The 4th floor of Winnipeg’s Millennium Library is temporarily closed after a safety incident. City examines upgrades; reopening could happen next week.
Millennium Library Temporarily Shuts 4th Floor
Safety Concerns Prompt Immediate Closure
The fourth floor of the Millennium Library in downtown Winnipeg has been temporarily closed to visitors as city officials evaluate potential safety improvements. The decision comes following a recent safety incident, according to Point Douglas Coun. Vivian Santos, chair of the council’s community services committee.
Recent Incident Sparks Action
Santos confirmed the closure followed an event on Wednesday involving a person attempting to go over a railing on the fourth floor. Security staff intervened, and no injuries were reported. The incident occurs just weeks after a man tragically died by suicide on August 6, prompting renewed safety concerns at the facility.
City Response and Safety Measures
A City of Winnipeg spokesperson said security and library staff observed “recent concerning behaviour,” leading to the temporary closure. The city has increased security presence on the floor in recent weeks and is exploring medium- and long-term safety solutions to protect staff and patrons.
Union Voices Urgency for Safety Improvements
Gord Delbridge, president of Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 500, stressed the importance of immediate preventive measures. “These types of issues can be very traumatic for staff and patrons,” he said, highlighting ongoing safety concerns at the library over the years. The union has previously urged the city to implement changes following the August 6 incident.
Plans for Reopening and Access
Coun. Santos indicated that the fourth floor could reopen as soon as next week, depending on the safety upgrades implemented. Library visitors can continue accessing services such as computer bookings, item requests, newspapers, and inter-library loans on the first and second floors.
Commitment to Public and Staff Safety
Santos emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for both employees and the public. “It is disheartening to hear that incidents like this happen in a public space,” she said, noting that management will determine necessary safety improvements before reopening.
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