Public Libraries NZ and the New Zealand Library and Information Association are calling for safety assurances for library staff and library users.
A statement issued today calls on local and central government to ensure library staff are safe from physical and online threats or harassment so they can continue to support library users to freely access and effectively use library resources and spaces.
“The governing bodies of public libraries have an obligation to ensure the safety of all staff and users of public libraries for which they are responsible,” says Executive Director of Public Libraries NZ, Bernie Hawke.
The statement has been prepared to support this and is prompted by recent situations such as the violent actions of Destiny Church at Te Atatū community library, said Mr Hawke.
“These are no longer isolated situations. We are seeing more and more incidences of violence in public libraries throughout New Zealand,” he said.
Two people were trespassed from Ashburton’s new library last year and Whanganui Council has reported incidents of threatening behaviour this month, including at Davis Library.
“Local and central governments must invest appropriately in public libraries to ensure they have the facilities, trained staff, collection resources and technologies to safely and effectively enable access for all to libraries,” LIANZA president, Ivy Guo.
“Communities have trust in their public libraries.
“All library users should be able to freely use spaces, information and resources to improve their lives, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, religion, nationality, language, ability or social status.”
PLNZ and LIANZA commended those organisations which already have clear policies and processes to manage such situations and ensure safety in their libraries.
