Animals in the Library Policy

General
To prevent possible damage to library facilities and property, and possible injury to library users and staff, animals (as defined in § 3.2-6500 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended) are not permitted in any Handley Regional Library facility, except for:

1. Use or exhibition for a valid purpose, as determined by the Library Director or designee, only when such use or exhibition has been pre-approved by the Library Director or designee, who shall provide such approval on a case-by-case basis. 
2. Service animals in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and accompanying regulations. See 28 CFR § 35.104 for definition of a service animal.

Control of Service Animal  

1. A service animal must be under the control of its handler. A harness, leash or other tether should be used unless:
2. A disability prevents the handler from use of a harness, leash or tether; or
3. The harness, leash or tether would interfere with the work of the service animal. In such cases, voice control, signals, etc. must be used.

Removal of Service Animal
The Library may request that a service animal be removed from the facility, and further deny access, if the animal:

1. Is out of control and the handler cannot regain control of the animal.
2. Is not housebroken.
3. Poses a direct threat (to include threats from parasites present on the animal) to the health and safety of others.
4. Infringe on another’s ability to work or use the library.

^{Approved by Handley Regional Library Board July 2014}