More than $20,000 in personal belongings have been reported stolen on campus since the semester began in January.

Most of these thefts were "crimes of opportunity" because the items were left unattended, said MSU police Sgt. Florene McGlothian-Taylor.

"Unfortunately individuals make it too easy," McGlothian-Taylor said. "We can't prevent all thefts, but we can make it more difficult."

Students and university employees reported about 17 wallets, 10 cell phones, eight laptops, three loads of laundry and other items taken from campus buildings — predominately IM Sports facilities, residence halls and libraries.

Since January, 11 thefts have been reported by students and employees who left their belongings either in unlocked lockers or sitting out while they worked out at IM Sports-West.

These thefts aren't common, said Patty Oehmke, assistant director at IM Sports-West.

But about 1,700 people go through the fitness room per day, which makes for a high amount of theft opportunities, Oehmke said.

"Just the number of participants makes it an attractive target," she said.

Some people might not secure their belongings because a lot of clients are used to a more intimate environment where they know everyone, Oehmke said.

Most IM Sports thefts involved clothing, cell phones and wallets.

In exchange for a valid MSU ID, students and employees can borrow a lock or a quarter for the lockers, or bring their own. People can also rent lockers out for the semester.

The Main Library is also one of the more popular places for thefts, where students have reported textbooks, laptops and cell phones stolen.

"We've always had a problem with people getting up and leaving textbooks," said Cliff Haka, director of libraries.

Students tend to leave their valuables unattended, thinking they'll only be gone for a few minutes.

But it doesn't take long for someone to walk by and snatch something, Haka warned.

His advice is to not leave items unattended — if you have to, bring valuables into the bathroom with you or have someone look after your belongings.

Haka said he's been working with MSU police to improve safety in the building and talks to library visitors if he sees them leaving items unattended.

Thousands of dollars in electronics have been reported stolen from residence hall rooms, including $3,000 worth from one Hubbard Hall room in January.

As in many other cases, the door might have been unlocked when the items were taken.

Students need to treat their dorm rooms as they would their own home, McGlothian-Taylor said, stressing the importance of locking doors.