Iceland's National Library replaces librarians with security guards amid budget cuts

The National Library of Iceland is set to replace librarians with security guards for evening and weekend shifts on its third and fourth floors as part of cost-saving measures. This change, which will take effect when autumn arrives, aims to address both government-imposed budget cuts and a public demand for more visible security presence.

According to Örn Hrafnkelsson, the National Librarian, security guards will handle general watch duties, while a librarian will remain on the second floor. "We are changing the staff composition in the evenings and on weekends to improve the safety of guests and staff, and to implement a watchman, as there has been a general demand in society for visible security," Hrafnkelsson told mbl.is. He noted that this shift is part of a broader trend in libraries across the country and expressed no concerns about a reduction in service quality for visitors.

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We are changing the staff composition in the evenings and on weekends to improve the safety of guests and staff, and to implement a watchman, as there has been a general demand in society for visible security.

The primary driver for this decision is a 3.5% budget cut mandated by the government's financial plan, affecting all state institutions. Hrafnkelsson pointed out that other institutions face even higher cuts, ranging from 2% to 7.5%.

In addition to altering staff duties, the library is implementing other austerity measures. Earlier this year, it was announced that the National Library would merge with the Sound and Image Archives. While efforts will be made to maintain the positions of permanent staff, those on part-time contracts will be let go, and hiring of new employees will be put on hold. "But everything will be fine," Hrafnkelsson assured.

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But everything will be fine.