After School Information Guide

Dear Families, 

We are excited to welcome students back to the Scarborough Public Library after school! Each afternoon, young people come to read, do homework, attend programs, use library resources, spend time with friends, and simply have a place where they belong. We love having them here. With scores of students joining the many other patrons who use the library each afternoon, we need families' partnership in keeping the library safe and welcoming for everyone. 

THE LIBRARY IS NOT PART OF THE SCHOOL DAY

Although we are located on the school campus and work closely with our schools, the Scarborough Public Library is a public library, not an after school care program. Children age 12 and older may use the library independently. 

Library staff do not take attendance, track arrivals or departures, or verify that a student has arrived. Students are free to enter and leave the building at will. Families should have a clear plan for where their child is expected to be, how they will get home, and how they will communicate about their whereabouts or if plans change. The library phone lines should be used for emergencies only. 

IS MY CHILD READY FOR INDEPENDENT LIBRARY USE?

Children age 12 and older may visit independently - but age alone doesn't determine readiness. Before making the library part of your child's after-school plan, consider: 

  • Can my child follow library expectations without ongoing adult reminders?
  • Can they make safe choices and manage social situations independently? 
  • Can they respect other patrons, staff, library spaces, and property? 
  • Can they keep track of their belongings? 
  • Do they know when and how they are getting home? 
  • Do they know what to do if plans change - or if they are asked to leave for the day? 

If you're answering “not yet” to several of these questions, your child may need more support before using the library independently after school. 

BEHAVIOR & SAFETY

We expect students to follow the same behavior expectations as everyone who uses the library. Staff will redirect disruptive or unsafe behavior; continued disruptive or serious behavior may result in a student being asked to leave the library and grounds. Students must have a plan for what to do and how to get home if this occurs. 

A FEW IMPORTANT AFTER-SCHOOL REMINDERS

  • Sports & activities: The middle school provides options for students who need to change for after-school activities. Due to limited restroom space, library restrooms may not be used as changing rooms. 
  • Belongings: Backpacks, sports equipment, instruments, and other belongings must remain with students or in designated areas. The library cannot be responsible for lost or unattended items.
  • Technology: Students have access to library computers and WiFi. Library staff do not individually monitor students' internet or personal-device use. 
  • Pickup: Students must have transportation arranged and be picked up before the library closes. Staff cannot remain with students after closing. Please park in designated spaces when picking up your child to keep emergency lanes clear. 

WE'RE GLAD THEY'RE HERE 

Our goal is not to discourage students from coming to the library - we want them here. We want them to discover books, find their people, do homework, join programs, laugh with friends, and know that the library is a place where they belong. 

Making that possible takes a partnership between students, families, and library staff. Thank you for helping your child understand what independent library use means and for working with us to make the library a welcoming place for everyone. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. We look forward to a wonderful school year together!