The Spooner Memorial Library encourages children and families to use its facilities. However, when children are left unattended, problems can arise. Young children may wander away, be persuaded to leave with a stranger, or become confused or frightened. Older children may become bored or disruptive. In the event of an emergency involving unattended children, library staff cannot take legal responsibility.

Parents or guardians are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their children at the library.

Children age five and under must be accompanied by an adult or responsible adolescent (12 or over) at all times and in all areas of the building. Parents or another adult responsible for children attending story time must remain in the building.

Children ages six and seven may be left unattended in the children’s area for up to a ½ hour if the adult or responsible adolescent is in the building. Given the staggered finish times for area schools, we understand that children may sometimes have to wait at the library for a parent or sibling. Under these circumstances, school age children under 8 may wait up to a ½ hour to be picked up.

Children age eight and over may use the library without parents or guardians, provided they behave appropriately and follow rules that apply to all patrons, including respect for others and for library property and materials.

Any child requiring continual staff intervention or with special needs shall not be left unattended, regardless of age.

The library staff assumes no responsibility for children left unattended on library premises.

The library reserves the right to contact parents/guardians/proper authorities if minors are left unattended and require supervision.

The Spooner Memorial Library Trustees and staff ask that parents abide by this policy to keep our children safe and to ensure an enjoyable experience at our library for all patrons.

Adopted May 27, 2003