Unattended Child Policy
Policy Statement
The Fort Worth Library endeavors to provide a welcoming, pleasant, and safe environment for all Library users. However, parents are responsible for the well-being of their children who are visiting the Library or using the Library services.
Definition:
Unattended child: A child twelve years old and under who is at the Library without the supervision of a parent, responsible adult, or sibling over the age of twelve.
The following policy regarding unattended children applies:
1. The Fort Worth Library assumes no responsibility for children left unattended on the Library premises. The Library staff is not authorized to act in place of parents. Staff members are responsible for assisting all Library customers and cannot adequately monitor unattended children.
2. To promote the safety of children, the Library expects parents, or a responsible caregiver, to stay with children in their care in the Library.
3. Sudden emergencies may occur in the library and in such cases the Library assumes no responsibility for an unattended child. Parents, guardians, or caregivers should be sure their children know what to do or where to go when the library closes.
4. When a child is determined to be “unattended” and a parent or guardian is not available, cannot be located or contacted, the Library will place the child in the care of the Fort Worth Police Department.
5. Library staff will assist children who appear unattended or in distress in the Library by attempting to contact their parents or caregivers either within or outside the Library. If a parent or appropriate caregiver cannot be located, the Library will place the child in the care of the Fort Worth Police Department.
6. When a staff member observes suspected abuse or neglect on the part of a parent or responsible caregiver, staff may contact the police, social services, or another agency about a child in danger at the Library.
Policy approved by Library Advisory Board February 2, 2006
Updated 3 March 2013