Knowledge Base: Library Policies

POLICY

The Bonnyville Municipal Library encourages and promotes children's safe use of the library. We strive to make the library facility welcoming, educational, fun, and safe for children of all ages.

However, parents/guardians/caregivers should be aware that the library is a public place that is open to all members of the community. As in all public facilities, emergencies can occur and it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian/caregiver to monitor the whereabouts and behaviour of their children.

While library staff is concerned about the safety and well-being of children, they cannot assume responsibility for them in the absence of the parent/guardian/caregiver.

The library staff has been directed to use the following guidelines when dealing with unattended children.

GUIDELINES

1. Children aged five (5) and under must be accompanied by a parent/guardian/caregiver at all times. Children should not be left unattended for substantial periods of time while parents/guardians/caregivers conduct their own business in the library.
2. Children of elementary school age may come into the library independently, but should not be left unattended for substantial periods of time. If the library staff determines that children are left for extended periods of time the parents/guardians will be contacted. If a child is unattended when the library closes, and the staff cannot locate a parent/guardian, the library staff is directed to arrange for the RCMP to take responsibility for the child. Staff member will wait with the child until a parent/guardian, caregiver, or police arrives.
3. Children of middle school age and older may visit the library independently on terms determined by their parents/guardians. Children who are visiting the library independently are required to behave in a safe and courteous manner. Failure to listen to library staff may result in a suspension of library privileges. Parents/guardians are expected to make arrangements for their children to have rides home (if required) when the library closes.
4. In case of medical emergency involving an unattended child, the staff will call 911for emergency assistance and then attempt to contact a parent/guardian, in that order.
5. Any time young children are left unattended in the library, staff must discuss this policy with the parent/guardian.

DEFINITIONS

PROCEDURE