Security concerns at La Ronge library leads to mischief charge

There are new safety features in place at La Ronge’s Alex Robertson Public Library following a reduction of hours due to security concerns.

The library went back to regular hours of operation as of Dec. 9 after a decision was made last month to suspend after school programming, close early and not open at all on Saturdays. At the time, La Ronge RCMP told larongeNOW they were aware of multiple issues at the library including behaviour causing a disturbance and a security camera which had been vandalized.

“We are happy to announce that the Alex Robertson Public Library has returned to our regular hours of operation,” Library Administrator Sean Stares stated in an email. “We wish to thank the tri-community area for their support. We believe that we have taken the necessary steps to resolve the security issues that resulted in the reduction of the library’s hours.”

According to La Ronge RCMP Cst. Devin Roddick, one individual who can’t be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act is now facing one charge of mischief under $5,000. He noted the main concern library staff had was large groups of students coming in after school, which was making other patrons feel uncomfortable.