The Frost Free Library strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and appropriate environment for visitors of all ages, and is always willing to assist all visitors in the use of the Library's materials and services. However, the Library is a public building with staff trained to provide public library services. The Library is unable - and should not be expected - to provide the necessary degree of supervision that is desirable for children.

For the safety and comfort of our young patrons, an accountable person should accompany children while they are using the Library. While in the Library, parents and caregivers are responsible for monitoring and regulating the behavior of their children.

 The Frost Free Library does not assume any responsibility for children left unattended on Library premises.

In special situations, if the Library staff becomes aware of an unattended child, the staff will attempt to contact the parent or guardian of the unattended child. Examples of such special situations are:
 

• it is possible that the Library will be closing earlier than usual (for example, due to inclement weather, a power outage, etc)
• the child's behavior disturbs other users of the Library
• there is a cause to believe that the child's health or safety is in danger
• an unattended child has not been met by a responsible caregiver at closing time

 If the parent or guardian is unavailable, the staff will contact the Director, and, if necessary, a Trustee, to inform them of the problem.

In the event that a parent or guardian cannot be reached and the Director or a Trustee has been notified, the child will be placed in the care of the Marlborough Police Department. Staff will contact the police department and arrange for the unattended child to be picked up at the Library by the police and taken by the police to their headquarters.

 
Approved by the Board of Trustees
December 2006