Newton Public Library
NEWTON, Kan. — As part of Newton Public Library's commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all library patrons, the NPL board of trustees has approved updates to the library's Child Supervision Policy.
Starting Wednesday, May 1, children ages 9 to 13 who come to use the library unsupervised must have their own library cards. Children who already have cards will need to come in with a parent or guardian to have a photo taken and added to their library accounts.
Starting Saturday, kids may come in with a parent/guardian during regular library hours to get a library card and/or add a photo to their accounts. For full info on the policy update, click here: https://www.newtonplks.org/2024/04/library-updates-policy-for-unaccompanied-children-ages-9-13/
"We wanted the new library to be a great place for tweens and teens – and it is," said Dr. Cari Cusick, library director. "We have been thrilled to see how many young people are coming in after school to use the space and participate in programs like GameZone.
"On the other hand, we saw a need for adjustments. More space for kids to use unavoidably meant more space that could be misused. And more kids coming in has made it harder for the staff to track and respond to repeated issues.
"With these policy changes, we believe we are striking the right balance. We are continuing to let tweens and teens use the space, while ensuring that we know who they are and who their responsible adults are."
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