Library closed after flood (From Borehamwood Times)

Library closed after flood

5:35pm Monday 23rd July 2007

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Friday's torrential downpour led to the closure of Borehamwood Library, after water flooded through the front door and leaked through the ceiling.

The library, in Elstree Way, reopened this morning (Monday), albeit with no lights - which were due to be repaired this afternoon.

Librarian Jo Smith was relieved that no books or computers were damaged.

"We could see the water coming in through the door," she said, "so we needed to create a barrier, so we made some make-shift sand bags using carrier bags."

Hertsmere Borough Council next door later sent some more sandbags, as staff noticed more water coming in through the panels under the windows.

"We were concentrating on keeping the water back, and then we realised it was coming through the ceiling tiles as well," said Ms Smith.

"The amount of rain was incredible - and so fast as well.

"As cars were driving through the car park, it was like a tidal effect with waves coming through the door.

"The staff were fantastic, they really rallied around."

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