Unattended children

1. Parents/guardians may not leave children under the age of nine years unattended in the library and are responsible for their children’s behavior while in the library whether or not the parent is present.  Parents will also be responsible for any disturbance or damage done to the library by their child.  Children age nine and older may use the library unattended provided that their behavior is not disruptive.  Children and young people who are disruptive in the library or on library grounds interfere with library service to all patrons.  Disruptive behavior is any form of behavior that seriously or constantly disturbs patrons or staff; damages library property; interferes with library service or endangers the well being of the child or others. The Ericson Public Library is not a child care provider and staff cannot supervise children or act as a substitute for daycare.  The Library is not responsible for the safety or security of children left unattended.
2. If a child is left unattended in the library, the staff will attempt to locate his/her parents/guardians.  Staff members are not permitted to remain after hours with an unattended child or give him/her a ride home.  For the safety of the child, the staff will not leave a child under the age of eight outside to wait on a ride.  If a parent/guardian cannot be reached by the time the library is to close, the Boone police will be called to escort the child home or keep the child until parents can be reached.
3. If a child is reported missing staff will obtain name, age, and a description of child.  They will check all possible areas within the library and page the child on intercom.  If child is not found, it is recommended that the police are notified.

Adopted July 21, 2003
Reviewed and approved December 15, 2003, November 13, 2007
Revised and approved July 18, 2011, September 15, 2014