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Loughborough University LibraryLoughborough University Library is a vital community resource located in the heart of Loughborough, offering a wide range of services including book lending, educational workshops, and community events. Due to the high volume of visitors and its central location, ensuring a safe and secure environment is a top priority for the Library.
Before partnering with us, the library faced several critical security challenges: the sheer cost and management complexity of maintaining an internal security operation had become completely unfeasible. Additionally, there was deep dissatisfaction with their previous security provider's management and communication flow. They desperately required specialized guards who fundamentally understood the unique environment of a university library—emphasizing high-tier customer service skills and deep sensitivity to the community's diverse needs.
EDUCATION & PUBLIC SECTOR
Loughborough University LibraryLoughborough University Library is a vital community resource located in the heart of Loughborough, offering a wide range of services including book lending, educational workshops, and community events. Due to the high volume of visitors and its central location, ensuring a safe and secure environment is a top priority for the Library. Before partnering with us, the library faced several critical security challenges: the sheer cost and management complexity of maintaining an internal security operation had become completely unfeasible. Additionally, there was deep dissatisfaction with their previous security provider's management and communication flow. They desperately required specialized guards who fundamentally understood the unique environment of a university library—emphasizing high-tier customer service skills and deep sensitivity to the community's diverse needs.
THE CHALLENGE
Loughborough University Library is a vital community resource located in the heart of Loughborough, offering a wide range of services including book lending, educational workshops, and community events. Due to the high volume of visitors and its central location, ensuring a safe and secure environment is a top priority for the Library. Before partnering with us, the library faced several critical security challenges: the sheer cost and management complexity of maintaining an internal security operation had become completely unfeasible. Additionally, there was deep dissatisfaction with their previous security provider's management and communication flow. They desperately required specialized guards who fundamentally understood the unique environment of a university library—emphasizing high-tier customer service skills and deep sensitivity to the community's diverse needs.
OUR SOLUTION
Squire Group (partnered via Guardian Protection Services) designed a comprehensive, tailored security blueprint to meet the Library's precise operational requirements. Key measures deployed include: 1. Static Guarding: Hand-picking and deploying experienced, well-trained guards to ensure complete continuity and deep familiarity with the structural library environment. 2. Strategic Patrolling Services: Implementing structured rotations, keeping one guard anchored at the main reception desk, one dedicated to Level 4, and an additional guard constantly patrolling the moving building to maintain an active visual presence. 3. Proactive Management Engagement: Establishing regular feedback meetings with Library leadership to adjust personnel assignments and fluidly address evolving operational needs. 4. Enhanced Service Delivery: Training guards to go well above and beyond—actively assisting users with directional queries, tidying communal spaces, and providing immediate first aid when necessary.
THE OUTCOME
Since deploying our security blueprint, Loughborough University Library has experienced transformative operational benefits. Footfall has consistently increased—particularly during their intensive 24/7 summer term openings—resulting in a clear 10% rise in total visitor numbers compared to the prior year. Confidence among both staff and visitors has soared, backed by an influx of positive feedback from students and the wider public. Library staff have noted a massive efficiency boost, as guards maintain flawless order and free up personnel to focus entirely on core library tasks. Library management praised our execution: "Your team asked intelligent questions and prepared a bespoke tender that addressed everything we needed." Students now study with absolute reassurance, knowing a protective presence is always near.