After a powerful winter storm hit January 25–26, dumping approximately 13 inches of snow on the borough, staff at the Mars Area Public Library returned to discover water leaking into several areas of the building — damage that ultimately forced the library to temporarily close its doors to the public. Snow totals were reported by regional weather outlets.
Library Director Janae Callihan said the issue was not caused by a failing roof, as many might assume, but by ice dams that formed in the gutters. As melting snow refroze, nearly a foot of ice built up, forcing water back into exterior walls and ceilings.
“We started seeing drywall damage and water seeping into carpeted areas,” Callihan explained. “Thankfully, none of our collections were damaged — that’s always the biggest fear in a library. Staff acted quickly and moved materials out of affected areas before things could get worse.”
Staff Areas and Children’s Section Hit Hardest
The worst damage occurred along exterior walls, particularly in staff workspaces and parts of the children’s department. Wet insulation, soaked drywall, and ceiling damage required immediate remediation. At one point, insulation was so saturated it had frozen in place.
Callihan said staff and volunteers spent full days relocating books, shelving, and supplies to safer parts of the building.
“It was truly all hands on deck,” she said. “Our team showed incredible flexibility. Librarians wear many hats — and over the past two weeks, that’s never been more true.”
Professional restoration crews were brought in to begin drying the building using industrial fans, dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, and air movers. Multiple contractors are now assisting with mitigation and planning next steps, which will include replacing drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles.
Now Open for Curbside Service
While the building remains closed for indoor use, the library has transitioned to a curbside service model — similar to pandemic-era operations. Holds can be placed online, and staff will prepare materials for pickup in the front vestibule during designated curbside hours.
“We may not be able to provide the space right now, but we can still provide resources,” Callihan said.
Library leadership hopes to partially reopen to the public at some point next week, though the exact date remains to be determined as repair work continues. “It’s a multi-step process,” Callihan noted. “Drying comes first. Then we’ll move into repairs. Our goal is to reopen safely as soon as possible.”
Community Support Has Been “Phenomenal”
Perhaps the most uplifting part of the ordeal has been the community response.
Residents, local officials, and volunteers stepped in immediately — offering dehumidifiers and fans, helping remove ice from gutters, and checking in on staff. Callihan said even before contractors arrived, community members were already pitching in.
“The support has been phenomenal,” she said. “People have been understanding about the closure and incredibly generous with their time and resources.”
The library has also launched a “Winter Weather Fix Drive” to help offset repair costs as insurance claims are still being evaluated. Community members who would like to contribute can donate through the library’s website or directly at:
https://www.marsarealibrary.org/winter-weather-donation-form
Despite the challenges, Callihan remains optimistic.
“It absolutely could have been worse,” she said. “We’re grateful for quick action, professional help, and — most of all — a community that truly cares about its library.”
