Parents & Educators

Can Kids Be Alone at the Library?

Please review the library's Children in the Library Policy to learn more about kids and teens visiting the library. A few important things to note include:

• Children 5 and under cannot be left unattended at the library under any circumstances.
• Children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult or guardian when visiting the library. If the child is attending a library-sponsored program, the adult guardian must remain in the library at all times.
• Children 9 and older may not be left unattended at the library for extended periods of time that do not include programs.

Tips for Parents

• Accompany your children on trips to the library.
• Let them explore the shelves, mindful that kids and teens are naturally attracted to books and other materials intended for them, not to materials beyond their maturity or reading level.
• Provide clear guidelines. If you believe certain materials or subjects are inappropriate, express your concerns in a nonjudgmental way. Remember, what is forbidden immediately becomes more attractive.
• Peruse materials your children select and review all reading lists sent home by teachers.
• Learn how to evaluate children's books. Check your library for guidelines about what is appropriate and appealing to various ages. Read book reviews and look through materials yourself to determine their appropriateness for your children.
• Talk to your children about what they are reading. This will help you understand their interests and concerns and allow you to express your opinions.
• Get to know your public and school librarians. They are experts at selecting materials that correspond to a child's age, interests, and abilities.
• Introduce your children to their librarians and encourage them to seek help from library staff when they need it.
• If you have questions or concerns about a book, discuss them with a librarian or teacher. They may be able to help you understand why the material is being used or provide an alternative for your child.

• ReadWorks: A free online resource to help evaluate and build reading skills.
• Common Sense Media: Reviews and ratings for books, movies, TV, games, and more.

Classroom Visits/Library Tours

Librarians from all departments are available to provide outreach services for a wide variety of ages, organizations, and events. Do you want to request that a librarian visit your school, classroom, childcare center, etc.? Or would you like to bring your class to the library for a tour? Complete this form.

Teacher Cards

Teachers employed in Payne County are eligible for a teacher's card, which allows them to borrow 30 items for a checkout period of 30 days with no renewals. Teacher cards must be applied for in person. Get more details on the Get a Card page.

Book Club Kits

The library has a limited number of book club kits (with copies of at least 10 each) for kids and teens. Visit our Book Clubs page for more information.

Collections for organizations allow institutions in Stillwater that serve individuals who cannot travel to the library to borrow items via a monthly delivery service. Examples of organizations eligible for this service include daycares, pre-schools, youth shelters, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. Visit the Collections for Organizations page to learn more.

The library has numerous books on how to start homeschooling and curriculum to use. Most items are located in the adult nonfiction section, call number area 371.04. While the library does not have textbooks in its collection, parents are welcome to use our nonfiction titles to supplement curriculum. Please speak with a librarian for suggestions on appropriate material for specific educational units.