Hillsborough libraries may get more security cameras

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

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Bloomingdale Regional Public library does not have security cameras.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- For the first time since a teenager was brutally attacked outside a Hillsborough County library, a group of experts will come together to take a closer look at safety measures at county libraries.

The high school student that was attacked in April is still in critical condition.

Currently, four out of 25 libraries have security cameras, but the cameras are only on the inside. And Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, where the attack took place, is not one of them.

Neighbors and parents have mixed reactions about possibly adding security cameras.

"Okay, it would be nice if there were some on the outside, you know, a lot of places you go they are already there, the grocery stores have them," said Valrico resident Bethanie Fink. "There are a lot of places with signs saying they have security cameras, so put one up. I would love to see it."

"I don't know if it would be a preventative measure if no one is watching the cameras at that time it would just be a reactive that you could find the person," said Lithia resident Donna Rayburn. "I don't think it would prevent anything."

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Library leaders said they were already talking with deputies about adding security cameras before the attack. Now, they are looking at every option, even moving drop-off boxes.

The security committee will meet at 6 p.m. tonight at the main library in downtown Tampa. Tonight's gathering is an introductory meeting. Eventually experts will make a recommendation to the library board. The next meeting is scheduled May 22.

Library officials said that crime has not been a huge problem in the past, but libraries have had their share of thefts, vandalism and people exposing themselves.

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