Quick Links: --- Unattended Children Policy --- Storytime Guidelines

Unattended Children Policy

Introduction
The Staff and Trustees of the Sequoyah Regional Library System hope that children who use the Library will perceive the library as a warm, welcoming and fun place to visit. We hope that families will take advantage of the tremendous resources the Library has to offer. The happiness and safety of young children left alone at the library can, however, be a serious concern. The Staff seek to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Yet the library is a public building, and as such it could be a dangerous place for children alone.

The Sequoyah Regional Library Staff cannot supervise children while carrying out responsibilities to other patrons, nor can they assume responsibilities for a child's safety, recognize a child's authorized caregiver(s), authorize medical treatment, or oversee the behavior of young patrons. For the protection and well being of children who enjoy the library, the following policy has been established

Policy
The Sequoyah Regional Library System welcomes children of all ages to use its facilities and services. Responsibility for children using the library rests at all times with the parent(s) or assigned caregiver(s), not Library personnel. Therefore, for the safety of the children, it is the policy of the Sequoyah Regional Library system that young patrons nine (9) years of age and under be accompanied and directly supervised by a responsible caregiver aged sixteen (16) or over. Children between the ages of ten (10) and twelve (12) should not be left unattended for prolonged periods of time.

Family Story Time programs follow a set routine, with stories, songs, and crafts, to encourage children to feel comfortable in a group setting that promotes a love of reading and books. So that everyone may benefit fully from Family Story Time, we ask your assistance in following a few simple yet important guidelines. We appreciate your cooperation and support!

• Try your best to arrive early so that your child may participate in a special pre-story time activity, visit the restroom if needed, and have time to settle down. If you do arrive while a story is in progress, we ask that you wait until the story is finished before entering the room. (Doors will be left open so that you and your child may observe what is happening before entering.)
  
• Remember that your child is watching YOU! Be a positive role model for your child by listening to the stories and participating in the activities.
  
• We ask that parents set the example for the children’s behavior during story time. Chatting, texting, and socializing should be avoided while story time is in progress. Remember to silence your cell phones. Everyone has a bad day now and then! If your child becomes loud or unruly, please take them out of the story time room so that the other children may continue to enjoy the stories and activities. Bring him back after he has calmed down, or bring her back to the next story time.
  
• W e know that there are occasions when you must take your child to the restroom during story time. When returning to the program, please do so as quietly as possible. Timing your re-entrance between stories will be greatly appreciated!
  
• Extend the reading experience by checking out books to share with your child at home.