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In the United States and around the world, domestic violence is a crime that far too many people suffer from. Many folks who find themselves on the receiving end of abuse feel scared of coming out and have concerns about what other people might think.

More often than not, abusers also work to isolate their victims, cutting off their access to resources and support from their loved ones. This makes domestic violence even more insidious, as those suffering feel they have nowhere to turn.

Combatting domestic abuse therefore requires systemic and consistent work. In Massachusetts, one librarian is going above and beyond to provide help for people who want to escape violent abusers.

Burner phones in library books

Molly Riportella, both a librarian and a survivor of domestic violence, knows that access to a phone can be a lifeline for people who are hurting. Unfortunately, it's exceedingly common for abusers to control victims' phone use, keeping track of their phone calls and text messages.

As a workaround, Riportella is placing burner phones inside certain library books. Each burner phone contains essential information, such as phone numbers of local shelters, pro bono attorneys, and additional social services.

Riportella also mentioned that each burner phone is set to silent mode; this way, domestic violence perpetrators don't become aware of their presence. Moreover, the librarian stated all the information she wishes she had while facing domestic abuse in her 20s is now available in the hidden burner phones.

Essential resources for people facing domestic violence

Believe it or not, Riportella commonly comes across women enduring domestic abuse at the hands of their partners. In 2022, the librarian crossed paths with one woman whose boyfriend regularly checked her direct messages on social media and her texts.

Having access to a burner phone from Riportella helped this woman contact domestic abuse shelters and reach out to relatives and friends. Today, she's since managed to get away from the abusive boyfriend.

This experience consequently inspired Riportella to do her part in making sure other women have access to safe communication lines with critical resources included.

Sadly, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that about 25% of women face "severe intimate partner" violence. Riportella, and others taking action against domestic abuse, are vital forces in bringing down this rate.