Unattended Minors Policy

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The Scarsdale Public Library welcomes children and minors to use its facilities, resources and services.

Responsibility for minors using the Library rests with the parent/guardian or caregiver, not with the Library staff. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent/guardian or caregiver at all times, including during programs. Legal guardians and/or caregivers 14 and older may assume responsibility for a child while in the Library and are expected to comply with the Code of Conduct Policy.

When a child is unattended or under-attended, library staff may attempt to contact their parent/ guardian or caregiver. In the event that they cannot be located, staff will contact the Scarsdale Police Department. Should a child under the age of 14 be left alone at closing, at least two staff members will remain after hours with the unattended child until the parent/guardian/caregiver or police arrive. In the event of an emergency, staff will call 911.

Children and minors ages 10 and over may use the Library unattended subject to the Library’s  Code of Conduct Policy.

Vulnerable minors* require a parent/guardian or caregiver who is 18 years of age or older who is responsible for monitoring their activities and managing their behavior during their Library visit to ensure they comply with our Code of Conduct Policy. Library staff cannot provide food, transportation or money to minors.

Parents/guardians or caregivers who violate this policy risk having their Library privileges restricted or revoked.

*A vulnerable minor is an individual under the age of 18 who is mentally or physically challenged to a degree that significantly impairs the individual’s ability to adequately provide for their own care or manage their own behavior without assistance.

Approved by the Scarsdale Public Library Board of Trustees November 4, 2024

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