To the AU Community:
If you were one of the library users last week who had a laptop stolen, first let me extend a very personal apology to you and condolences for your loss.
There are thieves among us. As your university librarian, I am utterly disappointed to write those words. During the week of Sept 8-11 people using the AU Library had four laptops stolen in four days. My staff have posted large posters on each floor, table top reminders and small flyers throughout the library as visual cues to keep an eye on your personal belongings. The library at AU is a vital place of community, learning, study and expression. We are a safe place. We are a place of refuge spiritually, and depending on the weather, physically.
But in the last week, our haven of intellectual discovery has been under assault, and this makes me mad. Our doors are wide open to the community at large, and we are proud of our accessibility to all who seek to learn. But that very openness comes with a responsibility, both personal and communal. Be aware of your surroundings. Watch your neighbor's belongings. Report suspicious activity. Don't these words remind you of a police state? Where's the line between wise management of belongings and paranoia? What sort of learning environment can we hope to provide you if distractions over personal security are constant? I struggle to find solutions, and I seek your help.
Many other university libraries manage their entrances with secure ID card readers for those who have identity cards, along with staff to assist receiving and directing visitors from outside the university community. These environments both provide security and an opportunity for welcoming the wider community. Is that what we want here? I'm not sure.
Work with me to solve these issues. Stay aware of your environment, and look out for your neighbor. If you see someone leaving their laptop even for a moment, offer to watch it for them while they run to the stacks or the restrooms, or at the very least remind them to take it with them. Do not leave your personal belongings unattended. Civitas, indeed.
William A. Mayer University Librarian
