Vandals turn new Sabah library upside down

KOTA KINABALU: The new six-storey state library, which opened its doors barely two weeks ago, has to close its children’s section temporarily after vandals messed up the place.

Books were strewn everywhere. Dustbins and a toilet seat were damaged.

Doodles were seen on the walls and book shelves.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Sabah Library director Wong Vui Yin.

The RM45mil 62,000sq ft library in Tanjung Aru opened its doors on April 1 on a high note, with reports that hundreds of people queueing up for its limited offer of a free lifetime membership during its soft launch.

But it was a different story last Sunday when staff discovered the mess.

The children’s section, which features a play area, swings and storytelling zones, has since been cordoned off and will reopen tomorrow.

Wong was shocked and saddened when he found out about the vandalism.

“When the library was opened to the public, we had high hopes of it functioning as a learning centre for children and a study area for students and adults,” he said.

For now, library workers are cleaning up the mess.

Wong said crayons were used by the vandals.

“It is a tedious job to make sure that the stains are cleared without damaging the surfaces,” he said.

When the section reopens, he said there would be strict rules and regulations in place.

“We will also deploy more staff and security guards,” he added.

He advised parents to be more mindful and to ensure their children would only draw or colour at the rightful places.

For example, there is a designated board area where chalks are provided.

“This library is not like the conventional libraries. Here, we encourage exploration while learning.

“But this must be done within the designated areas and it is up to parents to have a sense of responsibility when using the library with their children,” he said.

The library features a main lobby on the ground floor, the children’s section on the first floor, teen library (second floor), adults (third and fourth floors) and a multi-purpose room on the fifth floor.