Millennium Library’s Fourth Floor Closed After Tragic Incident

Visitors to the Millennium Library in Winnipeg’s downtown area are facing delays in accessing books from the non-fiction section as the library’s fourth floor remains closed due to safety concerns. The decision follows a tragic incident on August 6, 2023, when a 40-year-old man died by suicide after jumping from the fourth-floor balcony. This event prompted a temporary closure of the area, especially after a second individual attempted to climb over the railing last week.

As of Monday, a security barrier has been erected at the top of the stairs leading from the third to the fourth floor, with a security guard stationed to monitor access. A notice advises visitors to seek assistance from staff on the first and second floors for retrieving books located on the closed level. City spokesperson Pam McKenzie stated, “We are working to minimize any service disruptions and reopen the fourth floor space as soon as possible.”

The library’s local history room is also currently closed, and patrons have been directed to request help with computer bookings and information services from staff on the lower floors.

Many visitors have expressed frustration over the closure. Amber Fontaine, a library patron, shared her experience: “I don’t really like the fourth floor being closed. I have to put my books on hold, and then they have to go pick them up for me.”

Another visitor, Stephen Manviler, suggested that the city consider installing barriers to prevent similar incidents in the future. “Just put a cover over the top of the back there and probably everything would be good. That’ll prevent it, right?” he proposed.

This unfortunate incident is not isolated; a similar tragedy occurred in 2017, when a 25-year-old man also died after jumping from the same balcony. In response to previous safety concerns, the city had implemented metal detectors and security checks at the library’s entrance following a fatal stabbing in 2022. Despite the recent events, Manviler expressed confidence in the library’s safety measures, stating, “It’s bad, but I still feel pretty safe here when I come here.”

The Community Connections space within the library, which previously provided support through crisis workers, has been closed since the beginning of this year due to funding issues. Tami, a library user who preferred not to share her last name, urged the city to reconsider this decision. “I think they need to do what they have to do to make it safer and ideally open up that space once again,” she said.

Mayor Scott Gillingham and other city officials have argued that the Community Connections space was not suitable for its intended purpose, as it was located outside of the library’s security barriers. They have also suggested that the provincial government should be responsible for funding such services, as they address issues related to provincial matters like housing and health.

The president of CUPE Local 500, the union representing library workers, Gord Delbridge, stated that no updates have been provided regarding when the fourth floor might reopen.

For individuals struggling with mental health issues, resources are available. The Canada Suicide Crisis Helpline can be reached by calling or texting 988. Other services include the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868, and the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, which offers information on locating 24-hour crisis centers.

This ongoing situation highlights the need for effective safety measures and support services within community spaces like the Millennium Library.