Harassment has been observed in independent libraries in Central Finland. Solutions for use have been sought together with the municipality’s operators, so that the opening hours would not have to be restricted.
In Muurame and Jämsä, Kuorevesi library has been vandalized during the library’s opening hours.
– Young people have no other indoor space to go to and therefore come to the self-help library to spend time.
In Jämsä and Muurame, efforts have been made to calm self-employment time with various actors in the municipality.
– We have contacted the parents of the young people who have committed the harassment, and together with the youth service, we have thought about what could be done, Vesterinen states.
Municipalities are considering shortening the opening hours of self-service libraries if the problems continue.
Disruptive behavior in libraries is local
The immemorial power that takes place during the self-employed period of libraries has not become a significant phenomenon. According to the information of the Regional Administration Office, about 190 municipalities in Finland offer self-service library services, and in them the operation is generally practical.
– I could see that the situation would calm down when the libraries are used as much as possible, even when the staff is not there, Manninen states.
– The background is bad behavior, gaps in well-being and many other reasons. The situation appears as improper activity in public places, in this case in the library premises.
Selkee emphasizes that the phenomenon cannot be generalized to all young people. Young people who commit vandalism are usually individuals or groups whose ill health should be addressed.
Selkee reminds that the library facilities are for all ages.
– Everyone must have the opportunity to come to the library. It must also be a safe space where customers do not disturb each other.