A view inside the Oshkosh Public Library. PC: Fox 11 Online
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Oshkosh Public Library is seeing positive results after implementing their temporary evening check-in rule for minors.
Last week, the library announced that they now require minors entering the library after 6:30 p.m. who are unaccompanied by adults to present identification — a state-issued ID, student ID, driver’s license or library card. The rule comes after there were disturbances in the past month involving teenagers.
“We’ve gotten to make positive contact with some of the kids,” said Oshkosh Public Library Director Darryl Eschete. “We’ve had discussions about some of our behavioral expectations, and we’ve gotten positive feedback from users of the library who were starting to notice some the issues themselves.”
Eschete said there were various disruptions — like teenagers running through hallways and creating noise. It culminated with a fight that was pre-planned on social media, which later involved police, per Eschete.
They hope to lift the measure by the end of the school year.
“We don’t look for excuses to keep [teenagers] out,” said Eschete. “We’re always trying to figure out ways to keep them in and get them in to give them an experience that they’re going to enjoy. But at the same time, we have to be cognizant of the fact that there’s lots of people around us.”
He said he hopes to create a social space more targeted toward teenagers. The reason for this measure is ensuring the library is a welcoming place for all people.
“The library is a place where people can learn across the lifespan,” said Eschete. “It belongs to the community, and obviously there are other expectations that come along with any public space.”
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