The Wood Dale Public Library strives to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all community members. The Library is particularly concerned for the safety of children and vulnerable adults on the Library property.
While the Library is concerned for the safety of children or vulnerable adults on library grounds, the Library does not act in in place of parents or caregivers. A parent, legal guardian, teacher, or caregiver is responsible for monitoring the activities and managing the behavior of children or vulnerable adults during visits to the Library.
A vulnerable adult is defined as someone who is functionally, mentally, or physically unable to care for themselves and should not be left alone at the Library, including in programs. This includes adults who need staff to provide physical assistance beyond normal Library services.
Children in the Library
Children 10 years of age and younger must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent or responsible caregiver 14 years of age or older. These rules may apply to children over the age of 10 at staff’s discretion. Older children, age 11 and older, are welcome to use the Library independently, however, responsibility for minors using the Library rests with the parent/guardian. Children are expected to follow all Library policies.
Children Attending Programs
When attending programs, children ages 5-10 may be left at a program; parents or caregivers are not required to stay at the Library but must be present 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time the program finishes. Prior to leaving the building, parents or caregivers must check-in with the program’s Library contact.
Children between the ages of 3-4 must have a parent remain in the building throughout the program, unless otherwise specified for the program. Children aged 2 and under must have a parent or caregiver with them in the program.
Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adult Safety
During Library hours, when the safety of an unattended child or vulnerable adult is in doubt, staff will attempt to contact the caregiver before calling 911. In the case of an immediate safety concern, staff will contact 911 immediately and then attempt to contact the caregiver. Staff will stay with the person until help arrives.
Unattended Children and Vulnerable Adults After Hours
In the event a child under the age of 14 or a vulnerable adult is still at the Library after the Library closes to the public, the Person in Charge and one other staff member will wait 15 minutes and then call 911. Police will take charge of the situation. Attempts will be made during those 15 minutes to reach a caregiver or parent, but in no instance will staff take anyone home. If at any time staff are concerned for the safety of the child or vulnerable adult, they may contact 911 immediately.