Oak Bay library users were surprised at the sudden closure of the local Greater Victoria Public Library branch Thursday (Jan. 26).
Oak Bay became aware of dust contaminated with asbestos in an isolated area of the Oak Bay branch at the Monterey Recreation Centre through proactive testing, according to a district release.
The GVPL alerted users Thursday the branch would be closed Jan. 26 and 27. That has been extended to Feb. 6 “out of an abundance of caution” for the safety of staff and the community while Oak Bay conducts further testing, according to the district.
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The book drop remains closed until Feb. 6 and library items can be returned at any other GVPL location. The GVPL customer service line is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 250-940-4875 for those with questions.
“The library is the only area that requires further testing. All other adjacent areas of the facility, including the Oak Bay Volunteer Services Society and the Hampshire Apartments are not impacted and services at Monterey Recreation Centre remain unaffected,” the release said.
The district plans to provide updates after additional testing.
christine.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca
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