Lost/Unattended Child

Last Updated Date
Policy Type

Library Mission: The mission of Manitowoc Public Library is to promote a culture of reading and to provide access to information. Through services, we strive to foster an environment that meets the educational, recreational and cultural needs of the community.

Purpose: This policy is intended to provide guidelines in the event that a child should become lost or separated from a parent or guardian while visiting Manitowoc Public Library.

  • Manitowoc Public Library does not serve in loco parentis (in place of a parent).
  • All patrons must abide by the rules in the Code of Conduct.
  • Minors under the age of eight (8):
    • Will only be allowed in the Library with a guardian (a guardian is someone 12 years of age or older who is responsible for the oversight of a minor).
    • Who are noticeably left unattended for 15 minutes or longer, the parent or legal guardian will be contacted by a staff member. If the same minors are repeatedly unattended or left in the Library without a guardian, Child Protective Services of Manitowoc County may be contacted, and a registered letter sent to the parent stating that CPS was contacted.
    • May be considered unattended even if the guardian is in the Library.
  • If a minor should become lost or separated from the guardian, Manitowoc Public Library staff will make reasonable efforts to locate the guardian of the minor.
  • If staff cannot locate the parent/legal guardian, they will contact the City of Manitowoc Police Department.
  • If a minor is left unattended at closing time, two staff members will wait with the minor for 15 minutes. If the guardian does not pick up the minor within that period, staff will call the City Police Department.
  • Library staff cannot transport or escort a minor to any location off library property.

Definitions:

  • Guardian: Within this policy, the term guardian is defined as a 12-year-old (or older) who is responsible for the care and well-being of the minor(s).
  • Unattended: Within this policy, the term unattended is defined as, not within eyesight or physical proximity.
  • Minor: Within this policy, the term minor is defined as any person under the age of 18, unless specified as above.
  • Legal guardian: Individuals that have legal authority to care for another person.

Board Approved 1/24/2022