Reader points out the library policy on unsupervised
children
Library Policy Clear on Unsupervised Children; Daycare Cost a Problem
Dear Editor,
In response to a recent article and editorial on libraries as babysitters, I would ask: What better place for children to be after school than the local public library?
Children of all ages are welcome at the Gilroy Library and at any of the eight libraries operated by the Santa Clara County Library. Many people have fond memories of library visits as one of their first independent ventures into the world. To walk to the library, with your very own library card, and browse and check out and return books felt very adult, even at age 8 or 10. Yes, occasionally children unable to behave themselves or too young to know better are dropped off at the library, and yes, library employees must use good judgment to determine when to send children home, when to contact their parents and when to involve the local police.
The safety of all children, teens and adults is a core value of the Santa Clara County Library. As mentioned in the editorial, this is not a situation unique to public libraries. Children are dropped off at many unsupervised locations by parents such as recreation centers, parks, shopping centers and theme parks. The real issue is lack of affordable child care options.
The county library takes very seriously any situation involving unattended children as do the Gilroy librarians. Library policy 2.2 directs librarians to report, “Young children left unaccompanied at the library” to the librarian-in-charge who then contacts the parent or guardian. If unable to contact a parent or guardian, library employees are to contact the local police. Library policy 14.0 directs librarians, “If the librarian-in-charge determines that a minor is unattended at closing time, she/he will provide access to a telephone and/or summon the police to assume responsibility for that minor.”
It’s important for all parents to recognize that unlike the public schools that have legal responsibility for minors during the school day, public libraries do not. Public libraries have many programs and resources for young children and parents are encouraged to accompany their children when visiting the library, however, dropping children off for long periods of time places children at risk and is not recommended.
Melinda Cervantes,
Santa Clara County Librarian
