# Shire Branch Rules

## Policy overview

Shire Branch offers a warm, family-focused library experience with specific boundaries to keep children safe and to protect the home and grounds. These rules make it possible to enjoy both indoor play and outdoor space while respecting private areas, farm equipment, and animals.

## Key points

- Indoor play is encouraged in the basement children’s area, but no shouting, rough-housing, wrestling, throwing, or hide-and-seek anywhere in the house.
- The basement bathroom and living room are open for use, but the basement kitchen, root cellar, back furnace room, and office are not part of the library.
- Please do not play on stairs or railings; the bedrooms, all closets, and the second floor are not part of the library.
- Quiet, seated activities are welcome on the couches, but no romping or pillow-fighting at any time.
- Park on the grass along the driveway or by the shop garage, leaving the main garage area clear for safety.
- Do not enter any outbuilding, including the shop, shop garage, or tractor shed, because dangerous tools and farm equipment are stored there.
- Outdoor play is welcome within the mowed grass areas, and the gardens may be enjoyed from the pathways only.
- The trampoline, swing set, and outdoor playthings are available under parental supervision, with a limit of six children on the trampoline at once.
- Hunter the cat may be petted gently, but please do not tease him or try to play with him, as he may nip.
- Please watch the chickens from a distance and do not enter their coop or fenced area; avoid picking up eggs you find in the yard.

Read the full human page at [/library-policies/shire-rules](/library-policies/shire-rules).