Winnipeg’s Millennium Library fourth floor remains closed after safety concerns, leaving patrons waiting for non-fiction books and services.
Winnipeg’s Millennium Library Closes Fourth Floor Over Safety
Closure Impacts Library Visitors
The City of Winnipeg has temporarily shut down the fourth floor of the Millennium Library, restricting access to its non-fiction collection. The closure follows safety concerns tied to the building’s upper-level balcony, leaving many patrons waiting longer for books and services.
Tragic Incidents Prompt Decision
On August 6, a 40-year-old man died by suicide after climbing over the fourth-floor railing. Just last week, another person attempted to do the same. City officials say the incidents prompted an immediate review, resulting in the closure of the floor until further notice.
Access to Books and Services
While the non-fiction section remains off-limits, library staff are assisting visitors by retrieving books placed on hold. Signs posted throughout the building advise patrons to seek help on the first and second floors for book requests, computer bookings, and research support. The local history room, also located on the fourth floor, is currently closed.
Patrons Express Frustration
Some library users voiced frustration at the inconvenience. “I don’t really like the fourth floor being closed,” said patron Amber Fontaine. She explained that she now needs to request books and return days later to collect them. Others, like visitor Stephen Manviler, urged the city to consider long-term safety fixes such as installing protective barriers.
Past Safety Measures and Concerns
The Millennium Library has dealt with similar incidents before, including a fatal fall in 2017 and the installation of metal detectors following a deadly stabbing in 2022. Some patrons say they continue to feel safe due to security checks at the entrance, while others believe more preventative measures are needed inside.
Debate Over Community Support Space
Several residents also pointed to the closure of the library’s Community Connections space earlier this year. The program had previously offered on-site crisis support, but funding cuts ended its operations. Critics argue that reopening such services could help prevent future tragedies. City officials, however, have maintained that funding should come from the provincial government, as many of the services provided involved housing and health-related issues.
No Timeline for Reopening
According to Gord Delbridge, president of CUPE Local 500, which represents library staff, no timeline has been provided for when the fourth floor will reopen. City spokesperson Pam McKenzie confirmed efforts are underway to minimize disruptions and restore access safely, though the space will remain closed until further notice.
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