HADDONFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY

Service to children is a very high priority of the Haddonfield Public Library. Children of all ages are welcomed and encouraged to use the Library's materials, programs and services and every effort is made to have a pleasant, warm and inviting library building. At the same time, the Library is an open, public building and the well-being and safety of young children left alone is a serious concern. Also, unattended children, left alone for an extended period of time, often become bored, restless or disruptive. Some, especially younger children, can become frightened or anxious.

For these reasons the following policy has been established.

Parents or adult caregivers are responsible for the care of their children using the Library's facilities. Library staff cannot assume the responsiblity for the care of supervision of children in the Library.

The following guidelines have been established to ensure that children are safe and cared for while in the library and have been made with the understanding that individual children mature at different rates.

    * Children under 7: a parent or responsible caregiver (age 13 or older) must remain with or
       be immediately accessible to the child at all times

    * Children 7-9: a parent or responsible caregiver (age 13 or older) must remain in the Library
       for the duration of the child's visit

    * Children 10-12 are welcome to use the Library unattended, but should not be left alone for
       extended periods of time

    * Children 13 and over are old enough to use the Library responsibly

It is not the intention of the Library to seek out unattended children but rather, to have a reasoned response prepared if necessary. If problems arise while children are using the library or if they are left alone, the library staff will attempt to reach the parents. In certain circumstances, if the parents cannot be contacted, the police will be called.

Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees
September 15, 1998; revised December 21, 2004
 
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