ROCHESTER, Mich. (WXYZ) — A pipe burst at Oakland University has caused its 24-hour Kresge Library to shut its doors Friday morning.
University staff believe the frigid temperatures may have played a part in the burst. Pushed out debris and even parts of the ceiling were scattered along the café and some study areas.
O-U's Manager of Custodial and Grounds Constance Jones says police alerted her about the problem around 5 a.m.
"This level of damage is just something altogether different," said Jones. "It's a horrible situation, and it's going to take a lot to get the library back open."
Luckily, there was no one inside the 24-hour library at the time of the burst, officials say.
A nearby university is offering to help -- Oakland Community College in Auburn Hills says O-U students will be allowed to use their library.
Officials are not sure how long the cleanup process will take but are thankful the majority of books were spared.
The university released this statement about alternative resources:
"To the campus community,
Preliminary indications are that due to flooding caused by a pipe burst early Friday morning, Kresge Library will remain closed for a period of several days or longer. Some portions of the Library, particularly those located on the lower floor, may be subject to long-term closure while remediation work is performed.
Until the building reopens, library employees are not expected to report to work unless directed otherwise by library administration.
Campus community members seeking alternative research and study locations are encouraged to use the following facilities:
Oakland University Educational Resources Lab
Pawley Hall Room 350
Oakland Community College – Auburn Hills Campus Library
Building D, 2900 Featherstone Road
Auburn Hills, MI 48326-2845
Rochester Hills Public Library
500 Olde Towne Rd.
Rochester MI, 48307
Auburn Hills Public Library
3400 E. Seyburn Dr.
Auburn Hills, MI 48326"
