Library directors cite safety, staffing and space constraints as demand for services grows

Hayward—s library director reported that both the main library and the Weeks branch are facing increasing safety and vandalism concerns while demand for programming and meeting space continues to grow.

The library director (name not specified in the record) told council the library exceeded its usage targets across nearly every metric and that outreach and mobile services (a replacement vehicle branded "Moby") will expand. The Weeks Branch renovation is nearing final design and will be funded largely with outside grants, the director said.

But staff also described persistent public‑safety and maintenance challenges. The director said the Weeks building has been repeatedly vandalized and that staff have temporarily protected artwork and fixtures. Security guards are on site at both buildings but the director noted those guards have experienced assaults while protecting staff and patrons. “Safety and security is our number one challenge,” the director said.

Councilors and the director discussed partnering with law enforcement, county behavioral health and community groups to address encampment activity and to keep restrooms and public spaces safe and clean. On Heritage Plaza, the director said the library will program four major city events annually but urged broader partnerships — the plaza lacks public restrooms and relies on the library—s facilities — and asked council to consider shared responsibility for activation and maintenance.

The director said staffing constraints and the wide demand for services — including outreach, homework help and technology access — limit the library—s ability to expand evening and weekend hours without additional resources. Councilors suggested identifying partners, including the school district and downtown business groups, to broaden meeting space availability and to coordinate scheduling across city and community assets.

Library staff also announced a ribbon cutting for a downtown café and said they will pilot a community service hub that hosts rotating social‑service partners for scheduled public access.