Library policies

The Library is open to the public and full use of the services and resources available is encouraged. Library policies are designed to ensure that all patrons have access to Library materials in an environment conducive to study and research. Please address any questions or concerns about Library policies to Jane O'Connell (joconnell@law.utexas.edu, 512-471-8761), or to any member of the Library staff.

Beverages and food

Beverages are allowed throughout the Library, as described below.

Tarlton Law Library patrons are encouraged to eat in the student lounge on the third floor.  Eating is allowed in most places in the Library (see below for exceptions), as described in the following general rules.  The rules are subject to change if necessary:

• Hot and cold beverages are allowed in covered containers; alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
  
• Patrons may eat items such as fruit, cold sandwiches, and candy bars in most areas of the Library.
  
• Foods such as pizza, soup, tacos, and burgers and other cooked sandwiches, should be eaten outside the library.  Please avoid bringing foods into the Library that are odorous, greasy, or noisy when eaten.
  
• Please remove all uneaten food and all food packaging from the Library. Do not place food or food wrappings in the Library's garbage cans, as they can become smelly and can cause rodent or insect infestation. Janitorial service is severely curtailed due to budget cuts, and trash cans are not emptied every day.
• Please clean up any food or drink spills. If the spill is large and you cannot clean it up yourself (for example, spilled drinks on the carpet), clean it up as well as you can and notify the circulation desk staff.

Exceptions:  Please do not bring food into the Rare Books & Special Collections areas, the computer lab, or the computer classroom (3.222/3.223). Neither food nor eating is allowed in those areas.

Remember that the Tom Clark Student Lounge is located a short distance from the library entrance, and is a comfortable place to eat full meals and non-library friendly foods.

Computer access

• Access to TALLONS, the Library's online catalog, is available through computers on every floor of the Library.
• Computers available for public use are on the 2nd floor. Use of the public computers is limited to 60 minutes. Patrons engaged in legal and academic research have priority.
• The Computer Learning Center is reserved for law students.
• Laptops may be used anywhere in the Library. Many carrels throughout the Library have electrical outlets. Wireless access is available throughout the Library.
• All computer users must adhere to the University's Acceptable Use policy (PDF).

Cell phones

Cell phones should be set on vibrate or silent mode while you are in the library. Cell phone calls should be made or received in the library’s 2nd floor entry area, the 3rd floor student lounge, or the 4th floor elevator area. Please do not make or receive calls in other areas.

Personal belongings

Please do not leave personal belongings unattended. The Library is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to personal items.

Library property

Please notify a member of the Library staff if any Library materials or furnishings are in need of repair. Damaging furniture, books or any other Library property is prohibited. Persons responsible for such defacement will be charged with the costs of necessary repairs or replacement.

Children

Children under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult at all times in the Library.

Library environment

Please respect the rights of others when using the Library. Any offensive conduct or language within the Library should be reported to a Library staff member. Threatening or dangerous behavior will be reported to The University of Texas police department immediately. Abuse of Library policies may result in the suspension of Library privileges.

Resources for disabled patrons

Tarlton Law Library intends to make its services, facilities, programs, and accommodations accessible to all patrons, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Library provides assistance to persons with permanent or temporary disabilities on an individual basis. Prior contact with the Library is encouraged when assistance is anticipated. In order to provide appropriate services to our patrons, we require a 5 business day advance notice for any patrons requiring extensive assistance or disability accommodations. For additional information or for scheduling appointments, contact Brian Quigley at (512) 471-6228 or bquigley@law.utexas.edu.