This chapter contains case studies from individuals in various information sectors, sent in by readers of CILIP's Library + Information Gazette who responded to my request for accounts of their experiences.

Introduction

Media coverage – in newspapers and magazines, on the TV and on radio – shows that in recent years there has been a significant increase in the amount of vandalism, aggressive behaviour and bullying everywhere, including in information centres and libraries. Even more worrying is the growth in the number of abusive or violent attacks on members of information and library staff, and the way in which such behaviour affects other information centre and library users.

While it is not the role of staff or employers to solve the underlying problem of violence in our society, it is clear that there is much that individuals and organizations can do to reduce the risk of violence. Judging by the evidence which has accumulated, many library authorities, universities, colleges and organizations are already taking the matter seriously and devising their own preventative measures. Advice, guidance and various procedures which can be adapted to local situations where a problem exists, or is thought to exist, can be found in this book and in other publications listed in the Bibliography in Appendix A. They should also sound a cautionary note to those who do not have an acknowledged problem.

This book is aimed at individual staff members in all types of information centres and libraries, but also at managers, trade unionists, health and safety supervisors, chief officers, elected members and owners, who should all benefit from reading it. If, after reading this book, you believe that you are not properly trained, then you should make sure that you go on a training course so that you are prepared for any acts of aggression, violence or harassment happening to you.

Most people believe that an accident or incident will not happen to them, but the following incidents have really happened to colleagues in the profession here in the UK. They were sent in response to my appeal in CILIP's Library + Information Gazette on 15 December 2006.They do not make pleasant reading, but I feel you should be aware of them.