Standards for Public Library Services to Children in Massachusetts
Please send your comments on this standard to: Kathy Moran-Wallace at kathymoranwallace@yahoo.com

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Facilities 

Each Massachusetts public library has a specific area which is equipped to provide developmentally appropriate childrenŐs services. This area is open the same hours as the rest of the library and is accessible to appropriate program space. All areas of the library are designed to ensure childrenŐs ease of access and use. A well-planned and maintained childrenŐs area which is suitably staffed underscores the benefits of the childrenŐs library experience. Attending to the spatial needs of the children department supports the librarianŐs goals to deliver a full and evolving complement of childrenŐs services.  

1.0 The following PRINCIPLES shall govern the provision of facilities to serve children:

1.1 The appearance of the childrenŐs area shall be inviting and stimulate the use of a variety of resources.

1.2 The childrenŐs area shall be an integral part of the whole   library located in such a way that children have easy access to other library services and in compliance with guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

1.3 The librarian regularly evaluates the effectiveness of existing space and makes recommendations regarding layout and    furnishings so that as needs, activities and technologies change, the area can be adapted accordingly.         

1.4 Visibility, ease of supervision and safety factors are prime  considerations in designing the area:

      • All electrical outlets shall be child proofed

      • Sturdy racks, shelving and storage units shall be designed to avoid accidents

      • Well-maintained and safe entrances and exits must be provided

      • Stairways, balconies or railings shall be designed or modified to ensure safety

      • An unobstructed line of sight(in relation to the childrenŐs information desk) should be a goal throughout the facility

1.5 When designing space, the guiding principle should always be form follows function.

1.6 The librarian regularly evaluates the effectiveness of existing space and advocates for changes to meet evolving needs.

 2.0     CHARACTERISTICS of facilities serving children:

    2.1 The childrenŐs area shall be designed for ease of use by children of all ages.

    2.2 The childrenŐs area must be accessible to all users, including those with special needs. Level floors without steps are desirable for ease of access, safety, and flexibility.

    2.3 The physical layout of the area should be safe, flexible and   conducive to a variety of usersŐ activities:

    • Browsing

    • Reading

    • Quiet study

    • Group study

    • Individual or group instruction

    • Participating in and attending programs

    • Convening meetings

    • Using audiovisual and electronic technologies

    • Using toys, games and realia

    2.4 Shelving shall be designed:

    • To fit the size and dimension of a variety of materials

    • To be used easily by children

    • To be adjustable and moveable

    • To include racks, bins, and other storage equipment

2.5 Furnishings shall accommodate use by children of various sizes and needs, adult-and-child pairs, and others in the customer services profile.

2.6 A telephone and a clock are essential equipment for the childrenŐs area.

2.7 Designated space for strollers and coats is desirable in the childrenŐs area.

2.8 Other essential elements in the childrenŐs area include: carpeting; good acoustics; glare-free and shadow-free lighting; sufficient electrical power sources; sound proofing, temperature controls; and staff safety mechanism (i.e. panic button) to alert public safety officials.

2.9 The circulation desk whether located in the childrenŐs area OR shared with adult services shall be easy for children to use.

2.10    All program areas shall be:

    • Generously supplied with outlets, light controls, flexible seating, telecommunication and audio-visual capabilities;

    • Provided with good ventilation

    • Accessible to a sink

    • Accessible to a restroom

2.11    Restrooms shall be located for easy supervision. Whenever possible provide an ADA compliant restroom designed for children. These restrooms should also provide a changing area and room for    an accompanying adult.

2.12    The childrenŐs area will have a strategically located, non-public, staff work area.

2.13    Bulletin boards, exhibit space and display accessories should be easily maintained, dispersed throughout the area, multi-purpose and arranged with maximum visibility to children.

2.14   Signage should be consistent with the libraryŐs overall signage plan:

  • Attractive signs, professional in appearance should be simple, concise, highly visible, current and easily maintained

  • Signs should be consistent in color, iconographic, letter style and tone, easily comprehended by children, and ADA compliant.

  • Symbols and languages in addition to English may be appropriate.

  • Signs should indicate service areas, parts of the collection, library and safety regulations.