Use of the Library by Children

The Plainfield Public Libraries welcomes children of all ages to use and enjoy our facilities, collections, and programming. Children are expected to behave in a manner that does not disturb the enjoyment of others or jeopardize their safety or that of others.  The library is not responsible for children left unattended on library property.

1. The library cannot guarantee the safety of or assume responsibility for, a child of any age who is unattended at the library.

2.  Children under the age of eight must be in the immediate presence of a responsible adult unless they are attending a program that states that children do not have to have an attending adult present. A responsible adult means someone over the age of 16 who is taking an active role in attending to the child.

3.  Children ages 9-11 may use the library unattended by an adult for not more than two hours.  Parents/guardians leaving their children alone accept the resulting risks.

4.  Library staff will assist lost or unattended children to find parents/guardians or an attending adult within the library building, or, if necessary, elsewhere.  The library staff will make every reasonable effort to assist a lost child prior to closing and if at closing the parent/guardian has not been located, the police will be notified.

5.  Children are expected to adhere to the same rules of conduct expected of adults.  All library users are required to respect library property and to act in a manner appropriate to the use and function of a library. (See Behavior in the Library Policy)

6.  Unattended young people, ages 12-17, may use the library as adults.

 

Last Revised