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Safety and Wellbeing of Children and Youth
PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that children and youth, from infancy through the teen years, have equitable access to the services, collections, and programs of the Halton Hills Public Library (HHPL). HHPL is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and respectful environment that offers age-appropriate materials in various formats, along with reader guidance and support for families.
SCOPE
This policy applies to all HHPL staff, Board members, and volunteers who interact with children, youth, or vulnerable patrons, including through HHPL programs and services delivered in person or online.
DEFINITIONS
Parent/Guardian: A person with legal custody or responsibility for the care of a child or youth.
Caregiver: A person aged 12 or older to whom a parent or guardian has given responsibility for the care of a younger child.
Child: A person under the age of 18.
Youth: A child between the ages of 12 and 17, also referred to as a teen.
Vulnerable Patron: A person who may be at increased risk of harm or exploitation because of age, disability, illness, cognitive impairment, or other circumstances (temporary or permanent) that limit their ability to protect their own safety or well-being.
DETAILS
Statement of Commitment
HHPL affirms its commitment to the safety, wellbeing, and intellectual freedom of children and youth.
The HHPL Board endorses the Ontario Library Association’s (OLA) Statement on Intellectual Freedom and the Intellectual Rights of the Individual, the OLA’s Position on Children’s Rights in the Public Library, and the OLA’s Position on Teens’ Rights in the Public Library. These statements guide HHPL’s commitment to equitable access, freedom of inquiry, and inclusive service for young people.
HHPL also supports the principles of the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child and recognizes its shared responsibility with parents, guardians, and caregivers to promote the safety and positive development of children and youth. Children and youth have the same right as all Library patrons to seek, receive, and share information. HHPL respects the role of parents and guardians in guiding their children’s use of library materials and digital resources and does not act in the place of a parent.
Safety and Supervision
HHPL is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for children and youth. HHPL spaces, services, and programs are thoughtfully designed to support their developmental needs and interests. However, as with any public facility, risks may exist for young children who are not under the supervision of a parent, guardian, or responsible caregiver.
Supervision Responsibilities
Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible at all times for the safety, behaviour, and supervision of their children within HHPL.
Children aged nine years and younger must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or caregiver, except when participating in a children-only program.
When a child nine years and younger attends a children-only program, the parent, guardian, or caregiver is expected to remain in the Library building for the duration of the program.
HHPL staff may provide limited supervision during children-only programs. Outside of these programs, staff are not responsible for monitoring children, whether accompanied or unaccompanied.
Unattended Children and Emergencies
Staff follow established procedures when a child is left unattended, at closing time, or in the event of an emergency.
To protect privacy and safety, staff do not disclose by telephone or otherwise whether a child or youth is currently in the Library.
Designated Spaces
HHPL offers dedicated areas for children, youth, and their caregivers. To maintain the integrity and safety of these spaces, adults who are not accompanied by a child or youth patron may be asked to leave the designated area at the discretion of HHPL staff.
Legal Obligations
HHPL staff must report any concern that a child under sixteen may be at risk of harm to Children’s Aid Society (CAS), as required under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA). Staff may also report concerns about youth aged sixteen or seventeen. When a report is made, CAS determines what follow-up action is needed. HHPL employees and volunteers in positions of trust are required to complete a current criminal records check, consistent with HHPL’s personnel policies.
Partnerships
HHPL works collaboratively with community agencies and organizations to advocate for children and youth, support family wellbeing, and strengthen community networks. These partnerships enhance service coordination, education, and protection for young people and their families.
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