Library Policies

The Coats Public Library is very concerned about the safety of children in our facilities. Because of this, a Safe Child Policy has been enacted to which each library adheres.

Safe Child Policy

The safety of children left at the Library is of serious concern to Library Staff. Parents and Guardians, not Library Staff, are responsible for the care, behavior, and supervision of their children while using the Library and on its property. Library Staff CANNOT be responsible for children who are unattended or are demonstrating inappropriate behavior. Children in the Library should always be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or assigned caregiver of at least 16 years of age who acknowledges responsibility for the child according to the guidelines below.

1. Children ages 7 and under must be supervised by a parent/caregiver who must remain in the IMMEDIATE vicinity of the child(ren) at all times.
2. Children ages 8-12 must have a parent/guardian IN THE LIBRARY with them at all times, though the assigned caregiver does not have to be in the immediate vicinity of the child(ren).
3. Children ages 13 and older may use the Library on their own, provided they comply with all Library rules and policies. All children should have the telephone number of a parent/caregiver who could assist them in an emergency.
4. Children ages 12 and younger who are attending a library program need not be accompanied into that program by a parent/caregiver, unless otherwise indicated. Parents/caregivers MUST BE PRESENT IN THE BUILDING during the Library program in case an emergency should arise.
5. Parents are advised that, EVEN IN THEIR ABSENCE, they are LEGALLY RESPONSIBLE for their child's behavior while using the Library and while on its property. The Library is NOT responsible for an unattended child while in the building, on the premises, or if they leave the Library property.

VIOLATION OF THE SAFE CHILD POLICY CONSTITUTES GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION OF LIBRARY PRIVILEGES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.