Library Resource Officers
Wichita Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
Wichita Public Library recently made the decision to move from contracted security provided by the Wichita Police Department to hiring in-house Library Resource Officers. The focus is to provide operational oversight related to the safety and security of library customers, staff, and building assets.
Challenge/Opportunity
The Library wanted security to be more engaging with customers and to ensure their basic needs are met. The Library Resource Officers bring many people-first skills to their jobs, including being trauma-informed and community service-oriented. There is still a need to address some behavioral issues with customers, but the Library is seeing employees feeling more empowered to deal with difficult situations in a more engaging way.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Library Resource Officers provide a safe, inclusive, and secure community space for customers and staff. In addition to managing spaces at the system’s central location, the Officers provide training for safety and security topics staff at branch locations.
Achieved Outcomes
The Library Resource Officers proactively engage with customers who appear to be struggling with barriers and encourage connections with community partners who are able to further provide the assistance they need.
