Trespass Policy

At the Greenfield Public Library, our goal is to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all patrons and staff. When an individual violates the Library’s Acceptable Behavior Policy, Computers and Internet Policy, or engages in criminal activity, they may be issued a trespass order, which legally bars them from the library. A safety matrix is used as a framework for determining the level of offense and the appropriate consequence.

When a Trespass Is Warranted

1. Recording the Incident

If a patron causes a disturbance or violates library policies, staff will document the incident using an Incident Report Form.

2. Determining the Need for a Trespass

The decision to issue a trespass is based on:

• The severity of the individual’s actions, and/or

• Repeated policy violations after prior warnings

The Library Director, in consultation with staff, will determine whether issuing a trespass is necessary.

3. Approval from the Mayor

Before proceeding, the Library Director must notify the Mayor and obtain approval to issue the trespass.

4. Filing the Trespass Notice

Once approved, the Library Director will:

• Complete the Trespass Notice Form (available on the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office website: https://www.fcso-ma.us/civil-process).

• For assistance, contact Civil Process at 413-774-3235.

• Email the completed form to: process@fcso-ma.us.

• Obtain the individual’s address for service by contacting: police.records@greenfield-ma.gov.

5. Serving the Notice

• The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office serves the trespass notice to the individual.

• After service, the Sheriff’s Office forwards the notice to the Greenfield Police Department for their records.

• A $75 processing fee is required for each trespass notice and is paid to the Sheriff’s Office.

Appeals Process

An individual may request an appeal of the trespass order. If an appeal is requested:

• A hearing will be scheduled with the Board of Library Trustees, in compliance with the Open Meeting Law.

• The patron may enter the library solely to attend the Board of Library Trustees meeting at the specified date and time.

• Outside of attending the appeal hearing, the trespass remains in effect until a decision is made.

• If the patron is unable to attend the meeting, they may submit a written statement, which will be read aloud and considered by the Board during the hearing.

• The Library Director will notify the patron of the Board’s decision by certified letter.

If the Individual Returns to the Library

If a trespassed individual returns to the library outside of approved circumstances, staff must contact the police and request their removal.

Duration and Renewal of a Trespass

• A standard trespass order is in effect for one year from the date the notice is served.

• If the Library determines that the trespass should be extended, the Library Director must notify both the Greenfield Police Department and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

Approved by the Board of Library Trustees 03/06/2026
To be reviewed yearly, or as needed.