Worcester News

Library closed after patron strikes employee with skateboard

  • Posted by Worcester News August 8, 2024 - Filed in News - #Worcester  #crime  #Worcester Public Library  - 2,416 views


    Worcester Public Library (City of Worcester)

    WORCESTER — The main branch of the Worcester Public Library closed early on Thursday and all branches will remain closed on Friday after a person struck a staff member with a skateboard.

    The main branch at 3 Salem Square closed early on Thursday so that leadership could meet with and address library personnel.

    According to a release from the city, the incident involved a patron who, unprovoked, struck a library staff member with a skateboard.

    Worcester police responded and took the patron into custody.

    The staff member is receiving medical treatment, and their injuries are not believed to be critical.

    City Manager Eric Batista and library Executive Director Jason Homer met with staff on Thursday to discuss the incident and staff concerns.

    “The safety and security of all library employees and patrons is of the utmost importance. The administration has worked closely with library leadership to meet the changing needs of patrons and users of the Worcester Public Library, including the creation of a community resources department, which has been staffed with a community liaison, two security officers, and a social worker,” Batista said in a statement.

    “In addition, staff has received training on trauma informed de-escalation techniques," Batista wrote. "That said, violence is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. The Worcester Public Library will remain an open and welcoming place for all members of the community, but this sacred space and those who operate it must be treated with respect, honor, and dignity. The incident remains under investigation.”

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