Bound Brook Memorial Library Set to Close Due to Asbestos Issues

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News Summary

Bound Brook Memorial Library Set to Close Due to Asbestos Issues

The beloved Bound Brook Memorial Library, located at 402 E High St, Bound Brook, NJ, is set to shutter its doors for good due to serious asbestos problems that surfaced during renovations. The closure will be effective as of January 31, 2025, leaving residents scrambling to find alternatives for their library needs.

Discovery and Immediate Closure

The unsettling discovery of asbestos within the library’s premises was made in October 2023, during well-intentioned renovations aimed at improving the historic building. As soon as this hazardous material was identified, the library’s in-person operations were suspended immediately to protect patrons and staff. The Somerset County Library System of New Jersey declared this unfortunate closure, raising eyebrows and concerns about the future of this community institution.

A Disheartening Situation for the Community

Both community members and library officials have expressed profound disappointment over the impending closure. The library, constructed as a memorial to World War I veterans back in 1924, has served as a beacon of knowledge and community spirit for nearly a century. Once built for an original cost between $50,000 and $55,000—which translates to approximately $877,000 to $965,000 today—this library symbolizes a significant piece of the town’s heritage.

Efforts to Find Alternative Locations

In pursuit of solutions, the Borough of Bound Brook explored various funding avenues throughout 2024 but met with disappointment as no available funds could be secured. Although there had been attempts to find alternative locations for library services, the efforts have not yielded any viable options. The absence of suitable buildings for library services in the next five years presents a daunting challenge for the community’s access to information resources.

Funding and Remediation Plans

The borough recognizes the gravity of the situation and plans to set aside funds in its 2025 budget specifically for asbestos remediation and ADA upgrades. However, the library must remain shuttered until the necessary funding is in place and upgrades are completed. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to find a temporary location for library services, although time is of the essence.

Mobile Services and Future Prospects

To mitigate the impact of the closure, mobile library services had been offered in the borough’s Commuter Lot near the train station. Unfortunately, these services will cease after January 31. Additionally, during late 2024 and early 2025, printing and internet services were temporarily provided from Bound Brook’s Municipal Court to offer some assistance to residents in need. However, with impending closures, locals are directed to visit other active branches of the Somerset County Library System for their library needs.

Accessing Resources and Community Response

Residents searching for alternative library resources can reach out to the Somerset County Library System at 908-458-8415 or via email at ask@sclibnj.org. Thankfully, current open branches within the Somerset County Library System allow access to a range of online resources, easing the transition for Bound Brook’s library patrons.

A Historic Building’s Uncertain Fate

The future of the Bound Brook Memorial Library remains precarious as asbestos issues must be firmly resolved, and funding becomes vital. The community watches closely as local officials navigate the complexities of restoring this essential part of their cultural and educational landscape. Without assurance of a reopening, residents race against time, hoping that in an age of innovation, their local landmark can soon rise from these challenging circumstances.