The Richmond Library in Port Richmond was closed for most of December due to problems with its HVAC system, but issues with its roof are extending the closure.
On Monday, the library – a branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia – said in a Facebook post that the building would be heated by Tuesday, but that “the faulty roof replacement and countless malfunctions” put it at risk of a “major ceiling collapse.” would. “
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This post has since been edited twice, toning down the language. The latest version, edited Tuesday at 12:57 p.m., reads:
“Unfortunately, the Richmond Neighborhood Library is closed due to roof issues. We apologize for the inconvenience. We miss you all and can’t wait to reopen.”
“We will receive an assessment of the repairs and how long it will take before we can open safely and stably. In the meantime, we are also looking for a replacement location for the closures. We'll update you again with more news this week.”
The Free Library of Philadelphia did not respond to a request for comment about the closure.
The initial Facebook post noted that the Richmond Library was unable to use the Fishtown Community Library for book supplies, as was the case during previous closures.
The Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St., has had problems with in the past Ceiling leaks And falling plaster. According to current information from the library, the library's roof was scheduled to be replaced last winter and spring Facebook Page.
This project was funded by the city Reconstruction Initiativethat uses Revenue from the city's soda tax is used to modernize various community facilities. A September progress report on Reconstruction Projects shows that $1.9 million was allocated for the Richmond Library roof replacement, but the report lists the project's construction status as 0% complete.
City officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment about updates on the construction project. The library's Facebook page notes that roof work was needed in the fall due to leaks.
The library was one of 20 branches that were temporarily closed last summer due to air conditioning problems. In November, it was one of seven locations closed due to heating problems after indoor temperatures dropped to 60 degrees due to a faulty boiler. The public was unable to use the library until December 2nd.
The library closed its doors again on December 7th due to utility work in the area. There was then a gas leak which extended the closure. It remained closed during the week of December 9th for the installation of a new boiler.
While the boiler was being replaced, workers discovered that the library's chimney lining had collapsed. This required debris removal and testing for asbestos before the heater could be turned on. Despite the announcement that the library would reopen on Monday, December 23, the library lost heat again two days earlier, dropping the indoor temperature to 48 degrees.
“It is a disaster that the staff has no control over,” the Richmond Library posted on Facebook Monday.