FREE: Join us for LearnRT's April webinar: Reimagining Safety with the Library Safety Volunteers!
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 1 pm Eastern.
Presenter: Heath Umbreit
Register now.
As backlash against libraries continues escalating, librarians are more vulnerable than ever; yet, few practices effectively or proactively address this issue, especially in program spaces. Some libraries reactively call the police after harm has happened. Others simply push through alone, risking burnout. Still others engage in soft censorship to avoid "controversy" altogether.
In early 2025 in Massachusetts, I founded the Library Safety Volunteers (LSV) to provide a proactive, non-carceral alternative for colleagues. Modeled on mutual aid organizing traditions in the LGBTQIA+ community, LSV trains librarians in deescalation techniques. Upon request, LSV teams attend colleagues' programs to provide supplemental assistance, monitor for signs of escalation, safely escort attendees past protesters, and calmly deescalate hecklers.
Attendance is free and open to the public. This event will be recorded and made available to LearnRT members only. Not a member? Become a member for $15/year, just add us on to your ALA membership.
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Lindsay O'Neill, MLIS, MEd
Past President, Learning Round Table
Instructional Designer and Consultant, Lindsay O'Neill Consulting LLC
She/Her/Hers
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