Shhh! Help your child become a considerate reader. From maintaining silence to handling books with care, here are 20 essential rules for visiting the library.
Singapore's public libraries are world-class spaces designed for learning and discovery. Maintaining the "library atmosphere" is a shared responsibility. These rules help children understand the importance of quiet consideration and the proper way to handle shared resources so everyone can enjoy them.
Public Libraries: The Top 5 Core Anchor Rules
The library is a sanctuary for readers of all ages. These five "anchors" ensure your child respects the shared environment and the physical books that belong to our community.
#1: The Whisper-Only Zone 🤫
Libraries are quiet spaces for focus. All communication must be done in a soft whisper. If a child needs to speak loudly, they must be taken outside the reading area.
#2: Clean Hands First 🧼
Before touching any library books or using the interactive screens, children must wash or sanitise their hands to prevent stains and damage.
#3: Respect the Physical Book 📖
Books are shared property. No folding pages (dog-earing), drawing on illustrations, or forcing the spine open. Treat every page with gentleness.
#4: Strictly No Food or Drink 🚫🥤
To protect the collection from pests and spills, no eating or drinking is allowed inside the library. Water bottles must remain kept away in bags.
#5: Use the Book Trolleys 🛒
If you decide not to borrow a book, do not try to put it back on the shelf. Place it on the designated "Return Trolley" so staff can organise it correctly.
Maintaining the Peace
A library's atmosphere depends on the behaviour of its visitors. These rules help children manage their physical movement and noise levels in a shared quiet zone.
#6: Walking Feet Only 👣
Running is strictly prohibited. Children must walk slowly and carefully to avoid bumping into other readers or bookshelves.
#7: Digital Silence 🔇
If using a tablet or phone in the library, the sound must be muted or used with headphones. Game sound effects are not allowed.
#8: One Seat Per Reader 🪑
Seats are for sitting, not for placing bags or standing on. During busy periods, we ensure we only take up the space we actually need.
#9: Respect Personal Space 🫧
Keep a respectful distance from other readers. Do not lean over others to look at books or interrupt someone who is focused on reading.
Book Handling & Care
Learning how to care for books is a vital life skill. These rules ensure that our public library collections remain in excellent condition for the next child.
#10: Always Use a Bookmark 🔖
Never place a book face down to save your spot. Use a proper bookmark or a slip of paper to protect the binding and the pages.
#11: Two-Handed Hold 🙌
Large picture books should be carried with two hands to prevent dropping them or tearing the dust jacket.
#12: Report Existing Damage 🔍
If you find a book with a torn page or a loose cover, show it to the librarian immediately so it can be repaired properly.
#13: No Scribbling or Tracing ✏
Never use a pen or pencil near an open library book. Even tracing over pictures can leave permanent indentations on the pages.
#14: Shelf Etiquette 📚
When browsing, pull books out by the middle of the spine, not the top edge. This prevents the delicate top of the spine from tearing.
Library Manners & Ethics
The library experience is governed by staff and community rules. These final points cover interaction with staff and general helpfulness.
#15: Respect the Librarian 👨💼
Library staff are there to help. Always speak politely to them and follow their instructions regarding noise or behaviour immediately.
#16: Use Step Stools Safely 🪜
If a book is too high, ask a parent or staff member for help. Step stools are for reaching, not for playing or jumping.
#17: Bag Placement 🎒
Keep bags tucked under your chair or in designated lockers. Do not leave them in the aisles where they could trip other visitors.
#18: The Borrowing Limit 📤
Only borrow what you truly intend to read. This ensures that popular titles remain available for other children in the community.
#19: Closing Time Courtesy ⏰
When the "closing soon" announcement plays, start clearing your table and heading to the kiosks immediately to avoid rushing the staff.
#20: The Joy of Reading ❤
The final rule is to enjoy the stories! The library is a place for wonder; treat it with the love and respect it deserves.
Master Every Situation
Setting boundaries doesn't stop here. From hawker centres to screen time, explore our full collection of situational rules designed for Singaporean families.
See All Family Rules & Routines
