Unattended Children Policy

Unattended children

The safety of children left alone in a library building is a serious concern. Library Director, staff and volunteers are not responsible for children who are unattended. Parents or caregivers may not leave children under the age of 8 years unattended in the Library.

Children Left at Closing 

Should it be determined that a child has been left at the library without a ride or assistance home at closing time, every attempt will be made to contact an adult or family member. Staff is not permitted to remain after hours with an unattended child nor give him/her a ride home. If an adult or family member cannot be reached, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Dept. will be called to escort the child home or keep the child until parents can be reached. Staff member will remain with the child until the police have arrived. The Library Director will be informed whenever this action becomes necessary. The Director will contact the child’s parent or guardian to explain the library policy and why the action was required.

Emergency Closings

The library may have sudden emergencies such as the lack of heat or electricity. This may necessitate the Library closing without warning. Significant inclement weather may also necessitate a Library closing. Children should know what to do if the Library must close unexpectedly. If a child is left unattended during an emergency closing, then the same guidelines outlined above under regular closings will apply.

Library Hours 

Monday Wednesday 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Thursday-Friday 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Hours are subject to change due to the availability of our volunteer staff.

Revised by the Ashville Free Library Board of Trustees 5/24/2022