The purpose of this policy is to clarify age requirements for unattended library use, and to define the responsibilities of the designated caregiver to monitor and keep children safe.

Responsibility for Children Using the Library

The Northborough Free Library welcomes children of all ages to use and enjoy the facilities, collections, and programs offered by the library. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the library rests with the caregiver and not with library staff. Children ages nine and under must have a designated caregiver that is at least 14 years old in the immediate vicinity and in visual contact with the child using the library.

Children between the ages of five and nine may attend certain library programs without a caregiver in the room, under the following conditions:

  • Caregivers are responsible for escorting children to the program room, remaining in the library building for the duration of the program, and meeting children in the program room at the conclusion of the program.  
  • Programs must specifically note in the program description that the program is a “drop-off” program. Programs that are not designated as “drop-off” will require the caregiver to remain in the program room for the entirety of the program.  
  • Caregivers are welcome to remain in the room for the duration of the program, and are never prohibited from entering the room during the program. 
  • Library staff may, at their discretion, ask a caregiver to return to the room or remain with a child for the duration of a “drop-off” program.

Children age ten and up may use the library on their own provided that they comply with the Patron Behavior Policy. 

Children Left Unattended After Library Hours

Children must be picked up before the library closes. The library is not responsible for children without a ride home at closing. Staff may, at their discretion, contact the Northborough Police Department to wait with a child with no ride home after the library closes.  

Last Updated: February 2024

Approved by the Library Trustees on: April 9, 2024