Libraries reflect the communities we serve and like those communities we sometimes navigate disruptive and unsafe patron behaviors. Join the Community Conduct Coordinator for the King County Library System and a public library manager as they share how policies, procedures, and guidelines can support a safe and welcoming environment for patrons and staff. Participants will learn techniques for engaging staff in solution; review facilities considerations; explore community and police partnership opportunities; take away ideas for training and resources; and practice de-escalation techniques.

WALE 2014 Conference | October 2014

WLA Pre Conference | April 2015

WLA First Tuesdays | September 2015

Kitsap Regional Library Staff Day | September 2015

INCOL Fall Workshop | October 2016

Wild Wisconsin Winter Web Conference | 2016

Public libraries are experiencing a rise in escalated behavior. Come learn and explore how relationship-building makes it easier for library staff to help patrons use the library successfully. In this session, you’ll learn about making the library a welcoming place for all, the importance of library services to those with limited or no access to basic resources, making library rules feel like guidance rather than punishment, and using discussion rather than reaction to address behavior. There will also be a focus on collaborating with other library staff, de-escalation strategies, and maximizing personal safety in this session.

OLA-WLA Conference | 2019

Creating a safe environment for the public, staff, and collections is a top concern for libraries. As a public space, this sometimes means that library staff are faced with behavior or events that may feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or illegal. Although we can’t predict or control every situation, we can be prepared to effectively respond to a range of scenarios. This session will present a holistic approach for creating safe environments through strong community relationships, inclusive policies, and empowered staff. Using a trauma-informed, human-centered lens, we'll explore strategies to create a library where staff possess the skills, and feel prepared, to manage what comes through the doors.

WebJunction On-Demand Webinar | May 2023

Library Safety and Security