A Welcoming Environment
Ebling Library aims to provide a welcoming environment through a strong sense of community and deep commitment to education. The following policies serve to promote an atmosphere of inclusion and safety to all library users.
Ebling Library Policies
Patrons and staff in Ebling Library will observe the UW-Madison Libraries Code of Conduct as well as the Ebling Library Policies which are posted throughout the Ebling Library.
UW-Madison Libraries Code of Conduct
Every staff member and patron should expect an environment of respect and safety while in the library. If patrons do not feel respected or safe, talk to a library staff member. If staff do not feel respected or safe, talk to your supervisor or report the incident to the UWPD.
Examples of inappropriate and unacceptable behavior include threatening or intimidating behavior such as abusive language or threats of violence as well as unwanted and/or unwarranted communication or harassment.
Please note these policies only apply to Ebling Library space, and do not include the SMPH Silent Study room 2360 or any other any other space in the Health Sciences Learning Center.
Sound Levels
Throughout the library sound levels are expected to be contained and respectful of others and in general considered to be quiet conversation areas but not silent study.
The atrium or other areas in the HSLC are the place for louder group discussions, cell phone calls, and virtual meetings. If staff notice or patrons complain about sound levels from a person(s), staff will ask the person/group in question to either lower the sound of their conversation and/or move to another area.
Computer Use
Use of University facilities and information technology is primarily restricted to activities that fulfill the University’s missions of teaching, research and public service. For more information, please see the Policy for Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources.
Priority use for Ebling Library computers is given for those activities regardless of whether the user is affiliated with the University or not.
Users viewing material offensive or disruptive to others will be asked to stop.
Food & Drink
Food and beverages are allowed. Clean up after yourself/group and put trash and recyclables in appropriate receptacles.
Sleeping
Sleeping is discouraged in the library for safety and security reasons.
Community users are reminded that the libraries are open for research purposes and sleeping is not allowed.
Historical Reading Room
Please note that the Historical Reading Room operates under separate policies from those listed. For more information, please reference the Historical Services website.
Sanctions
If a person does not comply with the policies stated above and/or the UW-Madison Libraries Code of Conduct sanctions may include:
- Being asked to leave the library premises
- Having library privileges suspended or revoked
- Being banned from Ebling Library and HSLC
- Being banned from the UW-Madison Libraries
- Being reported to the police
- Legal prosecution
Questions or comments can be directed to the Service Desk or via our Help page.
Policies approved 12/02/2025