York University Library Policy Report

After many years of allowing food everywhere, the public library I work in has stopped allowing any food and only covered beverages. The policy was put in place because of damage to material, computers, furniture, carpets, rodents and insects. I was interested to see how other libraries were dealing with similar food issues in both academic and public libraries, so I went searching on Listserv.

The new policy was put in place in increments, going from any food, to only small snacks, to now only covered beverages. I think the library could have left it at small snacks, but decided to go with a complete ban on all food. As an employee I can see a need for a food policy as some customers were disruptive and disrespectful with their food choice and tidiness. From pizza deliveries, eating fried foods over the

The York University Library policy addresses possible misuse, by stating “The staff of the York University Libraries want you to feel comfortable while pursuing your studies in our buildings. We recognize that sometimes food and drink play a role in studying and learning. However, food and drink can also damage library material, equipment and furnishings, attract rodents and insects, and it may disturb other library users.The following policy is intended to balance the needs of the library with the convenience of our users.”(Food & Drink in the Libraries, York University). A report produced by the Toronto public library on the implementation of the their new food policy reviewed possible financial impact, staff and customer response, concluding overall, the allowing of food had a positive effect by creating a “welcoming public space”(Pyper, 2009). The last update to the Toronto Libraries was 2014 and no changes to the food policies have been made. It simple states, “eating and drinking are allowed except in designated areas.” (Rules of Conduct, Toronto Public