Earlier this week, a large amount of offensive graffiti was discovered on the 4^th floor study rooms in the Killam Library. The situation was taken very seriously by Dalhousie Libraries, Dalhousie Security and Facilities Management. The study rooms were shut down immediately, and the graffiti is being removed. They will be reopened as they are cleaned.

Graffiti is vandalism and a criminal offence when placed on public or private property. It is critically important to make sure any instance of it is reported. Graffiti contributes to a hostile environment and it will not be tolerated in the Dal Libraries.

Graffiti inspires more graffiti when it is left up for more than a day. If not removed immediately it implies that this is an acceptable activity on our campus. Even what might start out as an innocent message created out of boredom (considered “bubble-gum graffiti”) will often encourage someone to respond, which can quickly spiral out of control and become offensive.

Graffiti affects everyone.

• Discriminatory or offensive messages are hurtful. Dalhousie aims to foster a collegial culture grounded in diversity and inclusiveness. Students, faculty and staff have a right to always feel welcome and safe on campus.
• It costs time and money to clean up. Dalhousie spends roughly $50,000-$60,000 a year on campus graffiti removal.
• It can affect the sense of security and pride we have in Dalhousie. Let’s make sure our campus is clean and reflects the best of what our University has to offer.

How can you help?

We all have a role in keeping the Dal Libraries graffiti-free. If you see graffiti, report it immediately. There are several easy ways to report it:

• By using the DalSAFE app (available for Android and iOS. Download it from the Google Play store and the App Store on iTunes)
• By texting the Killam Library Service Point at (902) 220-5318
• By emailing Dalhousie Security at security@dal.ca
• Or by informing a Dal Libraries staff member at any service point.