A report from the Canadian Union of Public Employees shows library workers are facing increased incidents of violence.

Those who were surveyed say incidents of workplace violence have increased over the past two years and mental health and addictions issues were identified as the most common causes of these incidents.

CUPE’s report entitled “Turning the Page” is based on a survey of CUPE library workers conducted last year in response to reports of a growing number of violent incidents occurring in Saskatchewan public libraries.  There were 101 workers who participated in the survey.

Of those who responded to the survey 78 per cent reported having experienced verbal abuse; 71 per cent reported witnessing violence; half reported experiencing violence; 44 per cent reported sexual harassment and 40 per cent reported being threatened with physical harm.

CUPE Saskatchewan President says these are unacceptable incidents of harassment, abuse and violence in the workplace.

Judy Henley says, “Libraries are essential community hubs that so many rely on as places to gather and access programming in addition to borrowing books and other materials. More needs to be done to make sure our libraries are welcoming and safe places for both workers and the public.”

Recommendations in the report to reduce incidences of workplace violence in public libraries include better training for staff, particularly on de-escalation and dealing with mental health challenges; additional library staff; additional and better trained security; zero tolerance for violence; and social workers and Elders at some branches.