Staff Security an Issue at Black River Falls Public Library

Library may beef up security.  (Jackson County Chronicle, 6/15/2011)

Excerpt: The Black River Falls Public Library may soon have tougher security.

Library Director Muriel Gunderson said the library is investigating the installation of a “panic button” system to allow employees to feel safer while working night shifts.

“It would just give a little more sense of security for our staff,” Gunderson said.

“Whether they used it or not, it would be a valuable addition to make our staff feel more safe.”

Gunderson said the idea to heighten security came after some employees informed her they sometimes feel unsafe during their shifts when some patrons become confrontational or say things “that don’t make a lot of sense.”

This has been an issue at least since Gunderson became library director about three years ago.

“I’ve heard this since I’ve gotten here,” she said. “We’re a public access, community building (and) we offer free services.”

No incidents have prompted the library’s now all-female staff to call for law enforcement assistance, but Gunderson said she also plans to discuss some periodic patrol with the department during the library’s evening hours to help ease concerns.