The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is committed to providing an environment for library users that is supportive of study, research, and scholarly collaboration. Library users are expected to:
- Understand and comply with NIH and NLM policies for access and security, including wearing an NIH visitor pass at all times.
- Comply with NIH safety measures detailed in NIH’s COVID-19 Safety Plan.
- Behave in a manner that helps to preserve NLM collections, physical spaces, and is respectful of staff and their safety.
- Consuming food and beverages is not allowed in the reading room. Dining areas are available in the Natcher building across the street from NLM, in the NLM canteen, and on the first floor of the NLM Lister Hill Center.
- Handle all NLM materials, including collections, scanners, and other equipment, gently and with care. Writing in, or otherwise damaging library materials, equipment, furniture, or spaces, is strictly prohibited.
- Alert library staff to damaged materials, equipment, furniture, and facilities.
- Refrain from talking on cell phones in the reading room.
- Use electronic devices with headphones. Volumes should be at a level that cannot be heard by others.
- Request permission before taking photos and follow the NLM Reading Room Policy on Photography Requests.
- Failure to comply with these can result in users being asked to leave the NLM Reading Room.