Update: Library Closed Today Due to Heating Malfunction

The Upper Moreland Free Public Library is closed for the rest of today, and likely tomorrow due to a heating unit malfunction, which caused the entire library to fill up with acrid smoke.

According to Upper Moreland Fire Marshal Robert Drennen, several fire companies were dispatched to the library at approximately 7:55 a.m., this morning, Feb. 16. The initial report called for a building fire.

Within minutes of the call, when fire crews arrived on site, according to Drennen, they were met with heavy smoke pouring from the library.

"Apparently, the fan belt on the heating unit broke, and the heater continued to run," Drennen said. "Smoke permeated the building."

Drennen added the heating unit, which is located in the library's attic, was very hot before fire crews shut it down. He said no evidence of flames or fire was found to be the result of the malfunctioning unit, only heavy smoke.

Drennen also points to the fact that the building's sprinkler system did not activate.

All windows and some doors of the building have been opened for ventilation.

Drennen said that an environmental company will come out today to survey the damage, before the library can open to the public again.

"We want to ensure it's a safe environment for the workers, as well as the residents," Drennen said.

Upper Moreland Library patrons are still welcomed to drop off their books in the book deposit box, however the library itself is inaccessible to the public.

A small crew of library staff is still on premises today. One such staff member, Children’s Librarian Jim Moran, is on duty.

He suggested that library patrons visit the Upper Moreland Free Public Library website and call the library (215-659-0741) to find out when it will it will reopen to the public.

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UPDATE: Library closed until further notice next week.

[Updated 4 p.m.] According to Upper Moreland Free Public Library staff, the library will be closed for an indefinite period. The library will release another update on its reopening next Wednesday, Feb. 22.