Eldon Public Library
Policy and Procedure
Unattended/Safe Child
Revised April 2023
The Eldon Public Library encourages children of all ages to visit the library. Programs and resources are offered to make the library welcoming to children, to help children enjoy their visits, and to develop a love of books, reading and libraries.
The library, however, does not provide childcare. The library will not accept the responsibility of surrogate care provider for children in the library. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s behavior while at the library. We expect parents to keep sick children at home. Children who are home sick from school, should not be in the library.
Children under 6
Children under the age of 6 must not be left unattended by a parent or responsible guardian/caretaker (14 years of age or older) and must be accompanied by a parent or responsible guardian/caretaker (14 years of age or older) at all times.
Programs-During story times or other programs, adults who do not attend the program with the child must remain in the building and must be visible when the program is over.
Children 6-8
Children 6-8 must have a parent or responsible guardian/caregiver (14 years of age or older) in the building with them at all times during the library visit.
Children 9-12
These children are welcome to use the library unattended but should not be left alone for extended periods of time. Parents are responsible for their behavior. If a child becomes anxious or disruptive, the staff will attempt to contact the parent or caregiver. It is the responsibility of the parent or caregiver to be accessible to pick up the child at any time.
Children 13 years and older
Children 13 and over are old enough to use the library responsibly. If problems arise, they may be asked to leave or parents may be contacted. It is the responsibility of the parent or caregiver to be accessible to pick up the child at any time.
Please remember if your child is 9 years to 16 years and is left unattended, the child must have a way for the staff to contact the parent or caregiver at all times when they are left unattended in the library. The parent or caregiver must have definite arrangements to pick up the child before closing time. If a child is left unattended at closing time, and arrangements have not been made, or a parent or caregiver cannot be reached, after 15 minutes the Wapello County Sheriff’s Department will be asked if they can assist in helping to get the child home safely. Staff will not drive children home. Staff will make a written report concerning the incident.