Food and Drink

Spills from food and drink can stain and warp paper and weaken bindings. Food and drinks also attract pests such as cockroaches, silverfish, and mice into the library. The best way to get rid of these pests is to eliminate the food and drink.

Patrons are not allowed to bring food and drink into the library, though they can bring water in clear plastic containers to most areas. Staff may bring in food and drink if they abide by Administrative Memo 25, “Food and Drink Responsibilities for Staff.”

Some highlights from this memo include:

• If you must bring food and drink into the libraries, make sure it is concealed.
• Clean up crumbs, wash dishes, and empty food trash daily.
• Heating foods creates aromas which can waft into public areas and offend patrons.
• If you must eat at your desk, take great care around computer equipment and library materials.

Suggestions from the Preservation Department:

• Eat out! Take a break and go out to lunch.
• Use the employee lounge or Footnotes Café in McKeldin Library.
• If you must eat at your desk, don’t mix your food with library materials!
• When you are finished eating, wash your hands. Greasy fingers leave residues that can attract mold and insects.