Posted on: Thursday, August 21, 2003

Security companies offer help to Wahiawa library

By Rod Ohira and James Gonser
Advertiser Staff Writers

Two alarm companies yesterday offered security services to Wahiawa Public Library, which has been burglarized six times since last August.

One company is willing to install a security system for free if the library picks up a monthly maintenance charge, said assistant librarian Anna McCandless. Martha Hanson, president of Friends of the Wahiawa Library, said the group would pay the charge if it's affordable.

A second company offered to assess the security situation, also for free, McCandless said.

In the past 12 months, there have been six burglaries at the library at 820 California Ave.

The latest theft occurred during the weekend. As in earlier break-ins, thieves stole computer equipment, DVDs and other supplies.

Temporary branch manager Anthony Hooper said he is happy to hear about the offers because he has no plans to replace the stolen equipment until he is sure they will be secure.

"It has happened too many times," Hooper said. "We have stuff that has been ordered, but we won't bring it in until it is protected. If you are in a business and stuff is taken you replace and replace it, that gets tiring."

Hooper said every time the library is broken into, money to repair the damage comes out of their operating budget.

"I've been really heartened by the response by people offering to help," Hanson said.