A dramatic increase in the number of violent incidents in Canadian libraries isn’t being seen in Peterborough, but measures to keep library users and staff safe are in place.
According to CBC News, data obtained from 11 Canadian public library systems show physical assaults, suspected overdoses and thefts are more common than ever before. In Toronto, for example, there was a 71 percent jump in the number of incidents from 2022 to 2023.
Peterborough Public Library CEO Jennifer Jones is well aware of this disturbing trend, noting there is a focus on being proactive to ward off potential problems.
However, says Jones, threatening interactions between some patrons and library staff are more common than they were at one time.
Ensuring the library is accessible to all, says Jones, comes with a responsibility to constantly be aware of who’s in the building and ensure all conduct themselves properly.
Jones says vigilance remains a priority with the library ready to adopt any new measures to keep all safe if and when they are warranted.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
