Women's attitudes towards Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in public libraries in Sri Lanka: Perceptions and challenges

Abstract

Background: This study explores the attitudes of women working in Sri Lanka's public libraries regarding gender-based violence (GBV). With 87% of the 1,102 public library workforces being women, understanding their workplace experiences is crucial. Method: The research examines their perceptions, awareness, and responses to GBV within library environments. A sample of 64 women from five districts-Kandy, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, Kegalle, and Badulla was selected, representing four provinces. The participants included 12.76% librarians, 26.15% library attendants, 41.25% library assistants, and 19.84% assistant librarians. Data collection involved a two-step approach: an initial survey via Google Forms followed by structured interviews for in-depth insights. A mixed-methods analysis was used to summarize findings through frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Results: The respondents were asked about their opinion on gender-based violence in the workplace, 79.3% stated that it should be considered a crime and punished accordingly. Others viewed it as a reason to dissatisfaction and losing interest in the job, while no one considered it normal behavior. The findings that 83.5% believe women should be treated equally, 7.7% advocate for a special place for women in the workplace, 5.2% emphasize reducing excessive workloads for women, and 3.6% support special consideration and respect for women. 50% of women reported experiencing verbal violence, including bullying, tugging, harsh speech, and slander. Additionally, 41.7% faced physical violence, such as denial of promotions, abuse of power, and exposure to inappropriate behavior. Furthermore, 8.1% of women encountered mental violence, with 30% of such incidents involving high-ranking officials and 20% involving colleagues at the same level. 75% of victims did not properly report violence, and none approached the police due to workplace stigma. Conclusion: Respondents highlighted management's lack of seriousness, unclear definitions, and absence of policies. They proposed anonymous reporting, victim protection, and staff training to effectively address and prevent violence in public libraries.