Rising Violence and Staff Shortages Strain Victoria Libraries

Libraries across Greater Victoria are grappling with a sharp rise in disturbances, from violent incidents to complex social challenges, against the backdrop of a critical staff shortage.

The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system documented 732 incidents in 2024 — a 200% increase from 2021. Most incidents occurred at the downtown central branch, which saw 583 cases ranging from minor disturbances to violence and harassment.

“The number of incidents is increasing dramatically, creating a significant burden on staff,” said Caitlin Ottenbreit, a librarian and vice-president of CUPE410, the library workers' union.

Challenges Facing Libraries

Libraries have become a haven for vulnerable individuals, including those facing homelessness, mental health struggles, and addiction. This has heightened demand for social services, often leaving library staff on the front lines of societal gaps.

Ottenbreit noted that persistent staff shortages, with a 20% vacancy rate at the GVPL by the end of 2024, are exacerbating burnout and stress among employees.

Examples of reported incidents include a patron throwing books at security staff and another setting a ban notice on fire outside the library.

“It’s often the same front-line workers repeatedly dealing with these incidents,” said Ottenbreit.

Library System Response

The GVPL has taken steps to address the challenges, including:

• Hiring 12 auxiliary staff in January 2025.

• Piloting a mobile security unit to assist branches.

• Providing de-escalation training and revising branch layouts for improved safety.

Additionally, the library is reimagining the role of its recently vacated community navigator position, potentially creating a role akin to a social worker — a model successfully piloted in Surrey libraries.

“We’re trying to adapt to the evolving needs of our community,” said Maureen Sawa, CEO of GVPL.

Expert Insights

Experts caution that stopgap measures like auxiliary staff may not sufficiently address the systemic issues.

“Burnout among permanent and auxiliary staff will accelerate without better support and job security,” said Kendra Strauss, director of SFU’s Labour Studies Program.

The rise in disturbances mirrors broader societal issues, including the lack of free public spaces and declining access to essential social services, said Andrew Appleton, outgoing chair of the GVPL board.

Looking Ahead

Staff hope for a future where they can focus on community-building and prevention, rather than crisis management.

“Librarians are working hard to serve the community, but we’re limited by the resources we have,” said Ottenbreit.

Sawa echoed these sentiments, calling for stronger partnerships with social services and systemic solutions to ease the growing strain on libraries.

“Public libraries are becoming the last free, accessible space — but is that really enough?” she asked.

As Greater Victoria libraries navigate this challenging landscape, the need for sustainable solutions, additional staffing, and enhanced training remains critical to fostering both safety and community support.