Library mold remediation report is in

Vacuum the air ducts, clean and wet wipe surfaces in the new basement using HIPA filter vacuums and remove and replace the carpeting - these are the initial recommendations made by Corvino Environmental Associates of Woburn after mold tests were conducted at the Boxford Library on Elm Street on March 28.

This work must be completed by a mold remediation contractor who has experience in worker protection, mold remediation methods and retesting with industry standards.

The cost of the mold (microbial) remediation is estimated at approximately $28,000-$36,000. However, there are several other costs associated with the mold removal project including the shrink-wrapping of the book stacks, the removing, cleaning and storing of furniture (possibly in a pod in the parking lot), and the moving of the copy machine and delicate computer equipment.

Temporary library services may also be relocated to another building in town during the estimated 4-6 week shutdown of the Elm Street Library.

The Permanent Building Committee (PBC) and DPW Supt. John Dold met with the selectmen Monday, May 6 to discuss the results from the mold tests at the East Library.

Margaret Chow-Menzer, PBC chairman, reported that Corvino found mold spores and mold, specifically in the basement area, and recommended the town completely clean and disinfect that area.

Concerning the carpeting, the consultant said, "Though it is not specifically indicated by the sampling results, removal and replacement of the carpeting of East Library may contribute to an overall improvement in indoor environmental quality.

"Older carpeting can be a source of odors in the building, and in general when conducting microbial remediation, it is good practice to remove porous materials that are readily removable," the report recommended.

Chow-Menzer said the library will be shut down, at a minimum, for four weeks, and the trustees will look into a temporary location where services can be continued.

After the old carpeting is cut away, new carpet tiles will be installed with a metal molding placed at the base of the book shelves.

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Library mold remediation report is in