Lost shopping bags in Ames, Iowa.
Description
I was at the Campanile area on the Iowa State University campus around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 10 when I realized my shopping bags were missing after I stopped for a quick bite by the Food Court. The bags are two: a teal tote with a white floral pattern, and a plain black tote with a small white logo. They held groceries, a notebook, and a sketchbook I’ve carried with me all semester. I retraced the walk from the Campanile toward the library, hoping someone picked them up, but there’s been no sign. If you’ve seen them, know they matter to me and I’m hopeful they’ll surface nearby.
Approximate last-seen location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely get your item back
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the finder before meeting
- Ask them to describe a detail not shown in your listing, such as an engraving, scratch, or contents.
- Request a clear photo of the item from an angle you did not post.
- Do not pay any release, shipping, or storage fee.
- Do not share your full address until you have verified them.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.