The Library is a public facility that includes the Civic Auditorium and Gallery. The Library facility is open to all, and there may be risks for children and vulnerable adults when they are left unattended. The Library staff will adhere to the following guidelines concerning the care and behavior of child and vulnerable individuals.
- An unattended child generally is defined as a minor under the age of nine who is not accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, custodian or caregiver age 16 or older.
- A vulnerable individual is a person of any age who is mentally or physically challenged to a degree that significantly impairs the individual's ability to provide adequately for their own care or manage their own behavior without assistance.
Guidelines
Unattended children and vulnerable individuals may not be left alone in the Library and must have adequate supervision while in the Library. These visitors must have a guardian or caregiver in the immediate vicinity or in visual contact at all times while in the Library. Children ages five to eight may attend programs in the Children's Program Room without direct caregiver or guardian supervision provided the caregiver or guardian remains in the Children's Library.
Library staff does not act in loco parentis (in place of parents) for minors or vulnerable individuals while in the Library facility. A parent, legal guardian or caregiver is responsible for monitoring the activities and managing the behavior of minors or vulnerable individuals during their Library visit.
Library employees are not permitted to transport anyone to or from the Library facility for any reason.