The Library began contracting with a private guard service in 1999, to maintain safety for patrons, staff and facility.  Staff now seeks approval of a new agreement for Library guard service with Guardian Security Inc. beginning July 1, 2011, when the current agreement expires. Attachment A identifies examples of incidents that the guard service has reported so far in 2011, demonstrating the value of the service in maintaining a safe environment for patrons and staff.

The City Council may:
1. Approve the Guardian Security agreement, the firm chosen by the selection committee, for guard service for the Library (recommended),  The presence of a uniformed security guard serves as a deterrent to violation of the Library's patron conduct policy and criminal activity. Many instances require the guard on duty to respond immediately, ranging from criminal activity to assisting 4th floor staff with irate customers or helping Library staff deal with patrons whose conduct violates Library policy. Private security guards limit the demands made by the Library on the time of sworn officers in the Billings Police Department to situations involving criminal acts. 
2. Approve part-time guard service. Many of the same issues apply with part-time guard services that apply to having no guard service. It would not provide the level of protection needed to safeguard the patrons, staff and building and grounds adequately.
3. Do not approve the agreement and provide no guard service.

The estimated cost for the first year is $71,300. The Library has sufficient funds in the proposed FY12 budget to pay for the services.

Staff recommends that Council approve the Library guard service agreement with Guardian Security Inc. for one year; with option to extend for three additional one-year terms.