Rachael Gaudiosi

1 week ago | westsidecurrent.com | Jamie Paige |Rachael Gaudiosi

Public libraries across Los Angeles are facing rising violence, drug use, and mental health emergencies, leaving librarians overwhelmed and fearing for their safety. LOS ANGELES — On the morning of August 9, 2023, Santa Monica police officers responded to a call for service at the Ocean Park Branch of the city’s public library. A library employee, attempting to wake a homeless man sleeping near the front doors, found him badly injured and unresponsive.

1 week ago | westsidecurrent.com | Jamie Paige |Rachael Gaudiosi

LOS ANGELES — On the morning of August 9, 2023, Santa Monica police officers responded to a call for service at the Ocean Park Branch of the city’s public library. A library employee, attempting to wake a homeless man sleeping near the front doors, found him badly injured and unresponsive. The 41-year-old victim had suffered blunt force trauma to his face and head. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but was expected to survive.