Penn State University Libraries - Sexual Harassment

"Sexual harassment of faculty, staff or students is prohibited and will not be tolerated at The Pennsylvania State University. It is the policy of the University to maintain an academic and work environment free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment violates the dignity of individuals and impedes the realization of the University's educational mission. The University is committed to preventing and eliminating sexual harassment of faculty, staff and students through education and by encouraging faculty, staff and students to report any concerns or complaints about sexual harassment. Prompt corrective measures will be taken to stop sexual harassment whenever and wherever it occurs."      - from Policy AD41

Sexual harassment is taken very seriously and will not be tolerated in the University Libraries. Employees are encouraged to report concerns to either of the Libraries' sexual harassment resource persons, listed below, or contact the Libraries Human Resources office.

Nancy Henry
408 Paterno Library
Ph: (814) 865-3713
nih1@psu.edu

Sherry Roth
1 Central Pattee Library
Ph: (814) 863-1346
ssr11@psu.edu

Jacqueline Peagler
126 Paterno Library
Ph: (814) 865-1755
jyp1@psu.edu

How do I recognize if something constitutes sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment can take many forms, it is not always blatant unwanted sexual advances. It could be repeatedly asking a coworker for a date after being told no, it could be signs or pictures that create a hostile work environment, or even jokes of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is not only targeted at women, either. Men can be victims, as well.

What should I do if I'm concerned someone in my department is sexually harassing others?

First, contact LHR immediately. Sexual harassment is taken very seriously and LHR staff can assist you in identifying the appropriate course of action. If training is needed, it is available in the form of courses an individual can attend for sensitivity training, or as group sessions presented by Affirmative Action personnel.

For more information on sexual harassment, Affirmative Action offers a comprehensive Sexual Harassment Prevention page with examples to help recognize when sexual harassment may be occurring in the workplace.