#12: Let people bring their belongings

Check your library’s code of conduct for a rule about large bags in the library. Many public libraries have a prohibition against bringing anything larger than a backpack into the building. If your library has such a policy, can it be softened, or can your staff talk about using discretion when enforcing it? Many people who are homeless don’t have anywhere to leave their belongings during the day and thus must carry them with them wherever they go. For people in that situation, telling someone that they can’t bring their suitcase in is telling them that they have to choose between leaving all their worldly goods unguarded and using the library.