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CHILD AND VULNERABLE ADULT PROTECTION POLICY

Adopted by Administration and the Board of Trustees of the Lake County Public Library - 10/28/2021

This policy applies to all Lake County Public Library (LCPL) buildings and offsite events.

Child: Individual who is less than 18 years of age

Vulnerable Adult: Individual aged 18 or over whose ability to protect themself from violence, abuse or neglect is significantly impaired through physical or mental disability, illness, advanced age or otherwise

Staff: Employees of the Library who have contact with children and vulnerable adults in connection with their work duties

Volunteer: Individuals who have regular contact with children and vulnerable adults in connection with their volunteer activities at the Library

LCPL seeks to provide a safe and secure environment for children and vulnerable adults who visit the Library or are involved in Library programs and activities. The Library’s goal is to protect youth from incidents of misconduct or inappropriate behavior while also protecting staff and volunteers from false accusations.

LCPL encourages and welcomes children and vulnerable adults of all ages to use its facilities and services and to participate in its programs and activities. However, responsibility for the safety and behavior of children and vulnerable adults while at the Library rests solely with the parent, guardian or authorized caregiver and not with Library staff or volunteers. The following policies apply with respect to children and vulnerable adults on Library premises:

  • Library Staff and volunteers are not responsible for monitoring or supervising the safety and behavior of children or vulnerable adults on Library premises.
  • The parent or guardian of children or vulnerable adults on Library premises is solely responsible for ensuring the children or vulnerable adults are appropriately supervised and for the safety and behavior of the children or vulnerable adults.
  • If a child’s or vulnerable adult's behavior becomes disruptive to the operations of the Library, to other patrons or to Library staff, appropriate action in accordance with the Library’s policies and practices will be taken.

Staff and Volunteer Interaction with Children or Vulnerable Adults

The following policies apply with respect to interaction with children or vulnerable adults by Library staff and volunteers:

Staff and volunteers shall not accept or assume the responsibility for monitoring or supervising the safety and behavior of children or vulnerable adults on Library premises.

  • Staff and Volunteers shall not contact or communicate with children or vulnerable adults outside of the operations, programs and activities of the Library unless they have a prior, independent relationship with the children or vulnerable adults.
  • Staff and volunteers shall not in the presence or hearing of children or vulnerable adults use profanities, vulgarities; sexual innuendo, banter or jokes; or emotionally abusive language.
  • Staff and volunteers shall not share pornography or other obscene material with children or vulnerable adults Staff and volunteers shall not give or accept gifts or money without prior authorization from the employee’s supervisor.
  • Staff and volunteers shall not engage in conduct that involves using physical contact with a child or vulnerable adult (including without limitation touching, hugging, or kissing)
  • Staff and volunteers shall not engage in conduct that involves using physical contact to discipline a child or vulnerable adult (including without limitation touching, striking or hitting the child or vulnerable adult) except in the case of a necessity related to the health and welfare of the child, vulnerable adult, Library patrons, or Library staff or volunteers.
  • Staff and volunteers will not be in one-on-one no-visibility situations with children or vulnerable adults.
  • Staff and volunteers, to the extent possible and when feasible, should keep doors to rooms where programs and activities involving children and vulnerable adults are conducted open during the program or activity unless there is a window in the door or a window to the room.
  • Staff and volunteers should ensure that doors to rooms where programs and activities involving children and vulnerable adults are conducted should never be locked during the program or activity.
  • Staff and volunteers shall never assist any child or vulnerable adult with restroom usage. Any child or vulnerable adult too young or otherwise unable to provide for themselves regarding restroom usage should have a parent, guardian or authorized caregiver present to assist them.
  • Library staff shall not leave volunteers unattended with children and vulnerable adults.
  • Staff and volunteers are not permitted to remain alone after closing time with a child or vulnerable adult. Staff and volunteers will not give a child or vulnerable adult a ride home. Staff will not transport children or vulnerable adults to or from offsite activities.

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

Child Safety in Public Libraries

Indiana Code (IC 31-33-5) requires that any individual who has reason to believe that a child is a victim of child abuse or neglect must immediately report such directly to the Indiana Department of Child Services (“DCS”) or to a local law enforcement agency. This mandatory reporting requirement includes reporting child abuse, including any sex offense against a child, committed by any Library Staff or Volunteers while on Library premises or while attending an offsite Library event. The following reporting procedures apply if a Library employee or volunteer has reason to believe that an act of child abuse or neglect has occurred, by any person, including any Library employee or volunteer:

  • The Library employee or volunteer shall themselves immediately report the occurrence directly to DCS or local law enforcement. DCS operates a toll-free hotline (1-800-800-5556) for people to call and report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.
  • The Library employee or volunteer shall immediately report the occurrence to the Library’s Director.
  • The Director shall also report the occurrence to DCS or local law enforcement.
  • Director shall inform the Library Board of Trustee of the situation in an Executive Board session.
  • If the alleged child abuse or neglect involves allegations against a Library employee or volunteer, the Library employee or volunteer shall be immediately suspended from employment and/or volunteer activities pending the investigation of the allegations.
  • The Library’s Director shall immediately notify the Library’s liability insurance provider.
  • All Library employees and volunteers shall cooperate with any investigation of the incident by state or local authorities.
  • If the alleged child abuse or neglect involves allegations against a Library employee or volunteer, the Library’s Director will investigate the circumstances of the alleged child abuse or neglect.
  • Any Library employee or volunteer who is not determined to be innocent of the alleged child abuse or neglect shall be subject to permanent removal from any contact with children and vulnerable adults in connection with their work duties or volunteer activities as well as additional corrective and disciplinary action up to and including termination as an employee or volunteer as appropriate.

Reporting Vulnerable Adult Abuse and Neglect 

The same reporting procedure should be followed for any suspected acts of abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults as stated with children with the exception of notifying the Indiana Department of Child Services (“DCS”).

Children and Vulnerable Adults Protection Training

All Library staff and volunteers will be trained regarding youth protection issues. Such training for Staff and volunteers shall involve a review of the Library’s Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy and Indiana’s mandatory child abuse and neglect reporting requirements.

Upcoming Events
Mon, Mar 27, 11:00am - 11:20am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Lake Station Zoom Room
This is a virtual storytime for children, ages 2-6, and their caregivers.

Mon, Mar 27, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Mon, Mar 27, 1:00pm - 1:20pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Storytime for kids 4-6 years old, featuring stories, music and take home craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Must register.
This event is full

Mon, Mar 27, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Based on actual oral histories of survivors, the novel follows the stories of Raina and Gerda Olsen, two sisters, both schoolteachers... more
Based on actual oral histories of survivors, the novel follows the stories of Raina and Gerda Olsen, two sisters, both schoolteachers who are affected differently by these events.

Mon, Mar 27, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and... more
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and discuss ways to improve teen programs.

Mon, Mar 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be... more
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO® Club meeting. 
This event is full

Canceled
Mon, Mar 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville
In this program children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Leave... more
In this program children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Leave your creations to be featured on the next month's flyer.

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Preschool-age children are invited to a 20-minute storytime session designed to foster pre-reading skills. Join us for books, music,... more
Preschool-age children are invited to a 20-minute storytime session designed to foster pre-reading skills. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft!

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Munster - Children's Program Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach early literacy skills. Please register all attending. 
This event is full

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help develop early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Mar 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for... more
Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for perfection. Coloring materials provided. Ages 18 and over.

Tue, Mar 28, 11:00am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Parents and caregivers of children birth- 23 months are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children explore... more
Parents and caregivers of children birth- 23 months are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children explore with books and puzzles! Registration is required.

Tue, Mar 28, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes,... more
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Mar 28, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Storytime program featuring rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth -... more
Storytime program featuring rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth - 23 months with an adult caregiver. Must register in advance.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "In the Land of Invisible Women" by Qanta Ahmed. Copies are available at the Highland... more
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "In the Land of Invisible Women" by Qanta Ahmed. Copies are available at the Highland Branch.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Dyer-Schererville Zoom Room
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this Zoom discussion can be picked up at the... more
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this Zoom discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Knave", a... more
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Knave", a game similar to D&D. Beginners are welcome. For ages 12-18.

Tue, Mar 28, 7:00pm - 8:15pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come learn about the universe during the Calumet Astronomical Society meeting!

Wed, Mar 29, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the... more
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the company every Wednesday! All crafts are welcome.

Wed, Mar 29, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake - Cedar Lake Public Tables
Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn ... or bring along a project you're already working on!

Wed, Mar 29, 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is a storytime for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to... more
This is a storytime for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to wear pajamas!

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens ages 12 to 18 will play video games on the Nintendo Switch. We will have games available for the group to play. Please register.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Kids in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade will test their skill & luck with some silly challenges, such as cup stacking and pencil... more
Kids in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade will test their skill & luck with some silly challenges, such as cup stacking and pencil bouncing.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for this program filled with games and activities. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs but are... more
Join us for this program filled with games and activities. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs but are open to everyone age 10+. Caretakers must stay in the room.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
The meeting will be presented by a licensed arborist and following the presentation there will be a question and answer period regarding... more
The meeting will be presented by a licensed arborist and following the presentation there will be a question and answer period regarding tree care.

Thu, Mar 30, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the... more
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the company of others.

Thu, Mar 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full

Thu, Mar 30, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the... more
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Thu, Mar 30, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
In Person Only Learn the basic concepts to start your family tree and research. This includes where do I start, what records do I need... more
In Person Only Learn the basic concepts to start your family tree and research. This includes where do I start, what records do I need and how do I put everything together.

Thu, Mar 30, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Register to receive individualized instruction in basic computer skills.

Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 10:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
This is a 30 minute storytime program for children ages Birth - 6 and their family. We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!

Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other... more
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other attendees would be happy to instruct on crochet as needed.

Sat, Apr 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Tweens, ages 10 to 13, will learn to use the library's green screen. Please register.

Mon, Apr 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Mon, Apr 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
International Film Series. Adults only. Mandarin with English subtitles. 122 Minutes. Registration required.

Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by... more
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by explorer Ferdinand Magellan. PG-13 1h56min

Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.

Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens in 6th-12th grades are invited to join the NWI Chess Club. Please register and bring your own board.

Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12.... more
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12. Please register.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room,Munster Zoom Room
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available.... more
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available. Registration Required.  Programs subject to change.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your... more
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your choosing each month. Ages 12-18.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All... more
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All supplies provided. Ages 12-18.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will... more
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will be provided. Ages 12 – 18. Please register.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:15am - 11:15am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute program for children, ages 4-6 and their caregiver(s). We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Holland. Runtime: 52mins. Please register.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft,... more
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft, all designed to foster pre-reading skills.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early literacy skills. Make sure to grab a take home craft as well! .
This event is full

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville Branch - Tutor Table
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the... more
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the session to discuss the type of help needed.

Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an... more
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an emphasis on important early pre-reading skills.

Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.... more
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration Required.

Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include... more
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include trying delicious recipes & learning new exercises to do at home.

Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use... more
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use our green screen. A family movie will be shown as well.

Tue, Apr 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good... more
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own mat to class.