West Lothian library bosses have taken measures to ensure the safety of both customers and staff in response to ongoing anti-social behaviour. The Simpson Library Bathgate will be implementing new admission restrictions from 4pm-8pm on Fridays, starting from December 6. During this time, only registered library members will be allowed entry, and customers are required to provide their membership numbers when using library services.
The decision to tighten restrictions follows incidents of anti-social behaviour near the Jim Walker Partnership community centre, prompting concerns for safety in the area. Bathgate police have reassured residents that they are actively monitoring the situation and individuals engaging in criminal behaviour will face consequences such as arrest.
A communication sent to library patrons explained the rationale behind the temporary changes, stating, “In order to keep our customers and staff safe, it has been agreed that, between the hours of 4pm and 8pm on Friday evenings, for a trial period, the library will only be available to registered library members.”
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the new measures, with some supporting the decision as a means to ensure safety and deter disruptive behaviour. The West Lothian Council spokesperson highlighted the importance of maintaining a secure environment for library users and staff and emphasized the trial period as a preventative measure while addressing the underlying issues.
Police Inspector Murray Legge reinforced the commitment to addressing anti-social behaviour, stating that such conduct undermines community well-being and will not be tolerated. Officers are actively patrolling the area to safeguard residents and maintain public order, with a clear warning that perpetrators will face legal repercussions for their actions.
In conclusion, the proactive steps taken by West Lothian library authorities reflect a commitment to prioritising the safety and well-being of all individuals accessing the library services. By implementing temporary restrictions and working in collaboration with law enforcement, the aim is to create a secure environment where residents can engage with library resources without concerns of anti-social behaviour.