Public libraries in Los Angeles are facing significant challenges due to increased violence, drug use, and homelessness, making families and library staff feel unsafe in places that once felt secure.
Efforts to manage disruptive behavior have also struggled under the mounting pressure. Reports of suspensions, which prevent unruly patrons from using any library branch, saw a nearly 90% rise—from 369 in 2023 to 700 in 2025.
A look at 911 records, gathered through public records requests, revealed calls related to assaults, criminal threats, drug use, theft, mental health crises, and trespassing. Overall, incidents in libraries surged almost 135%, jumping from 979 in 2020 to about 2,300 in 2025.
Every branch, from the prominent Central Library in downtown to Brentwood and South Los Angeles, has experienced this issue, necessitating police involvement.
On a recent visit to the Central Library, it was noticeable that over 100 homeless individuals were congregating both inside and outside. Many occupied computers, while others were clustered at entrances or using drugs openly.
One patron shared that he had recently been released from prison, coming to the library still wearing his prison-issued clothes and wristband. Meanwhile, Mare Muñoz, who frequents the library with her 17-month-old son, noted that entering the building was worry-inducing. “It feels dangerous,” she remarked about the crowd outside, expressing that she keeps her head down as they walk to the children’s area. Despite appreciating the programs, the overall atmosphere unnerved her.
Mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt criticized current leadership, stating that public spaces have essentially been surrendered to those struggling with addiction and violence. “If residents can’t feel safe at a public library, how can businesses thrive?” he questioned.
Police department leaders recently highlighted serious security concerns, pointing out that the unit responsible for library safety is significantly understaffed, with a number of vacancies remaining unfilled.
While previously, there were around 28 full-time officers assigned to the library system, that number has now decreased to just 12, even as crime rises. To compensate, the city has been relying on overtime and private contractors, although officials warn that this reliance could bring its own risks.
During a recent budget meeting, city Librarian John Szabo acknowledged the challenges, saying, “We’re facing very serious issues across the system.” Councilmember Katie Yaroslavsky pressed him on the vacancies, pointing out that the positions, despite being funded, remain unfilled.
Rather than solely depending on police, the city has initiated more social services within libraries, employing mental health professionals and outreach teams. Szabo defended this approach but noted police assessments called for more robust security measures, such as increased staffing and even metal detectors, emphasizing the need for a stronger security presence.
Library workers have voiced their concerns, describing the environment as increasingly precarious. A librarian spoke of extreme incidents like fires in the bathrooms, public drug use, and inappropriate behaviors, indicating that the situation is dire. Another patron recounted a frightening encounter with an aggressive individual at the Westside branch.
In response to these issues, Councilor Tracy Park proposed a motion aimed at revamping library safety and emergency response protocols. “Librarians shouldn’t be frontline responders to crises resulting in violence and disorder,” she asserted, stressing the importance of ensuring safety for both staff and visitors.
As of now, Park’s proposal awaits legislative approval. Efforts to improve safety at these critical community spaces remain ongoing and urgent.
