No injuries after vent malfunction evacuates Laconia Public Library Saturday

LACONIA — Library patrons on Saturday had to leave the comfort of the stacks for an evacuation after a malfunction to the heating and ventilation system. A recently-installed belt deteriorated, sending soot and particles into the main building of the Laconia Public Library through the vents. There were no injuries and no extensive damage to the 122-year-old building.

The Laconia Fire Department received a 911 call at 10:11 a.m. on Jan. 3. Library employees said they could smell something hot and burning. Firefighters responded to the scene, finding employees had evacuated the building out of an abundance of caution.

“It’s a large building with additions over the years,” said Fire Chief Tim Joubert. “With the help of the people from the library, we figured out that it was part of the HVAC; a belt got burnt up in ductwork.”

The HVAC belt had just been replaced on Dec. 22, said Library Board of Trustees Chair John Moriarty in a phone interview.

“We did determine that it was a regular blower belt that had been worn badly by the pulley,” he said. “They repaired [the malfunction] at no cost.”

Several library patrons left the scene to return home, while one patron in particular waited roughly 40 minutes for the scene to be cleared. Library staff had to delay the entry of patrons arriving until the building was deemed safe.

“We’re grateful to the fire department for their quick response. We’re pleased with the staff for acting so consciously,” Moriarty said.

The Belmont and Gilford fire departments provided mutual aid for Laconia during the call.

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Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.