Safety concerns on the rise at Vancouver Island libraries

CUPE Local 410 vice-president Caitlin Ottenbreit says that because public libraries are among the only “free spaces” in Canadian society, many complex social issues observed by residents on the street, are seen by library workers on the job as well…. “Library staff should not be expected to act as social workers,” noted Rattée in an emailed statement. “Patrons shouldn’t have to feel physically threatened in a space meant for reading, studying, and learning.