Re-adopted by the Louisville Public Library Board of Trustees,
March 16, 2005.

The Youth Services Division has a commitment to serve children and young adults, their families, teachers and caregivers in accordance with the mission of the Louisville Public Library.

Youth Services contributes to the growth and development of children of all ages by:

• acting as an advocate for children and young adults;
• treating children with patience and respect in an environment that is welcoming;
• providing a collection in a wide variety of print and non-print formats that is current and representative of different points of view;
• teaching children how to use library resources, enabling them to work independently while encouraging them to seek help when necessary;
• offering activities and programs that educate children, enrich their lives, and encourage their use of libraries;
• cooperating with schools, childcare centers and community organizations that serve children to provide a network of services in the community; and
• providing physical facilities that are inviting, attractive, and accommodating.

Library Use

The entire collection is open to all patrons. A person's age cannot be used to deny or abridge library use. Library staff is not responsible for an individual's selection of materials. Parents or legal guardians have the right and responsibility to restrict access to library resources for their children only. They should inform their children of their expectations and visit the library with them if they are concerned about choices.

Computer and Internet Use

Computers with educational programs and Internet access are available in the Youth Services area. Information about the use of the computers is posted at the workstations. Parents must supervise young children to prevent damage to equipment. Supervision or restriction of a minor child's access to the Internet is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian. However, if the Library staff observes minors accessing obscene material, the staff will intervene to stop such action. For interested patrons, the Library provides resources that evaluate and recommend Websites appropriate for youth. Please see the Acceptable Use Policy for Computer Resources for the complete policy on the use of electronic information.

Confidentiality of Library Records

State law mandates that libraries cannot reveal information concerning a patron's record or use to anyone except the owner of the library card.The library recognizes the right of a library user, regardless of age, to use its services with confidentiality. The owner of a library card may designate another person to pick up items they have placed on hold. This person must have the owner's library card with them to complete the transaction.

Unattended Children

The Youth Services Division is committed to serving children, however, staff members cannot supervise children while carrying out work responsibilities. Parents and caregivers are reminded that the library is a public building and common safety practices should be followed. In order to provide for the general welfare of children and the benefit of all people using the library, children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by a responsible supervising adult at all times. If a child is attending a library program, the following guidelines apply:

• if the child is under 3, the adult must stay with the child;
• if the child is 3-7 years old, the adult must remain in the building.

Parents should consider their older children's ability to be responsible when left unattended in the library. Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children while using the library. Children 7 and older using the library for reading or research should not be left for long periods of time. These children should know where to reach a responsible adult and have the means and knowledge to use a telephone.

Code of Conduct

Parents, not Library staff, are responsible for the behavior of their children while using the Library. All patrons are subject to the Louisville Public Library Code of Conduct. An explanation and copy of the code will be given to a disruptive person. If the misbehavior continues, the patron will be asked to leave the Library. If a child will not cooperate, the staff will attempt to reach a parent or guardian. Proper authorities will be notified if those attempts are unsuccessful.

Class or Group Visits and School Assignments

Group visits must be scheduled during the operating hours of the library and two weeks in advance. Classes may visit on a regular basis, if time is available. Visits may include library tours, use of reference materials and computers, and/or story times. The teacher and/or supervising adults must accompany the class.

Schools will be informed of our procedures regarding class visits, homework assignments and reference questions. Assignment Notification & Material Request and Teacher Notification forms will be used to facilitate communication with schools. Both forms are attached to this policy.