Maunder raises a number of security issues in her article regarding 24/7 access at a library in Foster, which are pertinent to any library considering this service. Below are some security issues raised by the article, how the Foster Library has overcome the issue, and some questions for other libraries considering this option.
| Security issue | How it is overcome | Considerations for other libraries |
| Identification of users via security camera | Foster is a small town ‘where most people know each other’ | Will patrons be identifiable on camera? Will this suit a larger community or university? |
| Health and safety of patrons when library is unattended | Provide inductions | Are there resources for inductions and maintenance of first aid kits? How accessible are medical services in the event of an emergency? |
| Access by inducted patrons | Provision of swipe cards | Is the infrastructure available for swipe card access? How will patrons be prevented from giving unauthorised people access? |
| Implementation of emergency procedure | Provide inductions | Is the library at high risk of emergency, for example power failure or violence? How accessible would emergency services personnel be if required? Are additional security guards required? |
Other security issues that may present for 24/7 libraries include use of facilities by homeless people; patrons cards being lost, stolen or misused; misuse of facilities (for example bringing in food); risk of damage to collection and property. The cost of mitigating these issues needs to be assessed against the benefit to the community or students.
Reference
Maunder, S (2019, December 20). First library in Victoria to open 24 hours a day, seven days a week has town buzzing. ABC Gippsland. Retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-27/foster-library-first-in-victoria-to-open-24-hours-a-day/11777696
Amie's Blog 
Some interesting points you made, some of these would need to be considered in other cities / suburbs. Most libraries already have security cameras, so it is unlikely this would become an issue.
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