Law Library - Building Access and Usage Policies: Accessibility

Appropriate Library Behavior Policy

Library users are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful of others and that is in keeping with the library’s purpose. Those who engage in behavior that infringes on the rights of others, poses danger to themselves or others, or violates university or library policies may be asked to leave the building. Staff will call Public Safety officers to handle the situation if the staff member believes it is advisable to do so. Unlawful behavior will be reported to Duquesne University Department of Public Safety. 

Expectations of Library Users

• Interact courteously with other library users and staff.
• Comply with library policies, particularly with regard to acceptable use of computers, quiet study areas, and food and drink.
• Respect library resources— e. g. print only when necessary; refrain from writing in or otherwise damaging library materials; return materials on time.
• Respect intellectual property including copyright.
• Keep all valuables and personal property with you at all times. The library is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
• Use cell phones in designated locations, such as the stairwell or outside.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Engage in activities associated with the use of a library. Non-affiliated users not reading, studying, using library materials or attending events will be required to leave the building.
• Maintain an acceptable standard of personal hygiene. Creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition, such as infested clothing or personal effects is unacceptable.
• Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times.

Unacceptable behavior

• Destruction or theft of library materials or property
• Use of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Lewd, indecent, disruptive or boisterous behavior
• Threatening, harassing or intimidating language or behavior
• Smoking and use of tobacco products
• Sleeping in the building
• Bringing weapons into the building
• Bathing or shaving in restrooms
• Solicitation of any type
• Bringing pets or animals, other than authorized service animals, into the building

Accessibility

The Law Library seeks to make its resources accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. 

• Library website accessibility -  Follows W3C [World Wide Web Consortium] design standards.
• Electronic resources - Accessibility is considered in the library's selection of information resources.
• Building access - Accessible entrance, elevators and restrooms.  For any area that is not fully accessible, staff assistance is available upon request. Contact the Circulation Desk.
• Assistance with library services and equipment -  Contact the Circulation Desk for assistance with locating and retrieving items in the library's collections, etc. 
• Individual research assistance - To meet with a librarian, contact lawlibrary@duq.edu to schedule an appointment. 
• Assistive technology needs - Users who need assistive hardware, software or equipment to use the Law Library and its resources should contact the Duquesne University Office of Disability Services.

Building Access & Fire Safety Policy 

The Law Library provides information resources, educational opportunities, and individualized services embodying Duquesne University’s Spiritan identity and commitment to academic excellence.

Adapted from Gumberg Building Access Policy 

For more information about the Law Library policies, please view the Policies and Procedures Page 

Outside Food and Vendors at the Law Library

• Duquesne University students, staff, faculty, and unauthorized vendors are not permitted to sell food or other products or to give out free samples inside the Law Library
• The Outreach Librarian will be responsible for any approvals and communication with students.

*This is in accordance with, but not limited to, the following Duquesne University TAPs:

• NO. 37: Soliciting, Petitioning, Distribution of Literature, Demonstrations and Picketing
• NO. 51: Food and Beverages - Safe Sale or Serving

Adapted from Gumberg Policies

Hardware and Software Policy

The Law Library and Duquesne Kline School of Law shall not be liable or responsible for any loss, damage, replacement or repair costs arising out of the use or misuse of library hardware, software or media. This includes library owned desktop computers, laptop computers, software (computer programs, digital files, etc.), or media (CDs, DVDs, etc.).

 Adapted from Gumberg Policies. 

We are only open to Duquesne University students, faculty, alumni, staff, and affiliates.   

We are open for research and reference services only. Call the ref. desk (412-396-5017), or e-mail lawlibrary@duq.edu for assistance. 

As a Federal Depository Library, our Government Document collection (such as federal statutes and regulations) is available for use by the public but we ask users to make an appointment at lawlibrary@duq.edu or 412-396-5017, so we can assign a librarian to let you into the library and help you find the government documents you are seeking. Appointments are for one hour, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

The email must state the purpose of the visit and the date and time requested.

There will be ongoing review of these policies and changes will be communicated accordingly.

Adapted from: Barco Law Library library policies: https://www.library.law.pitt.edu/about/library-policies

Date Last Updated 08/16/2024