1. General Conduct Rules

• Silence: Absolute silence must be maintained in the reading area. Conversations are permitted only in designated discussion zones.
• Mobile Phones: Must be kept on silent or vibrate mode at all times. Calls must be taken outside the library premises.
• Food and Beverages: No food, drinks, or chewing gum are allowed inside the reading area. A designated refreshment area is available outside.
• Smoking and Intoxicants: Strictly prohibited as per the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 and Bihar Prohibition Act. Violators will be reported to police.
• Cleanliness: Members must maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness. Littering is prohibited.
• Furniture: Chairs and tables must not be moved without staff permission. Seats are non-transferable.

2. Membership and Entry Rules

• All members must carry their valid membership ID card at all times and produce it when requested by library staff.
• Visitors must register at the reception desk and obtain a visitor pass.
• Entry without a valid membership card or visitor pass is prohibited.
• Members are responsible for any guest they bring. The member's account may be penalized for guest violations.
• Members must use only their assigned seat as per their membership plan. Changing seats without authorization is a violation.

3. Library Timing and Access Rules

• The library operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all members.
• Cleaning and maintenance hours are from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM daily. Members must vacate the premises during this time.
• Members under 18 years of age are advised to leave by 10:00 PM unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, as per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• Emergency closures will be notified via SMS, WhatsApp, and website announcements when possible.
• The library reserves the right to restrict entry during special events, examinations, or emergency situations.

4. Book Borrowing and Care Rules

• Books can be borrowed for a maximum of 7 days from the date of issue.
• Late return fine: ₹5 per day per book. No maximum cap on late fines.
• Lost book: The borrower must pay the current market price of the book plus a 10% processing fee.
• Damage to book: Repair cost or full replacement price, whichever is higher, as determined by the librarian.
• Books must be returned in the same condition as issued. Highlighting, underlining, or writing in library books is strictly prohibited.
• Reference books, journals, and reserved materials cannot be borrowed and must be used within the library only.

5. Digital and Equipment Usage Rules

• Personal laptops and tablets are permitted for study purposes only.
• Library computers (if available) must be used for academic purposes only. Accessing inappropriate content is prohibited under the IT Act, 2000.
• Charging of devices is permitted only at designated charging stations. Members must use their own chargers.
• The library is not responsible for damage, loss, or theft of personal electronic devices.
• Use of earphones/headphones at moderate volume is permitted. Speakers are not allowed.

6. Prohibited Activities

The following activities are strictly prohibited and may result in immediate suspension or legal action:

• Any form of harassment, bullying, or discrimination (POSH Act, 2013 and IPC Sections 354, 354A).
• Theft, vandalism, or damage to library property (IPC Section 378, 425).
• Unauthorized photography or recording of other members without consent (IT Act, 2000).
• Selling or distributing goods/services inside the library without written permission.
• Gambling, betting, or any illegal financial activity (IPC and state laws).
• Bringing pets or animals inside the library.
• Sleeping on library furniture or using library premises for overnight lodging.
• Defacing walls, furniture, or any library property.

7. Penalty and Disciplinary Framework

Violations are categorized into three levels:

• Level 1 — Minor Violation: First-time noise, littering, or minor rule breach — Verbal warning.
• Level 2 — Moderate Violation: Repeated minor violations, unauthorized seat change, food in reading area — Written warning and 7-day suspension.
• Level 3 — Serious Violation: Harassment, theft, damage, intoxication, illegal activities — Immediate permanent ban, forfeiture of membership fees, and legal action under applicable laws (IPC, POSH Act, IT Act).

Appeals against penalties can be submitted in writing to the Library Director within 7 days of the penalty notification.

8. Personal Property and Liability

• Members are solely responsible for their personal belongings including bags, laptops, phones, and valuables.
• The library provides locker facilities for a fee, but does not guarantee absolute security. Members must use their own locks.
• The library, its management, staff, or owners shall not be held liable for any loss, theft, damage, or injury occurring on the premises, except in cases of proven gross negligence.
• Members are advised not to leave valuable items unattended.

9. Force Majeure and Emergency Situations

• In case of fire, earthquake, or other emergencies, members must follow staff instructions and evacuate immediately.
• The library reserves the right to close without prior notice during emergencies, natural disasters, government orders, pandemics, or force majeure events.
• No refund or compensation will be provided for closures due to force majeure. Pro-rata refunds may be considered for extended closures exceeding 7 days.

10. Governing Law and Contact

These Library Rules are governed by the laws of India. Any dispute arising from these rules shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Aurangabad, Bihar.

For queries, complaints, or clarifications regarding these rules, contact:
Amit Library
Chat Ghat Road, Obra, Aurangabad, Bihar - 824124
Email: amitlibraryobra@gmail.com
Phone: 9162080424, 9128080424