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
May-July 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.
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.
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 is recommending 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.
Read the Public Engagement Report [PDF 385 kb] to learn more about the data collected and proposed changes to the Policy.
Read the proposed draft of the Library Use and Conduct Policy [PDF 110 kb].
Next Steps
The draft will be presented for review to the Kingston Frontenac Public Library Board at their September 25, 2024 meeting. (complete)
Additional public and staff engagement is planned in October 2025, with a final draft of the Policy going to the Library Board in November 2024 for approval.
A final engagement report will be made available in December 2024.
