Service Dogs are permitted in all Elyria Public Library facilities. EPL follows the definitions and guidelines outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Requirements regarding Service Animals.
Overview
According to the ADA 2010 Revised Requirements, beginning March 15, 2011, only DOGS are recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the ADA.
A service animal is a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
Service Animal Behavior
Under the ADA, a Service Dog may be removed from a public place for disruptive behavior.
A Service Dog must always be under the control of the handler.
A Service Dog must always be on a leash (some allowances may be made under certain circumstances at the discretion of the Library).
A Service Dog must not show aggression towards people or other animals.
Persistent barking, growling, or whining may result in the removal of an animal from the premises.
A Service Dog must not solicit attention, food, or other items from the general public, nor annoy any member of the general public.
A Service Dog’s work must not disrupt the normal course of business.
Public Appropriateness
The Service Dog must meet reasonable hygiene standards and be housebroken.
Clean-up is the responsibility of the handler.
The patron with the disability may be charged for damage caused by the handler or the Service Dog.
EPL & EPL Staff Rights
Under the ADA, one may ask if the dog is required because of a disability and may ask what tasks the dog performs for the handler.
EPL reserves the right to schedule a variety of animals for programming purposes and does not need special permission to do so.
(Approved by the Board of Trustees on September 14, 2026.)