Hostility against Kingston, Ont. library workers a growing problem
Global News
Workers at the downtown Kingston Frontenac Public Library are seeing increased incidents of hostile behaviour directed at them from patrons, a problem they can't solve alone.
Officials with the Kingston Frontenac Public Library are calling for help amid a rise in aggressive and sometimes violent behaviour towards library employees in recent months.
Public libraries are supposed to be a safe space to go check out books, enjoy quiet time, or maybe even meet up with a friend.
Lately, however, increasingly negative behaviour towards staff, specifically at the KFPL’s Johnson Street location, has led to concern.
“Instances of actual threats of harm for staff or other patrons, instances of people, upon being asked to leave or after leaving the building, kicking the building or doing other property damage,” said Laura Carter, chief librarian and CEO for KFPL.
“Shouting, swearing, verbal abuse and derogatory comments, unfortunately,” added Jillann Rothwell, president of CUPE Local 2202, which represents the Kingston public library workers.
Also, it’s not just verbal abuse.
Kingston police had to get involved after an incident at the central branch that turned physical.
“It was reported in the media that we did have an actual assault that happened at the central branch,” said Carter.