Apr 19, 2024
Statement on Security at Saskatoon Public Library
SPL is committed to protecting the health and safety of library workers and patrons. We have a robust security strategy, including:
- On-Site Security: We have contracted security personnel at locations that routinely experience incidents. The Frances Morrison Central Library has five security personnel, the Dr. Freda Ahenakew Library has two security personnel, and the Mayfair and Carlyle King Libraries have one security personnel during open hours. In addition, we also have a Senior Manager, Security. Our security team is supported by community resources such as the Alternative Response Officers (Saskatoon Police Service) and Community Support Officers.
- Safe Use and Conduct Bylaw (Bylaw No. 332): We actively enforce our Safe Use and Conduct Bylaw.
Our response includes suspending access to physical facilities for individuals, which can range from short-term to permanent, depending on the situation. We call Saskatoon Police Service to respond to incidents that exceed the ability and authority of library employees and security personnel. - Outreach Workers: We have had two Outreach Workers (licensed social workers) on staff since 2018
to help patrons experiencing problems relating to housing, mental health, addictions, crisis support, employment, income, or other confidential and important needs. - Employee Training: We offer extensive employee training, including Situational Awareness, Critical Incident Group Debriefing, Mental Health First Aid, Naloxone and First Aid.
- Incident Tracking & Debriefing: We have Incident Reporting Procedures and Incident Debriefing Guidelines to support the health and well-being of employees following emergencies and other safety-related incidents.
- Safe Workplace Policies: Our policies (Harassment-Free Environment, Violence-Free Workplace, Respectful Workplace) prohibit harassment and violence. We review these policies with employees annually.
- Occupational Health & Safety: We have an Occupational Health & Safety Policy, which we review with employees annually, and active Occupational Health & Safety Committees comprised of both management and union members at all our locations. We also have a dedicated Human Resources Occupational Health and Safety Practitioner.
In addition to the support employees receive from managers following incidents, we also offer all employees access to an Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) to help address and mitigate the effects of issues they may encounter while at work. EFAP sessions for employees are held on location after more serious incidents or after a series of incidents. Employees also have access to Homewood Health and the Headversity mental health app.