This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
An Arrest Overdue: SoCal Woman Swiped 2,000 Library Books
Check it out: A 44-year-old Carlsbad woman was arrested this week after she was found in possession of over 2,000 books and DVDs taken from multiple San Diego County libraries.
Maria Natar's home was the subject of a search by local authorities, who are now sorting through the pilfered materials to determine to which branch each piece belongs. The items are valued at at least $5,000.
Natar is thought to be part of a "county-wide library book theft crime-ring," says NBC San Diego, who quip that the suspect's jail time is the "ultimate library fine."
Many of the books were on topics like animals, crafts and cooking. Authorities say Carlsbad library reps reported the missing items to the police after they noticed a "significant loss" of books between March and July of this year.