BELLE CHASSE- The Belle Chasse library was vandalized earlier this month and has resulted in more patrols in the area.

On May 7th and 8th, the library’s courtyard book drop was smeared in the inside with what appeared to be whipped cream cake icing, according to library staff.

The same icing was thrown on the front entrance of the building as well.

According to assistant library director, Patricia Walker, the act could have caused major damage to library equipment.

“If items were exposed to this they would have been ruined completely,” Walker said.

“An adaptive computer workstation for the sight-challenged is located just beneath this book drop, and it could have suffered catastrophic damage due to any liquids,” she said.

The library has contacted the Plaquemine’s Parish Sheriff’s Office regarding the matter. As a result, deputies will patrol the areas around the library and the library staff is also looking into other protective measures.

Library staff member, Andrea Decluet said that she now has safety concerns.

“It causes concerns for safety in our work environment,” Decluet said.

“It is discouraging that people don't respect the library, it makes you feel unappreciated,” she said.