Cumberland library may close if repairs aren't made soon

Marcel Tetraul, Comox Valley Echo
Published: Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Cumberland's library may be forced to close temporarily if health and building code issues are not quickly dealt with.

The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) board tabled a motion at their last meeting that, had it passed, would have temporarily closed the old building until it is brought up to the required standard.

They subsequently sent a letter to council outlining the problems, which include the presence of mould, a roof that is showing signs of leaking, inadequate emergency exits, a bathroom without a sink and inadequate lighting.

It was also noted that the hinged cover on the book bin, if not secured, could potentially fall on the person emptying the bin and there were also several security issues.

Discussions have since been held with the landlord, who apparently told VIRL staff that he is "very interested" in making the required repairs.
"They are all quite positive and optimistic that there's nothing that's not doable," said village chief administrative officer Anja Nurvo.

While it appears the issues will be dealt with, council was not pleased that a motion to temporarily close the library appeared on the VIRL agenda before the village was notified of the problems.

It was also noted that the VIRL board promised to upgrade the local library some time ago but that Cumberland has been bumped down the list and nothing has happened.

As such, they decided to pen a letter of their own to the VIRL board to express their "displeasure" with the process followed and asking them to notify the village in future when such issues arise.




© Comox Valley Echo 2009