Mars Area Public Library reopens after two day closure
After two days closed to the public due to water damage from the late January snowstorm, the Mars Area Public Library reopened to the public on Thursday, Feb. 5.
The library, located on Grand Avenue in Mars, was closed on Tuesday and Wednesday due to structural damage caused by ice dams that ran along the century-old structure.
Although the library is back open, staff warned patrons through social media their library experience may be different for at least the next few days. Pictures posted to their Facebook page show the library has put out a massive fan to dry out wet spots.
“Some areas of the library may be temporarily inaccessible as we continue to monitor conditions and keep everyone safe,” reads a message posted to the library’s Facebook page. “Right now, our biggest hurdle is clearing the ice from our gutters. Until that’s fully resolved, no interior repairs can begin.”
The library has updated its website with a new page to accept donations to offset the cost of repairs, which it says will be costly.
“We are still assessing the full extent of the damage, and while we don’t yet have final answers, it is clear the repairs will be neither quick nor inexpensive,” the message reads.
The message also credits the Mars Agway for donating calcium chloride flakes to help melt ice on the roof.
