For the protection and well-being of children who visit the library, the following policy has been established.
Children under 9
Children under the age of 9 years may not be left unattended in the Library under any circumstances. Children must have a responsible caregiver aged 11 or older within sight and proximity at all times.
Programs: During story times or other programs, parents/caregivers who do not attend the program must remain in the building for the full duration of the program and must be visible when the program is over. In certain circumstances, a staff member may ask a parent/caregiver to remain with the child during a program.
Children 9-10
Children ages 9-10 are welcome to attend a library program unattended, but may not be left unsupervised in the Library under any other circumstances.
Children 11 and older
Children 11 and older are welcome to use the library unattended but should not be left alone for extended periods of time. If a child becomes anxious or disruptive, or otherwise breaks our Patron Behavior Policy: https://www.tcpld.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patron-Behavior-1.pdf, the staff will attempt to find the parent/caregiver in the library. If they are not available, the staff will call the contact number on record. It is the responsibility of the parent/caregiver to be accessible to pick up the child at all times. Children must always have a way for staff to contact the parent/caregiver when they are left unattended in the library. In cases of threatening, abusive, or criminal behavior the Library staff will inform the proper authorities. Parents and caregivers are responsible for ensuring that their children are safely removed from the Library building and premises by the time the Library closes. Children are not to be left waiting outside the building after the doors have been locked and staff have exited the building. Library staff are not responsible for waiting after hours to make sure unattended children are safe.
The Library cannot be held responsible for incidents, accidents, or other liabilities arising from the actions of unattended children.