PHILIPSBURG--Unknown persons vandalised and tried to break into Philipsburg Jubilee Library over the Carnival holidays.
The vandalism and failed attempt to break in left Library staff flabbergasted on Wednesday just before opening hours, causing the Library to open to its patrons one hour past scheduled time.
Shattered glass and stones were found near the temporary children’s non-fiction book collection and partway to the garden.
The Library building was not spared in the passing of Category 5+ Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017, followed by looters who dealt a severe blow to the Library’s educational goals when laptops, among other items, were stolen.
“As the Library is currently searching for a new, temporary building, and the 2018 Hurricane season is fast approaching, words cannot express the disappointment of the continuous blows to the heart of Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
“When residents of a community can attempt to break in, not standing still, be mindful, and being conscious of how vital a library is for the whole community – it is much more than a building which houses books – it is a place for people to access new information, develop their skills and knowledge and improve their own lives through reading and relative activities. It is a learning environment for all. Our library, your library should not be vandalised, but rather cherished,” the Library said in a statement Thursday.
Management and staff said they are happy to continue providing their services to their customers. “The temporary solution to accommodate the public by using the entrance hall has brought back some ambience to our library since the passing and the devastation to our structure in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma,” it was stated.
The Library is open Monday from 10:00am to 5:00pm; Tuesday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm; and Saturday from 10:00am to 1:00pm.
