Unattended Children

The Temple Public Library is a place where children are welcome. They are encouraged to read, attend programs, and make full use of the library’s resources. For the safety of children, and the enjoyment of all patrons utilizing the library, the library has implemented a policy regarding unattended children. If you have questions regarding this policy, please contact the Library Director at nmcadams@templetx.gov.  

1. The Library does not provide care or supervision of children and does not accept responsibility for such care. Parent(s) or other caregiver(s) are responsible for their child’s behavior in the library.
2. Children under the age of eight may not be left unattended in the library. A child under the age of eight will be considered unattended unless accompanied by a responsible caregiver.
3. A child left unattended in the library is a violation of this policy and will be considered a child in need of care, a matter which will be referred to the police and/or the Department of Human Services/Child Protective Services.
4. In the case of a child under the age of 15 who is unattended at closing, the library staff will try to notify the child’s parent(s) or caregiver(s). If the child’s parent(s) or caregiver(s) cannot be reached or has not come to retrieve the child by the time of close, the police will be called, and the child can be picked up from the Temple Police Department.
5. Library staff members will not drive children home or to any other location.
6. Unattended children will be given a copy of this policy to provide to their parent(s) or caregiver(s).