FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2023
East Brunswick Public Library to Reopen
The East Brunswick Public Library will reopen to the public on Wednesday, March 15, at 9 a.m. after confirming a safe environment in the library. After anonymous concerns regarding asbestos were reported to various state agencies, the following actions were taken out of an abundance of caution:
-The library closed on February 24, 2023.
-An air quality test taken by Hillmann Consulting, collected on February 25, 2023, showed 0 asbestos in the air. The tests were conducted at five different areas of the library.
-Reports from the Department of Labor’s asbestos tests, taken from materials in the dumpster outside of the library, were requested. Those reports were either negative or showed less than 1% - considered a negative test.
-The matter was reported to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, a regulatory agency that governs asbestos issues. This department declined to take on the matter, stating that these are NOT asbestos containing materials and that this is NOT an asbestos abatement project.
-In order to fully confirm a safe environment, the library entered into a contract with Peak Environmental and Detail Associates on March 7, 2023, to come up with guidance on a reopening plan.
-Peak Environmental and Detail Associates visited the library on Thursday, March 9 and recommended regular cleaning of the area being renovated and an additional air quality test.
-SERVPRO conducted a thorough cleaning of the construction area on Saturday, March 11, including vents, bookshelves, HEPA vacuuming, air scrubbers, and wiping down all surfaces and floors.
-Detail Associates conducted a final air quality test on Monday, March 13. Those results were received on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, and again confirmed no asbestos in the air in five different locations. Their professionals recommended the library reopen.
We look forward to welcoming the community back to the East Brunswick Public Library and thank you for your patience.
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Contact:
John Arthur
Library Director, East Brunswick Public Library
732-390-6783
jarthur@ebpl.org