Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

Unattended Children Policy
November 29, 2005

The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall is concerned with the safety and well being of children in the library, particularly those who are at risk because of their vulnerability.

A "vulnerable" child is defined as one who is unable to care for his or her physical and psychological needs or is too young to be safe alone inside and outside the facility. Although this may include older children, it applies to all children seven years of age or younger.

• The library is not responsible for the safety or well being of any patron.
• The library staff cannot prevent children from interacting with or leaving with persons who are not the appropriate chaperone.
• The library staff is not responsible for any unattended minor child; however, if the library staff notices a "vulnerable" child and the parent or legal guardian cannot be located, the library will contact the police to protect the child's safety.
• Parents or legal guardians are responsible for the conduct of their minor children (under 18 years of age) in the library or on library grounds, regardless of whether they are accompanying their children or not.
• Children attending library programs are not considered to be supervised by library staff.
• The accompanying adult is responsible for "vulnerable" children while in the library or on library property and may not leave "vulnerable" children unattended.