POLICY

Children are welcome in Hennepin County Library facilities. The staff of the Library strive to create an inviting and fun environment for children. The Library offers many programs and services that encourage children to develop a love of books, reading and learning.

Parents and caregivers must be aware that libraries are public buildings and it is not in the best interest of children to be left unattended. Parents and legal guardians are responsible for the behavior of their minor children in the Library or on Library grounds, whether they accompany them or not.

If a vulnerable child* comes to the attention of Library staff, staff will make a good faith attempt to contact the parent or guardian. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the child will be referred to the local law enforcement agency.

Library staff cannot prevent an unattended minor child from leaving the building.

* A vulnerable child is an unattended child of any age whose safety or well-being would be at risk if sent outside the Library building. Examples of vulnerability include: a child who is too young to be on his/her own, a child in an unsafe area, or a child left alone outside the library after business hours. Although this definition may apply to older children, it applies to all children seven years old or younger. Children seven years old or younger should be accompanied by an adult or responsible older adolescent.

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