Garrett

Information for Parents

Unattended Children Policy

Children are welcome in our libraries and we are concerned about their safety and welfare. However, parents and caregivers are responsible for monitoring the activities and regulating the behavior of their children when their children are in the library.

If an unattended child is being disruptive, is habitually left unattended for long periods of time, or is deemed to be at risk of coming to harm (as in the case of a child being left unattended when the library is ready to close), an effort will be made to locate the responsible parent, guardian, or caregiver.

If necessary, appropriate law enforcement or child protective authorities will be notified to take custody of the child. We respect the privacy of all library patrons and will intervene only when, in the opinion of the library staff, the safety and well-being of a child is threatened.

Chat and Email at the Garrett Public Library

Patrons under 17 years of age must have a signed parental permission slip in order to use Chat or Email services at the Garrett Public Library. Parents must sign this form in person at the library. The Garrett Public Library encourages parents and children to learn about online safety through a computerized presentation available at the library.

Exploring the Internet With Your Child

The Garrett Public Library encourage parents to explore the Internet with their children. Here are some sites that will assist parents in learning about the wonderful World Wide Web:

ALA's Great Sites for Kids

A directory of kid friendly websites selected by the American Library Association’s Children and Technology Committee of the Association for Library Service to Children.

Get Net Wise

Provides parents with the tools and information to ensure that their children's online experiences are both fun and safe.

Safe Kids

Many articles on making your online experience kid-friendly. Emphasis on building children's critical thinking skills so they can spot online trouble before it happens.