AusLeisure

The City of Newcastle has advised that it has been forced to change the way people enter its Wallsend Library after 3pm weekdays following a series of ongoing threatening and violent attacks towards staff and the general public.

Visitors to the Library will need to scan their library cards to gain entry to the building on weekday afternoons after 3pm following the installation of technology known as OPEN+, which safely manages and monitors use of the space.

Advising that the changes had been implemented in response to a series of anti-social behaviours, which had impacted the wellbeing of staff and visitors, City of Newcastle Chief Executive, Jeremy Bath stated "as recently as a week ago a group of young people carrying hammers were attacking the windows of the library. Two weeks ago, a group of people blocked the entry to the library and refused to allow people to enter or leave.

"For the past year we've had to employ a security guard to patrol Wallsend Library. We're now at the point where we are exploring employing paid police to protect our staff and library patrons.

"Earlier this month Wallsend Swimming Pool was broken into and trashed. It's the third time this season the pool has been broken into and vandalised.

"It goes without saying that this situation is unacceptable. We are regularly meeting with Police but this is not the solution.

"It's clear that Wallsend needs help. It's extraordinary that a local council should have to pay police to protect the local library, but that's what we are now considering."

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said City of Newcastle was committed to the safety of its staff and the community, noting "obviously it is disappointing that we need to take these measures, but the library needs to be a safe place for staff and visitors.

"City of Newcastle already uses this technology at Lambton Library and it works very well for visitors.

"Importantly, visitors who have forgotten their cards or do not have a card, will be able to access the library by 'buzzing' the intercom at the front door. They will be assisted and supported by staff promptly.

"I will be visiting Wallsend Library in the coming weeks to talk to staff and visitors about these new arrangements."

Director Museum Archive Libraries and Learning Julie Baird said libraries have always been a valuable resource for our community, offering a safe and welcoming space that provides opportunities for social connection, education and recreation.

Baird noted "while the vast majority of visitors use the library respectfully, it's disappointing that the troubling actions of a few within the community have necessitated this change.

"We've worked with Police, who have previously responded to instances of anti-social behaviour at Wallsend Library, and they are supportive of this new arrangement.

"Our staff will remain on site during the afternoons and will be able to assist members who need help with the technology.

"We appreciate the support and patience of our library members while they adjust to this change, which will ensure safer access for library members while delivering a positive experience for all visitors and staff.”

Customers who may not have their membership details with them or other visitors to the site will still be able to access Wallsend Library by using an intercom located at the main entry to contact staff onsite.

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