Metuchen Public Library

Metuchen Public Library is dedicated to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment that allows teens to learn, connect, and grow. This space is designed to support academic and personal development, foster positive social interactions, and build a strong sense of community. Acknowledging the distinct traits and social nature of this age group, the Library has set aside a designated area to provide this safe, inclusive environment for both individual and group activities.

1. Access
   • The Young Adult area is for patrons from 12 through 17 years of age, or young adults still enrolled in a High School Program (with proof of enrollment).
   • While patrons of all ages are welcome to browse and check out materials from the Young Adult Collection, the use of laptops, board games, and D&D Kits and other supplies within this area is exclusively for the use of students from ages 12 through 17.
   • Certain Young Adult resources and equipment may be shared with other library departments at the discretion of the Library Staff.
   • Parents and caregivers may enter the Young Adult area when accompanied by a teen (ages 12–17), while other adults may briefly browse or pick up materials but should not use the space for reading, working, or other activities at any time, including during school hours.
   • Tutors working with children or teens are to use the designated tables in this space.
   • The Library reserves the right to use the Young Adult area for scheduled programs, events, and gaming activities, as well as to set age restrictions and/or require registration for participation.
2. Expectations
   • Be respectful to one another and of others’ belongings.
   • Keep your hands to yourself: no rough-housing, pushing, shoving, or excessive public displays of affection.
   • Be kind: no profanity or disrespectful or unsafe language.
   • Keep the volume down: talk at a conversational level.
   • When listening to audio keep the volume to a minimum (use of headphones/earbuds is preferred).
   • Talking on cell phones is not permitted.
   • Take pride in your space: clean up after yourself and others.
   • Use furniture for its intended purpose, no sitting on tables, standing on chairs, or leaning back on chairs.
   • Bikes can be locked up at the bike racks outside of the library.
   • Personal belongings are not to be left unattended, for example: cell phones, jackets, laptops, and bags.
   • All language, behavior, activities, and content in the teen area must be PG and appropriate for ages 12–17. This includes no offensive language, adult content, or disruptive behavior.
   • Adhere to the Teen Policy and Library Code of Conduct.
3. Consequences
   • The library reserves the right to limit the use of the library by teens that disregard the library Code of Conduct and/or Teen Policy.
   • Teens may be asked by the staff to leave the library as a result of unacceptable behavior.
   • Following two warnings, the teen and their caregiver will need to make an appointment with the Director before being allowed to return to the teen room or library.
4. Computer/Technology Use
   • Digital content must be rated PG or under.
   • Video games must be rated T and under.
   • Library laptops, when available, may be checked out for use in the teen space only.
   • Teens must observe the Public Computer Use Policy for laptops.
5. Food
   • Light snacks, such as a bag of pretzels or other contained items, are allowed in the Teen Space at the discretion of staff.
   • Securely covered water bottles are permitted.

*Exceptions to this policy may be granted based on individual circumstances by the Library Director. These guidelines assist with ensuring the Teen Space remains a safe, enjoyable, and positive experience for everyone.

1st Reading 04/8/2025
2nd Reading and Adopted 05/13/2025