The Okanagan Regional Library is beefing up security at its branches in Vernon and Kelowna.
A number of incidents from creating a disturbance, intoxication, drug use and altercations – anything that breaches ORL rules – prompted the move.
“We’ve noticed an increase in the number of incidents and want to deal with them in a proactive way,” said Stephanie Hall, ORL chief executive officer.
To that end, the librar will try out a six-month pilot project of having security for every hour the branch is open in Vernon and Kelowna.
The estimated cost for the two branches, above its existing security budget, would be around $25,000, though Hall said no contract has been awarded so a precise amount can’t be given.
“We would far rather be spending this money on library services, but a safe and secure environment is a pretty important part of what we do, given our wide-ranging clientele of families, seniors, and various other groups,” she said.
The pilot project is expected to start in early January.