The Library Board of Trustees, Administration, and staff are committed to the safety and well-being of all library users, especially children and vulnerable adults who visit the library without a parent, guardian, or caregiver.
Library staff cannot provide babysitting, supervision, or childcare for patrons, and they cannot assume responsibility for unattended children or vulnerable adults who remain on library grounds after hours. Staff members are not authorized to act as guardians, provide transportation, or assume custody in these situations.
Definition of a Vulnerable Adult
For the purposes of this policy, a vulnerable adult is any person aged 16 or older who, due to physical or mental impairment, developmental disability, cognitive decline, illness, or dependence on care or supervision, is unable to protect their own interests or is at increased risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who:
- Have physical or mental limitations that substantially restrict their ability to carry out daily activities or protect themselves without assistance;
- Receive care, services, or support in a residential, medical, or community setting; or
- Are temporarily or permanently unable to make or communicate informed decisions about their well-being or safety.
Responsibilities of Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers
Parents, guardians, and caregivers are expected to:
- Remain in the library and provide direct, continuous supervision—within sight and hearing—of children under 8 years old, or ensure that a caregiver providing such supervision is at least 12 years old and capable of doing so.
- Note that children ages 5–8 may attend age-appropriate library programs without a caregiver present in the program room, but the caregiver must remain in the building and rejoin the child immediately after the program.
- Ensure that vulnerable adults in their care receive the supervision and support needed to remain safe and comfortable during their library visit.
- Encourage appropriate behavior and cooperate with staff if the person in their care becomes disruptive or endangers others.
- Provide transportation home by the time the library closes.
Library Staff Role and Procedure
The Library respects the rights and privacy of all patrons. Staff will intervene only when an unattended child or vulnerable adult’s safety, behavior, or well-being is at risk.
If a child under 8 or a vulnerable adult is left unattended, disruptive, or in need of supervision:
- Staff will attempt to locate the responsible parent, guardian, or caregiver and review supervision expectations.
- If a caregiver cannot be found in the building, police will be called to assume responsibility.
- If the same individual is repeatedly left unattended, the caregiver may receive a notice of suspension of library privileges in accordance with the Library Conduct Policy.
When a child or vulnerable adult is left at the library after closing:
- At least two staff members will remain with them for up to 15 minutes while attempting to reach a caregiver.
- If no one can be reached or arrives within that time, police will be contacted to assume responsibility.
- If repeated incidents occur, staff may immediately notify police without waiting or contacting the caregiver.