Child Accompaniment Policy - OVERVIEW
Our goal at the Proctor Library is to help kids have a safe and fun experience that is in line with their developmental needs.  In order to do this we need your help in following our child accompaniment policy.

Below is an outline of this policy along with an explanation of age appropriate developmental needs.  We’ve broken it down into 3 categories.  Of course your child has his or her particular needs.  Please feel free to talk to the librarian about any questions you might have.

Kids under 9
Kids under the age of 9 must have a responsible adult with them at all times when at the library.  A responsible adult means someone over the age of 16 who is taking an active role in attending to the younger child.  Our library is small and is used by all members of the community.

Kids ages 9-13
Kids ages 9-13 may spend some time alone in the library.  We ask that this is no more than two hours per day.  Because kids in this age group are still learning social skills and self-discipline, limiting their time in the quiet environment of a library helps them have successful visits that can then be extended as they get older.  For some kids in this age range, an hour may be all that they can handle.  

Kids ages 14 & up
Kids ages 14 and up may spend time alone in the library.  Depending on your child’s maturity, you may want to set a time limit for his/her stay at the library.  

After School
Kids love to visit the library after school.  It is a great place to do homework, play on the computer and quietly visit with friends.  Here are a few things we’d like to point out:

1. After school hunger
   Kids are often very hungry after spending a long, studious day at school.  Snacks are welcome if they are eaten at the children’s table and if the garbage is disposed of properly.
2. Quiet zone
   Kids are always welcome to talk quietly in the library.  However, it must be remembered that there are other patrons in the library reading or working on various projects.  Please explain to your child that a quiet manner is expected at all times.
3. Parent/Caregiver contacts
   Please make sure your child has phone numbers to contact you in the event of an emergency.  It is not the responsibility of the library to maintain these phone numbers.
4. Emergency closings
   Sometimes emergencies arise at the library or inclement weather occurs and the library may need to close early.  Please be sure your child can contact you or someone responsible to get him/her home.