Librarians in the UK are being given body cameras to wear to deal with rising incidents of antisocial behavior. Witham Library recently hired a private security guard, but the Essex County Council believes body cameras could do the job for less money. New doors are being installed at Colchester Library to combat a small group of young people who have become a nuisance. The Essex County Council decided on the body cameras after 50 incidents took place between February and May 2024. “Antisocial behavior is not only unfair to the staff but is, in fact, increasing our costs,” said Mark Durham, the Conservative cabinet member for librarians. Police have been called to the library several times after incidents of books being thrown and verbal arguments have broken out in quiet reading areas.
