Northland Public Library strives to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all visitors and welcomes the use of its facilities and services by children and adults of all ages. While the Library is especially concerned for the safety of children and vulnerable adults on Library property, the Library does not act in loco parentis (in place of parents), and Library staff are unable to provide parental-type oversight or guidance to children or vulnerable adults. Parents, legal guardians, teachers, custodians, or caregivers are responsible for monitoring the activities and managing the behavior of children and vulnerable adults during their library visits.
Children Under the Age of Twelve (12)
Children under the age of twelve (12) may not be left unattended in the Library and must be accompanied by a caregiver. The Library requires that the caregiver be the child’s parent or legal guardian or an adult or adolescent age sixteen (16) or older who has been designated by the parent or guardian to care for the child. Caregivers accompanying children under the age of twelve (12) shall remain in the same general area of the Library as the child at all times and keep the child in their line of sight. These rules apply at all times unless the child is attending a designated library program where adult presence is not required, during which time adults accompanying children under twelve (12) years of age must remain in the Library and must promptly pick up their child as soon as the program is over.
Children Ages Twelve (12) and Up
Children ages twelve (12) and up are welcome to use the Library unattended as long as they follow Library rules and observe proper conduct. Any child who is at the Library without supervision must be able to contact a responsible person in case of emergency or for transportation needs.
Children with Special Needs and Vulnerable Adults
Children and vulnerable adults of any age with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities which affect decision-making skills or require supervision are welcome in the Library when accompanied by a parent, caregiver or responsible adult (18 years or older). A vulnerable adult is an individual over the age of 18 who is mentally or physically challenged to a degree that significantly impairs their ability to provide for their personal needs and manage their behavior without assistance. The caregiver should be able to manage the vulnerable adult’s behavior and meet their personal needs. Physically challenged adults who can manage their own needs are welcome to stay in the library without a caregiver, provided that a contact person is available in case the adult’s health or safety is at risk.
To ensure a safe and supportive environment, caregivers are expected to be aware of their charges’ location at all times while using the Library or attending Library events or programming.
If only one caregiver accompanies multiple individuals, they must be able to provide appropriate supervision and attention to those in their care. Caregivers must also ensure staff are able to locate them if needed. Patrons requiring any special accommodations are encouraged to communicate their needs to Kelley Moten, ADA Coordinator or to any Library staff member.
Disruptive Behavior in Children and Vulnerable Adults
If a child or vulnerable adult is being disruptive to other patrons or violating Library rules, Library staff will first issue a verbal warning to the child or vulnerable adult and/or their caregiver informing them that their behavior is not acceptable. Children or vulnerable adults who continue to engage in disruptive behavior may be asked to leave the Library and the parent/guardian/caregiver will be contacted, if necessary.
Children in the Library During School Hours
Northland does not report children truant, except in instances where staff are concerned about repetitive truancy, in which case staff shall follow Mandated Reporter guidelines.
Unaccompanied Minors at Closing
Parents/caregivers are responsible for being aware of Library hours and for picking up their child(ren) which must be done before the Library closes. If a child under the age of sixteen (16) is not picked up within 15 minutes of the Library’s closing time, the Library staff reserve the right to contact the Town of McCandless Police Department for assistance. Under no circumstances will Library staff transport any child by any method including in a personal or library vehicle to their home or to any other location.
Approved 5/26/2026
