Policy for Unattended Children in the Library

The Switzerland County Public Library is open to all to provide access to the information and services therein. The Library cannot ensure the safety of any Library patron of any age, especially children. Library staff duties do not include babysitting or taking over any parental responsibilities for children when they come into the Library. Parents and caregivers are responsible for the safety and welfare, as well as the behavior of accompanying children. Patrons of all ages are expected to abide by the Library Behavior Policy (copies available at the circulation desk).

The safety of children is a priority for the Library; however, the Library is a public building open to all. There are many factors which could place children in danger. Children could be approached by or tempted to leave with an unscrupulous stranger. They could become frightened, anxious, or ill; could have no place to go in the event of an unexpected closing; or could encounter hazards. Additionally, they usually lack the necessary maturity to handle emergency situation such as severe weather, fire, or civil disturbance.

Children under the age of 10 must be directly supervised by a parent or responsible caregiver age 14 and over. The parent/caregiver must remain with the child while in the library. Young children should not be left unattended while participating in Library programs or while parents/caregivers use the public computers, browse the shelves or attend functions in the meeting room. In extreme circumstances during a public health emergency, guardians may occasionally be asked to wait outside the meeting room during a children’s program in order to meet distancing guidelines, but the guardian is to remain in the building and available in case of emergency.

Children above the age of 10 who can understand and follow the Library Behavior Policy and can care for themselves are allowed to be in the Library unattended. They should have contact information for someone who can assist them in an emergency. Staff does not monitor the arrival or departure of any child from a program or the building. The Library does not have a public phone.

Parents, caregivers and children who are in violation of this policy or the Library Behavior Policy are subject to suspension of Library privileges and may be banned from Library property.

Library staff will attempt to contact a parent or legal guardian when:

• the health or safety of an unattended child is in doubt;
• a child is frightened while alone at the Library;
• the behavior of an unattended child violates the Library Behavior Policy;
• an unattended child has not been met by a parent or caregiver at closing time.

A child or children left habitually unattended is deemed to be at risk. If a parent or guardian of an unattended child cannot be contacted or located immediately, the Library will contact the local law enforcement or child protective authorities to take custody of the child. Library employees are not permitted to transport children. The local law enforcement authorities will also be given custody of a child left at the Library unattended at closing time.

Revised and adopted July 8^th, 2014 by the Switzerland County Public Library Board of Trustees.

Revised June 8^th, 2021.

Revised June 14^th, 2022.

Revised June 13^th, 2023.