Libraries Connected is dedicated to providing a harassment-free event experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of staff or event participants in any form. Sexually objectifying presentation language and imagery is not appropriate for any event venue, including talks, workshops, sponsors’ showcase etc. Event participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the event without a refund at the discretion of the event organisers.

This applies to all aspects of our events including social elements such as dinners and drinks receptions.

Harassment includes, but is not limited to:

• Verbal comments that reinforce social structures of domination related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, religion etc.
• Sexualized images, activities, or other material in public spaces
• Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following 
• Harassing photography or recording
• Sustained disruption of talks or other events
• Inappropriate physical contact
• Unwelcome sexual attention
• Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviour

Enforcement

Participants asked to stop any harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, event organisers retain the right to take any actions to keep the event a welcoming environment for all participants. This includes warning the offender or expulsion from the event with no refund.

Event organisers may take action to redress anything designed to, or with the clear impact of, disrupting the event or making the environment hostile for any participants.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all event venues and event-related social activities.

Reporting

If someone makes you or anyone else feel unsafe or unwelcome, please report it as soon as possible to Libraries Connected staff who can be identified by their STAFF badges. Harassment and other code of conduct violations reduce the value of our event for everyone.

You can make a report either personally or anonymously.

Anonymous Report

You can make an anonymous report using this online form.

We can't follow up an anonymous report with you directly, but we will fully investigate it and take whatever action is necessary to prevent a recurrence.

Personal Report

You can make a personal report by:

• Calling 03330383132. This phone number will be continuously monitored for the duration of the event.
• Emailing events@librariesconnected.org.uk this inbox will be continuously monitored for the duration of the event.
• Contacting a staff member, identified by STAFF badges.

When taking a personal report, our staff will ensure you are safe and cannot be overheard. They may involve other event staff to ensure your report is managed properly. Once safe, we'll ask you to tell us about what happened. This can be upsetting, but we'll handle it as respectfully as possible, and you can bring someone to support you. You won't be asked to confront anyone and we won't tell anyone who you are.

Our team will be happy to help you contact hotel/venue security, local police, local support services, provide escorts, or otherwise assist you to feel safe for the duration of the event. We value your attendance.

Attribution

This policy is based on the example policy from the Geek Feminism wiki, created by the Ada Initiative and other volunteers - http://geekfeminism.wikia.com/wiki/Conference_anti-harassment