To help our libraries enforce their new rules, what smells would you designate as misdemeanor or felony stink? For me, any men's cologne is a misdemeanor. Microwave popcorn is a felony.

New Dallas library rules restrict strong odors

DALLAS � A new Dallas Public Library code of conduct that bans distracting odors has drawn criticism from homeless advocates who say the rule unfairly targets the homeless and poor.

"No one in Dallas wants the homeless hanging around their door, especially the city," said Paul Voorhees, a homeless man who spends much of his day reading and using the computer at the downtown library.

But library officials say the code of conduct, which was developed over months and will be implemented in February, is meant to create a reader-friendly atmosphere.

The rules prohibit a range of activities, from sleeping to eating, bathing, loud talking on cell phones, fighting, bare feet and sex. The rules also apply to city recreation centers.

Dallas library Director Laurie Evans said the conduct code has not been updated for years. The rules are meant to address behaviors, not people, and are not an excuse to kick people out of the building, she said.

Any violations, including offensive smell, would be addressed on a case-by-case basis, and only when visitors or staff members complain.

"The intent is to provide a welcoming environment for anyone who walks through the doors," Evans said. "They deserve to be comfortable; they deserve to feel welcomed in public buildings."

But Dallas homeless advocate James Waghorne said the city does not provide facilities for some of the library's neediest patrons to keep shower-fresh. Homeless people often need libraries for resources they can't get elsewhere, he said.

"There are resources there that are set up for everyone to use," Waghorne said. "If you don't have 50 cents to buy a newspaper, you can go to the library and read want ads."

For years, library patrons have complained about homeless people using Dallas' downtown public library for activities like bathing in the restroom or loitering outside.

Dallas City Council member Angela Hunt said the homeless are welcome at Dallas libraries, but that libraries were never intended to be used as shelters.

Libraries across the country, from Redwood City, Calif., to Boston and Houston, have adopted similar policies.

"If people can't take care of basic hygiene and are disturbing to the 100 or so people around them, then it's perfectly acceptable for the library to say, 'Will you please sit somewhere else?' or 'Will you consider coming back another day?'" said Leslie Burger, president-elect of the American Library Association.

Burger said similar codes have held up in court.

Evans said library employees will be trained to implement the new rules consistently and fairly.

These must be at least a state jail offense!!!


Most auto air fresheners also rank a Class B (pun intended).

[This message was edited by John Stride on 12-30-05 at .]

What about such an ordinance covering docket call?

With an enhancement for odor of holdover cell.

Class B, no deferred. At DWI plea, enhance to Class A.

Same for smell of marijuana at plea on POM.

Does the presence of certain defense counsel require an automatic deadly weapon finding?

Defense attorney alcohol breath at 9:00 a.m. is a crime. Worse, though, is that "I'm not drinking today, so now you can just smell my liver/kidney disease emanating from my breath" breath at docket call. And those are always the people who won't take a hint when you offer then an Altoids.

Sorry, Jane. Next time I won't turn down the mint.