$287k-plus work in progress

By Don Rush

It’s only been 25 years since construction on the Oxford Public Library at 530 Pontiac Street was completed. That being said, the Library Board of Directors decided it was time to replace the library’s heating and cooling systems.

“It was a part of our original bond plan, a complete overhaul,” Library Director Bryan Cloutier said. “But, when the bond failed we had to come to terms. We couldn’t hold off any longer.”

At the May 10 special meeting of the board, Goyette Mechanical’s bid of $287,235 to replace the heating and cooling systems, including the boiler systems was approved. Work has commenced inside the library, the control system and boilers in the process of being replaced and tested. The boilers units are not yet running. When the building’s four roof-top units will be replaced is up in the air.

“There are supply chain issues,” Cloutier said. “We do not have a firm date when they will arrive.”

When they do arrive, he said, the library will be closed for a day due to safety concerns.”

According to Cloutier, boom trucks will be used to replace the units. “Two of these units weigh 25 tons and are the size of a small utility truck. He said the library will give ample notice to patrons, the school districts and local units of government when the boom trucks will be in action.

In the meantime, because all the systems are not in place and running properly, the building’s temperature fluctuates, “Please be patient with us.”