Although Schlow Library planned to reopen at noon on Thursday, Feb. 26 after a pipe leak, extensive damages will delay reopening for a while longer. 

The Alpha Fire Company and the State College Borough Public Works Department responded quickly to the pipe burst in the library last Monday, and staff were immediately notified.

Because of the incident, Schlow has lost about 1,499 books and more than 600 audiobook cases. In addition, the Toddler Learning Centre, a developmental playgroup that gives children and their families a way to interact together with educational toys, lost $1,100 worth of toys. The library is still working with the Schlow insurer to determine which losses will be covered by the insurance policy.

Although the damages to the library are extensive, the State College community has come together to support Schlow through its recovery. Two State College Area High School teachers, Jennifer Rand and Kate Hoffman, organized a fundraiser this past Saturday to help Schlow recover from the water damage. The two canned outside Schlow at the corner of Beaver and Allen, collecting funds to help the library reopen as soon as possible.

The university has also contributed to the Schlow recovery. University Libraries sent Schlow book shelves to store undamaged books while the building continues to dry out.

“The Schlow community has been moved by the outpouring of support,” library spokeswoman Susanna Paul said. “From donated food and beverages for staff, to monetary donations to help replace damaged books, support from the community has helped bolster spirits during this challenging time.”

Although the physical library will remain closed, the Schlow online library provides 24/7 access to many materials including e-books, audiobooks, music downloads, children’s books, and magazines. Schlow encourages community members to use these resources while the physical library is being restored and repaired.

Continue to check the library website for the most up-to-date information on Schlow’s reopening.