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Seaside Library board begins overhaul of behavior policy as city considers exclusions ordinance
Summary
Board members discussed reorganizing the library's policy manual and starting with a new behavior policy, citing a proposed citywide exclusions ordinance and the need for clearer classifications and consistent enforcement; no formal policy vote was taken.
Library Director Jennifer Reddy told the Seaside Library Board at its meeting that the board should break its single, consolidated policy manual into separate policies with scheduled review cycles and that the board should begin with a rewrite of the behavior policy.
"Having a clear behavior policy ensures the safety of not only our staff, but other patrons," Reddy said, urging a structure that defines classifications of infractions and graduated corrective measures. She said she adapted parts of an Oregon City model that breaks violations into three classifications to provide clearer guidance for staff.
Board members discussed how a proposed citywide ordinance on exclusions could intersect with library-level rules. Reddy said city ordinance language may lack the level of detail the library needs and recommended creating library-specific provisions that align with the city umbrella. She cautioned that the library must stay within legal constraints: "I don't believe we can legally say you can't be in this space because it is a public space," Reddy said when members discussed limiting adult presence in children's or teen areas.
The board also reviewed the library's existing trespass list and enforcement practice, noting the spreadsheet includes historical entries and test data. Members said the board has chosen not to treat sleeping as a violation and debated how to handle patrons who arrive from the adjacent pool with excessively wet clothing.
Members emphasized that a clearer policy would support consistent staff action and reduce arbitrary enforcement. The board did not adopt a new policy at the meeting; Reddy said she will continue drafting revisions and consult with city legal staff as needed before returning a recommended policy to the board for further review and possible referral to city council.
Next steps: the board will continue to refine the behavior policy and consider how proposed city ordinance language should be reflected in, or defer to, library-specific rules.
