A week after a violent altercation that left one man in critical condition, the downtown Decatur Library is reopening and implementing multiple new security measures.
DeKalb County Public Library announced that the library will reopen at 10 a.m. Feb. 10. One major change will be how patrons enter the library, said Alison Weissinger, Director of DeKalb County Public Library. DeKalb County Police Department and City of Decatur Police Department will be present to carry out some of the security changes.
“We have taken concrete steps to improve our security posture, and every person who enters our doors can focus on the resources and community connection the library provides,” Weissinger said. “We are also deeply grateful for the community’s patience and support during this time.”
All patrons are now required to enter the library through the rear entrance, Weissinger said in a statement. DCPL has established a dedicated screening area where a DeKalb County Police Officer and a security guard will be stationed during all hours of operation.
The shooting
The Feb. 2 incident that spurred these changes began as an argument between the victim and Medicus Brown, 44. It ended with the victim transported to Grady Memorial Hospital. He remains in critical condition, Bender said.
Brown was booked at the DeKalb County Jail on Feb. 5, City of Decatur Police Lt. John Bender told Rough Draft Atlanta. Brown faces charges of aggravated assault with the intent to murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The library had been closed since the evening of Feb. 2, and residents had expressed concern about how safety would be handled once the library reopens.
“Public safety is our top priority, and we are grateful for the swift actions taken by Decatur Police to bring the suspect into custody,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “We are working closely with our law enforcement partners and the library system to strengthen security and ensure our libraries remain safe, welcoming spaces for learning and community.”
The new screening measures will likely delay patrons, so library officials are encouraging them to arrive a few minutes early for scheduled programs and events.
“Our focus is on supporting our staff and patrons while taking thoughtful steps to enhance safety,” Weissinger said. “Libraries are places of learning, connection, and belonging, and we are committed to reopening the Decatur branch with additional measures in place to help ensure a safe environment for everyone.”
Visit dekalblibrary.org for up-to-date information regarding hours of operation and any adjustments to scheduled programming.