Linwood Public Library, NJ

Libraries are public places. The library assumes no responsibility for the children’s behavior. The following rules for children will be enforced:

1. Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library and must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or caregiver.
2. Children are to behave appropriately at all times. Children who do not follow appropriate library behavior and rules will be reminded by a supervisor.
3. Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for the behavior and supervision of their children in the library, not the library staff. Children are to be within sight and sound of the parent, guardian or caregiver while in the library or while participating in our programs. Parents, guardians, or caregivers who do not supervise their child effectively will be notified by a supervisor.
4. Children under the age of 10 years may not be left unattended in the library. A caregiver must be 15 years of age or older to assume full responsibility for the child’s safety.
5. At the discretion of a parent, a child aged 10 years old or older who is able to care for himself or herself may be left unattended for the period of time needed to select materials, complete a homework assignment, or attend a program. The child must know how to reach the parent in case the need should arise. The parent must provide a current contact number in case of emergency.
6. Children should not be left for more than one-half hour periods of time; the library and its staff are not to be used in lieu of daycare services.
7. Adults accompanying young children who cry for more than 15 minutes may be asked to leave with children until they have quieted down.
8. The staff may have to remind children to behave appropriately while in the library. If behavior is an issue and the situation becomes chronic, the supervisor may call a parent, guardian or caregiver of an unattended child or ask the child to leave for the day. The child may return at a later date.
9. If an unattended younger child is found in the library, a supervisor is to be notified. The supervisor will assist the child in finding their parent, guardian or caregiver by walking through the library. If the parent, guardian or caregiver is not found, a phone call to the home will be made. The parent guardian or caregiver will be informed of the library policy.
10. The child must call a parent, guardian, or caregiver 15 minutes before library closing for transportation home.
11. Under no circumstances should a library staff member provide transportation or take the child out of the library.
12. If a child is not picked up by closing, the Linwood Police may have to be called.