On September 6 and 7, 2017, MCLS collaborated with Michigan Library Cooperative Directors Association, Library of Michigan, Michigan Academic Library Association (MiALA), and Michigan Library Association (MLA) to offer two programs on safety in libraries. Forty-nine people participated in Gaylord on September 6, and 111 participated in Dearborn on September 7.
September 6, 2017, 9:30am - 2:30pm, University Center, Gaylord, MI
Dr. Steve Albrecht 
, PHR, CPP, BCC, CTM, an internationally-known consultant on workplace violence prevention training programs, school violence prevention, and high-risk human resources, presented this program. Dr. Albrecht has trained thousands of library employees on the do's and don'ts of handling challenging and threatening patrons of many types. The day included a hands-on component with role playing scenarios, exercises, and tips for creating policy. Dr. Albrecht's background in law enforcement and human resources, combined with his sense of humor, helped form an information-packed and empowering day to help libraries be a more secure place.
Download: Steve Albrecht presentation 9-6 & 9-7-17.pdf
September 7, 2017, 9am - 3:30pm, Dearborn Public Library, Dearborn, MI
Dr. Steve Albrecht , PHR, CPP, BCC, CTM, an internationally-known consultant on workplace violence prevention training programs, school violence prevention, and high-risk human resources, was the keynote. His presentation focused on practical tools to keep library staff safe, develop policy, and deal with challenging and threatening patrons.
Download: Steve Albrecht presentation 9-6 & 9-7-17.pdf
Jodie Layne, activist, writer, and founder of Safer Spaces Winnipeg , was named one of Chatelaine Magazine's 2015 Women of the Year, one of CBC Manitoba’s “Future 40”, and one of Manitoba’s Most Fascinating People. Jodie works primarily with music venues, festivals, and bars to create policies and procedures and train staff and volunteers, with an emphasis on bystander intervention. She presented on "Libraries as safer spaces." Jodie's presentation included defining, "What is safe space," as well as how to use victim-centered responses in order to help patrons feel safe and welcome at our libraries.
Download: Jodie Layne presentation 9-7-17.pdf
Eva Davis , Director of Canton Public Library , shared about how CPL, as co-chair of the Canton Response to Hate Crimes Coalition, works with Muslim and Sikh partners, among others, to create family-friendly events where local communities come together in a celebration of diversity and unity. In this session, participants learned how to work with community groups to create these public events for any special population to make all feel welcome and safe in the library.
Download: Eva Davis presentation 9-7-17.pdf
