DPNR provides update on libraries

The Department of Planning and Natural Resources provided an update on the status of the territory’s libraries, including Florence Williams Public Library on St. Croix, which abruptly closed Thursday for emergency maintenance.

“As you may already be aware, all of our libraries, except the Turnbull Library, occupy historical buildings. During the renovation process and even afterward, we may find it necessary to address structural issues to protect the integrity of these buildings,” DPNR spokesman Jamal Nielsen said in an email Friday, in response to questions from The Daily News.

According to Nielsen, “The Florence Williams Library, despite its recent renovation, faced a mechanical issue with the elevator tied to the hydraulic system this week. This has impacted the building’s sole water supply due to a crack in the cistern. The library is not serviced by a secondary water supply. We are currently repairing and cleaning the cistern and establishing a potable water line with WAPA.”

“Access to a clean water supply and an operational elevator is critically important for our patrons and staff. Due to these elevator issues, the mobility of our physically challenged patrons will be impacted. We apologize for the inconvenience and will keep the public updated on accessibility,” he added.