Recently, ARL library directors discussed the usefulness of such policies. The focus of the survey was on the consumption of food and drink, not merely the possession of it. Also, it was assumed that most or all libraries do not permit food and drink in special collections areas. Although there have been some recent changes in ARL libraries' programs for the management of food and drink, most do not permit the consumption of food and drink in general use areas. Food is more commonly prohibited.
Several libraries specify that water only is permitted.
When there are restrictions concerning areas of the library, computer installations head the list of prohibited areas. Preservation of library materials is the leading reason for restricting food and drink. On the other hand, libraries that have become more liberal in their policies concerning food and drink cite user convenience as the primary reason, with difficulty of enforcement a close second. There appears to be a moderate shift in ARL libraries toward a more permissive approach to food and drink. Most of these changes occurred within the last four years.