(Wisconsin Libraries for Everyone, published January 12, 2017)
If your policy states that weapons are prohibited, consider including an action plan in the event that this condition is violated.
For example, the policy could state, “The Library is a weapon free environment. If staff become aware, whether by report or observation, that someone in the building may be carrying a weapon, they are directed to contact the Anytown Police Department by dialing 911, and the responding officer(s) will determine the appropriate response. Any person found to be carrying a weapon in violation of this will be suspended from the library for a period to be determined by the library director.
Would one of your staff approach someone with a weapon? Do not risk finding out. Review your behavior policy and procedure manual and, with your library board, make any amendments necessary to take this decision out of the hands of the staff member facing the situation on the fly.