A problem patron is defined as a person who is viewed or reported as a problem by any staff member or by another patron.
If you observe disruptive, threatening, or abusive behavior by a patron:
- Be aware of the possibility of violence. Do not put yourself as risk. Do not touch the person.
- If you do not feel secure in approaching the individual, notify the Circulation unit (3486) concerning the patron causing the problem. Be specific as to what the person looks like, where s/he is located, and what the person was doing. After evaluating the situation, Circulation personnel will notify Public Safety (4444) if needed.
- If you feel safe in intervening, ask the person to stop creating a disturbance.
- If the person does not respond to your request, call Public Safety (4444). State your name, explain the problem, and be specific as to what the person looks like, where s/he is located, and what the person was doing.
- Notify the Circulation unit (3486) and tell them you have contacted Public Safety and why. Once again, be specific as to the location and appearance of the disruptive patron. If you feel uneasy remaining alone, go to the Circulation area until a Safety officer deals with the patron.
- If possible, and without risk to yourself, maintain a watch on the problem patron until a safety officer arrives.