Sharing expertise gleaned from more than two decades as a library security manager, the author demonstrates that libraries can maintain their best traditions of openness and public access by creating an unobtrusive yet effective security plan. In straightforward language, the author: Shows how to easily set clear expectations for visitors' behavior; Presents guidelines for when and how to intervene when someone violates the code of conduct, including tips for approaching an unruly patron; Offers instruction on keeping persistent troublemakers under control or permanently barred from the library; and Gives library staff tools for communicating effectively with its security professionals, including examples of basic documentation. Also, this guide arms librarians with the confidence and know how they need to maintain a comfortable, productive, and safe environment for everyone in the library.

Includes index.

Inmates running the asylum : stories from the front trenches Demystifying the concept of a security program : twelve essential elements of real-world library security The librarian in the mirror The tao of "no" Playing chess with the checker player

Day-to-day security considerations A strategy for basic security documentation Security personnel who actually help you be secure Putting it all together.