Alternative Approaches to Safety and Security
Toronto Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
Provoked by an interest in challenging the increasing budget for security guards, a Discussion Table was created to find new ways to support the physical and mental health of library staff and customers. Opportunities to address challenges were identified through collaboration on a common goal – to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive space.
Challenge/Opportunity
TPL saw the number of safety and security-related incidents in its 100 branches increasing steadily over time. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated stresses on staff and the community, at the same time that social service supports were stretched thin. By working together to understand and address complex, multi-dimensional challenges, members of the Discussion Table identified opportunities to connect to each other’s work and try new things in a responsible way.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Table created links that helped better address the issues contributing to physical and mental health challenges experienced in libraries. Working collaboratively, members represented the Library Board, management, the Toronto Public Library Workers Union, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Social Planning Toronto and the City of Toronto. With the support of independent facilitators from Third Party Public, members identified eight opportunities for the library to use the levers of power it has to respond.
Achieved Outcomes
The Table identified 6 stages through which library customers and staff “travel” through their library journey. Learnings from alternative crisis support service models were reviewed, including efforts that are community-led, client-centred, trauma-informed and focused on reducing harm. With proper resources and partnerships, the opportunities identified have put the library on a path to better respond to incidents because of increased effort in social development and risk prevention. (Mins 34:40-37:25 in video link)
