Unattended Youth and Vulnerable Adult Policy

Youth are encouraged to use Meridian Library District (MLD) resources and services, to enjoy the library branches as a place of study and inquiry, and to participate in library’s programs. MLD encourages parents, guardians, and caregivers to use the library with their youth.

Children eight and under, or vulnerable people of any age, must be accompanied at all times by a responsible party.

Disruptive youth may be asked to disperse or leave MLD property at the library staff’s discretion. Parents are responsible for the behavior of their youth whether or not they are present, and guardians or caregivers are responsible for the behavior of the youth in their care.

MLD does not act in loco parentis for unsupervised minors, which means MLD will not be responsible for unattended youth.

MLD is not responsible for the safety or security of youth left unattended. Any youth not able to travel alone must be picked up prior to a branch closing. If it is determined that a youth is lost or left unattended, every reasonable attempt will be made to identify and locate the parents or responsible guardian. If an unattended youth remains at a branch after closing time, or in the case of an emergency, the proper authorities may be notified.

Adopted by the Meridian Library District Board of Trustees on September 10, 2013

Revised February 21, 2024