Bill Would Give Library Security Power to Arrest
Troublesome patrons in Los Angeles libraries may one day get more than stern looks or revoked library cards. Library security officers might soon gain the authority to arrest them.
The Assembly on Thursday approved a bill by a 42-22 vote that would grant limited police powers to Los Angeles public library officials known as library security officers. The measure, SB 1578, must go back to the Senate for a final vote.
Under the bill by Sen. Richard Alarcon (D-Sylmar), library security officers could arrest people, execute search warrants and gain access to law enforcement computers that provide individuals’ criminal background.
They will not be authorized to carry firearms. They already carry batons, pepper spray and handcuffs.
The bill is backed by the Los Angeles Public Library, the Service Employees International Union, which represents the officers, and the Librarians Guild. The measure is a reaction to a rising number of crimes committed in Los Angeles’ public libraries, Alarcon says.
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