The Orange Library, located in South Orange, New Jersey, has reopened. The library was closed April 30 due to lead paint and asbestos violations, reports South Orange Patch. The library was closed after it failed to meet a deadline for remediating the problems.
Mayor Eldridge Hawkins, Jr. noted, at the time, that, "the building must close because continued use represents a serious hazard to the health and life of those who use and work at the library.”
In December 2003, the Library Director received a report of an asbestos and lead paint survey, conducted by Hillmann Environmental Group. The survey revealed extensive amounts of lead paint and asbestos were found within the library. Six years passed before the library was closed, and forced to remove the hazardous substances.
Asbestos is a toxic material, found in many older homes and buildings. When disturbed, the material poses a serious health risk to those exposed. Airborne particles are easily inhaled, and have been known to form several diseases, including malignant mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is a rare asbestos cancer, known to affect 3,000 Americans each year. The disease attacks the protective linings of the lung, heart and abdominal cavities.
The disease, due to an extended latency period, is difficult to diagnose. Because of this, many patients fail to receive mesothelioma treatment in the early stages of their disease. Treatment is simply palliative for asbestos cancer patients, as there is no known cure.
Now that asbestos and lead paint have been removed, the library is again open to the public.