID card or library card may use the Library during operating hours;
- The general public may use the Library when resources are not in use by or reserved for USEK users.
5. Noiseless Zones:
- Silent Area: No conversation, no disturbance, cell phone on silent and vibrate off; use earphones with electronics;
- Quiet Area: Low-volume (whispered) conversation level, minimal disturbance, cell phone silent and vibrate on, use earphones with electronics.
6. Food and Beverages
- Food and beverages (except drinks mentioned below) are not allowed in the Library;
- Bottled water with a closed top is allowed, but no other liquids that can cause damage to materials;
- Drinks in travel mugs with secure tops are permitted.
7. Smoking
- Smoking is not permitted in the Library according to the University no-smoking policy on Campus.
8. Theft and Mutilation:
- Library users are not allowed to deface, mutilate, or destroy Library materials; in case of serious offences, they are subject to penalties such as fines, replacement costs and/or disciplinary action;
- Library users are responsible for borrowed materials until such time as the items are returned to the Library, and they will be charged for any loss or damage, however caused;
- Library users are not permitted to deface or damage Library furnishings, fittings and equipment; actions that are liable to cause damage – e.g. placing feet on furniture – are not permitted.
9. Circulation Policies:
- Library users can find information about the Borrowing Policy on the Library website or at the Circulation Desk;
- Library users will be fined for overdue loans; individuals with any outstanding debts will have their access to all Library facilities, services and benefits suspended, including future University registration privileges, transcripts, and diplomas until fines/fees are paid;
- Library users can file an appeal if they believe an error in a financial charge has been made, or a unique situation made it difficult to return or renew materials on time;
- Graduating students must return all outstanding items and clear all outstanding debts by advertised deadlines; otherwise, their graduation will be postponed.
10. Posting Notices:
- Notices and signs having the official stamp or signature of USEK administrative bodies may be posted on public boards;
- The Library reserves the right to remove postings that are outdated or inappropriate.
11. Lost and Found:
- Any item left behind in the Library will be cleared away and sent to the Lost Property Section in the Student Affairs Office.
- The Library accepts no responsibility for personal belongings left in the building.
12. Personal Property
- The Library is not responsible for theft, damage, or loss of personal property in reading areas, study rooms, stacks area or offices.
- Library users should take every precaution to ensure the security of personal belongings, especially purses, wallets, backpacks, books, portable computers, and other electronic devices.
13. Privacy
- In recognition of the individual's right to privacy, the Library does not release information about borrowers or materials borrowed, except under extreme measures at the request of the University Administration.
14. Copyright:
- In supporting teaching, learning, and research on campus, USEK complies with the Lebanese Law on the Protection of Literary and Artistic Property, as enacted and amended on April 3, 1999, and entered into force on June 6, 1999;
- Library users have to abide by the laws and read updates and notices posted on the Library webpage and next to CPS machines in the Library.
15. Children:
- USEK Library is not responsible for the safety of children left unattended in any part of the Library;
- If necessary, Library staff will contact parents of unattended children;
- Library collections and services are not designed to meet the needs of children;
- During school field trips, children must be accompanied by a teacher or other school personnel;
- At all other times, children must be accompanied by an adult.
16. Disruptive Behavior:
- Offending individuals will be asked to cease their disruptive behavior;
- Library staff reserve the right to carry out any of the following actions if the individual does not comply:
- Ask the offending individuals to leave the Library premises;
- Ask the offending individuals to produce identification;
- Call University Security if the offending individuals are resisting staff instructions;
- Revoke library privileges of the offending individuals in cases of serious offences and violations.
17. Animals
- Animals (with the exception of assistance animals) are not permitted in the Library.