Davis: Building Use Policies

We welcome everyone to the Libraries at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Campus libraries are open to the public. In order to create a welcome and comfortable environment conducive to teaching, learning, and research, we ask for your cooperation with the following library and University policies and in accordance with local, state, and federal law. Library building policies protect library users and staff, access to resources, and the facilities. Users engaging in disruptive or prohibited behavior- may be asked to cease or to leave the library.

Animals

Guide and service animals for people with disabilities are welcome in campus libraries. Other animals must remain outside.

Cameras

Individuals, classes, groups, or organizations wishing to photograph or film library facilities, staff, or users must first request permission from that library building’s administration. Members of the media should contact the Director of Library Communications.

Cell Phones

Set cell phones and pagers to non-audible signals. To make or take a call, please step outside or move to a stairwell or other area away from library patrons AND take your belongings with you to prevent theft.

Children

Children are welcome, but those under 14 must be under adult supervision.

Computers

Academic work has priority at library computers. Individual libraries may designate specific computers for guest use, certain academic uses, or other purposes.

Displays, Charitable Collections, and Related Activities

University students, faculty, and staff may request use of library facilities for activities that further inquiry, learning, and service at the University. These activities are at the discretion of the library and may be subject to specific conditions.

Food & Drink

Individual libraries may restrict food and drink in certain areas. Please be reasonable and responsible when bringing food and drink into the libraries. Help preserve a clean and pleasant study environment by disposing of refuse properly; alerting staff to spills; and taking care around library collections and equipment.

Wheeled Transportation (skates, skateboards, scooters, Segways, etc.)

Only equipment used by mobility-impaired patrons is allowed in the libraries.

The Libraries also follow University policies for…

Bicycles and Electric Scooters

Bicycles and scooters must remain outside the library buildings. Please refer to the University Transportation & Parking webpages for bike rack locations and other information.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in any University building, including the libraries, and within 100 feet of all University facilities. Electronic cigarettes are not permitted in campus libraries.

Solicitation

Solicitation is not permitted in the libraries. See the University's policy on the “The Use of Surfaces, Bulletin Boards, and Spaces”.

Conference Rooms

The University Libraries have a limited number of conference rooms for use by Library staff and is unable to accommodate the use of conference rooms by outside groups. Rooms at the Health Sciences Library and the Pleasants Family Assembly Room in Wilson Library may be available for use by UNC-affiliated groups.

Volume Zone Guidelines

Collaborative Study Zone

Great for talking at a conversational volume to facilitate group work, studying, and solidarity.

Areas designated for collaborative study

  • 1st floor 
  • 2nd floor north of the stairwells (Hamilton Hall side) 

Considerate Study Zone

Suitable for those looking for quieter (but not silent) places to study and work.

Expectations for this zone

  • If you need to talk, speak at a low volume 
  • Don’t take phone calls or join video meetings (unless you can keep your voice low during the meeting) 
  • Use headphones for audio  

Areas designated for considerate study

  • 2nd floor south of the stairwells (Student Union side) 
  • 3rd floor 
  • 4th floor 
  • 5th floor 
  • 7th floor 
  • 8th floor

Silent Study Zone

Best for those who want absolute quiet. 

Expectations for this zone: 

  • Don’t talk, take phone calls, or join video meetings (unless you’ll be silent during the meeting) 
  • Silence your phone and other devices 
  • Use headphones for audio and be sure the volume is low enough to avoid sound leaking 

Area designated for silent study:

  • 6th floor

Shared spaces, shared expectations

Expectations for these volume zones are guidelines, not official policy, and Library personnel will not enforce noise-level expectations.  

Thank you for working together to make Davis Library a welcoming space for everyone. 

Do you have feedback, comments, or questions about the volume zones in Davis Library? Feel free to email us at DavisZoneFeedback@unc.edu or text your feedback to 919-928-5300.