UK COMPUTERS STOLEN Thieves steal computers worth thousands from Mitcham library (From This Is Local London):

Thieves steal computers worth thousands from Mitcham library

6:40am Tuesday 4th August 2009

comment Comments (0) Have your say »
By Craig Burnett »

Thieves have stolen computer equipment worth thousands of pounds from a library, just weeks before it’s grand re-opening.

Work has been ongoing at Pollards Hill library since October to provide residents with a wider range of services and facilities.

Key to the new centre was computer equipment that could be used by the whole community - but this was targeted in an overnight raid last Thursday.

About £10,000 of equipment was taken when thieves broke in to the South Lodge Avenue library, using a crowbar to open a fire exit.

Council bosses said the library should still re-open as planned next month.

The council’s cabinet member for housing and community services, Councillor Linda Scott, said: “I am very angry that this has happened.

"This is such a selfish act, but I am confident that the people of Pollards Hill will bear with us while we work to ensure their library opens in August with all the technology in place.”

Pollards Hill councillor Richard Williams said he was “incredibly disappointed” by the crime - and urged residents to take advantage of the library when it does re-open next month.

Merton police said no arrests have been made in relation to the break in.