Don, this is a fine shot. The composition is very good, and the low angle works well. The patrons being relaxed and engaged in their books and what not make for a great scene.

The topic of whether or not a photographer has the right to take pics of people in a setting like this is one for another forum. This topic, if I recall had been started in the Photo Business and Law forum many times.

I'm not taking sides here, nor am I interested in how the dispute came to turn ugly but from this point on I do not want to read anymore tit for tat on this. Lets keep the comments focused on the critique of Don's photograph. A thread can be started in another more appropriate forum for the discussion and questions regarding photogs rights, etc.
So please, let cooler heads prevail and let's move on. . . .