Library Security: Better Communication, Safer Facilities

by Steve Albrecht

Through the methods outlined in this book, Albrecht demonstrates that effective communication not only makes library users feel more comfortable but also increases staff morale, ensuring the library is place where everyone feels welcome.

Genres: Nonfiction, Professional Development, Librarianship, Reference, Library Science

184 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 27, 2015

Reviews

[Melki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another assigned book to "prove" to the library board that I'm actually working from home. Compared to the last one I read - Library 2.0: A Guide to Participatory Library Service - this one is Pulitzer material. Here, Albrecht discusses problem patrons, ways of defusing situations before they turn violent, and in the case of an active shooter - run, hide, or fight.

This was pretty good - interesting and informative. I'm recommending all my coworkers read it.

And, I'm really, REALLY glad we don't often get patrons like the ones described in this book.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short book is recommended reading for anyone who works in a library visited by the public. The author, a former cop, knows his stuff.

I did not agree with everything he had to say ("You thought this job was about the great books, history on the page, and having the time to review the periodicals and publications that interest you" (p. 1) - uh, no, I didn't) but he said a lot that made sense ("while we can't control people's behaviors, we can control our perception of them, our responses to them, and, ultimately, our treatment of them" (p. 5)).

He acknowledges that every library and situation is different and that many factors come into play. He says things like "There is no perfect answer for whether you should or should not talk to a patron" (p. 8) and encourages you to trust yourself and your instincts. He stresses being “firm, fair, consistent, and assertive,” which is a good checklist to live and work by. He reminds us to ask, "Am I being reasonable in response to this patron's behavior?" He notes, "You can turn a cooperative person into a screaming maniac by being condescending, rude, or officious with him or her." (p. 11)

This book is filled with lots of good common sense reminders. It also contains practical advice and a library employee security survey to help directors get a handle on security in their libraries. It would make a good discussion book for library staff. I’m glad I read it.

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Try to always let the patron save face, which will diffuse many situations. Come up with a code for calling police so it doesn't set off a patron on the edge--Mr Blue, etc. Track down George Thompson's Verbal Judo or its' update--basically, listen have empathy (even when you don't agree), offer one or more solutions to save face, be creative to reach goals. Take care of yourself first, then your colleagues and then the patrons. Divide to conquer the tweens and teens--pull aside one of them and remind them they can't stay if they don't change their behavior, and to pass it on. Works on entitled parents, too. Post rules of conduct in visible, common locations. Use of Secret Service hands works to project air of authority and listening to patron while warning coworkers you need backup (midchest, fingers down, thumbs up, making a diamond).

Not too much different from the Wakaheza principles we started using, really.

[Randal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good basic instruction in how to keep your library safe. A lot of it crosses paths with other trainings I've had, and in every case Albrecht is in agreement with those other experts. That imbues a sense of confidence.

Would be five stars except -- while the author is at pains to repeatedly stress that we have to treat everyone the same -- when we arrive at patrons who are homeless. There is advice on how to create an excuse to selectively give them the heave-ho, and they are repeatedly presented not as individuals with needs but as problems to be solved. A little work on more creative solutions for working with this population than "move along pal" would be welcome.

Still a solid 4-4.5 stars.

[Tracey · Rating 3 out of 5]

nonfiction (career development/safety)
my supervisor asked me to watch the author's webinar but I thought I'd be able to focus better if it were a book. This is a good review/overview--it's a good idea to be aware and alert when working with the general public, and to have staff think ahead about procedures should circumstances arise that require them.

[Evan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical, helpful

[Pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was much more useful and relevant than "Black Belt Librarian" IMHO

[Sandra Lenahan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good sound common sense advice on how to avoid work place violence. Similar to the Blackbelt Librarian but with more up-to-date examples to bring Albrecht's point home. Can be applied to any setting that deals with the public.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic book, short and practical, will be using it for staff training. Not just about security, but some great stuff about customer service and stress management as well. I wish all library staff would read it, very good stuff.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential.

[Abraham Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book about library security!