Help Fund Martinsburg Public Library Asbestos Abatement

The Martinsburg Public Library has started a $2.5 million renovation project to install a new computer controlled variable air volume (VAV) HVAC system and upgrade the electrical system. This project is replacing all components of the 1979 HVAC system as well as the main electrical panel from 1969. The new HVAC system will be energy efficient, saving the library operational costs and significantly improve indoor air quality in the library.

In addition to the original project cost of $2.5 million, the library is facing an unexpected cost of $386,000 for abatement of asbestos in the spray applied thermal fireproofing on the top floor ceiling of the original building material.

The Martinsburg Public Library is in the heart of downtown Martinsburg, and it is the largest library in our system as the main branch in Berkeley County. We provide robust programming to all ages and demographics, from birth through senior programming, as well as vital community support through our partnerships with local organizations. To accommodate the closure of the Martinsburg Library, the branch libraries have been opened with extended hours, which may be found on our website.

The HVAC renovation will be funded through a combination of a 1.6 million dollar loan, grants from state and local government, private donations, and diverted library funds. The asbestos abatement is an unforeseen expense. At this juncture, we turn to the community for help funding this vital community project.

Martinsburg Public Library asks for the community’s help in fundraising $386,000.00 to cover the costs of abatement. Any funds exceeding the $386,000 goal will be used towards the original $2.5 million HVAC project.

Martinsburg-Berkeley County Public Libraries is a 501c3 organization, and any donations are tax exempt.