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Terrace Public Library falls victim to theft, vandalism

Total cost estimated at $22,000
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Library and city officials are dealing with two recent thefts and vandalism incidents at the Terrace Public Library amounting to an estimated cost of $22,000.

In the early morning hours of Dec. 27, just two days after this past Christmas, a person gained entry to the library by breaking a window in the lounge area.

Laptops, iPads, an iPhone and a children’s telescope were taken, reports librarian Fiona Bruce.

All of the stolen items have ‘Terrace Public Library’ identification on them, she said. The total value is estimated at $7,000.

“RCMP responded quickly, and we provided camera footage of the incident. The images were not conclusive enough for identification and charges will not be laid,” she said.

Although the library does have insurance through the city, the replacement cost of the stolen items is less than the deductible.

“As we are not able to make an insurance claim, we are looking at different grant and fundraising options to replace the items that were stolen,” Bruce said.

Then, on Jan. 19, all eight windows along the library’s children’s story time room were broken.

“No one entered the library. While we don’t believe the library was deliberately targeted during this event, we are saddened by the incident,” said Bruce.

The City of Terrace owns the library building and city communications officer Tyler Clarke called the damage “frustrating”.

“The city is in contact with our insurers to discuss options on how to proceed. We’ve also been in contact with the RCMP regarding this matter and are exploring options on how to proceed with the investigation.”