Schools and libraries aren’t just places to access knowledge — they are often safe havens. For many, these spaces provide a sense of belonging, security, and dignity in ways few other public institutions do.
Why Safe Havens Matter
For youth: Schools and libraries can be refuges from unstable homes, violence, or bullying.
For newcomers: A welcoming library can be the first place a new Canadian practices English, accesses job postings, or connects with community services.
For unhoused people: Libraries often serve as warm, safe daytime spaces — sometimes the only ones available without cost or judgment.
For marginalized groups: Safe access to the internet, information, and staff support can help bridge systemic exclusion.
Canadian Context
Urban libraries: Many branches now employ social workers to support patrons in crisis.
Schools: Some districts integrate wraparound supports — food programs, counseling, and after-school activities — into the learning environment.
Crisis response: During natural disasters, schools and libraries often become emergency gathering points.
Policy debates: Some municipalities wrestle with balancing safety, inclusion, and community concerns over vulnerable populations using these spaces.
The Challenges
Resource strain: Staff are often not trained or resourced to handle crises, yet are thrust into frontline roles.
Conflicting expectations: Patrons see libraries and schools as safe havens, but funders may only view them as educational spaces.
Security tensions: Safety measures (like guards or cameras) can sometimes undermine the feeling of refuge.
The Opportunities
Holistic training: Equipping teachers and librarians with trauma-informed, culturally sensitive skills.
Partnership models: Pairing schools and libraries with social services, health providers, and community groups.
Public recognition: Treating safe-haven roles as part of their mandate, not an accidental byproduct.
Inclusive design: Creating spaces physically and culturally welcoming to all.
The Bigger Picture
Schools and libraries are among the last truly public spaces we have. Their role as safe havens should be seen as a strength to build on, not a side effect to ignore.
The Question
What would it take for Canada to officially recognize and fund the role of schools and libraries as safe havens, rather than leaving it as an unacknowledged reality?
Libraries and Schools as Safe Havens
More Than Learning
Schools and libraries aren’t just places to access knowledge — they are often safe havens. For many, these spaces provide a sense of belonging, security, and dignity in ways few other public institutions do.
Why Safe Havens Matter
Canadian Context
The Challenges
The Opportunities
The Bigger Picture
Schools and libraries are among the last truly public spaces we have. Their role as safe havens should be seen as a strength to build on, not a side effect to ignore.
The Question
What would it take for Canada to officially recognize and fund the role of schools and libraries as safe havens, rather than leaving it as an unacknowledged reality?