The Free Public Library of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township is concerned for the safety and well-being of children left unat ­tended in the library. We urge parents to remember that the library is a public building, and it is not in the child's best interest to be left unattended. The library has imple ­mented the following policy for the safety of all children visiting the library.

Children under the age of 9 years must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver* at all times while in the library.

Children 9-12 years of age may be left alone in the library for reason ­able periods of time, but parents are responsible for their behavior and will be contacted if necessary. (Reasonable peri ­ods of time may vary with child's maturi ­ty, but generally 1-2 hours is acceptable.)

Children 13-17 years of age may be in the library without an adult. Should problems arise, the library staff may ask the child to leave or may contact the child's parent.

Parents are required to be at the library no later than 15 minutes before closing to pick up their children.

Parents, not library staff, are responsible for the behavior of their children when they are using the library.

UNATTENDED CHILDREN IN THE LIBRARY - PROCEDURES

After Library Hours
If the child under the age of 18 is alone at the library at closing time, the library staff will immediately attempt to call the parents. If staff cannot contact a parent within 15 minutes, the person in charge will call the police. If the police are unable or unwilling to respond, the Division of Youth and Family Services should be contacted.

Adopted: March 21, 1994
Amended: September 23, 1999

*13 years of age or older