About the Library

The care and behavior of minor children visiting the library is the responsibility of each child’s parent/guardian. The library does not act in place of parents. While many people think of a public library as a safe environment, that is unfortunately not always the case. Library staff members welcome minor children to enjoy the library but cannot accept responsibility for their safety and supervision. Library staff members have many duties and cannot supervise children nor act as a substitute for daycare.

 

Children through age 7 must have a parent or caregiver (who must be at least 12 years old) in the immediate vicinity unless they are participating in a library program (parents/guardians are asked to remain in the building during the program their child is attending). Children ages 8 to 12 may use the library unattended for an amount of time appropriate to their age and maturity. Even if not present, parents are responsible for the actions of their children.

 

When a situation (e.g. personal injury, minor child left at closing etc.) develops that warrants the attention of a minor’s parent/guardian, but that individual is not present, the library will attempt to contact the parent/guardian. If unable to reach the parent/guardian, the library will contact the Barberton Police Department to report the presence of an unattended minor in the library. If a child is left unattended at closing time, the police will be asked to pick up the minor for transport until the parent/guardian can be located. At least two staff members shall remain with the child until either a parent/guardian or the police arrive. If the police arrive first, a sign will be left on the library door stating that the child/ren has/have been transported by the police department. Under no circumstances will library staff transport any minor in their personal car or any library vehicle.

 

If a minor is being asked to leave the library because of a violation of the library’s code of behavior, no attempt to reach a parent/guardian will be made.