Library Policies

The library board has established these policies to govern the library. These policies serve as a blue print for effective library operation, underscore the library's service philosophy and ensure that customers receive consistent service.  The policies are reviewed regularly to help guarantee that they remain timely.  

Library User's Privacy Rights

We protect each library user's right to privacy and confidentiality.  You can be assured that the questions you ask, the books you borrow, the topics you search and your personal information the library keeps for registration is never shared with anyone (unless ordered by a court of law.)

Safe Child Policy

The Whiting Public Library is a public building and all patrons regardless of age are welcome.  However, at no time will the library assume the responsibility of surrogate care provider for children in the library.  The library is not responsible for unattended children, nor can the library guarantee the safety of any library patron of any age.  Library staff duties cannot include babysitting or taking over any parental responsibilities for children in the library.

All children under 6 years of age must have a parent or caregiver present in the library at all times.  Children between the ages of 6 and 12 years should not be left unattended for more than one hour.

If a child under 6 years of age is left unattended, or a child between the ages of 6 and 12 is left unattended for more than one hour, the staff will attempt to contact a parent or guardian.  If a parent or guardian cannot be located within one half hour, the local police will be called and the child will be given into their custody.If unattended children are left at the library at the time of normal or weather-related closings, the local police will be called, and the child will be given into their custody.

Parents or caregivers are responsible for the safety and appropriate behavior of each child in their care.  Parents or caregivers cannot leave young children unattended in the children's department, or in any other department, while using the computer or other parts of the library.

If a child is misbehaving, the staff will give the child one warning.  If the disruptive behavior continues, the child will be asked to leave for the day.