Salem Public Library
Children – Unattended Or Lost
Library employees cannot supervise children in the library. Parents or childcare providers assume total responsibility for the behavior of all children they bring to the library. Preschool children may not be left unattended in any part of the library.
- When a child becomes separated from or is left unattended by his parent/custodial caregiver/adult supervisor, he is usually frightened and is often crying. He should be comforted by employees and the parent/custodial caregiver/adult supervisor located, if possible. An employee should tell the parent/custodial caregiver/adult supervisor firmly that the library cannot be used as a temporary baby–sitter and cannot be responsible for children.
- If it is determined that the child has been left unattended in the library, question the child as to his name and where his parents or custodial caregivers may be found. Try to determine their names and when they may return. Attempt to locate the parents/custodial caregiver/adult supervisor within the building. If they cannot be found, or reached or if the child is too young to know the pertinent information, inform the person in charge, who will call the police and the Columbiana County Children's Services Department. An employee should remain with the child until authorities arrive.
- Under no circumstances should an employee leave the library with the child in his custody.
- An incident report form must be completed and submitted to the Library Director and a copy provided to the police or children's services office when appropriate.
