Libraries helping libraries

Last Updated on Tuesday, 21 May 2013 13:29

Pioneer Library System - From the Director

Recently Louisville, Kentucky has experienced flooding. Libraries in the area have experienced heavy water damage due to the flooding. Estimated damages to the Louisville Free Public Library are in the millions of dollars. According to the Courier Journal

...[Library Director Craig] Buthod said up to 4 feet of water poured into the basement of the Main Library, much of which is used for operations. Buthod said at least 10,000 books, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs were damaged. Many of the items were new and awaiting distribution to the branches. Buthod said the average cost per item was conservatively $20.

All three Bookmobiles parked at the library were damaged by flooding, and water pressure blew out some basement windows...

Cash donations are appreciated in any amount. People wishing to help can send checks to: The Library Foundation, 301 York St., Louisville, KY 40203, Attn: Flood. This donation will qualify as a charitable contribution (501 (c) 3). An acknowledgment will be provided for your tax records.

Update: The recovery work is underway, with the drying out of computer equipment high on the list. Public internet service at the branches has been restored. Insurance adjusters, project managers, and cleanup contractors are on the job. The losses include all the new materials that were in the lower levels, three bookmobiles, the Library Director's car, and the library’s 100-year-old auditorium.