Attendance rising alongside security incidents at Winnipeg Public Library branches: report
A report in front of a city committee reveals attendance is rising at Winnipeg Public Library branches, but so are security incidents.
Data in the report shows over 966,000 visits were logged at all Winnipeg libraries from October 2023 until March 2024. That’s 134,000 more visitors than the same time last year.
The report also notes it may correlate with an increase in safety issues, with 723 incidents reported in that same time frame. Of those, 360 were in 2024 alone, with over half at the Millennium Library.
“Safety and security incidents continue to be concerning in library branches throughout the city,” the report reads.
“The findings in this second quarterly report paint a picture of continuing incidents but also a significant number of de-escalations.”
The majority involved inappropriate behaviour. Threats, assault and intoxication were among other issues noted.
The report also says community safety hosts helped reduce the severity of incidents by around 77 per cent in the past six months.
“Community Safety Hosts have assisted customers in administering naloxone and/or first aid life-saving measures, and providing a calming influence in the branch so the impact of heightened events are minimized, information or other aid can be provided, or to ensure security is able to remove customers who are unable to regulate their behaviour,” the report reads.
The community safety hosts were among a slew of other security changes added in the wake of a homicide at Millennium Library in December 2022.
The report notes the library continues to work to rebuild customer trust with the help of the hosts, metal detection gates and more contracted security guards.
The full report can be read on the city’s website.
- With files from CTV's Jeff Keele
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
BREAKING Canada's inflation cools to 3-year low of 2.7%, in boost for rate cut bets
Canada's annual inflation rate slowed to a three-year low of 2.7 per cent in April, matching expectations, and core measures continued to ease, data showed on Tuesday, likely boosting chances of a June interest rate cut.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' pitch in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.