EVER since the start of the national lockdown, in March this year, vandalism of municipal property has been rife, especially in the northern areas of Nelson Mandela Bay, where the latest facility to be targeted is the Chatty library.
This library, which was initially vandalised in November last year, has been hit again but this time the damage is much worse, especially since the previous damage had not yet been restored.
During a recent visit to the library, Ward 35 Councillor, Helga van Staaden, found the place in a horrific condition.
Vandals not only targeted the main area of the library where books are kept, but also the kitchen and staff room.
The kitchen and inside doors were broken down, stationery taken and the air-conditioners and appliances stolen.
Electrical cables were also ripped from the walls.
Boxes, paper, books and cables were found strewn across the library floor.
The furniture was overturned and even the kitchen cabinets and drawers left open as the thieves rummaged through them.
At the back of the facility, the metal wiring covering the windows was bent to gain access to the building and air-conditioners.
Van Staaden couldn’t hide her shock at the condition of the facility, especially since a similar incident had taken place less than a year ago.
“It is really unfortunate that this had to happen at such a critical time when learners need all the resources and support that they can get to try to make a success of the academic year,” she said, while holding a broken door frame in her hand.
“What makes this incident even sadder is that it is a recurring incident and each time it seems as if the vandals become more and more brazen.”
While libraries in the metro are only scheduled to open in lock down level 1, Van Staaden believes that it is no excuse for vandals to target the facility as a library is still a critical resource.
“This criminal act is condemned in the strongest terms.
“The community should come together to ensure these criminals are brought to book,” she added.
“This incident should also be an eye opener for residents to stand together and take ownership of our resources that benefit us all.
“For our children to get jobs or become professionals, we need an educated society and this is where the importance of libraries come into play.”
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality spokesperson, Mamela Ndamase, said that the municipality has noted the vandalism of libraries during the lockdown period.
“We condemn this act in the strongest possible terms.
“All incidents have been reported to police for investigation and possible arrest.
“We are currently taking stock of the damages that have been done in libraries to see if they will be ready for opening.
“We will then announce those that will be ready and the exact date of the opening,” Ndamase said.
