Safe Child

Last Updated Date

Purpose: 

To maintain the safety of children using the library. 

Policy: 

Unattended Children 

Children 9 years of age or younger: 

  • Must remain in the company of a parent or caretaker while in the library.  

  • Are welcome to attend library programs occurring inside the facility alone, but their parent/caretaker must remain in the library in case of emergency. 

  • Attending library programs in Pritchard Park should follow the guidelines for supervision laid out in the event or program listing on the library’s website. 

  • Left unattended will be monitored by a staff member until a parent/caretaker is located. 

If we cannot locate a parent/caretaker, staff will contact the police. 

Behavior & Responsibility 

Parents, legal guardians, or caregivers are responsible for the actions of children in the library.  This includes financial responsibility for any damage or loss of library property.   

Children in the library are subject to the Library Behavior policy. 

Reporting Requirements: 

Per North Carolina law, all library employees are required to report any suspected abuse or neglect of a juvenile (NCGS § 7B-301). 

References: 

North Carolina General Statute § 7B-301 Duty to report abuse, neglect, dependency, or death due to maltreatment.