Children in the Library

Young Children

The Okeene Public Library encourages visits by young children and it is the library’s desire to make this important visit both memorable and enjoyable for the child. Library staff is not expected to assume responsibility for the care of unsupervised children in the library. Therefore, it is the library policy that all children under the age of ten must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the library. Also, if the young child is attending a library program, we require the parent/responsible person to remain in the library throughout the program.

Children over the age of ten must be picked up by closing time. Children who do not have transportation home prior to closing time will be asked to call for transportation. If no transportation can be located, the local authorities will be called to escort the child/children for their own safety. This is a particular concern in inclement weather and after dark. All children should have the telephone number of someone who can assist them.

Disruptive Children

Children of all ages are encouraged to use the library for homework, recreational reading, and program attendance. The library staff realizes that the library will be noisier at busy times and that children by nature can cause more commotion. However, children (whether with parents or not) who are being continually disruptive will be given a warning that he/she must settle down or will be asked to leave the library. If after a second warning the child continues to be disruptive, he/she will be asked to leave the library. If the child needs to contact a parent, they may do so and then wait with a staff person until the parent arrives.