Preserve Newark Libraries.org
“advocacy, activism, accountability”
ROOF Ms. Wilma Grey, Director of the Newark Public Library system (NPL), expressed that the roof, which was compromised before hurricane Irene, is in need of replacement. Because of multiple patch work jobs two advisories of two different roofers advise that the roof is eligible for replacement only. The cost is approximately $160,000.00. Ms. Grey further explained that New Jersey Library Association, on behalf of many New Jersey libraries is seeking repair funds through FEMA. To complicate matters, walls, floors and books in some areas have resultant mold and pungent odor from dampness. Approximately $80,000.00 is needed for remediation. Ms. Grey suggested forgoing the internal remediation until the roof replacement. Jared Ash, head of the employees union, objected. Employees and patrons are subjected to this exposure. Books have been discarded as a result. Claudia Granados, the newest Board appointee and Mayor Booker employee, inquired if the Library contacted the Department of Engineering within City Hall. The answer was no. Ms. Granados replied that unless the Library lets City Hall know its circumstances, then City Hall assumes everything is fine. During the meeting Ms. Granados contacted Engineering (by email or text) and set an appointment for the next morning with Library Executives. (As of this writing I do not know the outcome).
P.S. The Main Library building is 110 years old this year. Its age shows.
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