The Athlone Library is operating on limited services after being targeted in two consecutive burglaries over recent weekends, raising concern among City officials.
The first incident took place over the Easter long weekend, (3 – 6 April) when suspects caused extensive damage to the library’s roof, removing tiles and leaving more than 10 holes in the structure. Network and electrical cables, along with water pipes, were stolen during the incident, leaving several plugs inoperable and causing a minor water leak.
The facility was targeted this past weekend again, (11 – 12 April) with the second burglary resulting in further destruction to the roof, ceiling and alarm system. Electrical wiring was also stolen, leaving the building without lighting and unsafe for public use. Both incidents occurred while the library was closed.
While the library was able to continue operations after the first burglary, the second burglary has caused services to be limited. These limited services include the return of library items, telephonic renewals and photocopying. With the theft of electrical wiring, patrons cannot have access to computers.
Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, expressed deep concern for the repeated burglaries.
She said, ‘All acts of vandalism and theft of our community assets are condemned in the strongest terms. It not only destroys public assets and cripples service delivery, but also robs our residents of vital assets and our children of opportunities to learn and grow.’
She added that the repeated attacks place additional strain on City resources, ‘These acts are deliberate, and malicious crimes which impose a financial burden on the City, diverting funds which could have been used elsewhere.‘
‘Libraries are some of the most loved and used spaces by students, learners and our elderly. The theft of assets has all but closed down the facility and it means we will now spend money to reopen it.’
The City of Cape Town urges residents in the area in need to make use of neighbouring public libraries, including:
- Lansdowne
- Rylands
- Bridgetown
- Heideveld
An anonymous tip-off line is available to the public by calling 080 011 0077. Authorities say that all credible information will be investigated to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Also Read:
Video: Brazen theft at Cape Town cannabis shop captured on social media
Picture: Isnania Isnania / Pexels
