PRESS RELEASE: Gas Stolen and Fuel Lines Cut from the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s Bookmobile and Technology Mobile Express

[Saipan, MP] The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library(JKPL) regrets to announce the cancellation of Bookmobile Outreach Services’ Summer Reading Program for the Tanapag Youth Center scheduled for July 10, 2024-July 12, 2024. The decision comes as a result of criminal activity that has rendered both the Bookmobile and Technology Mobile Express inoperable. 

On the morning of June 28th, 2024, an unknown perpetrator(s) caused significant damage to the Bookmobile and Technology Mobile Express at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Parking Lot. Perpetrators cut the fuel lines of both vehicles and siphoned gas. As a result of this criminal activity and for the safety of the JKPL Staff and the community, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library will be unable to provide the necessary resources and services to facilitate the Bookmobile Outreach Services’ Summer Reading Program. Both vehicles are currently undergoing assessment and repair, and we will continue our outreach services as soon as we receive confirmation that both vehicles are deemed safe and operable.

Acting Library Director Vincent Sablan shared, “The staff and management of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library are deeply saddened by this turn of events and are working diligently to rectify the situation as quickly as possible. We are cooperating with local law enforcement to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”

“We understand the disappointment and inconvenience this may cause to our community members, particularly the children who were eagerly anticipating the Summer Reading Program at Tanapag Youth Center. Rest assured, we are committed to finding alternative solutions and continuing the program at the earliest available opportunity should both vehicles be safe to operate for our community and by our Team.”

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our patrons and supporters for their understanding and patience during this challenging time. Updates regarding the Bookmobile Outreach Services’ Summer Reading Program will be provided on our website(cnmilib.org) and social media platforms (FB and IG joetenkiyupubliclibrary).

The JKPL needs the public’s help in the apprehension of the perpetrator(s) responsible for gas stolen and fuel lines cut from the Bookmobile and the Technology Mobile Express.  Should you have more information of the perpetrators responsible for this criminal activity, please contact the Department of Public Safety (911) and Crime Stoppers hotline at 234-7272. 

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s temporary summer library hours are as follows: Tuesday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.

Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joeten kiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. For more information regarding any of our activities, please contact JKPL @670-235-7322/7318.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24. 

This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.

The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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