Children’s Department Policy

  • The library aims to provide a welcoming and enriching space for children to explore, learn, and enjoy reading.

  • While the library supports children’s engagement, it is not a childcare facility for unsupervised children. Parents and caregivers must remain responsible for their children at all times.

General Guidelines for Library Conduct

  • All visitors—including children, young adults, and adults—must adhere to the library’s code of conduct.

  • Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in individuals being asked to leave. If necessary, parents and/or local authorities may be contacted at the discretion of library staff.

  • If behavioral concerns arise, parents or caregivers must promptly remove the child from the library until the situation is resolved.

  • Library staff do not provide supervision, care, or responsibility for children, including during programs. Per NJSA 30:5B-1 to 15, the Library is prohibited from functioning as a child care center.

  • Parents and guardians are solely responsible for ensuring their child’s behavior and well-being while in the library or on library grounds.

Children’s Department Guidelines

  • The Children’s Department is designated for children, their parents, responsible caregivers, and adults working with children. Adults requiring access to the collection for study or work are permitted to retrieve the children’s materials and invited to take them to the adult department of the library for review or checkout.

  • Children 10 years and younger must be accompanied by a parent or responsible caregiver (16+) at all times.

  • Library staff do not supervise children, including during programs—caregivers are responsible for their child’s safety and conduct at all times.

  • Computers, seating, and study tables in the Children’s Department are reserved exclusively for children and their accompanying caregivers.

  • Library computers automatically shut down 10 minutes before closing.

  • Adults who are not accompanying a child are asked to use the Adult Department for their library needs.

  • Library staff may redirect unaccompanied adults to appropriate areas if necessary.

  • If a child is left unattended or safety concerns arise, Ridgefield Police authorities may be contacted. 

  • The library does not assume responsibility for children left unattended. Upon the recommendation of the Ridgefield Police Department, if a child remains in the library past closing hours, the Ridgefield Police Department will be called, and a note will be placed on the door stating: “Unattended child is in the custody of the Ridgefield Police Department.” Personal identifying details will not be disclosed.

  • All patrons are expected to contribute to a safe, respectful, and welcoming library environment for everyone.

Supervision and Safety:

  • The Library uses content filters to block inappropriate websites; however, no filter is perfect.

  • Parents and guardians are encouraged to guide their children’s Internet use and discuss online safety. 

  • Library staff will offer assistance when possible but will not monitor individual activity.

Policy Acknowledgment: 

By using the Children’s Department and Library’s Internet services, patrons agree to follow this policy, in conjunction with other Library policies and applicable federal, local, and state laws. 

Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s online activities and conduct within the Library.



adopted on 3/27/2007; 6/24/2025