Thieves who took the iMac and Xbox from the Olds Municipal Library's Makerspace didn't just steal from the library, but the community at large, says manager Lesley Winfield.
"We're trying to give people technology and programs they can experience without having to purchase them themselves. We do have a lot of students especially that will come after school and look forward to their time at the library because we have the Xbox available. They're very disappointed that it's not available for them to use," Winfield said.
Having that technology on-site has made the library a draw for youth and as a result, circulation of junior-aged books has increased this year, she said.
"It's definitely disappointing because it's a community resource and community funds and donations pay for these things."
The theft occurred on March 22 and the estimated value of the goods is $1,800.
The library board has not discussed replacement plans yet.
"The likelihood is insurance won't cover it because it's not much more than the deductible, so it'll likely fall to us to try and replace it, if that is the case," Winfield said.
The Makerspace has been targeted by theft before. In October last year, an iPad and the Xbox were stolen. A suspect was caught and the iPad was recovered.
