I checked out this library.
California’s public libraries have closed after months of rampant drug use, robberies and even public sex between bookshelves, with the Golden State’s cities held hostage by criminals.
The Contra Costa County Library’s Antioch branch will be closed starting Saturday until further notice, citing “repeated dangerous incidents” that threaten the safety of patrons.
“While the library is closed, we will work to implement additional safety measures to ensure we can reopen as soon as possible,” Library Services said. stated in a statement.
library public relations officer told KTVU This dire situation goes beyond typical library bad behavior like talking too loudly, not returning books on time, and even vandalism and theft.
“There was also some drug activity and drug use within the library and on library grounds,” said Brooke Converse, president of the Contra Costa County Library System.
“People engaging in sexual acts in front of patrons and staff in the library and on its grounds. Shell casings were found on library grounds.”
The mayor of Antioch, a city of about 115,000 people 45 miles northeast of Oakland, opposed the library’s closure and said residents were blindsided by the decision.
“No one in the City of Antioch, including the Chief of Police, was informed by Contra Costa County of any safety concerns regarding the library,” Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe said.
Library officials told the report that the branch is operated by the county that made the report.
Security measures are planned to be strengthened, including adding a second full-time security guard, repairing destroyed fences, and updating security cameras.
A branch of the library said, “We apologize for any inconvenience this sudden announcement may cause, but the safety of our users and staff is our top priority.”
It’s not clear when it will reopen.
