North Adams Public Library
Safe Child Policy
Children are always welcome in our library. We care for the safety and well being of our young patrons. While library staff is always working to create a safe environment for all, it is necessary for parents and caregivers to do their part to insure that this is so.
CHILDREN AGED 7 OR UNDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT. THE LIBRARY CANNOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE SAFETY OF YOUNG CHILDREN.
The physical make-up of our Victorian building, with its over-sized stairway, separate rooms and many corners, makes it impossible to see patrons at all times. This is especially true of small children who may suffer an injury or may leave the public areas if left unattended. Adults must keep children with them whether upstairs or down. Staff should not be placed in the position of supervising children, too young to be left unattended.


CHILDREN AGED 8 AND OVER MAY BE LEFT UNATTENDED AT THE DISCRETION OF A RESPONSIBLE ADULT. IF THE ADULT FEELS IT IS UNSAFE FOR THE CHILD TO LEAVE THE BUILDING WITHOUT ADULT SUPERVISION, THE CHILD SHOULD NOT BE IN THE LIBRARY UNATTENDED.

Children may be left alone for a period of time deemed necessary to research an assignment, complete a homework task, attend a library program, or for a period of time to select books and read in the library. Children will be expected to display appropriate behavior, conducive to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere in the building for all patrons. The child will be asked to leave the premises if proper behavior is not maintained. Children must know how to reach an adult in case of an emergency, and both child and adult should be aware of library hours. At closing time, police will be notified to escort unattended children from the library.


PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS, NOT LIBRARY STAFF, ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACTIONS AND SAFETY OF CHILDREN VISITING THE LIBRARY.

Adopted by the North Adams Public Library Board of Trustees at their meeting on February 22, 1999.