Charlotte Public Library’s mission is to create a welcoming environment that encourages growth in all aspects of life. We strive to build a community that not only loves reading, but aspires to learn.

In maintaining this mission, it’s important that we provide a safe space for children and their caregivers. To provide for the general well-being and safety of children visiting the library, the library has adopted the following guidelines.

All children 7 years old or younger must be accompanied and directly supervised at all times by a parent, guardian, or a responsible guardian-designated caregiver.

Children, ages 8-11 may use the library and/or attend programs unaccompanied, provided that a parents, guardian, or responsible caregiver remains in the building.

Children, ages 12-18 do not need to be accompanied nor do they require a parents presence in the building, but are expected to behave responsibly and respectfully or will be asked to leave the library.

Designated caregivers must demonstrate that they are willing and capable of supervising their younger children or the library will consider the child to be unattended.

All guests must respect the library and its patrons. Parents, guardians, and caregivers are responsible for monitoring and regulating the behavior of the children in their care.

The Charlotte Public Library does not offer childcare and must contact the Charlotte Police Department if it finds that a child is left unattended in the library.

The library has standard hours with some exceptions to events. If children are not picked up at the time of closing or during lunch hours, the police department will be notified, as the library staff is not permitted to transport children in personal vehicles at any time.

Created: April 27, 2023