Surveillance at the Library?

The Abington Library could be the next public building to receive surveillance cameras.

The Abington Public Affairs Committee Monday night approved the allocation of up to $10,000 to purchase and install a video surveillance system at the library. The money would come from the township's contingency fund. 

Township Manager Michael LeFevre said the primarily female library staff has recently seen an increase in the number of altercations with male patrons; there has also been an increase in vandalism in the parking lot. 

As a result, LeFevre said library officials have requested money to install interior and exterior cameras, which would act as both a deterrent to crime and a tool to prosecute, should an incident happen.

The library is in the process of soliciting bids; library officials are also consulting with the Abington Police Department and video surveillance companies.

The video feed will stay with the library.

“The library is certainly not a dangerous place to go,” Abington Board of Commissioners President Peggy Myers said. “I’m surprised that there aren’t cameras there already. In most cases, the video would never be viewed unless it becomes necessary.”

Resident Lora Lehman spoke against the idea of cameras at the library … and other places, saying that she is also bothered by the idea of red light cameras.

“This is a place where it absolutely is not necessary [to have video surveillance,]” Lehman said. “You have an entire library full of people that will tell you what’s going on.”

Commissioner Thomas Bowman said he was aware of some of the incidents that happened at the library and called them “disconcerting.” Commissioner Wayne Luker said that library officials would likely be on hand for the next meeting.