No smoking outside libraries

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - All Tippecanoe County Public Libraries become smoke and tobacco free inside and outside. Smokers who want to light up will need to leave library property starting July 1.

Smoking and tobacco use inside Tippecanoe County Public libraries has been forbidden for some time. Now the no smoking policy extends outside.

"We decided the next step in providing a clean healthy environment for library patrons was to move smoking away from the doors of the buildings. That discussion moved to let's just take it off the ground completely," said TCPL board president Dinah McClure.

The smoking ban effects all outdoor areas for all the libraries including the entrance and the parking lot. Meaning the entire property for the libraries will be smoke free. Smokers I spoke with say they agree with the policy.

"It's a good idea because there are a lot of kids that hang out here and you don't need to have cigarette smoke around," said smoker Jason Allen.

Edward Irmeger of Lafayette is a smoker and often finds butts surrounding the downtown branch's entrance. He thinks the ban will help keep the library grounds looking neater.

"If you are going to smoke, have an ashtray. Use the ash tray. It's called respect for other people's property," he explained.

The library board hopes that banning all tobacco will make coming to the library a better experience for patrons.

"Folks coming in and out of the library have to go through a cloud of smoke sometimes. That's not pleasant," said McClure.

There will be no butts, smokers will need to find a new place to enjoy cigarettes.

Library staff will be responsible for enforcing the ban.