Public libraries serve all members of the public, including those with disabilities who
may require assistance of public animals. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requires organizations that serve the public, including the Meade County Public Library
(MCPL), to allow those with disabilities to bring their service animals into areas of the
facility where patrons are normally allowed to go, and for employees who require
service animals, in any area of the library where it is safe for the service animal to go.
The ADA generally defines service animals as dogs, but does allow for miniature ponies
under specific conditions. Library staff may only ask if dogs or miniature ponies brought
into the library are service animals required for a disability and what task the animal has
been trained to perform. Documentation, such as special ID cards or proof of
certification, does not have to be provided by the person. Staff cannot inquire about the
nature of a person’s disability which requires assistance.
A fear of or minor allergy to dogs or other animals is not considered a disability under
the ADA, so the MCPL does not need to “accommodate” these patrons or employees.
However, in cases in which a person’s allergy is so severe that respiratory distress results
from contact, the allergic person may also request an accommodation, such as keeping
the animal and the allergic person in separate areas of the MCPL as much as possible.
The MCPL cannot place limitations on the size, weight or breed of service animals. They
can, however, require service animals to meet reasonable behavior rules that ensure the
safety of all library patrons. Patrons/employees accompanied by service animals should
retain full control of the animal. This generally means that the animal is on a leash, in a
carrier, or otherwise in the direct control of its owner and is well behaved (ex: no
jumping, snarling, nipping or excessive barking).
If a service animal behaves inappropriately repeatedly, the patron/employee may be
asked not to bring their animal into the common areas of the MCPL until steps are taken
to mitigate the behavior (such as a refresher training). In instances where the animal’s
behavior poses a significant threat to patrons or employees, the owner may be required
to remove the animal from the MCPL altogether.
The MCPL may require that service animals have current appropriate vaccinations. The
owner is responsible for the safe removal of animal waste products.
Any complaints about service animals in the MCPL should be forwarded to the director.