Message from the Director • Internet Access by Minor Children • Fines and Fees • Unattended Children's Policy

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Congratulations on obtaining a library card for your child! As the parent/guardian, you are the most qualified to know which materials are appropriate for your child to check out. I encourage you to discuss with your child the kinds of materials you think are suitable for borrowing.

Children and teenagers are very important to us at the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District. Trained librarians devote thousands of hours a year encouraging the use of our libraries and its resources through a variety of free programs for children, teenagers and families.

Public libraries are family-oriented institutions that have a broad selection of materials available for everyone, including children and teenagers. We collect materials to meet the information needs of the entire community. Some of these materials may offend you and may be inappropriate for your child.

The Library District does not restrict access to reading, listening and viewing materials based on age and provides equal access to library resources for all library users. Filtered Internet workstations are provided in all Young People's areas. To access an unfiltered Internet workstation, youth under 18 years of age must have parental permission.

• Everyone, regardless of age, may check out any library materials.
  
  
• We encourage you to talk with your child about the kinds of materials you want him or her to borrow.
  
  
• Take an active interest in your child's choices for reading, listening and viewing.
  
  
• If you feel an item is inappropriate for your child, use this as an opportunity to express your views and provide guidance.

In keeping with the practice of providing a variety of services common to American Public Libraries, the Library District does not label materials to suggest whether or not they are appropriate for reading and viewing. While the Library District retains labels such as PG, R, etc., these ratings are not endorsed by the Library District. As with all materials, individuals or parents ultimately determine what is suitable for reading and viewing. The Library District is pleased to make available a variety of books providing reviews and other information to help individuals and parents make informed selections.

The final responsibility for the materials your child checks out is left to you, the parent/guardian. I encourage you to discuss your family rules regarding library use with your children. If you are concerned about your children following these rules, consider visiting the library with your children to guide their selections.

Young People's Librarians are available to assist families in the selection of appropriate materials. Ask for suggestions about materials that are appropriate for your child based on age, maturity level, knowledge and interests. We hope you and your child visit the library often.

Sincerely,
Daniel L. Walters, Executive Director