Thefts from Coe Library, particularly of students’ personal items, have increased this semester,, according to a statement from UWPD.
UWPD Police Chief Mike Samp said in an email that there is generally an increase in theft toward the end of the semester.
“Opportunistic thefts are very common towards the end of the semester,” Samp said. “Bicycles, text books and electronic devices are the most frequent items stolen.”
The UW Libraries administration is encouraging students to be aware of their surroundings and to not leave their possessions unattended. UWPD recommends students keep a record of model and serial numbers of laptops, and password protect their phones.
Erin Sims, a senior majoring in zoology, said she had her MacBook stolen from the library on April 1.
“I had to use the restroom so I put a jacket and some papers over the top of it and then went to the restroom probably 20-30 steps away and was gone for maybe two minutes,” Sims said. “I was gone for maybe two minutes and came back and the papers were on the floor and my computer and my charger were gone.”
Sims said she always felt safe in the library until this incident, and she will now be treating her personal items differently when she is in Coe. Her laptop has still not been recovered.
Lori Phillips, associate dean at Coe Library, said the library expects thefts to increase around the end of every semester, and they take action to prevent the thefts.
“At this time of every semester, we always try to make students more aware of their surroundings,” Phillips said. “We post signs throughout the library to remind students to watch their possessions. It is always wise to look after your personal belongings when you are in a large public space. This is a large building, and anyone can walk in here.”
Phillips said it is cost prohibitive to have cameras covering the entirety of the library due to its large size, so students need to do a better job of watching over their items.
While studying in the library, please be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity to the main circulation desk in Coe Library in-person or by calling 307-766-3190.
