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 on ­December 4, 2014