Repairs larger in scope than initial reports indicate

Last week, we sent a message about the library's one-week emergency closure due to flooding in multiple locations. During clean up, asbestos was found in the glue beneath the carpet. The glue was left over from the original flooring prior to the building's remodel in the early 2000s. The asbestos presents no current danger since it's dormant beneath the carpet. However, once crews begin removing existing carpeting, the asbestos will be disturbed, creating an unsafe environment.

Additionally, the insurance company has determined that the carpet in the main library must be replaced since the carpet is continuous throughout that area. So, we just discovered that this small repair has turned into a much larger job. The much larger job also has a much longer time frame.

What does this mean for our community? The library building must remain closed during the abatement, remediation, and reconstruction process. We're evaluating the possibility of providing limited library services during the closure. We have no idea what this will look like. We just heard the news about the closure, so we have a lot to figure out!

What does the process look like? There are many steps. First, while the remediation company works on initial clean up, library staff has been completing an inventory of all books. We've also been removing displays and packing up items. We're prioritizing items we need for day-to-day work so we can continue to work at temporary locations.

After completion of basic clean up, the remediation/restoration company will:

• Pack books and all other items inside library
• Move all building furniture and contents to a temporary warehouse
• Remove carpeting
• Complete asbestos abatement
• Repair facility damage, including floors and walls
• Paint walls
• Install new carpeting
• Install new baseboard trim
• Return all building contents

If all goes exactly as planned, we'll be able to reopen in July. Please keep in mind, however, that the time line is an estimate. We'll communicate any updates as we receive them.

Anticipated questions

How much is this going to cost? The total cost is undetermined; however, the City's insurance policy is expected to cover the cost.

What about Summer Reading and the Adult Reading Challenge? We don't have an answer yet. We are planning to provide some summer programming, and it will take massive effort of coordination and cooperation. We'll let you know as soon as we have it figured out.

What about the books I already have checked out? Where do I return those? Books may be returned in the drop box outside the library building. Staff will be allowed to access the book drop once a day to check in any books left in the book drop. If you have books checked out, please return those as soon as possible, so we can get them packed up.

Can I still check out books? Books will be unavailable for checkout because they'll be stored in a warehouse. We contacted nearby libraries, and the following libraries are happy to give our members free checkout privileges:

• Harrie P. Woodson Memorial Library in Caldwell
• Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library in Brenham
• Round Top Family Library in Round Top

Just bring in your Giddings Public Library card and your I.D. to get started at any of these libraries.

What about e-books and e-audiobooks? E-materials are still available through Libby, the library reading app. We're also researching ways to increase access to e-materials.

What about computers and office services? Can I still use a computer? Can I still make copies, fax, print, and scan? We're working on finding a temporary location to set up a small office that would provide a scaled-down version of these services. We'll let you know if/when we're able to find a location.

What about library staff? Where will you work? Some of our work can continue at temporary locations. We're also grateful for the opportunity to assist other City departments during this time. The library director will receive a temporary office at City Hall, and all staff members will help wherever we're needed. We're viewing this as a great opportunity to learn new things and serve in new ways!

Won't you miss us? Yes! The library is so much more than a place; it's a community. We hope to extend that community well beyond the walls of the building. As we find ways to continue serving, please connect with us.

How will I get updates? Follow us on Facebook for updates as we receive them. We'll also continue to send our monthly e-newsletter and update our website.

How can I help? First, thank you for wanting to help! If you own/manage a location in Giddings that you are willing to share with us, please contact Library Director Jessi Akins. It would help to have a meeting space for up to 25 people for meetings and small events like Book Club. We're also hoping to find a space to host some summer reading presentations for up to 100.