Background

Public libraries are public buildings that must be open to all persons who abide by basic, established rules of conduct. The Metropolitan Library System strives to provide safe and welcoming libraries for customers of all ages and wants children to use its facilities and services. However, the safety of children left alone in a library building is a serious concern of the library staff. Children in the library should always be accompanied by a parent/guardian or assigned caregiver.

Children, left on their own, may be able to keep themselves occupied for a time; but, often become bored, restless and disturb others. Such behavior can prompt reprimands from the staff, fostering a negative rather than a positive atmosphere. Unsupervised children also require considerable attention to the possibility of accidents or whether a child is interacting with or leaving the building with a parent or with a stranger. Some children may be waiting for a ride after the facilities close, and this poses concern about their safety. Due to the demands made by other customers, the library staff is unable to ensure sufficient attention and oversight of these children without the assistance of a parent/guardian or assigned caregiver.

Policy

This policy ensures that children may safely and appropriately enjoy Metropolitan Library System facilities and services. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the library rests with the parent/guardian or assigned caregiver and not with library personnel. Library employees cannot be responsible for children who are unattended or demonstrating inappropriate behavior.

Regulations

1. Children up to age 10 must have a parent/caregiver in the immediate vicinity of and in visual contact with the child. The assigned caregiver must be able to attend to the child's safety and ensure appropriate behavior, and must carry emergency contact information.
2. If a child under age 10 is found unattended, library staff will attempt to locate the parent/caregiver in the library and inform him/her of the rules. If the parent/caregiver cannot be found, or if the child is found unattended again, the police will be called for assistance.
3. If a child violates the Library Rules of Conduct, the child and the parent/caregiver will be informed of the rules. If inappropriate behavior continues, the family may be asked to leave the library.
4. Children must be picked up promptly when the library closes.