Unattended Children Policy
The West Linn Public Library provides a welcoming environment that encourages children to visit the Library, attend programs, and use the Library collection and computers. Library staff is committed to assisting and supporting children in using the Library. Library staff cannot provide childcare, supervise unattended children, or assume responsibility for the safety of children left unattended on library premises.
Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian. Accompanied means that the child is within sight of the parent or guardian. It is strongly recommended that all children are accompanied by someone who can take responsibility should an emergency occur.
Parents and guardians are responsible for the safety and behavior of their children.
Like all Library users, children are expected to behave appropriately and abide by the Library's Rules of Conduct. Disruptive children who violate the Rules of Conduct may be asked to leave the Library. Library staff reserves the right to contact parents or the West Linn Police Department if an unattended child under the age of 10 is being disruptive or is in distress.
Children age 10 and older may use the library unaccompanied. Parents are encouraged to make sure their child is sufficiently mature before being allowed to use the library by themselves because, even when parents are absent, parents are responsible for the actions and well-being of their child or children.
Truancy
Under Oregon law, generally children and teens between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend a full-time school. If a school aged child is at the library on a school day during regular school hours, the student may be asked to show written proof excusing the student from school on that day. Library staff reserves the right to report instances of truancy to the West Linn-Wilsonville School District.
Closing Time
It is the responsibility of each parent and guardian to make sure their child or children have transportation to and from the library. When the safety of an unattended child is a concern and the child is at the library at closing time without transportation, Library staff will make every effort to contact the parent or guardian of the child. If no one can be found, Library staff will contact the West Linn Police Department.
