Spring Break
Sexual activity in library bathrooms cause for concern
Shaun Boutwell
Issue date: 2/3/05 Section: News
"In talking to more experienced librarians, this is not uncommon," Wessells said. "In public libraries you can find even more extreme situations. In urban settings, drugs paraphernalia, syringes and used condoms are often found."
"I've worked in libraries for nearly 40 years," Professor Michael Vocino said. "Sex in libraries is a common practice by both heterosexuals and homosexuals. When I worked in a public library, one of the staff members found a heterosexual couple actually having sex in one of the upper hidden stacks."
"The URI library is a public place," Wessells said. "Anyone can use it. And because we are so open, it makes things difficult to police."
Wessells stressed that "education is key," and "informing folks that this isn't appropriate" are big priorities for him. He is currently considering the idea of having seminars about the issue in the library for students to attend.
"The main thing is we are seeking advice from leaders dealing with student issues," Wessells said. He is hoping to seek more input from the Department of Student Affairs, as well as the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Center.
"What I really want to stress," Wessells said, "is that we are still evaluating the situation for a graceful solution that doesn't impede on students' privacy."
"I've worked in libraries for nearly 40 years," Professor Michael Vocino said. "Sex in libraries is a common practice by both heterosexuals and homosexuals. When I worked in a public library, one of the staff members found a heterosexual couple actually having sex in one of the upper hidden stacks."
"The URI library is a public place," Wessells said. "Anyone can use it. And because we are so open, it makes things difficult to police."
Wessells stressed that "education is key," and "informing folks that this isn't appropriate" are big priorities for him. He is currently considering the idea of having seminars about the issue in the library for students to attend.
"The main thing is we are seeking advice from leaders dealing with student issues," Wessells said. He is hoping to seek more input from the Department of Student Affairs, as well as the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Center.
"What I really want to stress," Wessells said, "is that we are still evaluating the situation for a graceful solution that doesn't impede on students' privacy."
