Community engagement is integrated into decision-making and planning at the KFPL. As part of the Library's commitment to community-informed development, the Patron Code of Conduct project focused on updating an operational policy to meet the evolving needs of library patrons and staff. Along with other Library policies, the Patron Code of Conduct Policy helps ensure the safety, dignity and intellectual freedom of library patrons and staff and the security of library property.
Engagement Methods
Stage 1 (May-July 2024) engagement activities included:
- staff information sessions
- events in the community
- a series of in-person pop-ups at rural and urban branches
- community sessions with representatives serving the community across Kingston-Frontenac
- three surveys to gather feedback from key audiences: staff, community and Library Board
The activities were designed to raise awareness of the Patron Code of Conduct Policy review, gather feedback and encourage participation in the Code of Conduct Survey, which was available in print and online and distributed via the Library's website and social media channels and through KFPL branches.
Stage 2 (October 2024) engagement activities included:
- a series of in-person pop-ups at KFPL branches
- staff survey
- social media ad campaign
What We Heard
The engagement process was valuable in ensuring revisions to the Patron Code of Conduct Policy reflect the needs of KFPL’s diverse community and promote a safe and welcoming space for all. Data from survey results and conversations with key collaborators, library users and community members supported changes to the Policy, including a new name to better reflect its intent.
KFPL staff, Library Board and community members provided input between May and July 2024. Over 1,500 people participated and provided suggestions and ideas. Additional feedback was collected during the second stage of engagement in October 2024. Community members and staff shared insights and suggestions for ways to better support interactions between patrons, reflect KFPL values and ensure greater consistency of implementation.
Stage 1 Engagement (May-July 2024)
Read the Summer Public Engagement Report [PDF 385 kb] to learn more about the data collected on the current Policy.
Stage 2 Engagement (October 2024)
Read the October Public Engagement Report [PDF 1334 kb] to learn about data collected on the proposed 1st Draft of the Policy.
Recommendations
The Patron Code of Conduct Policy supports the Library’s mission to build community through inclusive, welcoming and safe spaces for all. As a result of those guiding principles, the Working Group recommended changes to the Policy reflecting the feedback received, current Health and Safety standards and regulations, sector benchmarks and best practices. A name change is recommended from Patron Code of Conduct Policy to Library Use and Conduct Policy.
Stage 1 Recommendations (1st round of revisions)
Read the proposed 1st draft of the Library Use and Conduct Policy [PDF 110 kb].
Stage 2 Recommendations (2nd round of revisions)
Read the proposed 2nd draft of the Library Use and Conduct Policy [PDF 78 kb].
Next Steps
The 1st draft was presented for review to the Kingston Frontenac Public Library Board at their September 25, 2024 meeting. (complete)
The Library Board approved the 1st Draft for further community feedback. (complete)
Additional public and staff engagement was conducted in October 2024. (complete)
The second draft of the Policy will be presented to the Library Board at their November 2024 meeting for approval.
The updated Policy will come into effect on March 31, 2025.
