Library Use by Young Patrons Policy

It is the obligation of the Highland Park Public Library to provide a quiet and orderly environment in which local residents of all ages may comfortably pursue activities appropriate to the institution.
The Highland Park Public Library welcomes children to use its facilities and services. However, responsibility for children using the library rests with the parent/guardian or assigned chaperone, not with library personnel.
All patrons of the Library are expected to behave appropriately.

Appropriate activities include: doing homework, writing reports, researching, browsing for books, thinking, daydreaming, and reading. If games or puzzles are available, they are to be used quietly so as not to disturb others.

Inappropriate activities include: running, throwing, eating, loud or abusive talking, fighting, moving furniture, excessive socializing, or any other activities that disrupt the Library. Vandalism will not be tolerated.

Staff Procedures: Disruptive Behavior
1. The person will be told that he or she is causing a disturbance and that this is a warning. It will be explained that the behavior must cease and that the next action taken will result in the person being evicted from the library for the remainder of the day.
2. If the child’s parent is in the Library, he/she should be located and informed of the disruption and any action taken.
3. If the disruptive behavior continues or resumes, the patron will be asked to leave the building for the remainder of the day. Staff will follow through to ensure that he/ she leaves the building.
4. Under extreme circumstances, disruptive patrons may be barred from the Library for an amount of time to be determined by the librarian. At this point, parents will be notified.

Adopted Highland Park Public Library Board of Trustees October 27, 2014