Teen Haven Policy

Purpose

The Library is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all visitors. Teen Haven is the Library’s teens-only zone, designed for use by patrons ages 10-18 and in grades 6-12. Teens are encouraged to enjoy this space, explore, connect, and participate in activities created specifically to meet their needs.

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To ensure that everyone can enjoy the Library and its resources, the following guidelines promote respect, privacy, and responsible use of the space.

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Teen Haven Space Guidelines

The use of Teen Haven tables, seating, video gaming, and computers is exclusively reserved for patrons ages 10-18 and in grades 6-12. Patrons of all ages may browse and check out materials from the Teen Haven collection. However, we kindly ask that adults and young children seek other spaces for work and play.

• Library staff will ask any adult or child using these areas to relocate.

• Teen Haven is an active and social space; therefore, tutoring and quiet study are better suited to other areas of the Library.

• Teens caring for a child under age 10 will be asked to use the Children’s Department or another all-ages space so Teen Haven can remain focused on teen needs.​

 

Teen Computers and Video Games

Computers, charging stations, and video gaming systems in Teen Haven are reserved for patrons ages 10-18 and in grades 6-12.

• Food is not allowed at computers. Drinks must be in spill-proof containers at computer stations.

• Teens may receive up to $5.00 in free printing or copying per month. Additional pages will be charged at standard Library rates.

• All users must follow the Library’s Public Computer and Wireless Internet Access Policy.

• Failure to follow policies or staff instructions may result in loss of computer or gaming privileges.

 

Teen Programs

Participation in Teen Programs is limited to the age range listed for each program on the Library’s calendar. Teen programs are designed to encourage independence and active participation from teens. To support this environment, teens are expected to attend programs on their own. Parents and caregivers are welcome to wait in the café or elsewhere in the Library while their teen participates in the program.

 

Privacy

We respect the privacy of all patrons, including teens. Library staff cannot share information about a teen’s location with anyone, including family. The Library does not serve as “in loco parentis.” Ultimate responsibility for a teen’s reading, viewing, and listening rests with their parent or guardian.

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Teen Haven Behavior Expectations

Teens are expected to follow all Library policies, including the Code of Conduct Policy and those related to noise level and respectful behavior, while on Library property. Teen Haven, the Library, and Library grounds are safe spaces with zero tolerance of bullying or harassment. To help maintain a positive environment for all visitors, teens are expected to:

1. Respect others and their belongings – Treat staff and fellow patrons with kindness. Keep your hands off others and their personal items.

2. Keep the space safe and comfortable – No roughhousing, running, pushing, or excessive public displays of affection.

3. Be mindful of language – Refrain from using profane or disrespectful language directed at peers, other patrons, or Library staff.

4. Keep it tidy – Clean up after yourself, including after use of the craft station. Throw away trash, including snack wrappers, and return furniture back to where you found it.

5. Watch your stuff – Library staff are not permitted to watch your belongings. Unattended items are subject to confiscation. The Library is not responsible for personal items that are lost, stolen, or damaged in or on the grounds of the Library.

 

Behavior and Policy Violations

Library staff will enforce these guidelines in a fair and reasonable manner. If a teen does not follow the Teen Haven Policy or the Library’s Code of Conduct Policy, staff will provide a reminder or warning.

 

If behavior continues to disrupt others or does not meet expectations, staff may ask the teen to leave Teen Haven and/or the Library for the day. After two incidents requiring a teen to leave, the teen and their caregiver will need to meet with the Teen Librarian before returning to Teen Haven.​

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Repeated or serious violations may result in temporary loss of Teen Haven or Library privileges. In some situations, teens may be required to be accompanied by an adult while on Library property. Serious violations may be referred to the Director of Library Services or the police.​​