Cell Phones Banned—Really—at CA Library

-- Library Journal, 09/15/2004

Some patrons at the Huntington Beach Public Library (HBPL), CA were so rude they used their cell phones in the middle of reference interviews and while working at public Internet terminals. The library put up signs asking patrons to desist from cell phone and then assigned designated area, but that didn’t work. Then staff gave cell phone users notices that they were violating the library’s policy. Finally, Director Ron Hayden asked his staff to search for cell phone usage precedents in public places, and they couldn’t find any relating specifically to libraries.

The result: what may be the first ordinance of its kind, banning cell phone use involving talking, text messaging, and ringing tones in a public library goes into effect today. First-time offenders will be warned, but a second offense will result in a $250 fine, rising to $500 the second time, and $1000 for the third infraction. HBPL has been empowered to issue an administrative citation on the spot, without calling in law enforcement, Hayden said, owing to a change in the municipal code approved by the city council. The offender then must appear at an administrative hearing to pay the fine, which most probably would be reduced to $100.