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Director pushes for funded library safety specialist in 2027 budget
Summary
The director urged funding for a library safety specialist — a proactive, library-employed position — arguing it would be more effective than relying on police; the board was told the budget team is inclined to support the position as budget decisions move in August.
During the budget discussion, the director told the board the library has experienced safety-related incidents and urged creation of a funded "library safety specialist" who would be a library employee responsible for proactive outreach and de-escalation. "It almost so we can guarantee that we have the resources there... it needs in my mind, it will remain to be in my mind, that that would needs to be a library employee," the director said, arguing the role would build rapport with individuals to resolve problems more effectively than repeatedly calling police.
The director said the topic was discussed with elected officials and the budget team and that, as of the meeting, the position was posited as being supported by the budget team. Board members asked about feedback on a letter the board sent; the director said all elected officials received the letter and that major budget decisions will be made in August with final submission to the state by October under state deadlines.
