Ottawa libraries seek to stop rise in drug use, disturbances

The Main branch of the Ottawa Public Library, seen here, and the Rideau branch see the highest number of security incidents across the system. (Francis Ferland/CBC - image credit)There is a rise in drug use and other safety incidents at some Ottawa Public Library branches, according to a report from the city's chief librarian. Four of the incidents in early 2023 resulted in library staff reportedly being injured physically or psychologically, according to the report. (As added context, there have been six incidents resulting in library staff injuries since 2020.) Bebbington said that would free up library staff to focus on their mandate: promoting literacy and delivering library services.