Unattended Children Policy

The staff of the Children’s Room of the Medfield Public Library strive to create a warm, comfortable, inviting, fun environment for children of all ages. The library offers many programs and services that encourage children to develop a love of books, reading and learning. The library should be a safe environment for children to use materials, resources and services. The safety and well-being of children is of serious concern. Parents should remember that the library is a public building open to everyone. For the protection and well-being of children, the following policy has been established:

1. Children under the age of nine must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or caregiver fourteen years or older at all times in the Children’s Room and the Library.

2. Parents/caregivers are responsible for the conduct of their children while in the Library.

3. Parents/caregivers must not leave the library while their children under nine years of age are attending a program.

4. Parents/caregivers and children nine years and older should be familiar with library policies and hours of service. These children should be able to communicate directly with a parent/caregiver during their visit to the Library.

5. A child whose conduct interferes with other peoples’ ability to use the library will be asked to leave the building.

6. The library staff is not responsible for children who are left alone when the library is closed. The staff will attempt to contact a parent or caregiver for immediate pick-up. If arrangements cannot be made, the Medfield Police Department will be contacted. Approved by the Board of Trustees October 2017