The Library Safety Specialist role plays a critical part in creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone who uses the Toronto Public Library. This position focuses on compassionate engagement, proactive safety practices, and effective incident response. It is well suited for professionals with experience in community support, crisis intervention, or mental health services who are passionate about public service and social impact.
About the Company
Toronto Public Library (TPL) is North America’s busiest public library system, serving millions of residents across more than 100 branches throughout Toronto. With approximately 2,400 employees, TPL delivers high-quality library services that promote learning, inclusion, and community connection. The organization is deeply committed to equity, diversity, accessibility, and reconciliation, and it plays a vital role in supporting the social, cultural, and educational fabric of Canadian society.
Responsibilities
As a Library Safety Specialist, your responsibilities will include:
- Promoting a safe and welcoming library environment through ongoing engagement with customers, staff, and security personnel.
- Explaining and fairly enforcing library rules of conduct using a trauma-informed approach.
- Monitoring library spaces to ensure appropriate customer behavior and support staff as needed.
- Leading de-escalation efforts and responding to incidents using verbal communication, escorting procedures, or emergency services when required.
- Acting as a liaison with law enforcement, social service providers, and community agencies to provide referrals and assistance.
- Supporting incident documentation and monitoring trends through the Incident Reporting Management System (IRMS).
- Assisting with exclusion processes, including preparing and delivering exclusion letters in coordination with guards.
- Supporting staff and guard training related to safety, security, and trauma-informed practices.
- Sharing best practices across the Library Safety Specialist team to improve system-wide safety outcomes.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum of three years’ experience in community mental health, crisis intervention, or a related field.
- Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Ability to obtain a current Vulnerable Sector Police Reference Check.
- Legal entitlement to work in Canada.
- Willingness to work evenings, Saturdays, and variable hours, and travel between multiple library locations.
- Ability to obtain or hold valid First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.
Skills
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong understanding and practical application of trauma-informed and harm reduction approaches.
- Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional under pressure.
- Excellent conflict de-escalation and communication skills.
- Experience working with marginalized communities, including individuals facing mental health challenges, addiction, or housing insecurity.
- Sound judgment and ability to work independently with limited supervision.
- Commitment to inclusion, equity, privacy, and public library principles.
- Ability to build effective relationships with diverse customers, staff, guards, police, and community partners.
Benefits
Toronto Public Library offers a comprehensive and rewarding employment package, including:
- Permanent full-time employment with competitive annual salary.
- Meaningful work that positively impacts communities across Toronto.
- Opportunity to work within a diverse, inclusive, and mission-driven organization.
- Professional development through training, collaboration, and system-wide best practices.
- Supportive workplace committed to accessibility, equity, and employee wellbeing.
- Participation in a team dedicated to creating safe, welcoming public spaces for all.
