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Select Board raises liability and access concerns over library proposal to allow casual dog visits
Summary
The Jamaica Select Board discussed a library trustees' request to allow citizens to bring well-behaved dogs into the Jamaica Memorial Library for short periods; members raised liability, allergies and exclusion concerns and asked the trustees to present a specific policy and insurer guidance before any change.
The Select Board discussed a library trustees' proposal to amend the Jamaica Memorial Library policy to permit citizens to bring well-behaved dogs into the library for up to an hour. Chair noted the library is a town memorial library and cautioned that if an incident occurred the town could be named in any suit. One member said “it really came down to liability, liability, liability,” and argued that staff and trustees lack the certification to judge whether an animal is safe for public space.
Board members suggested alternatives including structured, advertised programs that give patrons advance notice, monthly "dog hours" and requiring insurance or certificates for program animals. The board asked the trustees to attend a future meeting with a proposed policy that clarifies leash rules, liability protections, and whether the change would be limited to scheduled events. Chair recommended consulting the town insurer (VLCT) before adopting any policy change.
