Library director warns trustees of failing HVAC units, says replacements likely needed

The Manchester library director told trustees the library's heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment includes several aging or failing units that likely require capital replacement, and described a recent failure that produced an electrical fire incident.

The director presented a map and photographs of the library's HVAC system, explaining how different outdoor units control specific interior registers and rooms. She said some indoor components were probably installed in 1993 and that the south-side outdoor unit 'needs to be replaced.

Describing a failed repair attempt, the director said the malfunction "blew the electrical, fireball," and the unit remains nonfunctional. She said technicians from Delco Plumbing and Heating are looking for a replacement coil, but if a compatible coil cannot be found both the indoor and outdoor units may need full replacement.

The director framed the matter as a capital-improvement priority and said she will coordinate with city staff (Brock) and the vendor on replacement scheduling; the city is supportive because the library serves as a cooling center. Trustees did not take a replacement vote at the meeting but were briefed on the extent of the equipment issues and the plan to include replacements in the capital plan.

The administrator asked trustees for volunteers to help complete ADA accessibility measurements and documentation needed for accreditation; she said the bathroom and parking upgrades should be resolved before the accreditation submission window in 2027.