Purpose
The DVC Library’s Users Policy supports our mission to provide resources, services, and spaces that help students achieve their educational and personal goals. Our policies are designed to promote access, belonging, equity, and collaboration for all users.
This policy outlines the rights and responsibilities of library users and sets expectations for creating a respectful, inclusive, and supportive library environment.
For questions or concerns about library policies and procedures, please contact the library.
User Rights
All users of the library have the right to:
- A welcoming space free from harassment, discrimination, and bias
- Confidential and respectful access to library services and materials
- A diverse collection representing a wide range of voices and perspectives
- Quiet zones for individual study and collaborative spaces for group work
- Equal opportunity to explore, learn, and engage, regardless of background or identity
User Responsibilities
All users are expected to:
- Treat library materials and equipment with care and return them in good condition
- Inform staff about any damage or lost items
- Be mindful of noise levels and observe designated quiet areas
- Follow the 4CD Student Code of Conduct
- Follow library policies and staff guidance
Whenever possible, the library addresses concerns with a restorative approach. Repeated violations or serious misconduct may lead to further action per campus procedures.
Space Usage Guidelines
Noise Policy
The DVC Library provides a variety of study spaces designed to support the diverse learning needs of our students. Each student can identify the space that best suits their needs.
Pleasant Hill Campus: The quiet zone is between aisles 12–18. Maintain silence in designated quiet zones. Elsewhere, quiet conversation and group work is welcome if not disruptive to others.
San Ramon Campus: The quiet zone is in the Computer Corner. Maintain silence in designated quiet zones. Elsewhere, quiet conversation and group work is welcome if not disruptive to others.
Reservable Study Spaces
Both campuses offer two types of reservable study spaces, which include limited noise-reduction features:
- Group Study Rooms: For 1–6 students
- Individual Study Pods: For quiet, single-person use
For more information, see How do I use the study spaces?
San Ramon Campus Food Policy
Small snacks and lidded drinks are allowed in most areas. To maintain a clean, shared space:
- Keep food away from library materials, exhibits, and technology
- No food in prayer/meditation rooms, study pods, or group rooms
- Dispose of trash properly and clean up after yourself—ask staff for cleaning supplies if needed
- Large messes or spills should be reported to staff immediately
Pleasant Hill Campus Food Policy
Food and lidded drinks are allowed in most areas. To maintain a clean, shared space:
- Keep food away from library materials, exhibits, and technology
- No food in prayer/meditation rooms, study pods, or group rooms
- Dispose of trash properly and clean up after yourself—ask staff for cleaning supplies if needed
- Large messes or spills should be reported to staff immediately
Accessibility
The DVC Library is committed to ensuring that all students, faculty, and staff have equitable access to library resources, services, and spaces.
Physical Access:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, elevators, and study areas
- Adjustable-height tables and private sensory-reduced spaces
- Staff assistance available for retrieving items or using equipment
Digital Access:
- Library website and tools meet WCAG 2.1 standards
- Assistive technologies available on student computers
- Alternate formats and text-to-speech available for many digital resources
- Upon request, library materials can be converted into accessible formats
Feedback and suggestions about accessibility are welcome. Please contact the library.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome in all library areas under District Policy HR 1080.18. Pets are not allowed.
Prayer and Meditation Room
This quiet space is available for individual reflection, meditation, and prayer.
- Usage is limited to 20 minutes per person, on a first-come, first-serve basis
- No food, sleeping, group activities, or materials left behind
- No open flames or incense
Children in the Library
Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times in the library.
- Study areas and computers are reserved for currently enrolled DVC students
- Children’s resources include:
- Pleasant Hill: Kid Kits at circulation desk (toys and games for ages 6mo–5yr), picture books near L202
- San Ramon: Picture books near the West entrance
Public Use
Visitors are welcome in the library buildings during open hours. However, library services—including technology, reservable study spaces, and checkout privileges—are reserved for currently enrolled DVC students and employees.
- Visitors must follow all library policies
- Avoid disruptive behavior such as loud noise or solicitation
- The college wi-fi network is available to visitors
Revised September 2025
DVC Library Documents > Library Policies > Library Users Policy
