The Hollywood branch of the Memphis Public Library recently reopened following the theft of multiple air conditioning units, which had necessitated its closure during a bout of sweltering temperatures. According to FOX13, the branch was closed after thieves stole four of the location's eight A/C units, leading to discomfort and concerns for community members seeking refuge from the heat.
Menelik Fombi, a patron of the Hollywood branch, voiced his dismay to FOX13, saying, "People steal from anybody, churches, senior citizens, libraries. It's just sad." The theft not only stripped away physical assets, but also the sanctuary the library provided from the dangerous heat. The situation stressed the critical role such public institutions serve, with Fombi questioning the impact on children who rely on these spaces to avoid the threats lurking in sweltering streets.
Memphis Police responded to the theft report on June 26 following the disappearance of the air conditioning units, which were last seen intact on June 24, as Action News 5 detailed. The incident's timing left the library scrambling to continue its operations as temperatures climbed. Thrust into a stifling reality, the library stayed open the following days using fans to give slight reprieve from the heat for the patrons.
As noted by WREG, Kennon McCloy, the Director of Memphis Public Libraries, emphasized the active measures taken to secure replacement A/C units, acknowledging that the branch's availability would be subject to the whims of the weather amid the depleted air conditioning capacity. Exposed to the stark consequences of the theft, visitors expressed frustration, with a local resident lamenting the broader surge of crime in Memphis and directing a candid plea towards the culprits: "Ya'll need to quit stealing! Go get a job," as was told to WREG.
This episode served as a stark reminder of how essential public libraries are as communal havens and resource hubs. The Hollywood branch continues to adapt to the setback, urging anyone with information related to the theft to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH, as provided by both Action News 5 and WREG, in hopes that the stolen property might be recovered and full services restored for the benefit of the Memphis community.
