The Library is a public space shared by all members of our community. As with anywhere else, when young children are present, we must take extra caution for the safety of all.

However, it is important to understand that Library staff cannot ensure the safety of any library patron. Therefore parents and caregivers are responsible for each child's behavior and well-being.

Groups

  • Caregivers and teachers bringing groups to the Library please be aware that if you are in charge of a group of children of any age, you must stay with them and ensure their behavior and well-being while they are in the library.

Additional Important Safety Considerations to Keep in Mind

  • A public building is not a safe environment for a crawling baby or a toddler. To avoid injury, children under the age of 3 must be in close proximity (within sight) of an adult responsible for their safety. 
     
  • An adult must be present to watch and guide any child under 7 years old.
     
  • Children over 7 years old may be in the Library without an adult present. However, you should monitor the behavior of any child in your care until you are sure the child is mature enough to follow the rules on their own, and can take responsibility for their own safety. Parents remain responsible for their children even when the parent is not present in the building.
     
  • Please make every effort to avoid bringing a sick/contagious child to the Library.
     
  • Talk with your child about safety issues that might arise in a public building and determine a meeting place in the event your child becomes lost.

Other Ideas to Consider

  • Remember the basic principle that the Library shared space - no one person's behavior may interfere with someone else's use of the Library.
     
  • Some areas of the Library are primarily intended for adult use. Children will need closer supervision in these areas.
     
  • If you are with a young child who continues crying, please take the child away from the public areas until the child is calm again.
     
  • If a child has conflicts with other children in the Library, you need to intervene to help them resolve the conflicts. Materials must be shared and people must take turns.
     
  • Young children need assistance using computers. Always help your pre-reading child use the computers. 
     
  • Review these resources to help talk to your child about internet safety.