Visitors to all our institutions must submit one or more of the following, depending on the institution- name, birthdate, social security number, and driver's license at least 2 weeks before date of visit. This allows the institution to do a background check before giving permision to enter the institution. After I get the signed permission granting entry, I inform the visitor of the institution's rules for entry- applicable to everyone- visitors or staff.
Of course rules change each day and sometimes are based on the whims and interpretation of the officer at the security gate, like airport security.
- Photo ID is required at all times
- Prohibited: Cell phones, cameras, food, handbags, anything that can be used as a weapon, money over $20.00, any item that is not preapproved.
- Some institutions do not allow entry to those wearing underwire bras if it sets off the security alarm.
Before I hire librarians, I invite them to visit the prisons since many persons have difficulty hearing the gates clang shut behind them. Once visitors are inside the libraries they often exclaim " It's like a real library." I usally refrain from saying "And I am a real librarian."
