Morristown, NJ, Library Recovering from Explosion, but Still Closed
Utility explosion caused millions of dollars in damage
Lynn Blumenstein -- Library Journal, 05/27/2010
- Source of explosion still unidentified
- Insurance for collections, fundraising for repairs
- Newer portion will reopen in several weeks
The source of the severe explosion that damaged the Morristown & Morris Township Library, NJ, earlier this month (it is still closed) is still being debated.
Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) officials announced May 26 that the May 3 underground explosion was caused by a combustible gas, not their electrical equipment, according to the Daily Record. Another utility, PSE&G, has a gas line that goes into the library, but a company spokesperson said there is no indication that natural gas or any PSE&G facilities contributed to the blast.
The explosion blew out windows and doors, and caused the basement ceiling to buckle, causing millions of dollars in damage, director Susan Gulick told LJ. The blast occurred before the library opened and no one was injured.
Partial reopening possible
The library’s oldest wing, built in 1917, was the site of the explosion. There is no timetable for opening that facility. Gulick hopes to open the newer portion of the library in a few weeks. The library web site does offer downloadable audiobooks, research databases, online reference books and one on one tutoring.
Progress has been slow but steady. JCP&L workers were only allowed to enter the premises last week, as they were first required by Travelers Insurance to be trained to work in areas that contain asbestos.
"The library staff is working day and night to put portions of the building back into a condition where the library can resume serving the public," Eric A. Inglis, president of the Morristown and Morris Township Library Foundation, told the Daily Record.
Damage details
Gulick described the damage to LJ. The basement of the affected wing contained the Friends of the Library's room with lots of books for their biweekly book sales.
"I am sorry to say the Friends book and shelves are gone." she said. The first-floor reference room "reminds me of WWII pictures of London. The huge and beautiful desk is blown into small pieces. Many of our print art books are covered with particles of problem material and many destroyed. The stained glass windows were not blown [out] but many of the others were."
She continued: "The North Jersey History Center is safe--due in part to the state-of-the-art steel rolling stacks and dry pipe sprinklers. The halon in the archives was set off but it leaves no damage to library materials. The History, Art (including original Thomas Nast materials), and rare books are safe.
Insurance for collection
The library’s insurance coverage at $13 million covers the collection and includes a large fine arts policy with umbrella, said Gulick.
The Morristown and Morris Township Library Foundation is seeking donations to help pay for library repairs. They can be sent to the foundation at One Miller Road, Morristown, NJ, 07960.
Current services
Morris County Library, Whippany, is offering library cards to affected patrons. They also may use their current cards at designated area libraries. While the web site is still operating, book drops are closed.
