Library workers: have you experienced abuse at work?

Do you work in library service and have you experienced violence, harassment or abuse while doing your job? Would you be prepared to share your story to raise awareness of these issues? You can remain anonymous

Left hand stretched out toward camera defensively. with a blurred face behind and the right hand over the face

UNISON wants to hear from members working in libraries who would be prepared to share their experiences of violence, abuse or harassment while doing their job.

Sarah (not her real name) works in a library in the South East. She told us: “I once had a library user slap my bottom as I bent down to pick up some books. So I’m now careful to squat, kneel or sit on the floor if I ever need to reach down for anything.

“I’ve also had customers hurl racist abuse at me and others have refused to be served by me. These unpleasant occurrences are thankfully rare, but it’s upsetting all the same. No-one should have to put up with this kind of behaviour at work.”

If this is you, please share your experience using the form below.

UNISON believes that violence, harassment and abuse of library staff is unacceptable. It is not part of the job.

Help us to spread this important message and raise awareness of the issues our members in libraries are facing every day.

Library violence

  • If you did, let us know what happened. If you didn't, let us know what prevented you from reporting.