Public library workers often find themselves on the front lines, confronting an array of challenging behaviours that raise significant concerns about their safety and well-being.
Library workers frequently encounter difficult and occasionally violent behaviours from visitors or patrons, in various ways, from verbal harassment to physical altercations. Such incidents not only pose immediate risks but also deeply affect the mental and emotional health of the library staff. Many workers report experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety, with some facing the possibility of long-term psychological effects because of these encounters.
Local councils promote their libraries as family-friendly, welcoming all under the open-door policies many libraries maintain. While these policies promote inclusivity and accessibility, they also expose USU members to potential risks, creating an environment where the mission of providing a public service intersects with the need to ensure personal safety.
USU Library members are facing challenges due to insufficient support in their workplaces. In response, the United Services Union (USU) has launched a proactive campaign to include library workers in the 2023 New South Wales legislation addressing the abuse, violence, and aggression frequently encountered by retail workers. To further strengthen this initiative, the USU is encouraging its members in libraries to participate in a survey to gather insights and data that will help amplify their voices and enhance workplace safety.
