For Parents
This page is dedicated to helping parents navigate the library with their kids in mind. Below find helpful links to sites that promote literacy skills, brain development in children, and tips for parents to engage with their little ones. For more information about story times, programs, online resources, and digital materials for children please visit our For Children page.
FAQ by Parents
Can I send my child to the library alone?
Children who have not yet entered Kindergarten, must be directly supervised by a parent or caregiver at all times while on library premises.
When can my child get a library card?
Children 13 years old and under can obtain library cards but must have finished Kindergarten and have the library form signed by a parent or legal guardian. All materials borrowed and any fines accrued on the card of a minor are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
My child has their own library card, can you tell me what they have checked out?
No, in accordance with the ALA code of Ethics, Article III, “We protect each library user’s right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received, and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired or transmitted." When parents inquire as to the titles of items that their children have borrowed, library policy dictates that parents may be told how many items are out, which types of items are out, and when they are due, but specific titles will not be released to anyone but the cardholder. Family cards are available with an entire family sharing an account number.
Are children allowed to use the computers?
Yes, however, all responsibility for a child under the age of 18 using the Internet rests with the parent, guardian, or caregiver to determine what is appropriate for their child only. The library does not act in place or in absence of the parent and is not responsible for enforcing any restrictions which a parent or guardian may place on a minor's use of the Internet. In addition, the library accepts no responsibility for information on screens that may be inadvertently viewed by others.
Vroom
Vroom is a global program of the Bezos Family Foundation. We believe all parents have the potential to create a bright future for their children. Our free, science-based tips and tools help parents and caregivers give children a great start in life today—and an even better future.
Reading Rockets
Reading Rockets is a national public media literacy initiative offering information and resources on how young kids learn to read, why so many struggle, and how caring adults can help. Our goal is to bring the reading research to life — to spread the word about reading instruction and to present "what works" in a way that parents and educators can understand and use.
Thirty Million Words
At Thirty Million Words (TMW), we believe that within every parent lies the ability to build their child’s brain and shape their child’s future by talking and interacting with them. Research shows that how and how much a parent talks and interacts with their child has a big impact on the child’s success in school and life. Children aren’t born smart, they’re made smart. They’re made smart by their parents and caregivers talking and interacting with them.