Fire Closes Cedar Rapids Library Until Further Notice [PHOTO]

On Wednesday at around 3:45 p.m. a light fixture at the Cedar Rapids Public Library in downtown Cedar Rapids, 450 5th Avenue SE, caught on fire, causing minor damage that will require the facility to be temporarily closed for repair.

The fire occurred in the library's commons area and an anonymous eyewitness authorized us to publish the photo above.

According to KCRG, everyone in the building at the time was safely evacuated and there were no injuries reported. Officials say that the library will be closed at least today, Thursday, July 28, and until further notice so that repair and cleanup can be done.

No books or materials appear to have been significantly damaged, which is a good thing since this facility had to replenish its entire collection from scratch when it opened on August 24, 2014, according to its website. Years of construction went into this facility after the 2008 flood damaged the original building. An additional location, known as Ladd Library, opened a year prior, in February 2013.

Patrons can access library resources at the Ladd Library (3750 Williams Blvd SW) or online here. Hold times and due dates will be extended.

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