Asbestos abatement company hired to remove tile in small staff area. 

What is the project about?

As part of Renovation 2018, the construction crew is working on a portion of the Library built in 1958, before the 1977 ban of asbestos. During demolition, suspect building materials are tested prior to removal and asbestos containing material (ACM) was found on floor tiles and mastic (adhesive) on the third floor. This floor tile asbestos is a “non-friable” type—meaning it is not airborne and is not dangerous unless disturbed. Demolition would disturb the underlying materials, so a licensed asbestos abatement company must remove the tiles and mastic. Holian Asbestos Removal, a professional contractor licensed in abatement, has been hired to ensure that the tiles are safely removed in compliance with federal, state and local regulations. Air monitoring will be conducted by an independent laboratory, United Analytical Service (UAS).

Is it safe to be in the library right now, and during construction?

The peace of mind of library staff and patrons is of the utmost importance. The asbestos in our library has not been airborne and it is safe to be in the Library.  Asbestos only presents a health risk when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. The mere presence of ACM does not represent a health risk. 

Where is the asbestos and how much is there?

A relatively small area of the Library’s 36,000 square feet—950 square feet of a third-floor staff area—is impacted.

When will this happen?

The Library will be closed on Wednesday, July 18.

How much will this project cost?

The total cost of the abatement project is $7300.

If you have any further questions, please contact:

Heidi Smith, Director
Park Ridge Public Library
librarydirector@prpl.org
847-720-3203