The Jaffrey Public Library building remains closed, at least through this Saturday, following a recent lightning strike that affected multiple electrical systems throughout the facility.
The library has been operating on curbside service only this past week, after a lightning strike is believed to have run through the internet line and knocked out the buildings internet, heating, cooling and ventilation systems, and elevator.
The building has remained closed since Sept. 15, while the damage is assessed and the library receives quotes for repairs. Last week, Library Director Julie Perrin extended the closure through at least Oct. 2.
In an interview with the Ledger-Transcript, Perrin has said the building will likely remain closed until the repair of the HVAC systems can be completed, as the air in the building is not circulating, an area of concern with the buiding’s current COVID-19 protocols. Library staff has also been struggling to operate normally without access to library online systems, and with internet hotspots.
While the building is closed, library services continue, through options set up during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the building was also closed to patrons. Residents can reserve items through their online account or by calling the library, and make an appointment to pick up their items at tables set up outside the library through the Grab and Go system.
Some library programs have also been adapted for to-go services.
The Lego Lab, a new weekly program recently started at the library has been modified to allow children to take home Lego kits. Children can ask for a Lego challenge and box of Lego when making their Grab and Go appointments.
Library Assistant Linda Gleasonhas also prepared Take and Make Crafts for children to take home.
Those who have been accessing the library’s Farm Fresh Checkout refrigerator, which provides produce from local farms in the area for free to anyone who wishes to take some, and snacks provided by the Jaffrey Food Pantry, have also moved to the library’s front steps with the Grab and Go tables. Residents do not need to provide any financial information or proof of need to access the program, which is open to everyone.
Library staff have also taken the opportunity to laugh at the situation, providing a video on the Library Facebook page of their “lightning librarians” reading “BOOM! Big, Big Thunder and One Small Dog,” by Mary Lyn Ray.
Ashley Saari can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 244 or asaari@ledgertranscript.com. She’s on Twitter@AshleySaariMLT.