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Ida Public Library closes Madison Street stairs after cracks; inspection, training and repairs expected
Summary
At the Dec. 15 Belvidere council meeting Ida Public Library representative Mindy Long reported severe cracks in the Madison Street stairs, described closures and safety measures, said an inspector will evaluate repair vs. demolition, and noted the library’s plans for Narcan training, a reimbursed bookmobile shelter and new digital services.
Mindy Long, representing the Ida Public Library, told the Belvidere City Council on Dec. 15 that the Madison Street stairs at the library have developed “awful, awful cracks,” prompting closure of the ramp and lower entrances and immediate safety measures while the library awaits an inspection report.
"We don't know if it could be repaired or if we have to demo them," Long said, adding that the area is taped off and the library is waiting for an adjuster and inspection to determine whether insurance will cover repairs. She said the library has hired an inspector and expects architects and inspectors to recommend repair or demolition before the library board authorizes expenditures.
Long said the library already stocks Narcan and noted a recent state law that requires public libraries to have Narcan on hand and at least one trained staff member present when open. Because of staff turnover she said a cooperative program will hold training to ensure compliance.
Long also discussed other operational items: a bookmobile shelter project that has been cleared and paid for with expected reimbursement of roughly three-quarters of the cost through an Illinois grant program; successful community donation drives including Salvation Army Angel Tree tags and a food drive; completed elevator inspection; new public and staff computers being prepared; and rollout of the Palace Project app and a PrairieCat mobile app for patrons.
When Alderman Peterson asked whether more than one contractor would inspect the stairs, Long said the library has a legal opinion classifying the condition as an emergency that may exempt the library from the usual bid process; she added that the inspector will work with architect Jeff Earnest to provide options and that any payments above the library director's authorized amount would require board approval at an emergency board meeting.
What’s next: the library will receive and share the inspection report, the library board will meet to decide on repairs or demolition, and staff will complete Narcan training. The council did not take any formal action on the stairs tonight.
