Unattended Child Policy

The staff at Tilton Library hopes that children using the library will find it an inviting place to develop a love of books and reading, as well as a place to find materials which serve their informational, educational and recreational needs. Children are encouraged to visit the library, and to take advantage of its resources.

The Board of Trustees recognizes its obligation to consider the safety and welfare of children while they are in the Library. This policy is designed to address the Board’s concern for the welfare of children, and is not intended to restrict, discourage or frustrate appropriate use of the library.

Children of all ages are welcome in the library. However, it is the responsibility of parents to ensure their appropriate behavior. The Library staff is not responsible for the supervision of children left unattended by their parents or caregivers.

For the purposes of this policy, an unattended child refers to a child in the library alone, or a child whose parent or caregiver is in the library but is not adequately supervising that child. The latter situation may occur when the adult and child are in separate areas of the building, or when the adult is using library materials or equipment and is not supervising their child.

Responsibility for the welfare and behavior of children using the library rests with the parent/guardian or an assigned chaperone.  Young children should be attended and adequately supervised by a parent, guardian or caregiver who is a responsible person of at least twelve years of age.  Older children may use the library unattended provided they are able to maintain proper library behavior.

Tilton Library assumes no responsibility for children of any age left unattended in the library.

This statement of policy will be revised as times and circumstances require.

Approved Board of Trustees November 1, 2006