Hello:

In Michigan, libraries are not mandatory reporters of child abuse (unless the library is a school library). However, state law mandates that anyone who believes in good faith that a child is in danger can report abuse. State law further indicates that not only can reporters remain anonymous (and their identity protected), but they have no liability for the report (they cannot be sued or prosecuted in any way for a report that turns out not to be abuse)

Library staff can call authorities as a concerned citizen and not as library staff. The library does not need to be involved (if that is a concern).

I have attached an information sheet I compiled on this issue. Please share with your patron if  you like.

I hope this is helpful! Please let me now if you have any questions on the attached, or if I can be of assistance!

Sincerely,

Clare

Clare D. Membiela, MLS, J.D.

Library of Michigan

MembielaC@michigan.gov

517-335-8132

The research and resources above is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Visit www.acteonline.org/ctemonth for more information on Career and Technical Education

February is Career and Technical Education Month in Michigan.

From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Christine Hage
Sent: Tuesday, February 7, 2017 2:46 PM
To: Kat Boyer <librarykat.15@gmail.com>; Michlib-l <michlib-l@mcls.org>
Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] CPS reporting question

Call the local police and ask for a welfare check   They will handle it.  I've called when unattended children are in the library during a school day. Called when a staff member had repeated broken bones (it was spousal abuse). They will contact family, CPS, and give rides home. 

Christine Lind Hage,
Director, Rochester Hills Public Library
Councilor, United for Libraries
500 Olde Towne Road
Rochester, MI 48309
258/650-7122

On Tue, Feb 7, 2017 at 2:11 PM -0500, "Kat Boyer" <librarykat.15@gmail.com> wrote:

Hi everyone,

I just had a rather distubring conversation with a patron who was telling me that his nephews called him at 1 am last night to tell him that they were home alone and in the car of a 10 year was was left with them and a 1 year old infant.  The patron told me that there were no adults in the home at the time of the call and that the mothers of the children were unreachable.

At what point are we compelled to call CPS if we hear information like this?  I am not sure if I am required to report, if I should report, or if I should encourage my patron to report this information.

Kat Boyer

Interim Director

Benton Harbor Public Library