4 Pond Road, Harvard, MA 01451
 978-456-4114

Children's policy

CHILDREN AT THE LIBRARY

It is the objective of the Harvard Public Library to provide a safe, secure and positive environment for the education and enjoyment of children of all ages. To this end, it is crucial that children understand the Code of Conduct expected of all patrons who use the library.  The library staff will remind children and their parents, guardians, or caregivers of appropriate standards of conduct befitting a public library.  If these standards are not met, the library staff may request that disruptive children be required to leave the premises.

No child under the age of 10 is allowed in the library without the supervision of a parent or guardian.  For safety’s sake, parents, guardians, or caregivers should make sure their children over the age of ten are sufficiently mature to read and understand the library’s Code of Conduct before allowing them to visit the library by themselves. During story hours or library-supervised activities, parents, guardians, or caregivers are requested to remain in the library with their children. Parents or guardians are responsible for the actions and behavior of their children even when said parents and guardians are not on the library premises.

School-age children are welcome to use the library to study, do research, or browse.  Those causing disturbance to others will be reminded of the Code of Conduct and requested to behave.  After a second disturbance, a warning will be issued that the person(s) may be asked to leave the library and their name will be taken.  A third such incident will result in the person being asked to leave the library.

The staff will familiarize themselves with the names of those causing a disturbance, so that if disturbances recur, parents or guardians will be contacted by the Library Director.

At closing time, children are asked to wait outside or in the vestibule until they are picked up.  In case of an emergency closing, children should know how to contact their parents, guardians, or caregivers, or a neighbor to arrange for pickup.  If the child is not picked up, the police will be notified and the situation transferred to that department.