Dubuque County Library District

Unattended Child Policy

The Dubuque County Library welcomes the use of its facilities and services by individuals of all ages. However, staff are unable to monitor the behavior and activities of children left unattended in a library facility. The welfare, behavior, and supervision of children using the library rests with parents, guardians, or responsible caregivers. The Library does not provide child care, and may not be used for such purposes. Parents, guardians or responsible caregivers who appear to be using the library for child care will be contacted and informed of this policy. Repeat infractions of this policy may result in temporary revocation of library privileges, including presence in Library facilities.
Preschool-aged children should be in sight of and supervised by a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver at all times while in the library, even if attending programs. Parents, guardians, or responsible caregivers of children ages 5-8 are expected to remain in the library while children are attending library programs or using the library. Children aged 9 and over may be in the Library without a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver present.
The Library respects the rights and privacy of all library patrons, including children, and will only intervene with unattended children when problems of safety, behavior, or the child’s well-being occur.

All library users must comply with the Conduct in the Library policy. If an unattended child is having or causing problems, Library staff will attempt to contact the parents/guardians/responsible caretakers to come and pick up the child. If unable to contact them, Library staff may contact law enforcement to pick up the child.
Adopted 3/16/2021