CF-Cozby Library-CS 961223 Memoranda
TO: Sheri Moino, Facilities Manager
FROM: Judi Biggerstaff, Library Director
DATE: December 23, 1996
RE: Library Building Problems
I am concerned about the library building and the fact that some
of the components are not functioning properly. I realized you
inherited the problem with the air-conditioning/heating system,
but I feel we need to do something more than we are doing to
remedy the situation.
As you know, every time there is a change in the weather, the
library staff suffers. It is either freezing and they are asking
for heaters, or roasting and they are asking for fans. Patrons
are also complaining. With the constant changes in Texas
weather, the staff is working more days than not as if they were
working outside.
Additionally, there has been a burning smell each time the heater
is running. It is so obvious that the mailman asked what was
burning as soon as he walked in the building. Patrons also
comment on this. Whatever is happening, it is also effecting the
staff. They are complaining of burning eyes, stuffed noses and
headaches. The atmosphere feels stuffy and some of the staff
feels it is affecting their breathing. I have experienced this
on a small scale myself. The circulation staff and the
librarians in the public area are affected the most.
I feel we have been patient, while the system was being worked
on. Leonard has been over numerous times. A staff member said
they had the feeling after this Saturday, that relief was still
not in sight. They said Leonard said that only ten per cent of
the fresh air valve is working, apparently by design. As a
solution, the staff asked Leonard if they could leave the south
doors to the library open so that they could get some fresh air.
While that may be a temporary solution, it cannot be a permanent
one for security reasons.
A third problem, which I was recently been made aware of, is a
sewage smell that periodically comes from the public restrooms.
Again, patrons have commented on this as well. Leonard told the
staff it has something to do with the drain not getting enough
water and that when the smell started, they should go and pour a
pitcher of water down the drain. I cannot help but feel a more
permanent solution could be found.
Aside from not wanting the staff to work in unpleasant
conditions, we have a potential health problem here. I remember
on the job description surveys, they always ask about the
working environment. Ordinarily, the environment for a library
is nice with no smells and proper heating. That has not been our
situation.
I do not know if we are still holding money back from the
architect. If we are, I think we need to get them back out
here. If we have paid them, I think we need to do something to
correct these situations.
Please understand that I am not being critical of you or your
department. I think you and Human Resources need to know the
full working situation. Thank you for any help you can give us
on these matters.
cc Steve Gorem, ICS Director
Vivyon Bowman, Human Resources Director