Library Daycare
We all know that childcare is an issue for families where one or both parents are employed.
In particular, finding care after school, or, on school holidays can often be stressful. There are several solutions out there, and, I know we often have to use more than one.
But? I can’t say that using the library for child care has been one of them. It’s one thing to go to a planned program with your child at the library, but, it’s another thing to drop your child off to hang out there while you go to work. Apparently, this is popular though, and, in some places, libraries have come to expect it. It floors me, though, that the minimum age for unaccompanied kids is 7 or 8.
Though I am thrilled to learn of the dedicated library staffs out there, perhaps I just don’t live in a place where that’s the norm, but, even if I did, I don’t think I could do it.
I hadn’t even thought of this, but you’re right. Thinking back, I am amazed at how many unattended younger kids seem to just be “hanging out” at the library during the day. I wonder what the legalities are if someone gets hurt?
WHOO HOO! I live across the street from our library! I had never thought of this. Free child care?! Why not?!
Hey, come to think of it, why stop at the library? There’s a grocery store nearby too…
No No No!!! Don’t leave your kids in the library unsupervised. Not all librarians are not specialized child care givers. And they might not have the time to look after your kids. Plus you never know what lurks in a public library.
BTW, am writing this as a librarian, rather than a parent.