DENVER -- The Denver Public Library has announced efforts to improve security in response to what it calls an "unprecedented rise in security related incidents and illegal behavior" at the central library location on 14th and Broadway.
In a message posted online, the library details changes coming immediately, including the addition of four security guards and more patrols by Denver police. The library will also add more surveillance cameras in the coming weeks.
These efforts are a response to growing drug use and drug trafficking at the library. In March, library officials told Denver7 they had seen 6 drug overdoses in 2017. Library staffers were trained to carry Narcan kits to respond to heroin overdoses.
The Denver Public Library has also proposed some major changes to the central library as part of the general obligation bond. These include enclosing the north lawn area, refreshing bathrooms, enhancing lighting and lowering shelving throughout the library to provide better sight lines in public areas.
Voters will be asked to approve the bond in November.
