POLAND, Ohio - Initial testing at the Poland Library has identified an unpleasant odor at the building as hydrogen sulfide.
The library closed on November 16th as a precaution when the smell began to get stronger.
The library brought in specialists in environmental assessment to conduct air quality and dye flow water testing.
Library spokesperson Janet Lowe says the initial test results are in. "In the elevator pit, which is a very small enclosed area underneath the elevator, there were concentrations of hydrogen sulfide that may be problematic," Lowe said.
Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas that can be identified by a characteristic rotten egg odor. It dilutes when it hits the air, but can be hazardous in high concentrations.
However, the results by the testing firm state that in the routinely occupied areas of the library they found concentrations that do not pose a threat to human health or the environment.
"The problem has been identified as ground water runoff, water around the building. The reason that it comes into the building is because there's a sump pump to pull the water away from the foundation," Lowe said.
The problem is not drinking water and is not in the sanitary system.
Barriers have been placed around catch basins in the parking lot.
People can still use the book drop off but should avoid the catch basins.
The popular Kravitz Café in the library is making arrangements for any catered events to be held elsewhere.
No date for the library's reopening has been determined.
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