Unattended Children and Safety in the Library

Recently, we have had a rash of unattended children incidents at the Library. A small child was found wandering alone upstairs. Two children were left alone in a car running in the parking lot. Thankfully, all of the kids in these examples were returned to their parents care safely. Staff located the child's father downstairs. Two other patrons kept an eye on the running car until the parent returned.

But it brings up a good point:
While we all like to believe that the Library is a safe environment, the reality is that the Library is a public place, just like the mall, gas station or grocery store. It is busy, with lots of people in and out. While staff does their best to keep an eye on what's going on, it is impossible for them to watch every child as closely as a parent or caregiver should. Parents and caregivers must remember to watch their children closely, even at the Library. The Library does have several policies in place to help protect kids in the Library. No child under the age of 9 can be in the Library without a parent or caregiver. Any adult not accompanied by a child may not loiter in the Children's Department. Be these cannot assure the safety of your child. Only you can do that.

Be safe. Make good choices for you and your children.

Question of the Day: I have a Joliet library card. Why can't my child attend programs at the Plainfield Library?

This very difficult decision was made by the Library's Board of Trustees several years ago. In an effort to be the best possible stewards of the taxpayers' money, the Board felt that restricting enrollment to residents was fair. High-demand children's programs are limited to Plainfield Public Library District residents only. Despite offering 23 storytimes a week, there are still wait lists. Some programs are restricted at the beginning of the registration period and open later if demand for that program is less than anticipated. Registration for other types of programs is not restricted.

As a Joliet resident, you are able to attend Joliet Public Library children's programs without restriction.