Unattended Child Policy
Lincoln Library welcomes the use of its services and facilities by children and families.
Staff members are committed to the well-being and safety of children. However, library facilities are not designed or licensed to provide childcare, and it is not the responsibility of library staff to serve as caregivers, disciplinarians, or teachers. Any public place may be dangerous for a child who is left unattended for long hours or who is left stranded after closing hours.
The library encourages parents to consider the safety and well-being of their children and the needs of other library users of all ages. Parents or guardians are responsible for the behavior of their children in the library, whether or not they are present. Disruptive children, attended or unattended, may be asked to leave the library after one warning.
Children under the age of 11 must be attended by a parent or other responsible caregiver (aged 16 or older) at all times while on library property. Caregivers must directly supervise and remain in the same area of the library as the child. If a responsible party cannot be contacted, police may be called.
Lincoln Library is not responsible for reporting or investigating instances of suspected school truancy. However, Lincoln Library cooperates fully with schools, School Attendance Officers, the police, and other agencies tasked with enforcing school attendance.
Approved by Lincoln Library Board August 2025