Woodstock Public Library

Unattended Children Policy
Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while they are in the library. The Woodstock Public Library staff is committed to help children with activities related to the library. Library staff cannot be, nor is it their responsibility, to serve as baby-sitters or disciplinarians. Violations of this policy are grounds for suspension of library privileges. Whenever advisable, the library will notify the parent of incidents involving an unattended child.

• Children age seven and younger must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent or responsible caregiver. The minimum age for a caregiver is at least 14.
• Children between the ages of eight and ten must have a parent or responsible caregiver of at least 14 years of age present in the building so that they are available to supervise and remain attentive to the child.
• Children over the age of 10 may use the library unattended by an adult, subject to other library rules and policies concerning behavior, conduct, and demeanor.

When the safety of an unattended child is in doubt, or the parent or responsible caregiver cannot be located, or if the library is closing, library staff is authorized to call the police and stay with the child until the police arrive.
In the event a child 13 years old or younger has not been picked up at the time the library is closing, library staff will attempt to contact the child’s parent or guardian. If 15 minutes after the library closes the parent/guardian has not come to pick up the child, the police will be notified.

Amended November 2009