OSHKOSH – Citing “teens who have repeatedly broken the library’s behavior policy,” Oshkosh Public Library on Monday announced it was instituting a new temporary evening-hours rule for minors.
The rule requires teens using the library after 6:30 p.m. to be accompanied by a guardian and to check in at a Greeter Station, sign into the library, and show their student ID, state-issued ID, driver’s license or library card.
“We want the library to remain a space where everyone feels safe,” Library Director Darryl Eschete said in a news release. “By asking that minors be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 6:30 p.m., we’re promoting a safer space for young people while also supporting library staff and the community.”
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The rule went into effect April 14. The library said the decision came after a recent increase in evening incidents in which teens were repeatedly breaking the library’s behavior policy and being disruptive.
The disruptions, the release said, affected the library experience for other patrons and placed a strain on staff, who “made ongoing efforts to engage teens in a positive and a respectful way.”
“Many young people use the library responsibly” and the new rule is not expected to continue past the end of the current school year, the library said in the release.
Signs are posted on the main entrance doors and information will be shared on the library’s Facebook page. People are also advised to direct further questions to library staff.
The library noted exceptions will be made for library programs or outside events that specifically permit unaccompanied minors.
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In May 2024, the library rolled out a new comprehensive patron behavior policy outlining guidelines for noise levels, electronic device usage, and eating and drinking in public spaces.
The revised policy included expectations for patrons to engage productively with library resources, clear consequences for individuals engaging in disruptive or threatening behavior, and a firm stance against any type of bullying or harassment.
The library is at 106 Washington Ave. and is open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays.
Contact Brandon Reid at breid@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh Public Library: What to know about new evening rule for minors