Why We Have Policies
Library Earl Haig policies exist so that everyone can use the space, collections, and technology fairly and safely. They support the school’s expectations for behaviour and academic integrity and align with Toronto District School Board and Earl Haig Secondary School rules. This page summarizes the main areas: borrowing, conduct in the library, and use of technology. For the most up-to-date details, check notices in the library or ask staff.
Borrowing and Returns
When you borrow books or other items from the library, you are responsible for returning them on time and in good condition. Loan periods and limits (how many items you can have out at once) are set by the library and may vary for different types of material. Overdue items may result in borrowing privileges being paused until they are returned or resolved.
If you lose or damage an item, you are expected to replace it or pay for it according to school and board policy. The library will explain the process. Reporting loss or damage as soon as it happens helps us manage the collection and treat everyone fairly. For digital loans (ebooks, audiobooks), items usually expire automatically; there is no need to return them in person, but you must not share your account or copy the files in ways that break the terms of use.
Conduct in the Library
The library is a shared space for study, reading, and research. Behaviour should respect others and the purpose of the space. That means keeping noise levels appropriate to the zone you are in—silent in quiet areas, low in group areas—and not disturbing others with loud conversation, music, or phone use. Food and drink may be restricted or limited to certain areas to protect books and equipment; follow the posted rules.
Furniture and equipment are for everyone. Leave spaces tidy, push in chairs, and report any damage or mess to staff. Bullying, harassment, or misuse of the space is not tolerated and will be dealt with according to school discipline policies. The library is part of Earl Haig; the same standards of respect and responsibility apply here as elsewhere in the school.
Use of Technology
Library computers and the school network are for educational use. You must follow the school’s acceptable-use policy: no illegal activity, no accessing inappropriate content, no sharing passwords, and no tampering with software or settings. Printing and scanning are subject to any limits or fees the school sets; use them responsibly and only for school-related work.
When you use digital resources (databases, ebooks, etc.), you must respect copyright and licence terms. Do not copy or distribute content in ways that violate those terms. For assignments, cite your sources properly; the library’s academic support can help you with citation and academic integrity.
Academic Integrity
Using the library’s resources for cheating or plagiarism is not allowed. That includes copying someone else’s work, using Al or other tools to generate work and submitting it as your own when that is not permitted, and failing to cite sources. The library promotes good research and citation habits and can help you learn how to work with integrity. If you are unsure what counts as plagiarism or how to cite a source, ask before you submit.
Special Collections and Archive
Materials in the research archive and other special collections are usually for use only in the library. Handling, copying, and photographing may be subject to specific rules to protect the items. The library will explain these when you use the archive.
Where to Get More Information
Policies can be updated. For the latest on loan periods, conduct, technology use, or academic integrity, ask at the library desk or check the school and board websites. If you have a question about how a policy applies to you, staff are there to help.
Related Resources
- Library Earl Haig homepage
- About the Library
- Student Resources – space and technology
- Digital Collections – ebooks and databases
- Academic Support – research and citation
- Research Archive – archive use
Library Policies FAQ
- How many books can I borrow at once?
- Loan limits are set by the library and may vary by item type. Ask at the desk or check the library notice board for current limits.
- What happens if I lose or damage a library book?
- You are responsible for lost or damaged items. The library will ask for replacement or payment according to school and board policy. Report loss or damage as soon as possible.