Lara Wilent, Library Clerk for the Hoodland Public Library, noted that nobody
is really certain when the wooden sign that has hung above the library
entrance disappeared. It wasn’t until somebody came in and noted how
challenging it was to find the library due to the lack of signage.

“We can’t imagine why somebody took the sign,” Wilent said. “It’s a big,
heavy wooden sign. It’s not like its metal and recyclable.”

The sign was made locally when the library moved to its current location in
2014, at a cost of approximately $500 at the time. Wilent noted that they
expect that cost to double as they look to replace it now.

And that’s not the only act of vandalism targeting the library, as the drop box
for patrons to return items after hours was hit last November, rendering it
unusable since. A new drop box could cost as much as $1,500, but the library
doesn’t have the funds to replace it or the sign.

Wilent noted that the library will add a slot into the front door to allow for
returns after hours, although due to supply chain issues, there have been
delays.

In the meantime, the library has not been charging overdue fines due to lack
of ability for people to get books and other materials back.

In an effort to raise money to replace the drop box and the sign, people can
donate at https://gofund.me/4fd217fa, or drop off donations at the library,
24525 Welches Road or mailed to the Friends of Hoodland Library at P.O. Box
298 Welches, OR 97067.

Wilent added that the sign will be remade by the same Mountain craftsman
that made the first one.

“It’s good to know that sign was made and is being remade by a local
person,” she said.