Leave No Trace are principles of outdoor ethics that help people enjoy public lands in a way that minimizes environmental impact.  We encourage applying these principles to the library setting, especially in regards to having food and drink.  The primary goal is to ensure both the comfort of library users and a long life for library collections, furnishings, and equipment.

• Plan accordingly: If you do carry in food or drinks, avoid messy foods that may damage library material and facilities or be disruptive to others, and have drinks in containers unlikely to spill.
• Dispose of recyclables and waste properly.
• Leave what you find: Leave library resources, furnishings, and equipment as you found them–or in better condition than you found them.
• Be considerate of other visitors: Respect nearby library users, the next library user who will use your space, and the next generation of library users.
• Report accidents to library staff as soon as possible.

Specific Prohibitions:

• Use of tobacco in any form is prohibited throughout the Hamersly Library. Smoking areas are designated to the south of both outside entrances.
• Alcohol is strictly prohibited. The library complies with WOU’s alcohol policy.
• The library reserves the right to ask patrons to eat specific foods elsewhere.