During the winter months the rear area of Kirkcaldy's Library, Museum and Art Gallery, has been subjected to random acts of violence which has left curator, Dallas Meechan, with no choice but to apply for security screens to be installed at the listed building.
Mrs Meechan said: "We have been having problems around the back of the library with groups of young people hanging about."
The basement level fire exit has proved a popular space for groups to gather during the winter months with the air conditioning unit pumping out hot air for shelter from the cold.
Mrs Meechan said the installation of screens and security grills were not merely to curb vandalism but because of concern for the safety of staff and the Kirkcaldy public.
She added: "That part of the building is home to an expensive ventilation system and fire exits. If these malicious actions continue to escalate eventually someone will seriously hurt themselves or someone else.
"In some instances we have even had a bench thrown at a door, which is actually a fire exit – but it is quite difficult to stop people hanging around this area."
The plans to introduce security measures to the building have received strong backing from Councillor Alice Soper, a member of the children's services committee.
She said: "Staff at the library, museum and art gallery have been doing a really good job, but each time they go to work the rear of the building has been flooded with debris and vandalism. It's leaving them to do a clear-up job every day and spoiling the great service they provide."
Cllr Soper said the building's status as a listed building made the situation of even more concern.
She added: "This is one of the finest buildings in the town. We need to make sure we keep this building preserved."
It's not the first time the library has been subjected to difficulties with groups of young people. Last year problems involving the war memorial were resolved following a project with local youth group Clued Up, which tried to teach young people the historical importance of the memorial.
Mrs Meechan said: "We were able to provide the youths with some knowledge so that they could appreciate what they were doing was wrong.
"In this case that's not really an option. We have consulted with Clued Up and Community Constable John Clark and, realistically, introducing the railings appears to be our best option."
Listed building permission has to be sought from Historic Scotland and Fife Council.