My Account

Unattended Child Policy

Unattended Child Policy of the Pere Marquette District Library

The Pere Marquette District Library wishes to provide an environment that is
inviting, pleasant, and safe for all patrons. The Pere Marquette District Library
encourages that visits to the library be a family affair. Bring your child to the library
to help him or her choose books, use the computers, or attend a program.
The library staff is here to serve you. However, staff cannot assume the
responsibility of a child’s care. The behavior and welfare of children are the
responsibility of parents, guardians or caregivers accompanying the child/children to
the library. While the library seeks to maintain a safe and secure environment, it
must be recognized that this is a public building.
Disruptive behavior that is unacceptable in the library includes, but is
not limited to:

• Running, chasing

• Shouting, loud conversation, arguments, foul language

• Throwing books, magazines, or toys

• Bullying or bothering patrons

• Vandalizing Library property or facilities

Unattended Children: Policy Statement:
Children 11 years of age and younger may not be left unattended in the library. Children
11 years of age and younger shall at all times be attended and supervised by a responsible
adult (parent, guardian, other caregiver, age 18 years or older).

Unattended Children at the library: (Children ages 11 and under) Staff members
will allow children to call for transportation or to locate family members using the
library telephone. If the parent or other adult is unreachable by telephone, a staff
member will contact the law enforcement authorities that will keep the child in their
custody until a parent can be reached.

Unattended Children, 12 Years or older at library Closing: Concern will be shown
for children if they appear abandoned or overly stressed with regard to the library’s
closing. If necessary, the same procedure as above will be followed. If not, children
may wait for their parents outside the building.

­

­

*Recommended to be approved by the Pere Marquette District Library Board on­December 4, 2014