The Scarborough Public Library welcomes children and strives to provide an inviting, educational, and fun atmosphere, and encourages parents to enjoy the library with their children. To assure the safety and enjoyment of all library users, please be advised of the following:
- Minors under the age of 11 must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver age 16 or older.
- The library does not operate in loco parentis. Parents or legal guardians have sole responsibility for the behavior and well-being of children using the library. This is a public building, and we cannot take attendance of who comes and who goes.
- Library staff cannot take responsibility for minor children left at the library during operating hours or after closing. After closing, library staff may contact the police.
- Parents are responsible for their child’s access to library services, materials, and facilities. The library staff does not monitor or restrict access to or borrowing of materials. For more information on computer use, please refer to our Internet Acceptable Use policy.
- Minors under the age of 11 are expected to be in the immediate presence of and under the control of the parent, guardian, or assigned chaperone who is responsible for supervising the safety and behavior of the minor at all times while in the Library or on Library grounds.
- All children must be capable of independently arranging transportation from the library.
- Library staff is responsible for enforcement of this policy. Use of the Library may be denied for violation of this policy.
All parents are encouraged to sign up for a library card to enjoy the many benefits that the library offers. It also provides our staff with emergency contact information.
Replaced Policy on Unattended Children, October 24, 2024