Lexington's Cary Library: Some Students Vape, Vandalize Building

LEXINGTON, MA — In an open letter to the community, Lexington's Cary Library said it's seen an uptick in students vaping and vandalizing library property since the school year started. The library increased the police presence in front of the building to reinforce the library as a safe space and curb the "destructive behavior."

In the letter, the library says the majority of students using the facility are using it properly and respectfully — but since the school year started staff have seen, "a significant increase in destructive behaviors taking place in our building." The behaviors include vandalism of library spaces and furnishings, tampering with library security cameras, misuse of library restrooms and study rooms, and vaping in the building, the letter states.

The library said it has had to 'no trespass' several young people from the building for periods of time ranging from 2-6 months, based on the severity of the issues involved. The library plans on issuing more 'no trespass' notices if the behavior continues.

"Our hope is that students who are trespassed will rethink their behavior and return after the trespass period ready to use the library appropriately. We will be glad to see them when they return," the library said.

In the letter, the staff mention seeing a strong connection between vaping/substance use and some of the behaviors and urged parents to talk with children about vaping and drugs.

The letter reads in part:

"This is a challenging time to be a parent, but there are good resources available in our community for those who need them. At Lexington High School there is a new student-led initiative #lexENDSvaping. A group of LHS students was concerned to see the increase in vaping among their peers and has curated an excellent set of resources (https://sites.google.com/lexingtonma.org/lpsshac/lexendsvaping) in collaboration with the High School's Physical Education, Health and Wellness Department. Additional supports and resources are offered through the Town's Human Services Department, which can be reached at 781-698-4840 and https://www.lexingtonma.gov/human-services."