Library cites escalating violence; calls grow for urgent action on safety and security

THUNDER BAY – Local News – Brodie Library has been closed today following a violent incident on Tuesday evening in which a staff member was assaulted by an individual who had been previously banned from the premises.

According to the Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL), the individual—who had been served with a No Trespass order and had repeatedly violated the ban—attacked a staff member without provocation, resulting in injuries that required medical attention.
The assault has left staff at the Brodie branch shaken and traumatized, prompting the decision to close the library for the day to allow employees to access mental health supports and participate in safety discussions.

Library Faces Rising Violence and Safety Concerns

The Brodie incident comes amid a troubling trend of escalating security incidents across the TBPL system, including abuse, threats, and assaults against staff and patrons.

“We expect this situation to get worse before it gets better due to the closure of safe consumption sites and the planned demolition of Victoriaville,” said Richard Togman, CEO of the Library.
“Our patrons—including seniors, families, and youth—deserve a safe space. But we are now receiving daily messages from community members saying they no longer feel safe returning to the library.”

Union, Library Board Urge City Council to Act

In response to the growing crisis, the TBPL Board of Directors has approved a motion requesting additional funding from Thunder Bay City Council to hire full-time security guards and bolster safety measures at all branches.

The call for action is supported by CUPE Local 3120, the union representing library workers.

“We are deeply concerned for the safety of our members and the public,” stated the CUPE 3120 Executive.
“We strongly urge the City of Thunder Bay to provide the necessary funding to implement improved safety and security measures at all TBPL locations.”

Alarming Statistics Highlight Urgent Need

Recent data compiled by the Library reveals:

• A 38% increase in incidents in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024.

• Over 75 safety incidents in the first quarter of 2025 alone—more than one per day, including 14 incidents involving violence or threats against staff.

• In 2024, 519 incidents were recorded—nearly 2.5 times higher than the 10-year average of 225.

• Incidents involving abuse, assault, and threats nearly tripled between 2023 and 2024.

Community Impact

Brodie Library’s closure underscores the urgent need for broader conversations about public space safety, social services gaps, and downtown revitalization in Thunder Bay. Library officials say they will continue to work with city officials, police, and community partners to ensure staff and patrons can feel safe in their public library spaces.