Policy Title: Library Food and Beverage Policy
Policy Number: LP-007
Type of Policy: Library
Last Reviewed Date: May 2025
Next Review Date: July 2028
Responsible Administrator: Dean of Libraries
Policy Owner: Library
Contact Name: Sonya Gaither
Contact Title: Dean of Libraries
Contact Email: Library@clayton.edu
Policy Statement:
It is the policy of the Clayton State Library to provide a clean and comfortable environment for our students, staff, faculty, and visitors. The library seeks to ensure that everyone has a comfortable place to learn, free from excessive aromas,
dirty or sticky surfaces, and pest infestations. We understand that food is essential to good health and learning so we allow certain foods in the library but prohibit others that may negatively impact other patrons.
Reason for Policy:
Library policies are created to assist students, faculty/staff, and community users with developing a welcoming and inviting
study and research space within the library facility. Each policy explains who, how,
and when the library building, resources, etc. can be accessed. In the event library
property becomes lost or damaged, or there is a disturbance during operating hours,
policies and procedures explain how these matters will be resolved.
Policy Scope:
This policy applies to all patrons of the Clayton State University library.
Policy:
Permitted foods are allowed in most public areas with the following exceptions:
- Food is not permitted at any computer or equipment station
- Food/beverages are not permitted in the Archives Reading Room or Exhibit Space
- Food/beverages are not permitted in the bookshelves.
- Food may not be delivered to the library
- Beverages must be covered
Prohibited foods are not allowed anywhere in the library. If you have food and beverages
in the library, you are responsible for disposing of the items.
- Please leave space clean for the next user
- Dispose of trash and recyclables in the appropriate containers
- Alert library staff of any spills or accidents
Definitions and examples of permitted foods and prohibited foods are under the Definitions section below.
The Clayton State Library is your library. You can help keep it a safe, comfortable space for all members of the Clayton State community by adhering to our food and beverage policy.
Please note that this policy may be stopped or changed at any time under extenuating
circumstances or in response to repeated violations. Changes will be communicated
in writing.
Procedures:
Repeated violations of the Library Food and Beverage Policy may result in loss of library privileges (e.g. study room access) and/or referral to the Office of Community Standards.
Definitions:
Permitted Foods
Covered beverages and snacks. Snacks are small (usually packaged) items like one might purchase from a vending machine. Pastry and fruits that do not create excessive smell or noise are also permitted. Some examples include cookies, granola bars, apples, bagels, and pretzels.
Prohibited Foods
Hot meals and snacks, food delivery, shared meals, foods that have a strong aroma,
distracting sounds, or items that pose a risk of spills or excessive mess. Examples
of prohibited foods include, but are not limited to, salad, pizza, soup, popcorn,
ice cream, fried foods, and most fast foods (e.g. burger and fries).
Policy History:
| Revision Date | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 05/01/2005 | Library Leadership | Effective date |
| 07/01/2021 | Library Leadership | Updated permitted and prohibited items |
| 04/07/2025 | Library Leadership | Reformatted to new template |
