Old Town Library reputation/actions

[Pam]

Dear Community Officials,

If ever you're wondering why those in the know will not allow their children or grandchildren to frequent the Old Town Library,  just ask the Manager to provide data regarding arrests, suspensions and incidents. Or...just ask a neighbor living near that library why it has the reputation for being the least safe library in Fort Collins. 

Here is an example of what is printed on their Event Calendar for this afternoon in four Study Rooms: 

12:00 PM - Outreach Fort Collins

2:00 PM -  Court Resource Center

2:00 PM -  Homeward Alliance Resource Navigation

 2:00 PM -  Larimer County Community Justice Alternatives 

No other Fort Collins Library monopolizes Study Rooms each week to duplicate services provided at locations elsewhere. Outreach is a street based organization which has an office downtown. Our libraries could (and I believe should)  provide copies of the Homeless Resource Guide to assist those in need. 

The Old Town Library wants to be inclusive, and a welcoming hub for transients. Well meaning actions can have unintended consequences. 

The most recent (4/2) suspension at this library and subsequent arrest of the male transient was not just a disturbance, but a frightening event. Children should not be exposed to that language, nor that behavior when visiting a library. Not an isolated event!

 Please meet with the Poudre District Library Board to inquire about the decision making and rationale that determines the actions of only one of our libraries. No other library hosted a Warrant Clearance Event.

Thank you,

Pam Refvem