February 22nd, 2005

There has been chaos at Alaska state library after a two inch water pipe burst in Wednesday last week, causing damage to paper and books, and creating concern over the possibility of asbestos contamination in the air. Some of the books and paper have had to be frozen to prevent mold, and others have been rescued by library workers. A staff member that was trained in working in asbestos areas has to rescue many of the books affected by the burst pipe.

There was no confirmation of the presence of asbestos, but staff member were waiting to find out whether any traces of asbestos had been found. Samples of the air were collected and sent to the Environmental protection Agency in Anchorage that same day. Concerns were high because asbestos exposure can result in a range of health problems including mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that can affect the heart, lungs, or abdominal region.

It is thought that the burst water pipe burst due to wear and tear, and that it should have been replaced some time ago. Water had to be turned off in the whole building following the burst pipe, and ventilation had be turned off due to the risk of circulating asbestos fibers. As well as damage to papers and books, equipment such as computers also sustained water damage.

Many staff members were sent home, with a few remaining to help with the book rescue operation. The time period of the closure was unknown as the extent of the damage was still being determined.