Alden Library 3rd Floor Partial Closure for Several Weeks

Update 7/11/24

A cleanup course of action is in the works, thought we do not yet have a firm timeline.  Our current estimate is the floor is still expected to be closed for several more weeks, with a potential reopening around mid-September.  

In the early morning hours of June 18th, a small fire started from a fan in use on the third floor of Alden Library. Fortunately, the alarm system properly notified the Athens Fire Department and OUPD and their quick and thorough response resulted in the fire being extinguished with limited fire damage. However, the smoke and soot spread across the open study areas and into the book stacks on the third floor.

The Libraries are working with specialists to ensure we can make the spaces and the collections clean and fully usable again. The clean-up is expected to take several weeks and, during this time, the open study space, the Friends Room,  restrooms, and the collections will not be accessible. OhioLINK borrowing services and Interlibrary Borrowing remain available to Ohio University students, faculty, and staff. CoLab will be accessible during this time, though only via the elevator. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. 

The University Libraries staff wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Athens Fire Department personnel. If you have any questions, please contact Janet Hulm.