The library has changed the focus of its food and drink policy to encourage more personal responsibility among staff and users. The Food and Drink Policies found here reflect the reality that human comfort is an important part of using or working in the library.

Built on information gathered by FAD (the Food and Drink Working Group) and the excellent survey they conducted, the Food and Drink Policy has been liberalized and allows for beverages in appropriate containers in the library. We want our library users to be responsible in their consumption and to use care when around library materials. Food and drink are prohibited in computer clusters or near library computer terminals, audiovisual equipment, or other electronic equipment and food is not allowed in the libraries.

The presence of food and drink in the library is detrimental to the maintenance and preservation of the collections. For this reason, food is not allowed in the library except in designated areas. Beverages are allowed in the library only when contained in an appropriate container. This policy applies to all libraries, except the John Hay Library where food and drink are allowed only in the front foyer during receptions.

Beverages are restricted to appropriate containers which are defined as: An appropriate container is any cup or bottle with a lid or cap designed to minimize spillage. Lidded travel mugs and sports bottles with screw-on or pop-up tops are examples of the preferred types of covered beverage containers for use in the library. Other containers may not meet this standard and could be unacceptable for use in the library. Library staff will have final approval over any sort of beverage container allowed in the library and reserve the right to exclude any container for any reason.

Library users may only consume food items in library lobby areas outside Door Guard stations. Food is NOT PERMITTED elsewhere in the library. No food is allowed in classrooms, or study carrels, or in computer clusters.

Food in the library is limited to the:

• Lobbies outside Door Guard's Stations
• Library Staff Lounges
• Library Staff Conference Rooms
• Private offices and areas where library staff are not working with library materials

Special statement for library staff and student assistants: While it is preferred that there be no food and drink in areas where staff are processing library materials, it is also understood that on special occasions this is acceptable. Please be careful and protective of library materials and make sure that all work areas are kept clean. Department or Unit parties are best held in staff lounges. Contact Custodial help for any clean-up needs.

With respect to bringing food and beverages into the library, all staff members should provide good examples for patrons. If you bring food or beverages into the library and use public entrances, please be discreet, go directly to your work area, and have the items concealed by a paper bag or similar container.

Preparing and consuming food is not permitted in areas which are in public view. Cooking or warming food is limited to the designated staff rooms of each building. Coffee makers are permitted in private offices and staff rooms only.

For further information please contact the Preservation Department.

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