LACK of security at the Allanridge Civic Centre and library has resulted in the facility being broken in to and vandalized. This has frustrated and enraged community members who make use of the facility.
Ward 48 councillor Tyrone Adams said he was informed by the librarian that the library was vandalized after she visited the facility on the morning of May 20.
Adams said the books, furniture, toilets, and kitchen were all damaged. Items stolen included the microwave, printer, vacuum cleaner, two television sets, money from a safe, monitor, Vodacom router and DVD player.
“I was upset and very angry when I saw the devastation of the library,” said Adams.
He said the library which was opened to the public in 1984 has experienced multiple break-ins in the last few years owing to the lack of security at the library and the Allanridge Civic Centre.
“The community is livid because the library provided a safe and quiet place for students and learners to study. Many unemployed residents have spend time reading at the library. Others visited the library to read newspapers is search for job opportunities,” said Adams.
To restore the library, Adams said there will need to be some political will and influence. The community will also have to assist as they are the main stakeholders.
Many people expressed their dismay about the state of the Allanridge Civic Centre and library on Adam’s Facebook page.
Nicolas van Hansen said: Now this is very bad news. How crazy can someone be to do something so horrible to destroy your own community. Sick, lazy people. The people should put security measures in place.
Nicolene Mageer said: Oh no. What is going on in young people’s minds? This is pure stupidity because they know that there is nothing valuable at the library. If only they knew that books have so much more value than money can ever buy.
According to police spokesperson Sergeant Majola Nkohli, the library was officially closed from March 26, owing to the Covid-19 nationwide lockdown.
Nkohli confirmed that on May 20, there was a burglary on the premises and items were stolen.
“Police are investigating a case of housebreaking and theft,” said Nkohli.
Residents with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect(s) are urged to contact the Kamesh Standby detective number at 082 301 7783. The information may also be shared via Crime Stop line at 08600 10111.
