Unattended Children

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The library board and staff encourage children to come to the library and explore all the possibilities available to them. However, we are also concerned about the welfare and safety of children when they are left unattended. The library is not responsible for the safety of children while they are on library premises. Out of concern for children visiting the library, the library board has adopted the following policy:

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1. In all situations, the responsible adult who has transported minor children to the library or otherwise directed or allowed children onto library property are responsible for the care and safety of those children while on library premises. The library staff does not take the place of a parent, act as caregiver or babysitter, nor assume responsibility for unattended children.

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2. Children under the age of seven (7) must be accompanied by an adult or guardian at all times unless that child is involved in a supervised schedule program such as a storytime.

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3. Children ages 7-10 must have a guardian in the library building, although they may be in different areas of the building.

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4. Children ages 11-17 may use the library unattended as long as they abide by the Patron Code of Conduct.

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5. If an unattended child is being disruptive, is habitually left unattended for long periods of time, or is deemed to be at risk of coming to harm (as in the case of a child being left unattended near closing time), an effort will be made to locate the responsible adult. If necessary, appropriate law enforcement or child protective authorities will be notified to take custody of the child. A child will never be placed in a staff member’s automobile and taken anywhere.