On August 15th there was a minor electrical fire in the main area of the Glen Rock library. This fire was due to a light fixture that caught fire and extended to two computers below.
Glen Rock Fire Department responded with Hawthorne at approximately 6:24p. Because of great training and quick thinking, Library staff Theresa Sarracino and other staff members had the fire contained when GRFD Chief Jennings extinguished the remainder of the fire. The library was evacuated quickly and there were no injuries due to other swift acting library staff.
The GRFD stated that if it wasn’t the quick thinking of the library staff, the fire could have been much worse. The damage seems to be contained to smoke damage only. GRFD
Speaking to Betsy Wald, Library Director she stated:
Damage was minimal, but clean-up will continue throughout the week. Library staff demonstrated outstanding professionalism and dedication to the safety of our patrons. The Police and Fire Departments responded quickly and effectively. Our book drops are locked, so we are asking patrons to either return their materials to another BCCLS library or hold onto them until we re-open. Fines will be waived for materials that are due during this unexpected closure. All programs scheduled for this week are canceled. Stay tuned for updates.
GR Councilwoman Kristine Morieko, library liaison stated:
We are SO very fortunate that this occurred during business hours and that our GRFD and Hawthorne FD were quick to respond. Much gratitude should be given to the library staff who first noticed and addressed the fire. The library will be back open shortly and I look forward to acknowledging all who assisted in this effort.And I am the Library liaison AND fire department liaison so this is very close to my heart.
For more information and pictures please go to the GRFD page or visit Mayor Packers website.
BTN will keep you updated with the cleanup and the reopening date.
Thank you for the quick responses of the Library staff, GRFD and Hawthorne Fire Dept.
