A dangerous occupation? Violence in public libraries Available to Purchase

Outlines the problem of violence in British public libraries, where incidents commonly involve problem groups from drunks to unruly youths to irate patrons. The problem can be more extreme in US libraries with several librarians being killed, in a country that averages 20 workplace murders each week. Current feelings amongst library staff are of managerial apathy and a reluctance to tackle the problem with appropriate resources. Discusses the reasons for violence and suggests measures that can be employed to reduce the threat and deal with incidents if they occur. Risk assessment is the crucial first step in this process and risk management strategies should follow. This should incorporate security measures and staff training. Results of a survey of library workers carried out in 2001 to gauge a random “snapshot” view of violence in libraries is discussed and compared to a similar survey undertaken in 1995 by McGrath.