A r c h i v e d I n f o r m a t i o n

When You Visit the Library

As soon as you can, it is a good idea to include children--event toddlers--in weekly trips to the library. Libraries are often open in the evening for working parents, and most will issue a library card to any children who can print their names and whose parent will countersign for them. See that your children get their own library cards as soon as possible so that they can check out their own books.

Also, it's a good idea to encourage your kids to ask on their own for help in finding books and materials. Keep in mind, however, that a librarian is there to point out different choices, not to decide what ideas your children should be exposed to. That is your job. So, no matter how helpful or knowledgeable a children's librarian may be, your participation in selecting and sharing books with your child is very important.

Although public libraries welcome children and may have special facilities for them, there are commonsense guidelines for behavior that parents need to stress:

Library books are everybody's property and should be treated carefully.
Be sure that you and your children know the library's policies regarding loan periods and fines for overdue books.
Explain to your kids that the library is there for the whole community and they need to be considerate of others' needs.

Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to see that your children behave acceptably and are not disruptive to others using the library.

Getting Children Interested When Your Child Visits the Library Alone