Under the general supervision of the Administrative Coordinator of Customer Service and Safer Spaces this position provides coordination and delivery of safety initiatives and training for all library staff. The role includes providing subject matter expertise and best practices in trauma-informed service, incident prevention/management/and resolution in public libraries, supporting psychological wellness, and related areas.

The primary responsibility of the Library Safety Specialist is to equip library staff and contracted security and safety host staff to help customers use and enjoy services at all library branches by focusing on safety training and positive customer interactions. This includes a compassionate and empathetic approach to enforcing the library code of conduct and to mentoring staff. The Library Safety Specialist also liaises with library community crisis workers and library staff to review and follow up on individual incidents and optimal safety approaches. The Library Safety

Specialist works with the public in requests to review bans, and in updating related procedures and practices, as needed.

The Library Safety Specialist duties include recommending and facilitating provision of training in all aspects of safety procedures including customer service; addressing and resolving code of conduct violations and incidents; working with library staff, community crisis workers, community safety hosts, and security guards to coordinate effective safety strategies and approaches; and leading debrief/engagement sessions related to safety concerns. This position regularly reviews and updates operational requirements with contracted security guards and community safety hosts.

The Library Safety Specialist acts as a liaison when required with emergency services (e.g. WPS, WFPS, ANCR), social service providers, and various community groups. The position may interact with community members who seek to engage with the library to improve safety and security.

As the Library Safety Specialist, you will:

• Provide subject matter expertise on safety and customer service including trauma-informed approaches, incident prevention, incident management and resolution, psychological wellness and related areas for all library staff.
• Coordinate and deliver safety incident reporting, follow up, debrief, and training.
• Conduct regular reviews of the library internal Incident Reporting system and contracted staff incident reports to identify incidents requiring follow-up, including staff debriefs or training, customer banning and other related issues.
• Review and develop code of conduct violation interventions, including banning procedures and appeals processes.
• Visit library facilities (20 branches) regularly to review and discuss safety and security infrastructure with staff.
• Act as a point of contact for library staff when they have questions or concerns about security, often in immediate, emergent situations.
• Oversee and work with contracted vendors to ensure compliance with contract requirements, coordination of contracted staff, and for procedural support.

Your education and qualifications include:

1. Post-secondary education in social sciences, Occupational Safety and Health, or a related field, or equivalent combination of relevant experience and education. Examples include social work, sociology, criminal justice, psychology.
2. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Certification (CPTED) is an asset.
3. Canadian Registered Safety Professional Certification is an asset.
4. Minimum of three years’ experience working in community mental health and/or crisis intervention, conflict resolution or experience in a related field.
5. Experience working in public libraries is considered an asset.
6. Expertise and experience in de-escalation strategies and interventions.
7. Demonstrated understanding and application of a trauma-informed approach to safety and security concerns.
8. Demonstrated strong relationship-building skills, with experience in fostering constructive, positive relationships with a diverse range of individuals and communities, including marginalized and precariously housed individuals, and those experiencing mental health or addiction challenges.
9. Understanding of principles, methods, and best practices of safety and security in a public service environment.
10. Deep understanding of issues relating to equity-seeking populations, intersectionality, and accessibility, and a strong commitment, passion and dedication to enabling meaningful, positive change.
11. Understanding current public library challenges and library trends is an asset.
12. Understanding the City of Winnipeg’s Enhancing Child Safety initiative in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) is an asset.
13. Ability to balance safety and security with library principles and best practices regarding access, privacy, inclusion, and equitable service delivery.
14. Ability to deploy consistent safety processes and messaging throughout multiple facilities.
15. Ability to exercise empathy, courtesy, and compassion while fairly and consistently enforcing the Library Code of Conduct.
16. Ability to act calmly and with composure under pressure and de-escalate tense situations effectively.
17. Basic knowledge and understanding of mental health disorders and addictions, including the ability to recognize problematic or disruptive behavioural patterns.
18. Exceptional verbal and written communication capabilities in articulating clear, compelling messages and in tackling complex or sensitive topics with a professional, direct, learning approach.
19. Proficiency using Microsoft Office and its applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint).
20. Knowledge of safe work practices with a commitment to fostering a safe work environment.

*IMPORTANT: Applicants who have been educated outside of Canada must have education which is comparable to the minimum qualification in Canada. Applicants submitting foreign credentials require an official academic assessment report issued by a recognized Canadian assessment service https://www.canalliance.org/en/ at application.

Conditions of employment:

• The successful applicant must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada. If the successful applicant possesses a work permit, it is their responsibility to ensure the permit remains valid.
• A Police Information Check, with Vulnerable Sector Search, satisfactory to the employer will be required from the successful candidate, at their expense.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Class 5 driver’s license.
• Must possess or be able to obtain First Aid, CPR and AED certification.
• Must be able to work evenings and weekends as required.

APPLY ONLINE, including all documentation listed below:

1. Current resume and cover letter (Required).
2. Proof of Post-secondary education if applicable.
3. Applications submitted without REQUIRED documentation will not be considered.

*Your application documents must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications of the position.*

Online applications can be submitted at http://www.winnipeg.ca/hr/. For instructions on how to apply and how to attach required documents please refer to our FAQ's or contact 311.

Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, evenings and weekends as required.

Employee Group: WAPSO

Position Reports To: Administrative Coordinator of Customer Service and Safer Spaces

Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.