Library closes as it undergoes asbestos abatement to replace light bulbs
The Prendergast Library of Jamestown, New York will be closing temporarily to undergo asbestos abatement, beginning on August 31. The 118-year-old library must install new lighting fixtures or retrofit existing ones, as the current ballasts are no longer being manufactured for their current lighting fixtures. If the fixtures are not upgraded, blown light bulbs cannot be replaced. Installation, however, will require removing asbestos from the ceiling tiles. Flooring tiles have also tested positive for asbestos, and they will be replaced during the remediation process as well.
The undisturbed asbestos in the floor and ceiling tiles is not a threat to library patrons, but it needs to be removed in order to comply with new laws and regulations. It will cost an estimated $800,000 to complete this project, with funding provided by a variety of donors and secured by state officials. Commitments for the funding were secured before the economy took a downturn, and the money must be spent for this purpose.
The new, more energy-efficient lighting fixtures have already been installed in sections of the library that were not affected by asbestos, and library patrons have noticed what a difference the new lighting makes. In addition to the asbestos removal and the installation of new lighting fixtures, the library will also be installing new electric wiring and cables in the floor, laying down new carpet, adding more comfortable seating and adding a new teen area.
While the library is closed, limited calling hours will be available, and books can be shipped to other area libraries. Deadlines will be extended for library books that would normally be due while the library was closed. Library patrons are being encouraged to borrow “bushels full” of books to stock up on their reading material while the library is closed.
For the full story, go to The Post-Journal.
