Student Laptops target of recent thefts in Schaffer Library

By Benjamin Engle

Many Union students leave their laptops unattended at desks and tables while going to the stacks for books or to the bathroom believing that their computer will be waiting for them on their return. However, after a recent increase in laptop thefts at Schaffer Library, Library officials are warning students to watch their belongings more closely.

The first theft occurred in the middle of an afternoon, between three and four o’clock, on the first floor of Schaffer Library to the right of the computers when Katrina Neiley’s (’10) computer was taken.

Not wanting to leave the scene of the crime, Neiley waited for Campus Safety to arrive to report her missing computer. However, according to Neiley, Campus Safety was not optimistic that the computer would be found.
“[Campus Safety] had little hope to offer. One of the officers mentioned the possibility of looking at the videotapes while another said no cameras would be worth [looking at in the investigation],” Neiley said.

Fortunately for Neiley, her computer turned up in a Schaffer Library bathroom less than 24 hours after the theft was reported.

However, according to College Librarian Thomas McFadden, laptop thefts at Schaffer Library are nothing new.

“Every year, several laptop computers are stolen in Schaffer Library,” McFadden said.
McFadden believes that there are many reasons why laptops are stolen at the Library. “The Library is a perfect place for opportunistic, unobserved theft,” he stated. “There are many out-of-the-way tables and study carrels tat cannot easily be seen by other students or staff.”

In response to the surge in stolen laptops, McFadden sent out a campus-wide email on January 27th notifying students to be more vigilant and aware in the library. In the email, McFadden offered advice to help keep valuables safe and secure.

“There are several things students can do to prevent, or at least diminish the likelihood of theft,” added McFadden.

He believes that students should record the ID numbers located on their computers and keep that information in a safe and secure place. Having the computer’s ID number can potentially help Campus Safety identify a student’s stolen computer.

While McFadden doesn’t believe that the Library will be installing cameras within the library, Schaffer Library has increased security by purchasing ten security cables that are available for checkout from the Library’s Circulation Desk. The cables, when attached to the computer and secured to the desk or chair, will slow a potential thief down and may act as a deterrent.

“A potential thief is looking for an opportunity simply to pick up an unattended laptop,” McFadden added, “and walk away with it as quickly as possible—generally, right out the door.”
While McFadden doesn’t endorse any computer safety company, he also suggested that students investigate purchasing some type of GPS security system, such as MyLaptopGPS, that uses the Internet in order to locate a laptop once it’s gone. These GPS tracking devices cost about ten dollars a month and offer a “300% money-back lifetime guarantee.”

While a computer is replaceable, McFadden reminds students that the loss of files and work is probably worse. “Routinely back up your important files on a flash drive and keep it separate from the computer,” he advises.

As for Neiley, she is just glad to have her computer back. “It is really disturbing to have something so personal and important stolen by a fellow student, but I'm just happy it was returned.”

Originally published in Union's Concordy on February 5, 2009.