October 7, 2023
News Abrehot Library thwarts book theft scheme, saves 24 mln birr
October 7, 2023
Addis Ababa’s venerable Abrehot National Library averts a major book theft scheme to steal books valued at 24 million birr.
Wubayehu Mamo, the library’s director, confirmed that some staff members had conspired to steal the collection through fraudulent cataloguing entries.
However, the plot was foiled, leading to the termination of the suspected employees and legal action against them.
Dozens of theft cases are now in court, according to the Director.
“We apprehended fourteen individuals who were caught in the act of stealing from the library. Many have been convicted, demonstrating our zero-tolerance policy for theft,” he said.
To enhance security, comprehensive measures have been implemented. Wubayehu stated that the library is equipped with six security camera rooms to monitor the building and valuable collections. An alarm system has also been installed to detect unauthorized exits. Police presence is also maintained throughout the building, according to the Director.
Access points have been limited to a single entrance door, restricting some of the library’s twelve original doors to staff only.
However, rumors persist of books bearing the library’s stamp circulating in the hands of individuals, despite strict lending policies.
Responding to public concerns, Wubayehu clarified, “While some report seeing library books outside our walls, it is important to note that these books were released or distributed to sub-city authorities. The responsibility of handling these books lies with local administrations.”
The library maintains at least 20 copies of each book to facilitate replacements if needed.
The Director welcomed the public with information to come forward: “We’ve deployed technology, but completely preventing theft is impossible. But forwarding evidence helps us more than unsubstantiated rumors that undermine our efforts.”