Southern University officials provide update on library flooding

University officials are continuing to survey the damages done to the January 18 flooding of the John B. Cade Library. Southern's Custodial and Risk Management team is working with Guarantee Restoration Services to ensure that the library repairs progress.

After a routine walk through Friday, 80 percent of standing water will be removed by today. Guarantee has quoted that it will take tw weeks to dry and remove damaged carpet and sheet rock. A third party company has been secured to test the water throughout the library to rule out any airborne issues. Because the flooding incident was managed within 72 hours, an air quality test is not necessary.

Since the top priority is students, staff is working to finalize options for students to continue to access library and technology resources. Students will have access to labs and copiers in the student union, SU Law library, and T.T. Allain Hall. A quick reference library section, staffed by a librarian, will be housed in the Student Center on the first floor of the library, which will be the public entrance during the remodeling process and is adjacent to Harris Hall.

Officials will continue to monitor the issue and provide updates through university email and social media.