After reviewing both state and federal firearm laws, listening to comments from the public and after careful consideration at the March 16, 2017 board meeting, the Daniel Boone Regional Library Board of Trustees approved a “Weapons Including Firearms” policy recommended by the library’s attorney. Weapons like knives and blackjacks are strictly prohibited on library property. Concealed firearms will be allowed, as dictated by law.
Since both the Columbia Public Library and Southern Boone County Public Library are within 1,000 feet of a school building, the law limits firearm possession to law enforcement, active military personnel and those with a Missouri concealed carry permit. Those visiting the Callaway County Public Library must follow the same guidelines, but since that library is not close to a school, a concealed carry permit holder from anywhere in the United States is allowed.
The board of trustees wants to comply with the law, but also has reservations about having to allow firearms in the library, and therefore passed several motions pertaining to this issue after approving the policy.
- Increase the security officer hours filled by off-duty police officers from part-time to full-time at the Columbia Public Library.
- Work with other public libraries and community groups to pursue a change in the state law to include public libraries in the list of places where firearms can be prohibited. The current list includes amusement parks, city government buildings, hospitals, schools, etc.
Staff have already begun working on these directives from the board.
Those interested in voicing their opinion on this issue, may contact their state legislators.