Unattended Children Policy

 NORWALK PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

Children 8 years and under must be   accompanied by an adult at all times

 In order to maintain a safe and orderly environment for library use, and to protect library property, the following constitutes library policy concerning the supervision of children. 

·        Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for the behavior, safety and supervision of their children at all times in the library and on library premises. Caregivers must be 18 or older.

·        The library staff is not responsible for the safety, care, or supervision of children of any age, whether in the library or on library premises.

·        Children 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times. They may not be left alone. During programs, parents, guardians, and caregivers of children 8 years and younger must remain in the library.

·        Children engaging in disruptive or other inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave the library.  The judgment of the library staff prevails when requesting such removal, and police assistance will be requested if necessary.

·        Parents, guardians, and caregivers should be aware of library opening and closing times and make suitable arrangements to meet or transport their children. If a child is left at the library after closing time, the police will be called.

·        Parents, guardians, and caregivers should be aware of the content of Connecticut General Statute 53-21 regarding child neglect and risk to minors.  A copy is available in the library. 

(Sec. 53-21a.  Leaving child unsupervised in place of public accommodation or motor vehicle. (a) Any parent, guardian or person having custody or control, or providing supervision, of any child under the age of twelve years who knowingly leaves such child unsupervised in a place of public accommodation or a motor vehicle for a period of time that presents a substantial risk to the child’s health or safety, shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor.)

 (Approved by NPLS Board of Directors 9-12-02)

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